Evoke Images | St. Louis Wedding & Portrait Photography

We have MOVED!

2010-02-13T14:10:00.000-08:00

Goodbye Blogspot!

You are going to {LOVE} the new blog!

So user-friendly, and so many more resources and links for you!

Thanks for putting up with my absence and all of the non-posts... you are all the best!

The inspiration and linkage will still be around, and you are going to like what you see =)

Please update your feed readers and follow me on over! You don't want to miss it!

Take Me Away, Calgon!

Soooo, this blog will no longer be active. Won't be posting here anymore. Everything will be at the other site. Etc Etc.

The Family Session at Maggie Moos | St. Louis Family Photographer

2010-02-08T23:30:00.000-08:00

Hello All! I know I have been away from the blog for awhile... but I know that you will agree that it has been worth it when you get a gander at the new blog! < hopefully up by the weekend!

Until then, enjoy some images from the wonderful family session just finished.... Joe & Rachel, you have such a beautiful family, I am so happy that I was able to capture some special moments for you! Thanks for serving our country Joe, I know Rachel and the girls are looking forward to your return from boot camp!

Rachel, your smile just lights up the room!

Enjoy!

Two-in-One Session | St. Louis Maternity Photographer

2010-01-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

I would love to know how you can be 7 months pregnant and still look like a ROCK STAR? Some people can just wear the baby bump perfectly. Seriously, how gorgeous is she?!?!

Congratulations Nicole & Mike! We are looking forward to welcoming Tripp Anthony into the world!

2009::Images That POPPED! | St. Louis Photography

2010-01-16T10:59:00.000-08:00

Enjoy some of my favorites images from 2009!

Glad To Be Home From...

2010-01-15T19:33:00.000-08:00

So glad to be home from Nashville! My assistant Mariah and I were so happy to be able to attend the Imaging USA 2010 in Nashville TN this year. We learned so much and are looking forward to 2010 being the year of dreams! It is so exciting to have all of this new information and we are ready to implement it all!

With that being said, I have some Exciting News!!! What do you say to a NEW blog look and design? Can't give away too much just yet, but lets just say it is going to be DOPE! And I don't even say "dope"! =)

On to other news.... Spotted these fabulous shoes here . Wouldn't these shoe clips be divine to wear on your Wedding Day? What about giving them as gifts to your bridesmaids?

Feathers & Frills

Nashville Bound!

2010-01-08T21:02:00.000-08:00

We are heading out in the morning for Nashville TN! Imaging USA, here we come! I will be back Thursday and will respond to any and all emails/messages.

In the meantime, feel free to follow me on twitter or facebook, I will be updating via my iphone throughout the weekend.

Wishing you the very best weekend! (Keep those tootsies warm! =)

For the life of me, I cannot remember where I found this image! If you know where it is from please send me an email so I can give proper recognition.

It IS lovely, isn't it?

156 Countries Sing Together for the Starbucks Love Project

2010-01-07T16:08:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for good health for my family and I - because this clip reminded me of how truly blessed I am. My prayers go out to the millions who are suffering from AIDS in our world. I pray they love will touch them in the midst of their suffering....

spotted on Sweet Jessie

The One at Washington U. | St. Louis Engagement Photography

2010-01-04T17:51:00.000-08:00

Kyle & Kelley were AWESOME! They are just the most fabulous couple... She is a school librarian, he makes guitars (check out the guitar in this session, he MADE it from a cigar box!), and they love vintage. Whats not to love? =)

Their wedding is going to be held at the fabulous Whittemore House on the beautiful Washington University campus. I really think we got one of the last good days of the year when we headed out for their session last October... it was a GORGEOUS day! There were these amazing trees that still had lovely yellow leaves on them... we may or may not have had my assistant/sister Mariah climb one of the trees to grab a fantastic shot! lol

Congratulations to Kyle & Kelley! It is going to be a beautiful wedding!!

The Engagement Session by The Arch | St. Louis Portrait Photography

2010-01-04T16:58:00.000-08:00

This was just such a FUN photo session! Cody & Sarah just made my day with their "gun-ho" attitude and THOSE SMILES! Just looking at Sarah's smile makes me smile! When I met with the two of them and Sarah's parents a few months ago, her dad made the comment that Sarah cannot take a bad picture. I have to agree!

Dinner after the session was lovely, and it really gave us some extra time to get to know each other better. What a sweet sweet couple these two are! They are high school sweethearts and if I am not mistaken, were voted "Cutest Couple" by their graduating class!

The Steak n Shake shots turned out perfect... who knew that Cody proposed to Sarah at an ice cream shop? How fitting =)

Can't wait for Cody & Sarah's Wedding in June.... Congratulations you two!!!

Something Yummy | St. Louis Portrait Photography

2010-01-04T10:40:00.000-08:00

Thought I would share a little something pretty to start your week off nicely =)

What do you think of Dace's SS10 collection?

d a c e Spring 2010 videolook from André Pinces on Vimeo.

Spotted here

St. Louis Portrait Photography | Evoke Images

2010-01-02T11:26:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day! We have snow on the ground here in St. Louis, but the sun is shining so prettily. I am sitting here with my cup of Raspberry Hot Chocolate and my little doggies (I know, I'm a nerd lol!). I just love the way the sun grabs the snow - playing with the light and gleaming like little tiny diamonds... *Sigh* Life is wonderful!

I thought I would share a few shots with you from a local photography workshop that I attended October of last year (geez, where has the time gone??). It was held at a local winery and I have to say, I think it was one of the most beautiful days of the fall season. It was a small group, so it was very intimate and gave us the opportunity to make some new friends and get to know each other a little better.
We also had the chance to work one-on-one with models from a local talent agency here in the lou. As different as it was working with models as opposed to clients - I really enjoyed that particular aspect of the workshop.

