Thank you for allowing me to photograph this amazing day. Covid might have affected what you thought you wanted. The cold might have tried to put a damper on this day. None of those things show in the photographs.... Well at least the photos without the heaters ;)
Look at the reception photos. All you need in life is a family who loves like this.

St. Joseph's Church Balwin, MO

This whole day was nothing short of amazing. There are so many special details.
Again, busy season so here are the images. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for choosing me. I am so thankful to be able to share in all of these memories with you.

Flowers by: http://savvyfloraldesign.com

St. Bernard's Catholic Church, Breese, Illinois

What we have here is the perfect day, the perfect people, and the perfect weather. That, my friend, is a recipe for a wonderful wedding. Because it is busy season, I am just going to let the photos talk for me. Just picture me laughing, smiling ear to ear, and dancing my way through this day.

October 2, 2021 ... Breese, IL

Might I just say that some may find Saturday's weather to be less than desirable, but I live for it. Scattered showers with no wind really and warm fall air? Yes, please. It made for absolutely dreamy portraits! These two just had an amazing morning getting ready with the ones they love the most. The laughs and tears... all the memories made on this amazing day. Because it is my busiest month ever, I am going to stop typing and let the images tell the story. Enjoy! 

Wow Furnishing and Events on Broadway. Alton, IL.

January 15, 2021

Wedding One of Two ;)

This year. This year has brought so much change to our lives. Some of this change has been positive and some negative. Regardless, love isn't cancelled. This day is my sisters wedding. This is their day, and these are their memories. This is a day that was planned out for months and months, and friends, I do not think it could have been more special. The venue appears to be a remodeled law office. There were beautiful rooms upstairs for most of everyone to stay. This venue offered a very unique experience in that regard. It was all hands on deck setting up on Thursday afternoon when we all arrived. Sarah and Joe had amazing food for everyone and we had such fun games to play- hover soccer was my personal fav! Friday morning, the girls started getting ready bright and early. Soon everyone was helping to set up the venue for the ceremony.

In these images, you will see the most amazing first look I have ever witnessed. Joe and Sarah worked together. They did for years. He would leave her a little note on her desk. Sarah kept nearly all of these notes. She spent forever and a day laminating them to get them ready to use on their wedding day. She and I talked for hours on the phone about how to best display them. I knew this doorway would be the perfect location. And can we talk about this stunning venue one more time?! Joe was so surprised when he turned around and saw her and his notes from the time they worked together. Right before the first look, the couple read the letters they wrote to each other. He unknowingly read his in front of all of his notes.

We had some snow on this day. This is a first for me. I was soooo excited when I saw the forecast. In reality, it ruined our hair and made us very wet! The snow looks absolutely beautiful in the photographs. After portraits, we ran to grandma's house down the road to give her a flower and say a quick I love you. It was so meaningful to be able to include her given the circumstances. Then back to the venue to dry off and redo our hair to get ready for the ceremony.

Sarah and Joe had poems read during their ceremony. The officiant was fantastic and had us all in tears. They also chose to do a ring blessing ceremony which was unique. The rings were passed around so all of the guests could bless them with positive thoughts or prayers. Side note: the couple used family jewelry and had the rings completely custom made. After their I do's, they had some fun confetti cannons that scared us way more than popping the champagne that morning! 

They ended their night with dancing and karaoke.
I personally enjoyed the cake and the Polaroid guest book.

So many friends. So much love. And so many memories.

......................................................................................

See you all in 2022 for the vow renewal and FULL reception!

.....................................................................................

While I did photograph many of these images, the main photographer was Claire with Claire Krienitz Photography. She was amazing. She helped keep everything going smoothly all while capturing stunning images. Sarah fell in love with her photography style. I was in love with both that, and her understanding of how to manage a wedding day. We were so grateful to have her! I can't wait to photograph more wedding days with her in the future. 
All images were edited by me.

