Blue Window Creative

New Site!

2010-02-05T05:08:00.001-06:00

Whoa! Last post August 2008!

Alright, in efforts to redirect the many sites we once called home,
please know that this is our new home:

BlueWindowCreative.com

Where you can check out coolness!

Also, follow along on twitter: @bluedub

Many thanks for keeping up with us! We're looking forward to all that's to come.

Blue Window Creative Website

2008-08-10T02:05:00.008-05:00

So, our blog is now the test site for our squeaky new site. Lovingly referred to as, "Blue Dub Creative Beta."

Check it out: http://www.bluewindowcreative.com

New features like inquiry forms to be on there soon, as well as a few more pages and images. Hope to have all the bugs worked out and fully functional shortly! In the meantime, feel free to poke around, but don't be alarmed if you fall off an internet cliff with it. It's still in the makings.

Our Schtudio

2008-03-26T14:44:00.005-05:00

After a few months of prepping, flooring, painting, and using fancy powertools that could take off a finger, our studio is now our new work home. Wouldn't it be cool if this whole building was ours? But it's just upstairs, where we share the floor with Maya Yoga and Brickhouse Studio. We're located in the Crossroads Arts District on 18th Street, in between Wyandotte and Cental. (Just west of YJ's and the Birdie's with the glowing pink underwear.) We kind of live here a lot, but do call ahead to make sure we're about before popping in.

A bit about the building: It was built in the 1920's, I believe, and was a screening house for Walt Disney. There were even some old film reels in the basement we found while playing adventure down there. There's some really neat vintage movie posters all about the buiding. One of my favorite details, is the gentlemen and ladies writing on the bathrooms. More pictures of cool things around here to come!

Upcoming Bridal Show : April 6th

2008-03-23T10:37:00.004-05:00

So, the thought of going to a Bridal Show, as a potential bride and/or groom, makes me want to breathe into a paper bag. I imagine it to be kind of like walking through the perfume and make-up section at a busy department store. Where by the end you smell like three different things, one of them being men's cologne, and sporting a set of fake eyelashes. Okay, well-maybe not quite like that, but the idea is still overwhelming.

In order to aid in the fight against overwhelmed-itis, we'll be hosting a booth at the PWG Bridal Show, Sunday April 6th. I think we'll be somewhere towards the back, so do swing by and check us out. We'll be giving away a free custom invitation and photography goodies. Bridget with Ornamental Petal will be helping us finesse our booth styling. (I'm so stoked to see how our display plan comes together!) Our new invitation site will launch shortly and thought it would be a good way to spread the Blue Window word.

Ashley + Dave Save the Date

2008-03-21T09:30:00.000-05:00

Man, I really dropped off the blogging bandwagon there for a bit. To make up for it, here is some neato stuff. This is a Save the Date we designed for an awesome couple, who's wedding is coming up in May. We created this pattern from an element on her dress, as well as created a monogram identity. Something completely unique, as well as green friendly. (No envelopes as this was a Postcard and her Invitations are completely self-mailing.) Invitation pics to come shortly!

Givin' Blood

2008-03-10T14:49:00.002-05:00

So I know it doesn't look like these arms are big enough to hold a few pounds of camera, but it's quality not quantity that gets it done. ;-) Not that we have any superhuman strength, but our ghostly white arms serve us well.

I was all stoked that we got pink wraps when we gave blood. They asked if I wanted a bandaid instead and I was like, "Heck no! I can get a bandaid at home! Give me some of that pink jazz!" We try to remember to do this every so often. It is a little thing that totals the length of a coffee shop chat, yet can do a lot. Plus, you get sweet goodies at the end. I'm a total "cringe and look away the entire time" kind of person, but it's a bearable thing.

Welcome, Frankie Morillo!