So enjoy, and leave a comment if you'd like... (btw, really looking forward to getting back into the swing of the blogging-life!)

Have a delightful weekend!

xoxox

Um, WOW!

2009-12-22T23:00:00.000-08:00

So, it has been almost a month since my last post.... ugh!

I have no excuse good enough to justify this!!! lol

Finals are over, Christmas shopping is done, tree and decorations are up... tomorrow I will do some last minute wrapping and the final touches on the remainder of the presents. Let the festivities begin!

Present wrapping is one of my very favorite parts of this holiday. I normally have Christmas music playing in the background while I do my creative little thing... I think about the person for whom the gift is for, anticipate what their reaction will be, and spend most of the day looking like a silly woman who smiles to herself all day! haha!

I wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, since more likely than not I will not be posting anything more until after Christmas. (And then I will be back in full force! Fuller-than-full force!)

The image above is of my new Christmas angel! Her name is Elsie Mae, she is a Standard Poodle, and is only 8 weeks old. This is a great time for us since I am at home much of the time with my work and am able to work with her - keeping very consistent.

We have many reasons for wanting another dog around the house, and have been talking about this for months now. As I mentioned, Della is getting older and I would like for the new puppy to be around her for awhile, in hopes that she will adopt some of Della's habits and characteristics that we love so much. In addition, with Adam joining the Police Academy and eventually getting a job that will include "graveyard" shifts, I will feel that much more secure knowing that I have 2 big dogs there to protect me and alert me in case of any emergency.

I just happened to come along Elsie at the perfect time and we couldn't be happier! She fits in with our family like a glove and is loaded with a wonderful personality. She will need it if she is going to be part of this family!! lol

Again, a very Merry Christmas to you and yours, enjoy time with your families and loved ones, and stay warm!!! =)

xoxox, Maranda

Biology and Etc.

2009-11-24T17:56:00.000-08:00

"Through learning we re-create ourselves.

Through learning we become able to do something we were never able to do."

~ Peter Senge

I have been swamped with tests and research papers, but my creative side will be right back in the swing of things very soon. Finals will be over the first week of December and you will be seeing much more of me!

Love to all....

image credit- A Girl Writing, by Henriette Browne circa 1901

The One at Her Childhood Home | St. Louis Engagement Photography

2009-11-17T15:51:00.000-08:00

A lovely engagement session, taken at Maggie's childhood home in Hillsboro. (It was built in the 1800's I believe she said!)
This lovely property had me in awe from the moment I pulled into the driveway! Maggie and I had really hit it off when we talked on the phone, and I was so excited to meet her. She had said that her parents collected antiques and that their home and property had alot of great photo ops.... but I had NO idea! She wasn't kidding!!!

As breathtaking as the property was (visual eye candy I am telling you), I was even more pleasantly surprised with the marvelous couple I got to photograph. Maggie and Tyler have that special something between them, and you can tell right off the bat that these two were destined for each other. They have such a special chemistry together. Best of all, they know how to have FUN! And you know me.... I am all about having a good time =)

Congratulations Maggie & Tyler, see you in October for your special day!

I love thee, I love but thee

With a love that shall not die

Till the sun grows cold,
And the stars grow old...

- Bayord Taylor

Oh Happy Happy Day!

2009-11-13T21:18:00.000-08:00

Can I just say that I really don't know how in the world I ever lived without this camera!

My wonderful, amazing husband and I have had many long talks about the pros and cons of investing in a newer model camera. We both decided that now is a good time to make the leap (by faith! haha!). I am so very happy with our decision and I know it is going to pay off in the long run!

I have decided to stay with Canon, since that has been my primary camera until now. I will let my second shooter use the one I have been using (Canon D60), and I have a new 5d Mark ii! I am already in love with this sweet baby and cannot WAIT for my next session! I have a maternity shoot this weekend with one of the lovely couples I have shot in the past... Can't wait to see the results =)))

*** I am currently doing a very strange-looking, but extremely energetic happy dance!!! ***

Matt & LeAnn Wedding | St. Louis Wedding Photographer

2009-11-08T22:56:00.000-08:00

Whew! It has been a crazy week around here folks! I am only going to be able to share a few actual pictures right now, but at the bottom of this post is a link to the slideshow which has many more pictures of Matt & LeAnn's special day.

Let me tell ya, this girl has some SERIOUS style! We had the chance to get to know each other (much!) better this summer. She wanted to do a boudoir shoot, and did we have a blast! She surprised him with a book she made of the images the night before their wedding - how great is that?

This church was beautiful, absolutely beautiful. They married at St. James the Greater in Dogwood. Divine!

Yes, yes those are Carrie Bradshaw's shoes from the movie.... I could have screamed for joy when I found out! lol

Look at this chapel! Amazing! I thought it fit so well with their theme and the whole ambience and feel of their wedding. It was perfect!

I have to admit, this LOOKS like it is from the 30's! I think this is the only shot I got of the "serious face" I was asking for! It never fails, every time we say the word serious we get soooo many smiles and laughs!

A beautiful bridal party, no? The wedding was a very romantic 30's inspired theme, I thought I had died and gone to heaven!!! It is still amazing to me that my job is to photograph beautiful people during such a wonderful and fabulous time in their life.

This "Abbey Road" picture was a special request.... I think it turned out quite well!

I may have gotten a little carried away with my artistic fantasies! But can you blame me??? Lovely!

The Reception was at the ever-classy An American Place downtown....

