Where Dreams Come True

15.05.12 the latest & greatest

Jesie always says, “Tater, you’re the luckiest girl I know.  Things always just work out for you.”

Now, I don’t know if I necessarily agree with the “always” part, but more often than not, through the grace of God, things eventually seem to fall into place.

One really neat opportunity that He provided was the chance to photograph a wedding with Justin and Mary Marantz in Disney World.

The Marantz’ and I go way back.  I was in the audience at one of their very first speaking engagements at PartnerCon 2008.  I was so inspired, never before hearing another photographer talk about their craft they way I did.  I went up to my hotel room where my best friend was hanging out and started crying.  Tears of joy.  Tears of hope.  Hope that I had what it takes to achieve my dreams.

Fast forward four years.

I’ve followed the Marantz’ witty blog and hung out with them on numerous occasions at their home in Connecticut, at conferences in New Orleans, and charity shoots in Vegas.  Oh, I even introduced them to Rio margaritas in Denver.   Though, through all our interactions the one thing missing has been missing one thing: a wedding.

Shooting a wedding with the Marantz’ has always been a dream of mine.  Jes and I look up to them so much.

As fate would have it, our Disney vacations overlapped and it just so happened J&M were down a second shooter and asked if I’d like to help out.

What a truly terrific experience and very affirming one at that.  As a matter of fact, I was very encouraged to see that we handle our wedding days very similarly to how the Marantz’ do.

Jesie and I just love Justin and Mary and are very grateful for their friendship, mentorship, and continual support of us.  So, Justin and Mary, thank you for being you!  Thank you for believing in Jesie and me and believing in me day of Tricia and Josh’s wedding.

I guess dreams really do come true in Disney World…

***

Do check out their blog about the lovely Josh and Tricia who we photographed at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn.

RTP Fan Revealed: Miss Shannon

27.04.12 the latest & greatest

It was about this time of year that I met Shannon.  This time of year, seven years ago.  Wow.  Writing that looks more baffling that it sounded in my head.

Yes, seven years ago.

She gave me a phone interview.  I was an applicant for a leadership program at the University of Colorado.  We hit it off instantly; our conversation felt nothing like a stuffy phone interview.  A few weeks later, she offered to take me to coffee and prep me for my in-person interview.  Again, our conversation felt easy and light.

Because that’s Shannon… she makes it easy.  Easy to be around.  Easy to laugh.  Easy to smile.  Easy to share your heart.

A few weeks passed and I received a call that I’d been accepted into this program.  And the mentor who I was paired with?  Shannon.

It was actually Shannon who struck the match.  Who lit the fire beneath me and gave me reason to believe, seven years ago, that I had an eye for this thing called “photography.”

It was actually Shannon who was first to compliment my work.  Who was first to refer me.

Shannon: the beautiful, driven, and dedicated friend who first accepted me when I started my college career.

And for that I will forever be endebted to her.

Shannon, thank you.  Thank you for being bold, being perceptive, and being a friend – encouraging me every step of the way.  I love you, girl.

****

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s my pleasure to introduce to you, Miss Shannon Coker, who believe it or not, has never been in front of my camera in the seven years I’ve known her.

R: In 3 words, how would describe RTP’s style?
S: Effortless. Creative. Classic.

R: Anything you’ve always wanted to know about me and/or Jesie?
S: Your wedding morning routine, what’s the first thing that you think of when you get up? Is a cup of Joe a must? What does that look like?? How do you psych yourselves up?
R: Oh this is a blog post just waiting to happen!  Stand by.  But in the meantime, I can tell you it includes Fernando Ortega, freshly ground coffee, and a lot of prayer.

R: Favorite blog post?
S: The personal ones. Of course, the huge wedding blogs are awesome sauce but when you shed light onto your beliefs, your own love story and where you’re challenging yourself and your business…those are my favorite because I always take something away on how I can be better or what I could be doing to have a stronger faith in the Lord, etc.

R: How could we improve our blogging?  What would you like to see more of? 
S: Well, more frequently of course because its addicting! :) I can’t say I’d like to see more of one thing or another, everything is fabulous…maybe just MORE! :) More photos! I do have to say, the video posts are super fun too!
R: Duly noted! Duly noted.

Shootout Wardrobe: Sweet Family Picnic

12.04.12 our two cents, the latest & greatest

Hello everyone!

I have to be honest… I’ve been dreaming about our Maternity and Young Family Shoot Out.  Literally, dreaming about it.  Maybe it’s because I’m super excited about this styled shoot, or because I’ve thought through every detail right down to the ribbon around the peach lemonade jar.  Either way, you should know this shoot is going to be stunning!

By now, I’m sure you’ve heard about our Maternity and Young Family Shoot Out on April 14^th.  If this is the first time you’re hearing about it, take a look HERE to learn more about the style of this shoot.  It’s going to be beautiful with lots of soft grays, greens, peaches and creams… perfect to ring in the spring.  We’ve got adorable flags, mason jars, umbrellas, peach popsicles and all kinds of props to make this shoot really stand out.

Now a styled shoot is only as good as its wardrobe. :)  Think soft, muted, airy and… spring-y!  Light pinks, greens, grays, browns, and creams will look great.  Take a look at the inspiration board below to get a better idea of wardrobe that will compliment the style of this shoot.  Wear things that make you feel great.  And accessorize!  Great accessories do so much for your images.  Hair pieces, scarves, jewelry, shoes, hats.  You know what René always says, “The difference is in the details.”  And it’s so true!

Thank you so much to the families who have already reserved their slot!  We still have a slot or two open if you’re interested!  Each shoot will be 45 minutes long and $99.  With the style of this shoot including props, wardrobe and the personality from each family, we’ll create a body of work I know you’ll love!

Can’t wait,
Jesie

Shootout: A Sweet Family Picnic

27.03.12 maternity, the latest & greatest

Spring is upon us.  Warm weather, summer dresses… and peach lemonade.  Peaches are the inspiration for our upcoming Maternity and Young Family Shoot Out and I couldn’t be more excited!

This shoot will be the perfect kick off for spring!  Imagine a field of grass, picnic baskets, mason jars and peach popsicles.  Take a look at our inspiration board below for a taste of the shoot’s flavor.  It will be charming, sweet, and fun.  Each family or little one will bring their own personality and props to their shoot.  I just can’t wait!

We have several time slots still available on April 14^th, so be sure to secure yours right away.  With Mother’s Day around the corner, this sounds like a wonderful gift for only $99.

I’m really looking forward to this.  Babies and new parents and little kiddos are definitely my heart.  :-) Can’t wait!

Blessed,
Jesie (and René, of course!)

Are you expecting?  Are you new parents?  Either way, A Sweet Family Picnic is for you.
Secure your time slot by emailing us.  Click here to do so.