2008-02-27T20:40:00.001-06:00

Many congrats to Trisha and Kiko! Their boy, Frankie, arrived on February 17th they couldn't be more thrilled that he's finally here. (Although I'm sure they're quite tired!) I just love this shot they sent us. Makes me want to document babies being born, but guess that would be kind of hard to nail down a date, like weddings. They actually thought their little guy would come a week later than he did, but he must've been anxious to get out and play. They are such an incredible and inspiring couple; it's been exciting to see them grow into parents. It's quite a story to witness. They were married last March at Pilgrim Chapel.

On Front Page of [AG]WPJA

2008-02-26T20:50:00.000-06:00

This image is on the front page of the Artistic Guild of the Wedding Photojournalist's Association! It's placed under the Getting Ready area of the current contests. This is a perfect example of the vintage style that I was talking about in a prior post. The make-up artist pictured is Katie from Mink. You'll notice the judges comments about smoothing the skin, however Katie is just that good! I didn't do anything but a bit of processing to the image.

This bride has also just become a mom! (A hottie one, at that!) What a great gift for their upcoming one year anniversary; more on that event to come.

Facebook-ites

2008-02-24T10:50:00.000-06:00

Since this blog has been so spiffy, we've decided to try out this other new digital 'doo dad': Facebook. I really don't know too much about all the cool stuff you can do, but I figured out how to add a bit about us and some images. (More to come later after I am visited by the Facebook Fairy of Knowledge...or Joel helps me out with it. ;-) If anyone out there would like to link up, friend on, pal in, or get fanned, please do so. You can find us under Blue Window Creative. If you don't have an account, you are behind the cyber-life times, more so than us now, and it takes just a few minutes to get one. Come play Facebook with us!

Vintage, Ethnic, and Unusual Weddings

2008-02-22T17:53:00.001-06:00

More details to come, but Bridget and I are looking to join hands on a vintage wedding. She's looking into bouquets from the 20's-40's; those suckers were incredible! I'd be pulling inspiration from slides I got from an estate sale last year, as well as other resources. (I have a habit of acquiring photographs and slides from anonymous people...) They're incredibly beautiful, and the contrast is so intriguing. I want to pull from that look and do a wedding that mimics that processing, and posing theme. Most would still be our 'style' focused on photojournalism, with some off the beaten path ideas. The possibility of this collaboration has us quite fired up.

We are offering discounted, custom pricing for weddings focusing on period inspired elements. Ethnic and uniquely-themed weddings: we'd love to chat about what we could do with your wedding, as well! We're basically looking to dive, face first, into a wedding adventure and want to take passionate couples with us! Contact us for more info; please tell us a bit about your wedding!

Oh, and sweet, custom invitations are definitely a possibility, as well!

Paper Source Wedding Shindig : February 16th

2008-02-06T18:33:00.000-06:00

We'll be at Paper Source on the Plaza Saturday, the 16th if anyone would like to stop by. You can check out some of our work or just drop in and wave at us like a proud mom at a soccer game. We'll probably have some kind of sweet goodness for you to stick in your pocket...or...depending on what we get...might not want to stick it in your pocket as it would melt. We promise pretty things and for those still on the look out for a wedding photographer, something nifty just for coming to this event. Hope to see you there!

New Website!

2008-01-31T23:08:00.000-06:00

Our web home got a face lift! I actually tend to do this about every six months or so as I like to mix it up and keep it shiney and new. Our fancy schmancy site includes some Flash, but not the 'bouncy, look over here, listen to this, watch this go' kind of way as 1. We're not that Flash savvy and 2. I would get confused with all that going on. We're so excited to get this little guy out on the streets. (Not in a hooker-type fashion, but more of a get out there and seen sort of way.)

We're still tweaking a few things, but hope it's thoroughly enjoyed!

Leslie + Chris {In Portland Oregon!}

2008-01-17T23:38:00.000-06:00

(There may not be much sunshine in Oregon during the winter months,

but here's what it's like when it does peak through the mist... )

In short: Joel and I adore Portland and can't wait to go back. We've been there three times in the past year and find something new to love each time. This time, it was Leslie and Chris that inspired the travel.

