Stacey Bode Photography

Jeanie is one of a kind. She’s been a dear friend for over 5 years. When you meet her, you feel lucky. Knowing her is like having won a prize. She’s the whole package…..stunning beauty, a kind heart, a clever mind, and a keen wit.

She’s also one of my favorite models when I have a crazy portrait idea. As you’ll see below, she’s willing to pose patiently while soaked for the sake of art.

I was so pleased to hear about Shawn and their sweet story of knowing each other for years and finally coming back to each other in a way that’s like going home.

I’m thrilled and humbled that Jeanie and Shawn trusted me to photograph their big day in San Antonio. My husband (also a long-time friend of Jeanie) came with me to join in the celebration and be my second shooter. I have to mention how well cared for we were the whole trip. Jeanie’s dad Bruce gave us the best tour of the town imaginable. Their family and friends really created a joyful environment at every step. Everyone had such warm comments about these two. My favorite was from Shawn’s mom who said that when they found each other, it was like they won the lottery.

Jeanie, I adore you, and now I also adore Shawn and your family and friends too! My most heart-felt congratulations to the both of you and my wishes for a life full of love and happiness.

Way back at the beginning of this year, my parents took me and my hubby and my sister and her hubby on a fantastic cruise to Guatemala, Mexico, and Belize. Friends of the family, Mike and Mary, joined us as well. I had never been on a cruise before and was amazed with how easy everything was. You could relax, or be entertained, or pig out, or participate in little adventures off the ship. Completely awesome. It’s probably the first family vacation we’ve taken since I was about 10 years old.

On this trip, I discovered that my Dad really likes the song “I Will Survive”. Don’t ask, I’m still confused. It was just so great to see him dancing and having such a blast. He and I are cutting a rug below, which reminds me of when we used to dance to “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” when I was little. The pic on the right is the whole fam damily: me, Mom, Dad, my hubby Matt, my sister Trischa, and her hubby Ricardo. Say cheese!

Gosh, I’ve known Brad for a while now. Enough to know that I’d have a daggum blast shooting his headshots. And I did. My face actually cramped up from the smiling. Ahhhh….talking to someone who understands conversation about a good pair of Kenneth Cole shoes. The t-straps are the best. I love a designer who generally makes very classy shoes, and then occasionally throws in a really trampy pair. Anyway, I digress. Brad, you’re awesome and I’m sure in some alternate universe, you and I are starring in our own reality TV show about something hilariously useless.

There’s nothing like Paris in September….or Paris in Atlanta. Walking into The Moulin Rouge Room at Paris On Ponce was like stepping into another world (or at least a great French film). The cabaret feel, the red lights, the cafe tables….ooh la la! Now as if the setting wasn’t enough to make for an incredible wedding, there was also a murder mystery performance built around the ceremony. Don’t worry though, the only victim was the cake, and I assure you it was just as tasty after having been stabbed.

It’s hard to believe possible, but Denise & Rick’s wedding was even more fun than I predicted (see earlier post of their engagement pics). I can truly say that this wedding was an EVENT, and one that myself and the guests will be talking about for years to come.

Denise, you seriously crack me up. I love your fun spirit. Rick, I totally lost it when you pulled out the giant glasses at the end of the night. Awesome. I can’t possibly comment on every fun moment!

Vive la France!

If you hang around Denise, this is an expression you’ll see often.

Here’s some of the cast of performers. I’m partial to the second one from the left in glasses. That’s my handsome hubby. I have several other buds in the cast, including “The Jen” (in jean jacket). She’s a rock star.

Speaking of rock stars….ELVIS!!!

Best silly string sneak attack ever.

What an exit!

Too many kisses to count. Lots and lots of stolen smooches, funny faces, and loving glances. Kelly and Matt were so sweet, silly, and romantic. There was warmth in the air and in everyone’s hearts. I wasn’t able to hear their vows during the ceremony, but their expressions alone had tears rolling down my cheeks. There’s just no cry like a good wedding cry!

Congratulations Matt and Kelly, and thanks for reminding us how effortless love can be!

The super-dashing groom.

Kelly in all her gorgeousness. Her dress was made by a friend, and was so unique and beautiful.

Some non-wedding guests taking a peek at the goings-on.

One last smooch!