I think the first dance is my favorite moment of a wedding... I think that might be the time when it really hits home and sinks in that..."We are married!". That first dance as Mr and Mrs is so special!

I think the real tear-jerker for me was when I saw Matt singing to LeAnn the words to their song...

They chose Michael Buble "A Song For You". (Not only do they have great style, they like great music!) It was a picture perfect moment that felt like something out of the movies =)

Congratulations Matt and LeAnn! Thank you so much for letting us be a part of your special day, we had a blast!!!

A little gratuitous Vera today!

2009-10-27T08:29:00.000-07:00

I love the femininity and whimsy of Vera Wang's spring collection! The little buttons, bows, and frills are so charming and so elegant at the same time! I know these have been blogged about all over blog-world, but I just couldn't resist. *Sigh* If I were to get married again I think I would have to sell my prized earthly possessions just to have one of Vera's gowns.... They delight me!

LeAnn & Matt Wedding Preview | St. Louis Wedding Photography

2009-10-25T22:18:00.000-07:00

This wedding just blew my mind! Matt & LeAnn chose a Vintage (late 30's) theme for their special day, and everything from the church location and building, to the settings on the tables at the reception clearly conveyed that theme. LeAnn has an amazing sense of style, never mind that she is drop-dead gorgeous! Many more pictures to come later!

This shot just reminds me of a scene out of some epic romance movie! Lovely!

Another shot caught by my amazing assistant Mariah Thomas! And you can't see from here, but LeAnn's shoes are the same shoes SJP wore as Carrie Bradshaw to her and Bigg's wedding!

Sigh. This is one of those pictures that there are no words for....

Jessica & Jesse Wedding Preview | St. Louis Wedding Photography

2009-10-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

What a crazy (and fun!) weekend we had last week! Thought I would pull some of the amazing pictures from Jessica & Jesse's Vintage/Rustic Inspired Wedding and give you just a teeny tiny taste!

(Love these shots with the vintage car! Wait until you see the rest....GORGEOUS!)

My assistant Mariah Thomas captured this amazing shot of the couple during their first dance.

(Yes, it was all outdoors, and so beautiful!)

The location, the day, the bridal party, and especially the bride were all so beautiful. I do love a good October wedding! More to come....

St. Louis Photography | Romaine Family Sneak Peek!

2009-10-15T10:50:00.000-07:00

A little sneak-ity peek-ity for you! Will (hopefully) have more up this weekend. Mid-terms, 2 weddings, and a sick husband.... we will see! Just in case I don't see you before the weekend is over... I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Autumn weekend.

Now go pick pumpkins and take a hay ride!!! Thats an order!

St. Louis Photography | Bicycles!

2009-10-11T19:53:00.000-07:00

What is it with me and bikes recently? I have been stumbling upon and discovering bikes in the most odd and unusual places....and I can't help but take a shot! It is really odd I think. Ah well, might as well get this bicycle phase out of my system and enjoy it while it lasts. Who knows, next month I may be drawn to toasters! LOL

Do you ever go through periods of minor fascinations?

It would be nice to know that I am not the only person who goes through these seasons of weird little addictions!!! =)

We are the music makers,
And we are the dreamer of dreams,
Wandering by lone sea-breakers,
And sitting by desolate streams;
World-losers and world-forsakers,
On whom the pale moon gleams:
Yet we are the movers and shakers
Of the world for ever, it seems.

~ Excerpt from Ode by Arthur William Edgar O'Shaughnessy

St. Louis Photographer | Rainy Day Pick Me Up!

2009-10-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hello Lovely Readers! A lovely picture for you, and a lovely old poem

to brighten this very rainy (but lovely) autumn day!

Look for more posts this weekend! Cheerio =) xoxox!

The Rain Was Ending, And Light by Laurence Binyon

The rain was ending, and light

Lifting the leaden skies.

It shone upon ceiling and floor

And dazzled a child's eyes.

Pale after fever, a captive

Apart from his schoolfellows,

He stood at the high room's window

With face to the pane pressed close,

And beheld an immense glory

Flooding with fire the drops

Spilled on miraculous leaves

Of the fresh green lime-tree tops.

Washed gravel glittered red

To a wall, and beyond it nine

Tall limes in the old inn yard

Rose over the tall inn sign.

And voices arose from beneath

Of boys from school set free,

Racing and chasing each other

With laughter and games and glee.

To the boy at the high room-window,

Gazing alone and apart,

There came a wish without reason,

A thought that shone through his heart.

I'll choose this moment and keep it,

He said to himself, for a vow,

To remember for ever and ever

As if it were always now.

** Image copyright of Evoke Images

Dancing in the Streets - St. Louis Festival

2009-10-06T14:41:00.000-07:00

So, I went with my dad and two sisters to the Dancing in the Streets Festival at the Grand Center in downtown St. Louis...wow! Everytime I go to that area I am so amazed and remember just how much I love it down there! There is, of course, nothing like the Fabulous Fox Theatre... but there is so much more to see down there than just the Fox!

This festival really came at a great time for me. I had been desperately needing a creative outlet, and a break from all the homework!

It had been raining all day so they delayed many of the performances to let the stages dry, but it was lovely to walk around and see the different booths and variety of dancers that had gathered to perform.

I can still remember my first trip to the Fox....to see Cats!

These girls must have been freezing, because it was actually very very cold this day! The rain brought some of those fall breezes through the streets and you could taste the crispness of the air!

My sisters both look very dazed and lost here! This was right after it had rained, and many of the dancers were still inside. We were trying to figure out where to go to wait....hard to do when there aren't crowds and groups of people to follow!

I couldn't help it! This adorable little family and their dog at the pretzel stand...I like the little stories going on in this picture.