October 10, 2020 was the most sought after wedding date this year by far. I was overjoyed when Amanda contacted me to photograph her big day! The green family has welcomed me now for the third time, and I couldn't have been more excited. This year has been hard on everyone, especially engaged couples. There was stress and changes, but everyone came together to make sure their big day was spectacular. The weather couldn't have been any better for an outdoor wedding. The horses even cooperated!! And of course they showed some off their personalities! What really blew me away was the decor in the barn. Wow. What a dream come true.
My team captured the day so beautifully. I am sorry I missed you all!! I had my baby just four days after this. <3

Congratulations Amanda and Joey!

Thank you both so much for a fabulous day!

Venue: Loveland Estates

The wedding took place at A Pocketful of Sunshine in Mt. Vernon, IL which is a stunning private property with an stunning barn. All of the images were taken here, and I'll have to say they had a great day for August!

Thank you Kyla and Tyler for choosing me to be apart of your day. 

Thank you so very much! <3 



Due to Covid and my pregnancy, these images were taken by my associates Anne Canon and Elizabeth Kealen.
 

I can't change what this year has brought the world, but I do feel like I was able to capture everything this day had to offer. These two made sure to do what they could to keep everyone as safe as possible, and I couldn't appreciate that more. The little details for this wedding were all so well thought out- down to the funfetti cake for the kiddos. You can tell Sarah put her heart and soul into all of these decisions- I am sure Alex helped! 

The wedding took place at Johnson's Gardens in Highland, IL which is a stunning private garden with an alter specifically for weddings. The home there has shutters that exactly match the bridesmaids' dresses. Prior to the ceremony, we met at my favorite location in the area, Silver Lake Park, for the first look and portraits. The weather really couldn't have been much better given it is August! The reception took place at Michael's Restaurant in Highland, IL.

Thank you Sarah and Alex for choosing me to be apart of your day. 
 

June 20, 2020

Ceremony and Reception: St. Augustine Beach, FL

I believe I have mentioned before how lucky I am to be a part of all of these special days. This wedding is particularly special in so many ways. Firstly, the virus definitely tried to put a shadow on this sunny day. They were so blessed that everything worked out so perfectly. Also, they had so many people that traveled across the country to celebrate their love. The details and planning were a huge part in how Morgan and Mike made their day so perfect. Lastly, can we talk about how this Midwest photographer had the opportunity to photography this Florida wedding?! Eeek!

The couple rented a house on the beach, and that is where they got ready and had their BBQ reception. The beach was absolutely perfect for the ceremony. Their closest friends and family surrounded them as they said their vows. The best man and maid of honor also had the most amazing words to say during the ceremony. The beagle pups were quite hilarious throughout which was perfect for me to capture the reactions of everyone! Thanks Tucker and Lola!

This reception was amazing. It was great to have everyone so close. The food was absolutely delicious, and everyone that was there knows one secret.... That was the absolute best wedding cake ever- hands down. Morgan's amazing mother baked it, and I am still drooling thinking about that cake. Plus it was beautifully decorated.

Later that evening, I met back up with the newlyweds to capture a few photos at sunset. Sorry again Mike! Morgan asked for it ;)
Talk about an amazing wedding.

I can't thank these two enough for choosing me to photograph their wedding.

Congratulations!

October 19, 2019

Ceremony: Jewel Box in Forest Park: St. Louis, MO

Reception: St Gregory Armenian Hall: Granite City, IL

So when you have a job like mine, you spend your weekends celebrating with people on one of the best days of their life. It is such an exciting experience that I am able to participate in time and time again. This day will always be on the top of the charts for me. I am so in love with their L O V E. They were both so excited to be starting the next chapter of their lives together. His face really said it all as he waited for her to walk down the aisle. He wasn't the only one trying not to cry. Luckily we had all just had some comedic relief when the ring bearer sprinted to his daddy at the other end of the aisle!

Both venues for this wedding were absolutely stunning. My favorite part of our day was the portrait session. It is not often that I get to choose these, and I will have to say- I outdid myself! These are by far my favorite images. We were just at Forest Park! The waterfall and the victorian bridge were spectacular. Theresa and Brendan left us a few hours for portraits. This is a luxury as most clients do not allow such a long break in their day. The videographers and I were in heaven. The long break allowed us all to be creative and do our absolute best work. You can really tell from the large amount of previews posted here!! :) I had fun, and I know they did as well!

