Celebrating with Sparklers, Great Advice for Brides

Great advice for Brides considering using a sparkler exit. {a must read}

Article by Pearls Events: Celebrating with Sparklers

Marvelous Marisa, Billboard Bride

{I will be photographing Marisa Melancon's upcoming wedding in September}


July 2010 Winner Marisa Melancon
Marvelous Marisa

By Laurette M. Veres Photography by Chris Wineinger

I have just arrived at the photo shoot for this summer’s Billboard Bride: Marisa Melancon. Her auburn hair and bright smile illuminate Chris Wineinger’s studio. Wineinger captures the perfect shot. “She’s a natural,” he says. “Every smile is right on.” The quintessential “cheese cake cutie,” Marisa shares her romance with the world.

Twice per year, the Bridal Extravaganza Show selects a new face to represent the largest bridal show in the country on billboards in the greater Houston area. All brides who attend the event are eligible. This coveted honor is a gift not available on any registry.

According to Tasca Ventura, Billboard Bride sponsor and owner of Ventura’s Bridal, “We look for a new fresh face each show. We were impressed by the stylish and professional attitude of all the contestants.” Marisa selected her gowns for the photo shoot from the vast collection at Ventura’s Bridal.

Heather from Hues by Heather was in charge of hair and make-up. She created a timeless, natural look. She recommends natural and neutral so portraits are not dated. She always uses fake lashes for portraits and if the bride is comfortable, she recommends them for the big day.

Carmen’s Floral Designs provided a custom bouquet for the shoot. Although some brides opt for a traditional monochromatic bouquet, Carmen opted for color. “The bouquet will really pop on a billboard,” says Carmen.

A graduate of Texas A&M University, Marisa says, “College Station is the city of love.” She met Kole Puckett through mutual friends their freshman year. Later they discovered, there were actually born in the same hospital six days apart.
You may be familiar with Texas A&M folklore (how many Aggies does it take to change a light bulb), but unless you are a former student, you may not know about the Century Tree. Tradition dictates if you walk under it with your significant other, you will marry someday.

Kole lured Marisa there a few days before graduation. When she arrived, he was standing in the center of a huge heart. A heart created with candles. This is where he got down on one knee and proposed. After dinner at Messina Hof Winery, they went on to a friend’s house – for a surprise engagement party. All of this happened just three weeks before the Bridal Extravaganza Show. Needless to say, Marisa and her mom were giddy as they attended the famed Houston event.
“I can’t believe I will appear on billboards all over town,” she says. “This has made my already wonderful experience even more meaningful.” Marisa and Kole are planning a fall wedding at Spring Chateau.

Get this look: Gown: Ventura’s Bridal, Hair and Make-up: Hues by Heather, Photography: Chris Wineinger, Bouquet: Carmen’s Floral Designs

Memphis

I L-O-V-E newborn portrait sessions! They are my favorite. I said my favorite, not the easiest by any means, but there is something about how peaceful they look. Not to mention that I get to hold, rock and love on newborn babies!

Memphis was the typical newborn portrait client. {using this to educate parents on newborn sessions}. The sessions generally take 1-3 hours. They will pee. They will fight their sleep. It is normal!

It is so important to try to get newborn portraits taken care of within 1-2 weeks after birth (they usually sleep easier during that time). If you are expecting and would like to schedule a newborn portrait session, please call to discuss details.

Memphis, you are perfect! Love, love, love you!

Life Changing Moments

A couple of years ago I attended my very first photography workshop. Why this workshop? This woman was amazing, strong, and her words would bring you to tears. Full of emotion and love. Giving. And so I attended a workshop under the direction of Me Ra Koh.

I have continued to follow her journey through her blog. She has an amazing story, an amazing journey.

Today as I sat being poked with 44 shots in both arms, I was thinking of the millions of choices we make in life. The good, the bad and "the will we ever know choices". As I fretted about house building vs. house buying decisions, I found myself stressed.