The clouds had cleared and everyone had gathered at the main stage. We ended up having to wait for awhile while they finished drying the stage with huge fans. The atmosphere was just mesmorizing in a weird way....everyone patiently waiting for the dancers, hoping the rain wouldn't re-appear!

Dancers waiting to take the stage...

Such very very talented young dancers!

This little group of girls was so charming and adorable! They had such joy on their faces (along with lots and LOTS of makeup! lol)

These 3 dancers were my favorite... Surprise! They were a vintage-style tap dance group that used mainly the old techniques and steps. I am so predictable =)

I really enjoyed watching this gal perform. She danced very passionately and really felt the music... She was lost in her own world. Isn't it wonderful to see an individual express herself/himself, and to watch the happiness and joy on their faces from doing so?

I just love the architecture and condition of this building....

I don't really know why, but this is my favorite shot of the day. Must be the older guy in the hat...doesn't he look like he has stories to tell?

Makes me want to dance.....

xoxo!

St. Louis Photographer

2009-09-25T23:05:00.000-07:00

“The road of life twists and turns and no two directions are ever the same.

Yet our lessons come from the journey, not the destination.”

- Don Williams Jr.

Visual Gratuitousness in New Town!

2009-09-17T13:35:00.000-07:00

Rudy's Ribs & Barbeque ~ This image I shot last spring hung at our local college's student art exhibit for awhile. I love the colors here!

What is it about steeples that gives me that strange mysterious/intriguing/romantic feeling? I just love them... Maybe that is why I was so obsessed with Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame when it first came out! lolMaybe those are more of towers than steeples.... oh well!

The front steps of the church in New Town. Take a look at the grain of that amazing door!

New Town at St. Charles is this unique, quaint, and beautiful community in St. Charles. It has this old-world feel, but has only recently been developed in the past 5 years or so. Some friends of ours were married there recently and we just really fell in love with it. Little shops, summer nights watching movies on the big outdoor screen in the amphi-theatre, canals, an organic farm, and a gorgeous chapel that I must say is one GORGEOUS wedding venue!

Southern Living featured a great article here, highlighting all the beautiful details of this sweet town. I wish I could post all the pictures I have, but this will have to do for now....

How would you like to LIVE somewhere like this?

Josh & Shannon's mini-session

2009-09-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

I did a mini-session with my brother-in-law and sister-in-law when we were down in Branson on our family vacation. (Which is another story all in itself! lol)

I think we got some really good shots, even though I am pretty sure Shannon wanted to kill Josh by the time we were finished! haha I have a couple that I didn't post on here that are so funny! The looks she was giving him!!! But in the spirit of a sweet and romantic photoshoot I will leave those for their eyes alone... =)

Seriously, you can really tell how much these two love each other. I love both of them very much and had fun on our little "adventure-shoot"!

Shall we read under the covers tonight?

2009-09-12T22:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight this is where I want to be. Under the cool sheets with a flashlight and a book.

Growing up, I can remember trying to read while my sister was sleeping. It was my own little world underneath that blanket. In my jammies, with my favorite book, a flashlight, and most of the time one or two dogs were under there with me!

Mom would yell for us to go to bed and when we had to turn the lights off I would wait until I thought she was asleep (or at least until I thought she wouldn't check on us anymore. Out from under my mattress the book I had hidden would come out, the blanket would go over my head to "hide" the glow of the flashlight, and my little adventures would begin!

Looking back, I know that Mom had to know what I was up to...but I sure felt sneaky!

How long has it been since you have read a favorite book under the covers?

*** image source unkown, if you know please contact me so I can give proper credit!

I remember today...

2009-09-11T07:52:00.001-07:00

Today my heart is heavy thinking about that day 8 years ago.

I had dreams about 9-11 all of last night, and this morning woke up with the families of those who had died on my mind.

I remember where I was. I remember sitting all day with my family. I remember watching the second plane hit. I remember watching daughters and sons jump to their death. I remember the shock. I remember the anger. I remember the rescue teams going in to help others come out. I remember a country coming together in unity and patriotism. I remember the flags flying in windows, doors, mailboxes, street corners, store windows. I remember the prayers said and the tears shed. I will never forget.

What will you remember today to honor the lives lost on September 11th, 2001?

My insane audio habits...

2009-09-08T22:04:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have a weird confession to make about my bizarre audio behavior! Make that several confessions....

via

1. I never listen to a song all the way through.

This is a rule... but there are certainly exceptions to it. Such as Rascal Flatts and Norah Jones. Don't know what it is about these in particular, but I can listen to (most of) their songs all the way through and not tear my hair out.

I never realized how strange of a thing this was until friends and family began to kindly point it out to me. I guess after hearing only the 1st verse of every song in the Michael Buble folder on my ipod they decided it was high time for an intervention! Still, I get very antsy if forced to listen to the entire 4:03 minutes of a song when my favorite parts are all in the first 40 seconds!

Maybe I have a short attention span.... but I like to look at it as making the most out of my music-listening experience!

2. I am addicted to the Scan button.

Have you ever just hit the scan button and let it go where it may? It is liberating! I am telling you, if you are going to listen to the radio - scanning is the way to fly. A little this, a little that, it is all about multi-tasking my friends! Give it a try the next time you are in the car and see if you don't love it! You aren't scared are you?

3. Orchestral Music is one of my guilty pleasures.

Call me old and behind the times, but one of the most relaxing things for me is the sound of a beautiful Orchestra. My husband and I went to the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra on our first date and it is still one of our favorite places to go. I couldn't tell you who was playing (heehee) but I felt like I stepped into a scene of the Phantom of the Opera!

