The Lumineers | 7 . 8 . 22

Folk rockers The Lumineers made a stop in Grand Rapids on July 8th for their Brightside tour. The band was welcomed to a packed house at Van Andel Arena as they showcased a variety of their hits from their current and previous albums.

l have always appreciated The Lumineers true artistry within their craft, and their live performances never disappoint. The Brightside tour features a catwalk "u" shaped stage that allows the band to get closer to their fans, and the warm lighting provides an intimate feel despite being in an arena. If you're lucky, you might bump elbows with Wesley Shultz as he is known to perform within the pit during live shows.

The musical talents of the band are incredible as they change instruments throughout the show without skipping a beat - pun very much intended (did anyone at the show catch Stelth Ulvang running from the piano, to play accordion and then run over to jump on top of the piano?!). Shultz's vocals are even better live, and hearing Jeremiah Fraites on the drums, percussion, and piano within a few feet in front of me was remarkable.

In all efforts to not sound like a fan girl but instead a woman with a passionate soul and an affinity for raw talent, The Lumineers are by far one of the best live performing bands I have had the privilege to cover, and I recommend them as a must see if you haven't done so yet. To say they are "so good" just doesn't do the band and their talents justice; they are a band that needs to be experienced live.

Up and coming opener Ashe was just as enjoyable as the main act. A newly added song to my playlist of her's features FINNEAS. Enjoy "Till Forever Falls Apart" here.

The Lumineers are currently on their world tour. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.thelumineers.com; to purchase albums and merch, visit https://store.thelumineers.com. To view photos from the show, go here.

The Hills | 5 . 28 . 22

On Saturday, March 28, 2022, I had the honor of photographing Isabel and Dan's wedding at one of my favorite Grand Rapids venues, Frederik Meijer Gardens. I have shot several concerts at the amphitheater, but never photographed a wedding there, so I was stoked!

I arrived early, and when Isabel pulled up at the entrance, I was overwhelmed with happiness and excitement for her and Dan's day. I smiled, and I don't think I stopped smiling the entire day.

I cherish my friendship with Isabel as I met her while we worked together at The Grand Rapids Home for Veterans a few years ago. She is such a light with a genuinely sweet soul, and her smile is so contagious. We experienced amazing times at the home, which are some of my favorite memories. So many great times there! When I met Dan, I couldn't help but think "these two are perfect for each other," and they truly are.

Isabel was absolutely stunning on her wedding day. Her natural beauty and elegance reminded me of a Disney princess. Dan was handsome and dapper in an all black suit, and together they were reminiscent of a 1950s Hollywood couple.

Isabel and Dan shared a first look prior to their wedding. As Isabel was getting ready before meeting up with Dan at the waterfall, there was a mixture of excitement and nervousness from her, and she had eventually said that she just wanted to see Dan because he gives her calm and peace. It was such a beautiful sentiment.

Their ceremony was quick and to the point (my kind of wedding!), and I loved how fascinated Dan was with his new ring (see images below). These two were ready to unite, and their day could not have been more perfect.

Their post ceremony celebration consisted of a quick stop at Stella's and an intimate gathering at Luna filled with family, friends, margaritas, tacos, cupcakes, music, and video games.

Isabel and Dan, thank you for picking me to be your photographer, and for your generosity! I wish you both a lifetime filled with love, laugher...and bowling nights with your GRHV friends! I am blessed to know you, and so very honored to have captured your wedding day!

Cheers!

To view The Hills entire wedding album, go here.

To purchase images from The Hills wedding album, go here.

Conversations with Voyage Magazine

Recently I had the privilege of being featured in Voyage Magazine Michigan! Check out the convo here!

Thank you Voyage Magazine for giving me the opportunity and recognition! I am so grateful 😊