CHD stands for Congenital Heart Defects.  And it’s something that I would like to spotlight in this post.  Every 1 in 100 babies is born with a Congenital Heart Defect. Congential Heart Defects are one of the most common birth defects and will effect about 40,000 new born babies each year and more then 4,000 will not even make it to their first birthday.  I don’t mean for this to be a disconcerting message to anyone, especially those expecting.  But recently I had the extreme pleasure of meeting Kennedy Mae!  I know Kennedy’s mom and dad and even had the opportunity of doing their maternity portraits.  But unfortunately Kennedy had been diagnosed with CHD while she was still in her mom’s tummy, thus resulting in a delivery out of state.

This little girl has been in hospitals the majority of her very short life.  She has not only had 2 open heart surgeries, but has survived 3 codes and 2 ECMO runs.  Scary stuff!  I have kept up with Kennedy’s progress and all that is new with her through her Caring Bridges page set up by her loving mother.  I have to tell you that the dedication, love, and support this family shows one another….it’s very touching.  I can only sit back and marvel at how, even with everything this beautiful little child has been through, she can smile and be so warm and loving the way she is!  She amazes me and no doubt every one she comes into contact with.  If there is one thing I could ask all those reading this right now, it would be to please say a prayer…it doesn’t have to be long or complicated.  As I write this, Kennedy comes closer and closer to her third surgery and so I wish for everyone to keep her in your thoughts and prayers.  This beautiful child has such a spirit and a light about her that just makes you smile!!  She had me within about 2 minutes.

When I arrived at Trinity Lutheran Church, it was to a room in motion.  Everyone was doing something, touching up something, getting dressed, etc.  Except Janelle.  She was cool, calm, and collective, gathering her thoughts and writing to her soon-to-be groom.  It was beautiful, as was Janelle. I fell in love with just about everything at this wedding, especially the color and vibrance (my favorite color just so happens to be blue), but more than anything else, I fell in love with this family.  I am so grateful I was given the opportunity to have met and worked with both Janelle and Rich as well as their families.  I wish you guys a beautiful life with one another.  Thank you for allowing me to help tell part of your story.

I am looking forward to capturing the growth of this beautiful little girl in the coming months.

When I arrived that Saturday, the whole house was full of a good energy.  Everyone was in such a relaxed mode.  I loved it!!  And what I loved even more (again, anyone who knows me well, knows my obsession with AWESOME shoes!) was the foot attire they had chosen.  The bridal party, along with the bride and groom, wore Converse shoes with the wedding date on the back all color coordinated with the wedding.  AMAZING!  I loved every second of this wedding!  From the major players, who were absolute crack ups, to the finer details…like how the bride walked down the aisle to the bridal party playing “Here comes the bride” on kazoos. The weather was absolutely phenomenal which fed even more into the already perfect day.  And after the ceremony was over, it was a huge party with everyone laughing and joking.  I had an absolute blast shooting this wedding.  Thank you Hayley and Louie for including me in your special day.  I wish nothing but absolute happiness for the both of you.