4. Pandora.

If you haven't, you should. That is all I am going to say! This isn't a weird behavior, but since I was on the topic of music - thought I might as well throw it in there! Pandora, my friends.

Engaged - Mike & Andon

2009-09-07T23:03:00.001-07:00

As promised! Here is the beautiful couple in my most favorite engagement shoot ever! It was so hard to pick which pictures to post today...I have so so many favorites. Just the tip of the iceberg....these two gave me so much to work with. For real! How perfect are they together?

The day could NOT have been better! Everything worked out so perfectly for these pictures. (Adam was so helpful, how lucky am I to have him??)

I hope you enjoy looking at these as much as I enjoyed taking them. Thanks Mike & Andon! You two are the best! I am looking forward to the Wedding =)

Baby Portrait- the one with the old-fashioned trunk!

2009-09-03T15:56:00.000-07:00

Darling! Just darling! I could eat her little cheeks right up. Get a load of those dimples!

Babies, quilts and a touch of vintage. You have me sold little sweetheart!

Check out that mischievous look in the picture on the left!

"Where's the baby? There she is!"

I can't handle it!! Too cute for words...

Look at that lip...is your heart broken yet? I almost feel guilty posting it...but still. Adorable beyond adorable.

Preview: The One with the Baby & the Old Trunk!

2009-09-01T19:09:00.001-07:00

Seriously? Seriously. Can you get any cuter? No, I don't think so!

I am already in love with this set of pictures and I could just pinch those little baby cheeks!

More of this endearing session by Friday, I promise!

I smell Autumn!

2009-08-31T22:36:00.000-07:00

image found on pixdaus

Autumn Fires by Robert Louis Stevenson
In the other gardens
And all up the vale,
From the autumn bonfires
See the smoke trail!

Pleasant summer over
And all the summer flowers,
The red fire blazes,
The grey smoke towers.

Sing a song of seasons!
Something bright in all!
Flowers in the summer,
Fires in the fall!

I don't know whether or not the picture above is a season specific image, or could even be considered a fall picture, but it was just so whimsical and fantastical that I couldn't resist posting it. (I am sorry, I don't know the original artist. Please email if you know!)

I simply cannot wait for autumn! I can smell it in the air....

What a mild summer we have had here in St. Louis!

Well, bring on the Autumn! I am ready for festivals and fairs, caramel apples and pumpkin pie scents. Ready to open my windows and smell the freshly fallen leaves and feel that brisk fall breeze. Ready for hoodies, scarves and gloves. Ready for hot chocolate and smores by the bonfire!

What are your fondest Fall fancies?

Back Home...

2009-08-30T20:44:00.000-07:00

I am back from a 5 - day fun {and exhausting!} trip to Tablerock Lake in Branson, MO. My husband's family rented a huge house on the lake at a very nice resort right outside of town. Of course we had our family drama....10 people in one house for that long and you better believe it! But overall it was a very nice trip - lots of fishing, swimming, laying out by the pool, food & eating, board games, and laughter. As hard as my family can be to get along with at times....they are family and they are my family. So you have to throw away any ego and pride, put on your smiley face and not take anything personal! lol

Now...can I tell you about the massage? The massage. My mother in law took us three girls to a spa in Branson where I experienced what must be the closest thing to heaven here on earth. I had never had a massage before. Never. And bless my mother in law {and Olga!} forever for that piece of decadent and delightful goodness. I cannot remember a time when I felt more pampered or more spoiled! I was a goddess for the hour...I wouldn't have been surprised to have grapes and nuts brought in to me on a silver platter and to see minstrels playing in the corner! Let me just say, if you have never experienced a massage you MUST put this on your bucket list! Seriously now.... Seriously!

Mike & Andon ~ Engagement Session

2009-08-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

I just love this couple so much and I know you will love these pictures! I will be posting more this week, but until then here is a beautiful teaser for you....

Yes, yes this is probably my most favorite photo shoot of all time.....

Images are property of Evoke Images

To see the Summer Sky....

2009-08-20T18:34:00.000-07:00

To see the Summer Sky

Is Poetry, though never in a Book it lie -

True Poems flee.

~ Emily Dickinson

Summertime will be over soon, and since I haven't done so already I wanted to dedicate a post to summer....and the things I love about it! This summer has been especially wonderful for me...it has been relatively mild here in St. Louis! Compared to the humidity and overall dreadful heat we normally experience, this summer has been very nice. Not that I have been here that long to enjoy it! Vacationed in Virginia, Memphis, Branson (this coming week actually) and several little weekend trips... I have been blessed to really be able to travel quite a bit this year!

There are many special things about this time of year that are locational - The Muny in Forest Park, The St. Louis Zoo, walking the loop, Live on the Levee, visiting Kimmswick during the Strawberry Festival, Cardinals games, etc. But many of the things that touch my heart and soul in the summertime are very universal I think....

Taking the dog and the kids to swim in the river....

A nice cold Yoohoo! on a hot day....

America's favorite pastime - baseball games! (Go Cards!) ......

Taking a nap on an outdoor swing....

Football practices and games for the little guys....

Little feet. Shoeless and a bit dirty....

Sweet flowers picked just for you....

A walk in the park with friends....

And countless snapshots of beauty in our day-to-day lives!

All images copyright Evoke Images

Spent the weekend with The King...

2009-08-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

Seriously....what is not to love about Elvis? Not only did he CREATE a genre of music all to himself (Elvis cannot be put in any class but his own!), but he single handedly molded and created a CULTURE!

I went to Graceland this weekend with my dad and siblings for a before-school vacation for the kids. We had such a great time and really enjoyed learning more about this amazing man.