They were so much in love with each other, they needed three weddings to cover it all. Well, maybe a civil marriage, one in Switzerland (Chris's native land) and then a reception in Portland so that everyone had an opportunity to celebrate their international togetherness. After several months of emailing, we met a couple days before their reception. They both had friendly, easy going personalities that brought out the best in everyone around them.

Despite the ever present misting of rain, and occasional drenching, we ventured out to play in the streets of the city. It was quite luxurious to have extra time to frolic; they braved dirt, rain and whatever that was that we hoped was mud. (My foot, not hers!) There was so much going on that day, and this is pretty abbreviated, but hope you enjoy checking these images out. We're so glad we got to capture their reception. It was a great opportunity, that we would've otherwise missed.

(Grandma snagging the last bite of dessert when she thought no one was watching.)

Fleurition Invitation Available

2007-12-28T10:00:00.000-06:00

As we're a bit behind on website-ville as far as our invitation e-boutique goes, I thought I would post some of what we offer here.

This is a design that folds to approximately 4"x6", self-mailing invitation. (So, no envelopes to lick...funny if you remember that Seinfeld episode...) These are just colors for the sample, but you can custom select the colors depending on what goes with your event. (Can even be one color.) This particular invitation also comes with a monogram identity, similar to the one shown, but unique depending on the names. This is great for use in designing programs, table tents, menus, etc. For more information or to order, feel free to email us.

The Staats Family

2007-12-27T19:58:00.000-06:00

: The parents, starring off into space, one kid telling a story, another ripping off the other's slipper, and the smallest one launching himself off the foot stool. I think this has to be fairly accurate to their real life.

Just before Christmas, and in time for presents, we worked in a session with Ashlie and Randy and their four kids. They were running around, wrestling, and playing; although they paused a few seconds here and there to give Mom some Grandparent pictures. We snagged a couple images of just Ashlie and Randy, as well, as she said she hadn't had one of just them since their honeymoon.

Everyone was a bit more dressed-up than normal (with the exception of the smallest running around sans-pants for awhile) but were comfortable in their own surroundings. This allowed me to document them in their 'natural environment'. Makes them sound like a herd of wild monkeys, but that might be more accurate than you'd think. ;-) It was great as they won't always be this wild and crazy and it was so fun to relive a bit of my childhood by capturing a bit of theirs.

(Looks like he's morphing into 'The Hulk' or something!)

Accepted into the Artistic Guild of the WPJA

2007-12-27T19:01:00.000-06:00

So, I really don't spend my days entering every contest I can Google, but a Getting Ready image I documented in July (7.7.7) placed in the Artistic Guild competion for the Third Quarter this year. The Artistic Guild is for those who excel at not only documenting the event, but also in the post processing of digital images. To become a member, you have to place in a category, and this image did! I was flipping through so many inspiring images, and then this one came up and I was like, "Hey...that looks like Anneka's picture....hey wait....I took that...OH!" I am now one of three Missouri Wedding Photojournalists in the Artistic Guild and thought I'd share the big new with everyone. This particular image, just has a bit of additional lightening and darkening that I did, her strong silhouette was just a stunning contrast to the soft mist. I am so glad this image came through for them as it really added to the 'primping' chapter of their day.

Lori and Ava

2007-12-14T18:10:00.001-06:00

Last weekend I got to spend a bit of time photographing Lori and her two year old daughter, Ava. I know she looks like a four year old, and what's even cooler is the fact she sounds like an 8 year old boy! No little girl voice on this gal. She's so entertaining and kept trying to feed me water and make me go 'night night' by smothering me with a blanket. Although she was only into the tree/ornament business for about five minutes, it was quite fun to hang out with these two ladies. The one with three images was something to send out with their Christmas cards. (That scraggly bunny was sweet! It was just as ugly and roughly loved as I was hoping, with one remaining eye and limbs three threads from falling off.)

