We have known Shannon for awhile now, she watched all of my kiddos at the gym in Buffalo. The boys love her, and she was one of the few people that could manage Tess when she was an infant. The other sitters would call Shannon to find out how to get her to stop crying! I'm sure they miss us there. Haha! Well, now Shannon has a sweet bundle of her own and I was beyond grateful to have the opportunity to meet her adorable little guy. 
This sweet boy was such a little character. As soon as we started undressing him, he was happy and smiling. I think we can make this a thing. Minimalist baby pictures. Just bring your baby and a white onesie! If you know me well, you know I love white on white, on white. Throw in those bright baby blues and big smiles, it was magic. So here are a few of my favorite baby pictures, maybe ever. I mean, look at that face!! It really fills my heart to meet and hold your sweet babies. Thank you for trusting me to capture this time in your lives. ​

Lauren and Joe are the sweetest couple. Not only are they gorgeous, they are warm and caring people who impact lives and make those around them feel good. Every person at their wedding seemed to feel this same way. All  were smitten to see these two souls find each other. Their family and friends are just as incredible- so welcoming, kind, and eager to see Lauren and Joe say "I do." It was truly a beautiful day, full of joy and happy hearts all around. 
Their day began at the fabulous Hotel Henry. This iconic architectural landmark is nothing short of amazing. Every aspect about this urban resort is intriguing, stemming from its historical background when it was designed as an asylum 145 years ago. Today, the hotel boasts a unique blend of historical architecture, combined with gorgeous modern elements. With all the trees and park areas in full bloom, it was the perfect Spring location for Lauren and Joe's modern take on an elegant, garden inspired wedding. 
 Groomservice did an exceptional job for the bridal party with hair and makeup, everyone looked beautiful! The bridesmaids wore unique, floor length gowns in blush, from David's Bridal. The Maid of Honor wore the same hue but chose a lace detailed, open back design by Hayley Paige Occasions. Lauren chose the most gorgeous, Sottero and Midgley wedding gown in champagne, with a jewel encrusted bodice and layers and layers of whimsical tulle. Delicate, rose gold jewelry, strappy heels from Bebe, and a cathedral length veil by Gorgeous Compliments completed her look. Lauren looked beyond stunning! All the girls mouths literally dropped when they walked into the room and saw her in her dress! So pretty!!!
The guys were total overachievers and were ready hours before Status Limo arrived. Joe and his groomsmen looked dapper in their classic black tuxedos from The Black Tux. Joe gifted Lauren with a simple and elegant bracelet and a card with the most lovely sentiments. Lauren got Joe a beautiful black custom watch before they exchanged vows. Everyone just adores these two, more wedding day gifts were exchanged, a few tears of happiness were pushed back, and we prepared to leave for the ceremony. 
Lauren and Joe were wed in a traditional Catholic ceremony held at St. Joseph's Cathedral. The priest performed a heartfelt and interactive ceremony full of love for the couple. It was beautiful to witness.  Cocktails and the reception were back at Hotel Henry. Shutter Dream Studio may have made Joe's day when they flew the drone across the hotel courtyard for some arial shots of the wedding party. It was pretty awesome! Costamagna Design did an amazing job making all a bride's style dreams come true. A perfect, pastel colored assortment of peonies, roses and sprigs of greenery made up the bouquets and boutonnieres, complimenting the blush and rose gold wedding details and providing a Spring vibe. The ballroom looked breathtaking. It was like a romantic garden party with cascading greens and pastel florals on champagne tabletops, filled with candlelight. Collecting antique glass candle holders seems to run in the family and was part of Lauren's vision for the reception decor. Her mother collected each unique, vintage candle holder and filled the tables with these treasures. Hand scripted placecards, framed photos of the bride and groom, and a memorial table were just a few of the many personal wedding touches. Perhaps one of the highlights of the night was the highly anticipated cookie table, "A Pittsburg Tradition." Lauren's sister, Katherine, and several others, baked over 300 cookies! Beyond the cookies was a 4 tiered, vanilla wedding cake adorned with blush pink and peach flowers, created by Ohlson's Bakery. Joe had his own groom's cake, a donut cake with vanilla icing and sprinkles. Yasss! 
The speeches were thoughtful and from the heart. The love in the room for Lauren and Joe was palpable and there was barely a dry eye as everyone toasted the couple. There was so much dancing and fun at the reception. You have to love a couple with Bride and Groom beer funnels! Scroll to the end for one of our favorite wedding photos, ever!
​Seeing these two and their families come together was an amazing experience. I truly believe that Lauren and Joe will "keep dancing" and continue to make each other happy for the rest of their lives.
​Congratulations Laurent and Joe! We love you guys!!

Event Design: Costamagna Design
Venue: Hotel Henry
Chruch: St. Joseph's Cathedral
Wedding Dress: Sottero and Midgley
Veil: Gorgeous Compliments
Tuxedo: The Black Tux
Bridesmaid Dresses: David's Bridal
Maid of Honor Dress: Hayley Paige Occasions
Hair and Makeup: Groom Service Beauty and Dry Bar
Limo: Status Limosine
Cake: Ohlson's Bakery
Shoes: Bebe
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan
Video: Shutter Dream Studio

7 years ago, this boy made me a mother. All 5 lbs, 7 oz of him. That tiny baby turned our world upside down and changed us forever, in the best way. Because of him, our hearts grew larger, patience stronger, and laughter more abundant. He is strong and loving, kind and fiercely protective. I am so proud of how well he has transitioned from a comfortable life in Buffalo, NY that he knew well, to a brand new one in Orlando, FL. He has adjusted to a new place, new schedule, new way of learning, and has made some great friends along the way.
It always amazes me just how much changes in the course of a year. He has been more shy than I have ever seen him. I suppose at this age,  he's also learning that he can be vulnerable. He thinks armpit farts and chickens are hilarious. He is learning by himself that most superheroes are not real, but he still loves them. I feel I have a short amount of time remaining for him to want to watch cartoon movies with me, and snuggle while we watch. We are now reading books together, rather than me reading to him. He still asks for extra hugs at bed time, which I will cherish for as long as he continues to ask.
Most days, he is dressed in a superhero costume. If not a costume, it's mesh shorts and a superhero t-shirt. I had to make him change his two sizes too small Flash shirt for this photo. He immediately ripped it off, Hulk style. He loves adventure and all animals. He can talk for an entire car ride, asking question after question, but has started to read books on long drives. He loves playing hockey, soccer, and swimming. Most of all, he loves his family. He is beast of a boy with an even bigger heart. We are so proud of the person he is becoming.
Happy 7th Birthday, Bubba!