This weekend marked the 32nd Anniversary of his death, so many people had come to honor him and show their respects. Flowers and signs overwhelmed his grave in The Meditation Garden. So many people loved this man. Even people who weren't even alive when Elvis was around have developed a connection with him. It was almost surreal...I saw so many people crying and genuinely sorrowful, even after 32 years. There is absolutely something to be said about how peaceful it was there. As cliche as it sounds, it really was as if you could feel him there! I think the old adage "He lives on in the hearts of those who loved him" really does apply here....

So many things stood out about Elvis, aside from his music and cinematic careers. He was generous, giving, and had a compassionate heart. He respected and loved his momma (that tells you something right there!), and was a loving husband and father.

Lets not forget his other attributes! lol Those eyes! The hair! That charm....no wonder the ladies loved him! My husbands grandma went on a double date with Elvis, not that she brags about it - you have to drag it out of her, and has said what a gentleman he was to his date and what a charmer he was! I am very faithful to my husband, mind you....but if Elvis were still around today Adam might have something to worry about! lol

It was great reading the stories, seeing where he lived his life, and of course the photographer in me adored all the pictures documenting his life. Here are a few of my favorites, I hope you enjoy them and think a few good things about "The King" today!

my dream room for the weekend...

2009-08-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

How many times a day do you go to your "special place"??

Here is one of my special places that I would love to visit 63 times a day!

image via Spearmint Decor

Seriously! Can't you just see spending hours in this room! So serene and calm...

Lock me in this room with a pot of tea, my laptop, stacks of new magazines (mmmm) and a years supply of chocolate. Can you see taking a nap on a rainy day here? My little dream world! I can just smell the books, and feel the rays of sunshine on my skin....

How would you spend your time in a room like this?

My resolve!

2009-08-13T15:11:00.000-07:00

Okay...so I have decided to stop being Miss Laziness! I am resolving to write a new post at least every other day. (We all have to start somewhere!) I need to become more disciplined, especially with school getting ready to start again! Summer time has been fun, but if I am going to finish this associates degree I need to buckle down, bite the bullet and get on a schedule (of sorts! lol)

I wasn't really ready to come home from Virginia yet, but once we got on the road I realized just how much I missed home! I am not going to lie, I missed my little dogs more than just about anything else! I slept so good that night we got home, little Texas was all curled up between us.... and Della snoring over in the corner.

I really love the Shenandoah Valley and wouldn't hesitate to pick up and move there any time! We happened to be there the weekend they had the "Yard Crawl". 43 miles of yard sales along route 11! **cue angels singing!** I raked in some awesome finds and spent more money than what I had lol!

So...this is a short "first" entry, but I am on my way to pick up a new prop for an engagement session coming up.

Wishing everyone a beautiful weekend!

xoxoxo

Virginia is for Lovers.....and relaxers!

2009-08-05T07:13:00.000-07:00

Salutations from the decadent Shenandoah Valley in beautiful Virginia!

My week has been filled with reading, fishing, watching the horses in the pasture, sitting for hours playing with puppies, listening to a well put together playlist, and indulging in good ol homestead cooking! I have done only what I have wanted to do, and no more!

Everyone should have a do-nothing-getaway once in awhile. Even if it is only for a day or two, how wonderful it is to make your own decisions based solely on what YOU want to do, and enjoying the little pleasures that you so rarely get to indulge.

I have only went out once with my camera - I made a vow to myself that I wasn't going to take pictures of anything I felt like I had to take pictures of. I promised myself to photograph only when the inspiration struck!

Simply beautiful countryside, don't you think?

Trot, trot, trot.... little pony trot!

2009-07-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

There is a passion/weakness which I possess that very few people know about. Since I was a little girl, I have been desperately in love with horses. I lived and breathed the magical, wonderful creatures, read every book I could get my hands on, cut pictures out of magazines, decorated my room to the EXTREME with bryer horses, barbie horses...it didn't really matter as long as some small part of it was equine!

When I was 15, I finally got my own horse. I think in a perfect world, every little girl would have the opportunity to own a horse of her very own! His name was Buddy and he was an old grey Arabian gelding. He was sway-backed, didn't have the smoothest gait, his face was a little wide, and he had his grumpy moments... but he was all mine. My heart broke when we moved back to the city and had to sell him. He went to a lady that owned a ranch which used horse-therapy to help children with special needs, so we know he got a good forever home....but it sure didn't make it any easier to say goodbye.

There are times when my arms literally ache to be wrapped around the neck of a horse. I want to bury my face in it's mane, breathe deeply, and wrap my fingers into its thick mane-hair. The smell of leather to this day is one of my favorite smells and is so very nostalgic.

I have just recently realized how deeply my love for horses still goes... For now I have to make do with beautiful pictures and images of horses, "Black Beauty" over and over again, and the occasional trip to the nearest horse-holding field. Someday, with God as my witness (and my husbands promise! lol), I will own horses again!

Do you have equine fever too? Please enjoy these images, close your eyes and imagine with me you are hugging the neck of a beautiful horse....isn't it divine?

xoxo,

Maranda

I can't stop thinking about this picture series above from Kiss the Groom (for Lorwick in NY). Have you ever seen such a decadent photo shoot? **sigh**

This adorable vintage ceramic pony is for sale here!

Found this lovely print here

Image of girl & horse

B&W horse image

Erin's Senior Portraits

2009-07-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

It was such a beautiful day and all the stores in Historic Kimmswick were already closed for the day, we had the whole town to ourselves! Here are just a few pictures from our session. We really had a good time. Erin is friends with my sister Mariah, who gets to help me from time to time. If you have never been to Kimmswick and are ever in the area I strongly recommend it to you! Check out the Blue Owl Restaurant and Bakery. You will never find better sweets for your sweet tooth!