Thank you both for having me. It is such a breath of fresh air when I get to photograph a love like yours on a day that was truly amazing.
 

Congratulations! 

October 12, 2019

Wedding: Eden Church in Edwardsville, IL

Reception: Knights of Columbus Hall in Highland, IL

There is just something special when I photograph a church ceremony. I know I wasn't the only one tearing up as Sandy walked down the aisle. She was STUNNING. Andrew and Sandy are such a loving couple. Even at our initial consultation, I could tell they how excited they were. And boy did they have an amazing wedding day. I loved being around both of these families. There was so much joy and happiness! Every little detail was so beautiful. It all came together flawlessly. The portrait session took place on their family's farm. This was where Andrew proposed to Sandy! I love when couples choose locations that mean something to them and to their loved ones. After a fun portrait session (okay I was bossy, but did you see the size of that wedding party?!), we headed to their reception- ON TIME. And these kids were down to par-tay! It was an absolute blast. Large wedding receptions always come with a ton of energy. This one was definitely no exception especially with the amazing band they had on stage!

Congratulations you two! So very glad I was there to capture it all.
 

Flowers and Decor: Carol Sure Hess out of Alhambra, IL

Hair: Nikki Cooper out of Hamel, IL

Bridesmaids dresses: Bill Levkoff

Tuxedo: Jim's Men and Boys Shop out of Trenton, IL

Band: Johnathan Braddy Band out of Crystal City, MO

What an amazing session. I cannot wait for their wedding!

Thank you so much for allowing me to capture your memories. 

This amazing couple had such great luck with the weather. Everything turned out perfectly. Congratulations to both of you. 
The complete gallery of images can be viewed here.
Second photographer: Ira Demster

"The best love is the kind that awakens the soul; that makes us reach for more, that plants the fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. That’s what I hope to give you forever." — The Notebook 

St. Rose, IL

Kelsie contacted me a while back, and like any newly engaged couple, she was so excited to book a photographer for her wedding!  For their engagement session, we decided to go a bit rustic using their farm as our backdrop. We couldn't have had a more perfect spring evening. These two were just a joy to talk to and work with. I personally cannot wait for their wedding day!

"That person who enters your life, and suddenly becomes your everything.

That's who you are to me"

Thank you both so much for allowing me to capture your memories. 

The full gallery can be viewed here. Gallery

Ordering is quick and easy via my website. 

Silver Lake Park, Highland, IL

When a client wants something unique, and then gives you the freedom to create- well that is when magic happens. 

This session was so magical. She couldn't be more stunning if she tried. 

"Never stop dreaming."

Silver Lake Park, Highland, IL

These two were a joy to photograph. Congratulations to such an amazing couple! 

"Every love story is beautiful, but ours is my favorite."

Silver Lake Park, Highland, IL

What an adorable couple! Their love for eachother really shines through in these images! I couldn't be happier for them. Congratulations you two!!

"If you can make a woman laugh, you will hold her heart forever."

Thank you both so much for allowing me to capture your memories.

Quote of the day: Tim was curious why Nikki kept smiling.

"I am just so happy," she said with yet another huge smile.

It was such a fun day! Watch the video and see for yourself. 

I have been dreaming about doing these sessions for years now.  

See more information here.

"Like stardust glistening on fairy wings, little girl's dreams are of magical things."

Sessions are at Dusk. I am available nearly every day. I photograph at Silver Lake Park in Highland.

Congratulations to the winner of my Fairy Giveaway! This little girl was lucky to win this session. I think she had a blast. 

I have been dreaming about doing these sessions for years now.  

See more information here.

"Like stardust glistening on fairy wings, little girl's dreams are of magical things."

Sessions are at Dusk. I am available nearly every day. I photograph at Silver Lake Park in Highland.

This is Tia's debut. She has just been recently adopted. Until now they have not been able to share images of her. 