I was sitting in the doctors office and was reading my daily blog roll, Me Ra Koh's was the first I read. Tears started to fill my eyes. I was quickly reminded that house buying, needles, job choices, outfits, furniture, etc. was really not important at all. Life is what is important and how we live it. What we give to others, love that we share and memories that forever fill our hearts.

I ask that you take time to read this blog post. Me Ra Koh and her family need our prayers.
Click Here

Who are you?

I am often told via a private email or when I see someone out and about, "I really love your blog, the pictures, love reading it everyday." I appreciate the kind words. They mean so much---believe me.

Please do not be shy. Comment on the blog. Tell me your likes/dislikes.

Thanks for coming along on this photography adventure.

Kris & Kaci, Sneak Peek

I met Kaci for lunch {for the first time} on Wednesday. I must say that I was a little nervous meeting the bride only a few days before the wedding. Kaci, entered the restaurant with a smile on her face. A smile, a cute laugh and gentle voice that would make anyone feel at ease. Kaci was one of the friendliest, warm, inviting individuals I have ever met. She made me feel as if I had known her for a lifetime.

The wedding day was no different. Meeting Kris as he arrived to start groom portraits, was no different. Immediately after meeting him I knew that they were a pair, individuals meant to be.

Kris & Kaci, I have NEVER met a couple so warm and loving. It was obvious tonight, that I am not the only one that sees the beauty that you to exude.

Congratulations Kris & Kaci! Have fun on your honeymoon.

Crystal, Hardin High School Senior

Crystal has to be one of the sweetest individuals that I have had the pleasure of knowing. So thoughtful, kind and giving. Crystal is always a constant cheerleaders for others. Giving them a pat on the back, asking how they are, what she can do to help. She is one of a kind!

Crystal, I will miss your sweet smile and your pure heart. Best wishes for a successful future.

Amber Mullin's Bridal Portraits

We shot Amber's Bridal session last month….and it happened to be the first hottest day of the summer. Amber was a fearless bride, sweating it out in this Texas heat!

I love brides like Amber. She was up for anything. Upbeat and happy the entire session.
Thanks Amber for a great session! You are a beautiful bride!

Rachel's Bridals

Rachel is such a beautiful girl, inside and out. So sweet and kind.

I love, love, love her wedding dress! It had pockets! If I could only have another wedding {maybe for my 10 year anniversary, we can have a "redo".}

Rachel, you are a beautiful, stylish, striking bride!

Amanda Key Photography 1st Annual 4th of July Photo Contest

4th of July is one of my favorite holidays for many reasons. That we take time to celebrate America, family get-togethers, food, sweets, fireworks, etc. 

4th of July PHOTO CONTEST: Submit one digital image of your kiddo, your grandmother, your dog, or whoever celebrating the 4th of July at its best! You can use a photo from last year or snap one in the backyard over the next couple of days!

Email photos to amanda@amandakey.com. In the subject line – 4th of July Photo Contest Please be sure to include the person’s name and a contact number. You must email your picture by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 21st. The winner will be announced on the blog and Amanda Key Facebook Page on July 4th.

Amanda Key Photography (likes) will determine the winner. Contestant pictures will be displayed on Amanda Key Photography's Facebook page. You will get people to vote for your photo by leaving a comment. They must LIKE Amanda Key Photography's Facebook Page. VOTING will end Saturday, July 3rd at midnight.

WINNER WILL RECEIVE: Winner will receive a free photo session with Amanda Key. The session will take place within Liberty, Texas. The winner will also receive 5 gift prints (8X10 or smaller).

Amanda Key Photography Facebook Page

Perry & Rachel, I Do

I had the pleasure of capturing Perry's & Rachel's special day. These two are the sweetest individuals. They are kind, loving, wonderful people. Their day was pure and sweet.

Congratulations Perry & Rachel. Best wishes for a love filled future!