WPJA Third Quarter Contest

2007-12-11T12:33:00.001-06:00

This image was captured at Danielle and Dan's wedding in October won 9th place in the Toasting category at this quarter's international competition. Dan and a few of his men were Irish Car Bombing it while waiting for the reception to start. Beyond the immediate impact of the scene, I love how his ring stands out.

Again, we're so stoked! Any celebrating will have to be within the confines of our house as it's ridiculous icy out. Too bad we don't have a sled...maybe we can find some crude tools in the basement and improvise...

Photoless Surprise, for the moment.

2007-12-04T20:23:00.000-06:00

Soon I will unveil why we have dropped off the planet for a month. No, we did not take up ant farming, revive our N64 and get lost Mario Kart, or run off to warmer climate. (Although, that sounds like a good idea, now that I think of it.) We've been working on something cool, but alas, no pictures to post yet as it's still in the works. I just wanted to toss a teaser out there and remind people that we remembered how to work the keyboard. ;-)

The clues: it involves the Crossroads Arts District, coffee, Cornel Mustard, and a conservatory. Okay, just kidding about the last two. But we'll unveil pictures shortly!

Lindsey + Dan

2007-11-09T16:14:00.000-06:00

A few quick seconds in the photo booth! We certainly don't look this serious in 'real life,' but felt we had to set a dramatic mood inside the curtain. (Joel has the feather boa, and I was a cowboy.) Our cameras enjoyed getting some face time, as well.

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Lindsey and Dan's ceremony and reception was in the Hobbs Building at Feasts of Fancy. Jayme did a wonderful job of coordinating everything and Katie 's styling really completed Lindsey's vision for her look.

They were our first Jewish wedding, although we hope not our last! We really soaked in all of the different ceremonies and traditions and were so excited to document everything for them.They have such dynamic personalities and showed not only love, but also a deep appreciation for each other that was wonderful to witness.

In addition to a photo booth with a box full of fun props, they also had a martini ice luge, many period-inspired elements, and all had some pretty fabulous dance moves. We even squeezed in a quick smooching session in a really cool bathroom stall. Afterwards, they went to Town Topic, as what else could you want after a long day than a burger? This was a great opportunity for some really honest candid shots. Enjoy!

(The ice sculpture had been tempting a lot of people that night. Word on the street was it was quite tasty!)

Lindsey + Dan Engagement

2007-11-06T23:43:00.001-06:00

A time traveling adventure...back to April. Okay, so these really took place about six months ago...but that was before I got addicted to this blogging thing. (And they were married this last weekend, so it's like a pre-quil.) We shot their engagement pics in Lawrence, and the coffee house seen, I believe it was Zee's Coffee, is where they had their first date. (I think they love coffee almost as much as we do.)

Cool things in Lawrence: The whole Massachusetts Street is fun to walk down. It's like a Bohemian version of the Plaza with a really cool record shop called Love Garden. (Their logo is some kind of squid; what is there not to love about a squid logo?) Free State Brewery overlooks the street and has tasty brews.

The last shot here was from The Hooka House which was kind of random that we stumbled upon, but richly decorated on the inside. The owners were very gracious to let us hang out for a bit. And lastly, if you go to or live in Lawrence, you must try Local Burger. All their meat is local and have a lot of creative vegetarian choices available. A wonderful non-traditional burger joint that we beg to open a location in KC everytime we journey out.

Shots from their wedding coming soon!

A time traveling adventure...back to April. Okay, so these really took place about six months ago...but that was before I got addicted to this blogging thing. (And they were married this last weekend, so it's like a pre-quil.) We shot their engagement pics in Lawrence, and the coffee house seen is where they had their first date. (I think they love coffee almost as much as we do.)

Cool things in Lawrence: The whole Massachusetts Street is fun to walk down. It's like a Bohemian version of the Plaza with a really cool record shop called Love Garden. (Their logo is some kind of squid; what is there not to love about a squid logo?) Free State Brewery overlooks the street and has tasty brews.