I have been dreaming about doing these sessions for years now.  

See more information here.

These sisters were amazing models. 

"Like stardust glistening on fairy wings, little girl's dreams are of magical things."

Sessions are at Dusk. I am available nearly every day. I photograph at Silver Lake Park in Highland.

I have been dreaming about doing these sessions for years now.  

See more information here.

This session was a little more special than usual, just watch the video <3. 

"Like stardust glistening on fairy wings, little girl's dreams are of magical things."

Sessions are at Dusk. I am available nearly every day. I photograph at Silver Lake Park in Highland.

I have been dreaming about doing these sessions for years now.  

See more information here.

"Like stardust glistening on fairy wings, little girl's dreams are of magical things."

Sessions are at Dusk. I am available nearly every day. I photograph at Silver Lake Park in Highland.

This little girl's smile is brought to you by her adorable older brothers and her mother :) 

I have been dreaming about doing these sessions for years now.  

See more information here.

"Like stardust glistening on fairy wings, little girl's dreams are of magical things."

Sessions are at Dusk. I am available nearly every day. I photograph at Silver Lake Park in Highland.

I have never seen such a beautiful little girl. Look at this smile :) 

I have been dreaming about doing these sessions for years now.  

See more information here.

"Like stardust glistening on fairy wings, little girl's dreams are of magical things."

Sessions are at Dusk. I am available nearly every day. I photograph at Silver Lake Park in Highland.

Here is my favorite little client. I have been photographing her since she was a few months old. 

Willoughby Heritage Farm in Collinsville, IL

Alexis contacted me a while ago and like any newly engaged couple, she was so excited to book a photographer. I met up with Alexis and Joshua at a local coffee shop and learned a little about their style. For their engagement session, we decided to go a tiny bit rustic with a the heritage farm as our backdrop. RIght now is a huge time in their lives with Alexis just graduating! I am sure she is glad she now has real free time! These two were just a joy to talk to. I personally cannot wait for their wedding day. It will be full of laughing and maybe tears, but we will all get to experience it together. 

"I love you for all that you have been, all that you are, and all that you have left to be."

I have been dreaming about doing these sessions for years now. I am so excited to start booking! 

I provide session preparation consultation where we discuss location, makeup, props and more to make the best of your session. 

Additionally, the flowers, dress, swing and wings are all available for your little one to enjoy.

Sessions will be 30 to 45 minutes long. You will receive 15 to 20 edited images with print release and an online gallery for viewing, ordering, and sharing. 

I will only be accepting clients ages 3-10 for these sessions. Siblings of all ages are welcome. Just contact me!

[email protected]    l      (618) 604-0824      l      facebook.com/julieaphoto

The arrangements were all designed by me. I worked closely with Jessica at Sassy Couture to create a dress that would fit multiple sizes. The wings are handmade by Julie Crone from Crone Designs. The swing was made by Dan Sachsenheimer.

"Like stardust glistening on fairy wings, little girl's dreams are of magical things."

Session : $150

Sibling session : $175

Sessions are at Dawn or Dusk. I am available nearly every day. I will photograph at SIUE, Silver Lake Park in Highland, and Mills Apple Farm in Marine. These images were taken at Mills. 

Cleveland-Heath, Edwardsville, IL

Talk about the surprise of a lifetime. Canee' contacted me a while ago asking if I would shoot this party. What a beautiful way to propose. They were surrounded by all their family and friends. It was such an exciting day for everyone present including myself. Congratulations!!

"If you can make a woman laugh, you will hold her heart forever." — unknown

Silver Lake Park, Highland

I would like to thank you both for giving me this opportunity to capture this exciting moment in your life together. I loved shooting this session! We couldn't have had better weather for February in Illinois. I will let the photos speak for themselves as I believe they truly show how much you care about each other. I cannot wait for your wedding!

