The Burgard Family: Black Hills Family Photography

I met Megan when I first moved to Hill City my sophomore year of high school. I didn't know her well, but  she stood out to me then because she was just plain nice. To everyone. All the time.  Needless to say, I was thrilled when she emailed and asked if I'd be able to take her family's pictures, and some portraits of their newest addition, Nora.

We used Megan's parents' yard, which is so beautiful. Big sister Greta thought it was pretty perfect, too, because there were stairs she could climb and room to run around in-between shots. Megan's parents wanted a few pictures with the girls, so Mike (who turns out is just as nice as Megan) stood behind me and made Greta smile. I'm not sure exactly what he was doing back there, but it worked. It was too cold to photograph Nora outside, so we shot a few by the window, and decided on an afternoon shoot at their home to get a few more.

Megan and Mike, thank you so much for asking me to take your family photos! I loved chatting with you and getting to know your girls. I hope you enjoy my favorites.

Brie and Brock: Chadron, NE Engagement Photography

Brie was my roommate at Chadron State College our sophomore year, and we became fast friends. Not only the kind of friends that listened to music and went to movies, but the kind of friends that were present for laughter and boredom and heartache. We hadn't known each other for long when I realized that Brie would always be on my side, and I loved her for it.

It was a fall weekend—two years after she moved away to Lincoln—when Brie was back in Chadron. She and a group of friends were downtown for drinks and karaoke, when Brock danced his way into the picture. She liked him, so they ended up speaking regularly on the phone, and then dated for a few years long distance. By the time they lived in the same town, he had gained her trust and completely stolen her heart.

 

It's no wonder. He is handsome, hardworking, and looks at her like she is all he has ever wanted. He cares deeply about her happiness. He loves making her laugh loudly in spontaneous bursts, and does so often. But the thing I love most about him? He'll always be on Brie's side.

Brie and Brock, I hope you know how much I adore you. Thank you so much for trusting me with your wedding photos, and most of all for your friendship. Hope you like my favorites!

Mitchell and Aimee: Black Hills Wedding Photography

It was a destination wedding for Aimee, Mitchell, and Avery, and when they arrived at Blue Bell Lodge in Custer State Park, I couldn't tell who was more excited to get into her dress. Avery is almost three, and must have been anticipating wearing it for awhile now. She was the first to put hers on. The dress excitement didn't wear off, but instead multiplied when she saw her mother in hers. "Cute dress!", she said.

Aimee made a gorgeous bride, and I was happy to be able to get some bridal portraits at the cabin while we waited for the rest of the bridal party and family to arrive.  When everyone had made it safe and sound, the ceremony began under sunshine, blue skies, and pine trees. While her parents were exchanging rings, Avery made her way to the front, wanting to be near them. Without thinking twice, Aimee scooped her up, and held her tight for the rest of the ceremony.  Mitchell stood proudly with his two best girls, and kissed both as he and Aimee were pronounced husband and wife.

Mitchell and Aimee, it was wonderful to meet you, and I hope you had a memorable weekend in the Black Hills.  Thank you so much for asking me to photograph your wedding.  Here are  some of my favorites.