I’m always honored by the invitation to join in on life’s biggest milestones, but especially when the invitation comes from a close friend, since there can be a hesitation to mix business and friendship. (For the record, not on my end. In my experience, comfort translates to beautiful pictures so I actually find shooting with friends to be an asset!)

I’ve known Catherine since elementary school, and since that time she has been a consistent ray of light. A friend to all, it’s no surprise her compassionate heart led her to become a nurse. Her laughter is well-known, revered and infectious – nobody fact check me on this but I’m pretty sure she won the “Best Laugh” superlative in high school. All in all, Catherine has a distinct ability to bring sunshine wherever she goes.

Ok but seriously! I had a tall order to fill for this outdoor, nature-inspired engagement shoot in FEBRUARY. A two hour location scouting session revealed that every single green thing in St. Louis was dead. With a little creativity I identified a couple seemingly-bizarre areas in Forest Park (thank you America’s treasure 🙏) that could work. Mark and Cath would have to brave the bitter cold, but at least we had greenery.

But once again Catherine brought the sunshine, and the three of us enjoyed a warm 60° February afternoon posing in the sun. Just more evidence in a string of experiences that prove good things happen with good people. And Mark and Catherine are good people, the best kind really. Smart, silly, beautiful and kind. I can’t wait to attend their wedding where there’s sure to be infectious laughter and sun!