“There is never a time or place for true love. It happens accidentally, in a heartbeat, in a single flashing, throbbing moment.” 
― Sarah Dessen

Silver Lake Park, Highland 

This couple found me after an extensive search. Justine was very confident when we met in person. I really sensed that she had no worries about choosing me when speaking with her. I could just tell she and her fiance were going to mesh well with my personality. And from the get go I loved their ideas. Can we do our session in the snow? Well of course you may! Well as you may already know, we have not had the best winter for snow. Finally though it snowed a beautiful amount, and right before our session, the wind even stopped. It was a truly magical afternoon. They are an adorable couple, and you can really see how much they love each other. For their engagement session, they had specific ideas of what they were looking for. I just hope I lived up to what I am sure are extremely high expectations. I don't think I have seen a couple more happy to be together. They have been together a minute now, and you can just tell how relaxed they were with each other. I feel so honored that they have chosen me to capture their memories, and I wish them the best of luck as they start their lives as a married couple. I hope your engagement portraits are everything you could hope for and more...

"When we first met I honestly had no idea how important you would be to me." 

Union Station, Downtown Central Library, and Malcolm Martin Park 

I met this couple a few years ago. They were one of my first sessions when I decided to start my photography career. They are an adorable couple, and you can really see how much they love each other. For their engagement session, they didn't let the winter blues get to them! We just took our session indoors.  I don't think I have seen a couple more happy to be together. Marshyionna has had me on hold for a while now as we awaited Andre's proposal. I feel so honored that I am that important to them, and I wish them the best of luck as they start their lives as a married couple. I hope your engagement portraits are everything you could hope for and more...

"The best love is the kind that awakens the soul; that makes us reach for more, that plants the fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. That’s what I hope to give you forever." — The Notebook 

MAGNETIC SPICE TINS

Here is what you need! 

1.) Tins.  I ordered mine from www.specialtybottle.com They were delivered in less than 24 hours!

I bought 15- 2 ounce (TNF2) tins and 20- 4 ounce (TNF4) tins. The 2 oz have a nice rim. The 4 oz have a flat top.

 Most spices will fit better in the 4 ounce tins. For example cumin and cream of tartar will fit better in 2 oz.

With shipping my cost was $35.

2.) Magnets. These are the ones I bought. 100 pc. Earth Magnets 6mm x 1.5mm from eBay. Make sure you pick a US company or you will wait forever!

Looking back I think I got the right depth, but I would get 12mm or larger instead of 6mm. I just had to use more of them. They are about as big as a pencil eraser. 

With shipping my cost was $6.50. 

3.) Glue. E6000 glue. I got mine at Michael's. It will change your life. Use just a small dab to attach magnets.

My cost $5

4.) Labels. I made my own by searching Antique botanical prints _______. Placing the spice name in the blank.

Message me via facebook.com/julieaphoto if you would like the files I used. I had Office Max print them to the exact sixes. I had the 2 oz labels printed at 2.2" and the 4 oz labels printed at 2.9" on card stock paper. It was very easy!

My cost $5.

I took a dab of glue and applied it to the back of the tin, and then I placed the magnet.

The 4 oz tins got 3 magnets, and the 2 oz tins got 2 magnets.

After that dried ( I waited 24 hours ), I used a gel medium to get the labels to stick. I already had some.

I got it from Michael's. You also could use Modge Podge (make sure it is the clear) or any clear glue.

I coated the back and the front of the paper to protect from moisture. I did 2 coats. 

If you enjoyed this post please comment and share! Thanks! 

Update March 2016

I love these tins. We have had no issues with them, and my boyfriend even loves using them now! 

Update March 2017

The tins are still going strong! I have had zero issues with them. Perfecto! My friends always comment on them.

She asked to use her fiance's USMC gear to personalize their session! Of course! I love how these turned out. 

Sean is just 7 months old! Look what a smiler he is! For the whole session, despite the heat, he was the perfect little model! 

I even asked Helen put on this!

Grandma came along to help get Sean to smile, so naturally we captured a few shots of her with her first grandbaby! 

Can't wait to see them again with daddy! :) 

This is the cutest little boy! He was such a great sleeper for us. His little sister was a little angel as well. Cannot wait to do more portraits of this family in the future! 