Enjoy the little video montage...thanks Erin!

Rainy day in St. Louis...

2009-07-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

I just love the nostalgia and comfort of a rainy day, don't you?

Things I am wishing for on this blustery day:

* a cup of hot rooibos tea

~ these luxurious new jammies to jump into

* Norah Jones playing in the background

~ the softest throw blanket I can find

* the next book on my "to-read" list

~ these slippers, just because they make me smile

* and my snuggly puppies to cuddle with

Hope you all have a relaxing, cozy afternoon!

photo by Julianne Hide

St. Louis Children's Photography

2009-06-25T18:39:00.001-07:00

How I ADORED this photo session! These little girls remind me of when my sisters and I were little. Tea parties, getting dressed up "pretty", making flower chains and blowing the white dandelions...little girls, little girls!

These pictures touched my heart as I was editing them and gave me so much joy, as I hope they do for you.

(Btw, don't you just love the names Grace, Mercie & Hope! Absolutely lovely.)

Enjoy!

~ Maranda

A quiet Saturday morning - Evoke Images

2009-06-25T00:40:00.000-07:00

I don't think that there is anything that I love more than a morning spent in bed! I am not lazy, nor a procrastinator ... there is just something about staying in bed an extra hour that seems to be so calming and relaxing, it just starts the day off right. I am ready to face the world after waking up to some sweet snuggling with Adam and the dogs. (Throw in some hot tea and a few raindrops and you have me snagged!)

This past Saturday we were just laying in bed talking, cuddling with Della & Texas (our two dogs) and I decided to grab my camera... ruh roh!

These are just about my favorite pictures ever, because they are us! We may look horrible and yes, our breath may smell, but for a little while there is nothing else in the world besides each other and our little tiny family! We can be who we want to be and not who everyone else wants/needs/expects us to be. Do you have a space like that? Where you can just be YOU?

Hope you enjoy a peek into our little lives! =)

There will be a flood of blog posts coming this week...so keep checking back!

A need for the sea!

2009-06-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about the ocean all day today! It might have something to do with the 96 degree temperature (with heat index over 100!). The summertime makes me crave the water. The ocean is preferable, but even being out on my in-laws fishing boat last week felt nice. Just that nice, sweet, balmy breeze that accompanies large bodies of water. I always have thought that in a past life I must have been something that had to do with the water....

I thought I would share this picture with you from Martha Stewart - what a peaceful and serene atmosphere. What I wouldn't give to feel that ocean breeze on my face, a nice cold drink in my hand, sound of seagulls, the company of a few close friends.... can't you just picture it?

Behold the Sea, The opaline, the plentiful and strong,

Yet beautiful as is the rose in June, Fresh as the trickling rainbow of July;

Sea full of food, the nourisher of kinds, Purger of earth, and medicine of men;

Creating a sweet climate by my breath,

Washing out harms and griefs from memory,

And, in my mathematic ebb and flow, Giving a hint of that which changes not.

Author: Ralph Waldo Emerson

Source: Sea Shore

Lucille's Homecoming! =)

2009-06-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

When your heart has a longing, the love of your heart must be able to hear that longing!

The day after we went to the Antique Mall (as mentioned here, if you are new to my little story) Adam went to pick up his bumper pool table from the owner. I had been scheming in my mind just how I was going to get this hat. Poor guy....he must have heard a hundred times the night before "I just LOVE that little brown hat!". Well, when Adam walked up our stairs - wearing my new brown hat on his head - I don't think I ever loved the man more than in that moment!

So, Lucille has found a resting place! If all she ever does is sit there on my shelf and look pretty....it will be enough!

Have you ever wanted something so badly, only to have it come to you in an unexpected way?

One Lovely Blog Award!

2009-06-11T09:01:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to announce that the glamorous Gina from the A Bit of Whimsy honored "Evoked" with an award !!!!!! The "One Lovely Blog Award! "Now it's my turn to pass on the award by sharing all the fabulous blogs that inspire me...!!

i gratefully accept the "One Lovely Blog Award" and in doing so i will post the Rules of Blog Award Acceptance:

1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.

2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered.

now it's my turn to spread the love:

i hereby award the following blogs the “One Lovely Blog Award”!

(in no particular order)

tastefully entertaining

this is glamorous

Q's daydream

zest & thyme

Mike & Melissa - Part 1

2009-06-05T23:08:00.000-07:00

Have I ever told you how much I love wedding slideshows! The right choice of pictures with the right music is so beautiful to me...I hope you enjoy this slideshow of the "pre-ceremony" happenings for Mike & Melissa's special day!

Lucille of My Dreams!

2009-06-04T22:55:00.000-07:00

So Adam and I decided to go into the Antique Mall today before we went to dinner - I needed to get a little something to go with a baby shower gift (that I am terribly late with! Sorry Sara!).

30 minutes later we come out of the Antique Mall with the said item, as well as a vintage blue pillbox hat (for $7 I couldn't pass it up), and a BUMPER POOL TABLE, for which we have no room, but Adam is sure that we need. This is to be expected. We go into an Antique Mall, we naturally anticipate coming out with something we had no intention of buying (we didn't even know we wanted a bumper pool table!).

What I did NOT expect was to fall head over heels in love with a brown hat. I will call this hat "Lucille" because she deserves a name. A brown 1920's cloche with pristine beige, brown and ecru feathers around the brim - "Lucille" is the royal echelon of hats. I needed this hat. To my utter despair Adam would not let me buy this hat! Oh, he brought up several good points. Good reasons WHY I don't NEED this hat. But in all honesty, it isn't fair to expect the man to understand the emotional connection I felt with "Lucille" at that moment. The great depth that was our love! This hat was meant for me....

