Archive | February, 2012

This photo shoot would not have been possible without help from others, and I am thrilled to share the full blog post with everyone. It is living proof that an idea, no matter how small, can evolve into something much grander than you imagine if you are willing to put the effort towards it. And know some wonderful people willing to entertain your ideas, too :)

If you have an idea in your head, go for it!! What’s the worst that can happen? Maybe it doesn’t work out, so what. You probably learn something along the way, right? Maybe you even have a little fun too. That’s the biggest thing that I learned from organizing and photographing my first styled shoot.

Ok, enough preaching from me, though. This was a photo shoot that came from a tiny little idea, and I worked on it with some VERY talented professionals (more on each of them below!). I’ll let the photos show you the lovely result of our collaborative work on this aqua and ruby winter, love-inspired day.

First of all, I will mention the creator of the delicious, artful cupcakes and cake pops – Sarah from Bake Cupcakery and Catering in Appleton, WI. I told her my basic idea and color palette for the photo session, and she blew me away with the custom cupcake skirts, scrumptious creations, and incredible attention to detail! I was just stunned when I first saw these, and she was the best person for the job. Not only did she make couture, magazine-worthy treats, but she is such a professional, fun person to work with. If anyone needs a recommendation for a bakery, Sarah will go above and beyond your expectations. Thank you again, Sarah, and I hope your business continues to thrive!

Just as brilliant to work with, was graphic designer Jeremy Treuden of Treuden Design. He took the colors I had in mind, transferred them to paper, and made them come alive with a modern style and hints of vintage flair. With a broad range of fine art interests, Jeremy always brings a vast background of inspiration to the work that he does, and the result is always something fresh and original. I have yet to meet anyone that works as well under pressure on a short deadline, and that’s a valuable quality to have as a designer. He has a style all his own, so you have to check out his portfolio site and see his artwork for yourself! Thanks for your contribution to this project, Jeremy, and I look forward to following your work in the future!

All of the fresh floral designs and arrangements were provided by the wonderful Monica at SKW Floral and Decor, LLC in Brookfield, WI. From the first time I talked to Monica about my idea, I knew she would be a joy to work with. She took my suggestions and style concept, considered the location, and made excellent artistic decisions to achieve exactly what we wanted for the photo shoot. Monica has a knack for seeing the big picture, and it was clear from visiting her shop how much care, effort, and true heart she puts into her designs. I’m so thankful to have found such a skilled woman to work with; thank you, Monica! I can’t say enough good things about you and your business.

Also, a big thank you to Melissa and Todd (the real couple that agreed to be models for the day!), and to aLittleCard Etsy shop owner Kristin for contributing the beautiful, recycled confetti! The location for the photo shoot was the Kilbourntown House (also called the Benjamin Church House) in Estabrook Park near Milwaukee’s East Side and Shorewood neighborhoods.

The heart-shaped marshmallows were a DIY project for the shoot! I will do a more in-depth post very soon in case you’d like to make some of your own to sweeten up some hot cocoa or to use as decor :) They were pretty simple to make!