  She was scared he would spit up on her. 

Dancing with mommy

Look at his little pouty face! Such a rough life- being a stud :) 

Semper Fi! 

Hello!

I just wanted to display the newborn props I have to the mom's that are curious of what I have to offer! 

Baby Pod

This is my baby pod. Love the effect it creates, and the newborns love how cuddly it is! Made by Sassy Couture Creations. 

One major tip I like to tell my new moms: Please keep your baby awake before their session ( a bath is a great way to wear them out). And if you are more than 30 min away from our meeting place, hold off on feeding until you arrive. Our goal is to have a tired hungry baby so when he/she is fed, they will go into a little baby coma- allowing us to capture very peaceful portraits :) 

Spider Man 

This hat and cape will surely add some pizzazz for a great bedroom portrait! Again by Sassy Couture Creations! 

Fuzzy Bunny

This little bunny has a removable bow- great for boys and girls! :) 

Tutu

Baskets

<--Can't--> wait to use  Both of these!!!!

( Especially the one on the left! )

This watermelon smoothie is refreshing and delicious. 

Watermelon is  a good source of vitamin C and beta-carotene. Watermelons with red flesh have more lycopene than tomatoes which is a nutrient believed to protect against prostate cancer.

    Ingredients: 

1.5 cups seedless Watermelon

1 frozen Banana

1 peeled and cored Apple

1 cup Greek Yogurt

 Honey to taste

    **NOTE: Peel Banana before freezing! **

Instructions:

     Puree watermelon in blender.

     Strain with fine mesh strainer ( I used a paper towel and funnel ) 

     Add watermelon juice back to Blender.

     Combine ingredients in the order: Banana, Apple, Yogurt 

     Blend well. Add honey to taste! 

Enjoy! Please Like and Share on Pinterest and Facebook! 

I modified the recipe  http://m.allrecipes.com/recipe/9870/easy-sugar-cookies accidentally. 

If you don't eat any dough, this will make about 25 cookies. 

MODIFIED (YUMMY) VERSION

2.75 cups flour

2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder 

1 cup butter, softened

1.5 cups white sugar

1 egg

1-2 tsp vanilla

Please like this post and share on Facebook and Pinterest! 

http://www.shopnancysflowers.com

This website is through the same company I use - Zenfolio - I absolutely love it. Taking photos of

flowers is a big change from my usual photography work. 

 As the year progresses, I plan to keep adding to the page. 

Today, I was so lucky to have this beautiful little family in my studio! I had a lot of fun with them. I think mom and dad were a little upset Miss Skylar Rose wasn't wanting to cooperate, but I think we managed to get some great portraits! Everyone has to remember that we work on baby time :) Also, to our surprise, we learned she did not like to have hats and bows on her head one bit! After listening to some music and finishing her lunch, she let us capture a few more beautiful moments.  So happy to have the opportunity to work with Deanne and Jason.  Hopefully we will be seeing them again for Easter sessions! 

I just have never seen such a happy group of people! Everyone during the wedding and after was sporting an ear to ear smile.  I hope, as you go forth in your lives, that you hold this moment forever in your hearts.

I have asked Christina to review my work, and I will update this post when I have that review for you all to read why you should choose JulieAnne Photography to capture your memories! 

 

 

I had the great pleasure of spending the afternoon and evening in the presence of this very talented young man. He is quite incredible on the guitar, and he writes his own songs! I really think he has a chance with his career in music. His unique sound will definitely give him an edge. I think he sounds like Jason Mraz mixed with Dave Matthews. While I was listening, I just wished I could have his CD to listen to all the time! 

Currently he only plays at Springers Creek Winery in Edwardsville, IL. Please check with their facebook page to stay up to date with their events! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Springers-Creek-Winery

All the planning is done for this February 14th!

Boudoir and Child sessions are available! 

Contact me for more details!! 

The snow makes for an amazing backdrop for unique lifestyle photos. I coerced my biggest fan into taking a few sample shots for all of you to see just how amazing the shots can turn out!