You've been planning this day for quite some time now. Putting your energy into this one day. We've talked about the time line and what you want photographed - but what is going to happen during the day? Keep reading to see how your day will play out (there are times where we have to change a few things, but don't worry, I'll be there to make sure your day goes smoothly as possible!)

When I arrive, I like to start with detail photos. Your gown, shoes, jewelry, perfume, bouquet, etc. You spend so much time and money getting all the little things together that they deserve their time to shine! Once everyone is dressed, they will help you get your dress,  shoes, and jewelry on. Be sure to eat and drink water (I know, I sounds like a Mom, what do you expect?!) It's going to be a long day and I just want to make sure everyone is okay.

I love doing first looks, it is your 1st intimate time before you two say "I Do!" This part is all you and your almost Husband! We talk about he is going to turn around but the rest is all you! This typically lasts about 10 minutes - then we go on to the bridal and family photos. I like to schedule them before the ceremony so you two can enjoy your cocktail hour.

We'll arrive before your ceremony starts to get the details. All you have to worry about is saying your "I Do's!" We'll capture everything from when you get there till when you exit the ceremony space! From then, we will be going to the reception space to start photographing there.

The bridal and family photos are typically done after the first look. Both normally last about 15-20 minutes. First, we'll get the whole bridal party together and then we'll separate the sides to photograph each party. Then, we'll get the families together. We'll have a list so we make sure no one is missed!

Before your guests enter, we get the details in the reception space. This is another favorite time of the day - because this is when the party starts! All the planning and stressing (Yes, it's true. And if you're reading this, please take time for yourself to chill!) is done and now its finally time to have fun (not that we weren't already!)

It all starts when your bridal party enters! Then all eyes on the newlyweds! First dance, parent dances, then let the party begin! We'll be there to capture everything. From cake cutting to all the break dancing! If you decide to, we'll go out when the sun is setting to get a few more photos of you and your husband/wife! After that, we are pretty much done for the day. It will be a long day, but we will have so much fun!

I had a blast photographing this little peanut for her first birthday! Cake smash sessions have to be one of my favorite - because for a moment, they get to just have fun and get cake every where - how could you not love that?! I love the theme that her parents chose - Winter ONEderland! I hope you enjoy looking at the photos as much as I did taking them. Happy First Birthday Maddie!

Cait and I became good friends this year and I was so excited when she asked me to take some photos of her and Emma. I didn't want our usual beach or pine background so I was thrilled when we found the gardens. Emma is such a sweet little girl - but has her moments (what 4 year old doesn't!) and I love that I was able to catch both emotions from her!

My bridal shower at Victoria on Main in Toms River, NJ was such a lovely time with friends and family. This bed and breakfast also serves tea with delicious scones, finger sandwiches, and desserts. I love the vintage decor - one of the reasons why I picked this place! My mother and bridesmaids helped make my shower a special day for me. I really felt like a bride and I was able to just relax and have a great time. I am extremely grateful for those that could attend - and I know a few that would be there if it weren't for life getting in the way. Although it was supposed to be a surprise - I figured out right away when a close friend asked me to go to her "belated birthday party" at the place where I wanted my bridal shower to be! I was still excited and loved every minute of the day. I can't thank my mom enough for putting this all together. Also, my bridesmaids went above and beyond to make the day special!

I was contacted by Cori, Christina's sister, to photograph her nephew in February. After a few emails going back and forth, I knew that this was going to be an adorable newborn session. In the weeks leading up to finally meeting Xander and his parents, all I could think about was how I was going to position him, what blankets and props to use, etc. When I arrived at the Grandparent's house, I fell in love with their sun room. There were huge windows letting in the beautiful sunlight! I was able to gather a few items around the house to make the session more personal. He was a little fussy, but we were able to capture some beautiful moments of Xander. Congratulations Christina and Alex on your handsome little boy!

Emilia and I have become close friends over the past few years and when she told me she was expecting, I was so thrilled! At that time, only a few close friends and family knew and I was honored that she wanted to tell me too. Although we were hoping for a snowy session, we decided that we couldn't wait any longer so we met on a chilly but sunny day. This momma-to-be looked radiant! The boys couldn't stop smiling. You could just feel the love and joy in this family. Everyone is so excited for this little girl to make her appearance in the world! Congratulations again and I wish you all the best.

Well its the end of the year and that means that this little girl is another year older! Her birthday is on December 6th and she turned 3 years old. We rescued her when she was about 2 months old - not knowing how much she would change our world! Since she is family, we had to do something special for her. I went all out!! I made pupcakes and a cake, got her a few presents, and set up a mini photo shoot. The day was a bit cloudy but that didn't stop us from having a blast. Once she heard the okay to dig in to the goodies, there was no holding her back. I hope you enjoy these photos just as much as Twix and I taking them.

Get ready for some pawesome faces the birthday girl makes!!

How I Made This Happen:
You can pretty much find any recipe including ingredients that your dog likes. I found a recipe online and made banana pupcakes with a peanut butter frosting // East Meets West: blanket // Petco: cookies for cake, Yoda, Nylabone // Petsmart: Old Mother Hubbard (peanut butter, molasses, apples & carrot) // Michaels Art & Craft Store: Blue/gold cake/cupcake stands, Wooden box, Bone shaped chalkboard, Purple streamers // Target: Blue/gold box, Wrapping paper // I received the polka dot bag as a gift - if you want to know where it was purchased just let me know!

On Monday, October 26th, my parents will be married for 41 years. This was my present to them - they couldn't remember the last time they had photos taken of them! They have taught me so much about marriage whether they knew it or not. Throughout the years, I have learned little things by watching them together or by being in a certain situation with them. I know not every marriage is perfect but with hard work and remembering the love you have for each other - you will always make it together. These two mean the world to me and I love them with all my heart! I wish them many more years of happiness and love.

Hey everyone -

I have decided that I wanted to start blogging! How awesome is that?! I have a few topics that I am going to be talking about. Read below to find out :)

Engagements + Weddings - but not just about what I photograph. I am planning my own wedding for next July and I thought what a better way than to help those brides who may not know where to look for ideas or where to even begin! I will update the blog every step of the way - photos will be included!

Contests + Giveaways - who doesn't love them?! When I have anything dealing with this topic I will post about them on my blog. So be on the look out! :)

Photos from sessions - whenever I have a session or wedding, I will post them here. I can't wait for you all to see the amazing photographs taken so I will try my best to have them up as soon as possible.

Daily Life - now I wont post everything about my life here - but I will post the special moments. I want everyone to see what goes on behind the lens and to see who I really am (this will include my furbabies as well - they are a huge part of my life and I want to share them with you guys).

Last but not least - Business - when something awesome happens within Krista Marie Photography - you guys will be the first to know! I have so many amazing things planned and I can't wait to get it all in motion.

If there is something you want me to blog about - just let me know and I will certainly make time for it :)

I hope you all enjoy my blog ideas because I am so excited to be starting this!!

Later Loves,
-Krista