I may not have the best head for hats. I may already filled my weekly hat quota. I may not have the extra money right now. "Lucille" might very well sit on my shelf for long months at a time. But I am certain of one thing....she will be mine! If I have to beg, borrow or steal....

Stay tuned for the conclusion of this great love story, I have a feeling a happy ending is on the way!!!

Postscript: To read the happy ending of this story, click here!

Misc Photoshoot...

2009-05-26T07:22:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post some of the images we took this past week for a youth event coming up in June. I am not going to lie....it was a HOT day! Miserable in fact. The poor model had tears in his eyes from the glare of the sun - we all have to suffer for our art! I will post the finished product when I get it from the graphic designer. Enjoy!

The Boy in the Cap

2009-05-13T12:15:00.000-07:00

This was such a fun photoshoot! Michael really got into the whole "taking pictures" thing and was giving me pose after pose - I think this dude has a career in the model business! He kept pointing out different spots and suggesting different ideas. Why can't every session be like this? I seriously should hire him for his creative genius!! (lol maybe in a few years!) I was just absolutely thrilled to take his pictures and am very happy with the way they turned out.

Thanks Michael!

Here are some of my favorites from the session - check out the video at the end of the post for more!

Eric & Martha - Wedding

2009-04-24T14:28:00.001-07:00

Eric & Martha have to be the sweetest couple I have ever come across. Their wedding was so joyful and you could just feel the love emanating from them. I was so happy to have the chance to take some amazing pictures with them...don't you just love the umbrella shots?? That was thanks to Becky Coe, who was the main photographer and had to leave early from the wedding, she very sweetly left the massive umbrella and photo frame for me to use.

I'll tell you, this wedding made me want to fall in love all over again. It was simple, sweet and full of l-o-v-e. Just the way we like it!

Trash The Dress Session - in the mud!

2009-04-21T08:57:00.001-07:00

Marissa was so brave to do this shoot! Ick! The thought of actually getting in the mud makes me cringe - although I wasn't faring much better out there in my blue and yellow galoshes! It had been raining for several days straight, and continued to rain towards the end of the session. These turned out super cool - even though I still feel like I need to take a shower whenever I see them! lol Very neat way to get some great pictures of a bridesmaid dress which she never planned on wearing again. Props Marissa!

Kiah Sky = Adorable!

2009-04-17T09:28:00.001-07:00

We took some pictures of Kiah after we did the family portraits...these might quite possibly my favorite pictures of all time! What can I say...I am a sucker for vintage. The little ponytails and overalls are so adorable. Little tidbit: the doll in the pictures belonged to Kiah's mom when she was a little girl. Those are the type of things that make a picture memorable; what a cool tie to previous generations!

Urban Family Session....in Hillsboro??

2009-04-15T17:59:00.000-07:00

What a fun family! We had a really great time on this photoshoot, and who knew how many great places to take photos there are in "downtown" Hillsboro? My favorite part of the day had to be when the baby was eating rocks for her afternoon snack! Priceless memories... Enjoy!

(I love this Abbey Road - reminiscent picture!)

SRM photoshoot

2009-04-07T13:37:00.001-07:00

This past week I grabbed some shots of the church that Adam & I attend. All the flowers were blooming and the weatherman was calling for a freeze over the weekend...figures for Missouri! I couldn't resist taking some pictures of the flowers too. These are mostly architectural photos..thought you might enjoy!

The Girl & the Old Car

2009-04-01T17:36:00.001-07:00

Mariah is such a classy girl...it seemed appropriate to do some "vintage-y" style portraits of her. I am so happy that we did! A totally unique experience and she now has some totally unique Portraits!

I think this black and white is my favorite...something about it has a very Audrey Hepburn-ish feel!

(I love the Rock & Roll edge that this image has...SO Mariah!)

The rusty old truck was great...if only I could find one of my own. Maybe Adam will let me store it in our backyard....lol

Andrew W. Photoshoot

2009-04-01T15:28:00.001-07:00

It was a lot of fun taking pictures with Andrew last month. He is a real cool guy, and that really came through on his shoot. I thought it was really great that he wanted to do some pictures with Sydney, the family dog. They have had her for years and she was a big part of his younger years.

It was really such a beautiful Saturday. We went to downtown St. Charles and got some great pictures by the river and in the historic area. (My personal favorites are the ones by the railroad!) I love the cobblestone streets, the little shops and the whole atmosphere down there. If you have never been to St. Charles I highly suggest making a day of it. (Christmas time is especially pretty!)

Andrew is very talented and can play the guitar like nobody's business! I had never heard of air-tapping before. (Click here for a demonstration...very cool!) While we were walking and taking some pictures down Main Street a couple of guys saw him with his guitar and asked if he could play. Like any artist, the music must come first! Andrew plopped a seat right there on the ground and soon had quite an audience gathered around him. What great memories!

I had a blast doing this session... I might upload some more pictures later, but until then take a look at the video slideshow for some of the "picks"! Enjoy!

Watch out Blogging world!

2009-04-01T12:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog =)

Well, this is it! I am taking the big step into the galaxy of bloggers and bloggies! I am so new to this, I am sure it will be awhile before I get the hang of it...so hang in there with me! I don't anticipate this becoming a world-popular space, but if I can just have my little part of the internet be cute and cozy, with a few friends stopping by every so often...that is fine by me!

My hope is that I can share a little bit more of myself with you, my attempt at photography, a little about what is going on in our lives...and maybe I can learn something about me along the way too!