This is going to be a multi-faceted post, but I found it perfectly fitting.  It's a quick sneak peek at Rochelle and Jeremy's wedding, but also a chance to explain why it is we love what we do. 

I recently had the opportunity to attend a presentation by a VERY well respected wedding photographer, Joe Buissink.  His images have always been so moving and he challenged everyone in the audience to really search what images of our own speak to us and grab us at the core.  He followed it up by saying, that is who you are as a photographer. 

As I was looking through some images from Rochelle and Jeremy's wedding this past weekend, this sequence from when they first saw one another really spoke to me.  In my opinion, we wouldn't have to show any other images from the whole day and these two would be enough to show the love Rochelle and Jeremy have for one another.  Given the opportunity to capture moments like this is truly an honor.  I couldn't think of anything more rewarding than being invited in to someone's life to preserve their true and deepest emotions!

We hope you find it as moving as we do!

Dress:  Ramona Keveza at Macy's Bridal Salon
Rings:  Continental Diamond
Reception:  Rush Creek Golf Club
Floral:  Richfield Flowers and Events
Linens/Place Settings:  Linen Effects
Cake:  Gateaux Inc.
Video:  Primavera Studios
Music & Lighting:  Instant Request
Transportation:  Twin City Trolleys

Under threats of storms and rough weather, Calley and Derek (some of you may remember their Hudson bluffs engagement session) had a beautiful wedding!  We started the day off at Holy Name of Jesus church in Medina where they were getting married.  The large windows in the entrance of the church worked as a beautiful place for them to have their first peek and Derek could see Calley looking stunning in her gorgeous Ramona Keveza gown.  The ceremony was lighthearted, with a fantastic message.

After the ceremony, we hopped aboard the trolley and were off to Fish Lake Park to get some pictures of the bridal party.  We had to fight the rain a little, but ended up with some beautiful images.  We just love the mood and story the umbrellas brought.  The nearby dock proved to be a gorgeous backdrop as well!

We arrived at Rush Creek, to find a reception overflowing with awesome detail!  The floral tree center pieces, along with the place settings and linens really transformed the room into a wonderland!   The couple really brought their personality to the party also.  This included a bean bag toss game complete with "Team Calley" and "Team Derek" bean bags and boards monogrammed with an R for Roers.  In addition Derek's family is known for a family flag.  The groomsmen made sure that a Kingston banner they made was soon replaced by a Roers flag amid a serenade to custom song lyrics and instrumental accompaniment.  Needless to say the guests were treated to a great evening of fun, food, and dancing!

P.S.  If you would like to be alerted when all of the pictures are available to view and order, you can get to Calley and Derek's online gallery by using this LINK.  If you register before the event is released, (right now) you are eligible for a $5 gift certificate!

Our wedding yesterday was at Windows on Minnesota.  It's on the 50th floor of the IDS tower.  It has beautiful views and large windows that I loved.  As, I was downloading images from the wedding, I wanted to pull this one out.  I love the dramatic lighting and how grand it felt.  Plus, our lovely bride Anne, makes it look all the better!  Be sure to check back later for a full preview of the wedding.  Anne's beautiful dress was custom made by local dress maker, Carmelle Elizabeth. 

Dress shop: Angelique's Bridal Salon
Dress designer: Pronovias
Ceremony site: St. John the Baptist
Reception site & Catering: Midland Hills CC
Cake: Wuollet Bakery
Entertainment: Adagio
Flowers: Forever in Bloom Floral

We have had so much fun over the past year getting to know Laura and Brett.  They are such an incredibly nice couple who really love one another.  From their super fun engagement session, to their pink/fuschia inspired wedding, they have been up for anything. 

We started the wedding day off at St. John, The Baptist church under ominous skies and ended at Midland Hills Country Club under a beautiful night.  Laura had her color inspiration sprinkled in throughout the entire ceremony, from her shoes to the chair sashes.  It seemed like a fitting way to usher in a new era.  Both families and the wedding party were a lot of fun and we were so happy to be a part of their special day.    

P.S.  If you would like to be alerted when all of the pictures are available to view and order, you can get to Laura & Brett's online gallery by using this LINK.  If you register before the event is released, you are eligible for a $5 gift certificate!

We here at Staja Studios had so much fun pulling this project together for Casey and Dann.  They called a few months back and wanted us to photograph their wedding at the La Valencia in La Jolla, CA next spring.  In addition, they wanted something unique to show at their engagement party this past weekend.  We proposed the idea of doing a "fusion style" engagement session that would incorporate video along with our still photography, and they loved it.  During their session, we learned that Dann had studied French for many years.  We already had a mood in mind for the music and while editing with Ryan, our awesome associate/intern/video help, we came up with the idea of using some classic French cinema influences.  The end result is below.  Please let us know what you think!

Casey + Dann from Staja Studios on Vimeo.