I think I would shoot every engagement session at Dunaway Gardens if I could! It is an absolutely stunning venue and I can't wait to capture Brianna and Darryl's wedding there this Fall!! Engagement sessions are always fun, but I absolutely love when couples bring their fur-kids! It makes everything feel more natural when they join in on the fun. Normally I am the one that tells bad or mildly inappropriate jokes to make my couple laugh, but Brianna and Darryl's dog, Grizzly, took that responsibility completely off my hands. He has quite the personality... and the ability to stealthily and masterfully photobomb. How many shots of Grizzly can you spot?! 

Brianna and Darryl - I had so much fun getting to explore your wedding venue and getting to play with Mr. Grizzly! Thanks for spending your evening with me!  

I absolutely love getting to capture families as the kiddos grow up, but it is truly awesome when I get to be privy to a secret announcement! Last year I was able to capture Darius and Jo Ann's new stage in life as they celebrated a year of parenthood. This time, I got to spend time with a much bigger and more curious two year old Gabby as she got to announce that she will become a big sister this fall! It was a beautiful day in Atlantic Station for family portraits and I'm so glad that I could spend time with this family again. Darius and Jo Ann, thank you so much for spending time with me last Sunday! I can't wait for your new arrival!!

There was something so profound and meaningful about this wedding for me. I will be totally honest and say I was a little bit nervous shooting my first same-sex wedding. I wanted to make sure my brides felt comfortable and confident on their special day! When I arrived at the hotel, I could feel the excitement but also a sense of calm. Everyone in the room knew that today was going to be magical and perfect for Annie and Ginah. And it was. Family members got to share in their first look and as Ginah made her way down the steps toward Annie's turned back, Annie asked their daughter, Poppy if her mom looked beautiful. I could have just melted right into the sidewalk. The love and support of their family and friends continued throughout the entire evening... even the random bagpiper was so excited for them! It was an absolute honor to be a part of this day and be a part of the celebration of three (almost four) becoming one. 

HUGE thanks to Ann for capturing so many amazing images (as usual) and shooting this day with me!

Annie and Ginah - thank you so much for trusting me with your wedding day and letting me celebrate with your super fun family and friends! I hope you had an AMAZING trip to Hawaii! Much love, Jill

To view more images when they become available, click here. 

Bride's Hair & Makeup: Blend Beauty Group || Bridal gowns: David's Bridal  || Ceremony and Reception Venue: Old Courthouse on the Square || Wedding Coordination: LaDonna  Diaz of Zest Catering || Catering: Zest Catering || Florist: Bloom Floral Design || DJ: Nice Guys DJ || 

Brooke and I had exchanged numerous e-mails in planning their engagement session but when she mentioned they had just gotten a puppy and wanted to bring him, I must say I did a little happy dance. If you know me well (or look at my Instagram @jilldotyphoto) you would know that I absolutely LOVE dogs. They're just the best. I had so much fun with these two but meeting Ollie was quite possibly the highlight of my week! Their coordinating spring colors with Ollie's bow tie helped to brighten such a dreary day. Brooke and Matthew - thank you so much for taking time out of your schedule during the week to spend time capturing these images! I hope you love them as much as I do! I can't wait for September and hopefully getting to steal some time with Ollie! 

One of my favorite things about my job is being surrounded and inspired by so many amazing female entrepreneurs. It's awesome to see boss ladies killing it with their creative businesses! However, this boss lady has been near and dear to my heart when our businesses were just dreams. I have been blessed with amazing friends like Emily that encouraged me to pursue my passion. She somehow recognized an ability where I saw none and pushed me to grow and find confidence in my work. In a small attempt to begin to return the favor, I want to share some of her unique and beautiful work with you! Emily is wildly talented, incredibly genuine, and an absolute rock star with her craft. I am SO thrilled that she is finally sharing her talents with the world! If you are in search of a one of a kind gift or a gorgeous personalized touch for your wedding day, you MUST go check out Emily's Etsy Shop, Foster Pen & Ink and follow her on Instagram: @foster_emily! 

Em- I am so incredibly thankful for our friendship, your humbling heart, and your ability to make something so beautiful with just a pen and ink. Love you!