The last shot here was from The Hooka House which was kind of random that we stumbled upon, but richly decorated on the inside. The owners were very gracious to let us hang out for a bit. And lastly, if you go to or live in Lawrence, you must try Local Burger. All their meat is local and have a lot of creative vegetarian choices available. A wonderful non-traditional burger joint that we beg to open a location in KC everytime we journey out.

Shots from their wedding coming soon!

Call for "Ignore the State of the Dress" Shoot

2007-10-29T16:26:00.000-05:00

Well, 'Trash the Dress' is a little harsh; I've seen ones with dresses on fire. I don't think we'd be taking fire to anyone. Although Joel is an Eagle Scout, not sure he got his 'Putting Out a Bride on Fire' badge. But I bet if there was one, it would be a sweet graphic.

While the weather is still gorgeous, or maybe when it's sloppy snow time, we'd like to offer Trash the Dress sessions. Inquire for rates; past brides, this includes you! We're up for running around town, crawling around in junk yards or flea markets. Where ever you'd like to tromp around in your dress. We'll brainstorm and come up with a cool location and something fun that fits in your comfort level. This is an opportunity to do more choreographed shots that aren't usually our normal wedding day documentation style. (Groom/Husband welcomed to be included!) Shoot us an email if you'd like to discuss!

To check out what other photogs have done: www.trashthedress.com

Slightly to the Left of Photojournalism

2007-10-29T16:07:00.001-05:00

Normally, our included editing is very minimal, involving color correction and black and white conversions. We keep it fairly simple so that it's as true to the moment as possible. However, this doesn't mean it's not fun to play and enhance images every so often. With our new packages we're offering processing similar to this for those that would like to see something a bit more 'detached' from the original image, yet retain it's narrative feel.

KayAnna (Our First 'Destination' Sr. Pics!)

2007-10-26T02:00:00.000-05:00

We were in Oregon last week visiting family, and the beautiful beach. (A separate entry to come on that.) Hence, all the posts as it's been a busy week trying to get caught up.

Okay, so an untouched subject here are senior pictures. *dun, dun, duuuunnn* Personally, I think of 80's shots of people standing in front of a brick wall wearing jean jackets.

In an effort to avoid their pictures becoming outdated or cookie cutter, we strive to bring something more out of them than just posing. One where they can look back at the pictures in 10, 20 years and still see part of who they were at that time. Just themselves at a chapter in their life and enjoying not having to 'know' who they are yet. (I am still enjoying that in my own life!)

Amanda, from Amanda + Brian, has an aunt in Portland who contacted me about Senior Pictures of her daughter, KayAnna, while we were in town. (Talk about coincidence!) We met them at IKEA, which we've been to like four times in the last two months, and then drove about and basically pulled over whenever we saw something cool. Here are a few shots I know they've been excited to see!

River Market Artfest

2007-10-24T00:15:00.000-05:00

Seems I've got some catching up to do on the design end of things, as far as posting goes. Last month, we had the opportunity of working with Friends of the River Market here in Kansas City. I got to design their poster for the artfest this year and enjoyed every minute of it. Sadly, I haven't worked on posters in awhile, so it was a welcomed change of format for me. The bold color combinations were exciting to work with and I loved how they all turned out. Thanks for allowing me to be a part of the Fifth Annual Artfest!

Danielle + Dan

2007-10-23T23:25:00.000-05:00

(Here is also a shot of the invitation I designed for them. This was really a fun one with my beloved floral things and texture. Notice the postmark; I edited it to make it their date.)

We keep working with these amazing couples. When we first tell people we photograph weddings, some gasp, turn white, and obviously have flash backs to You Tube videos and TV shows of 'Bridezillas.' Soon they get to, "I bet you have your fair share of horror stories."

Then it's our turn to gasp and turn white as all we have are shining reviews of glorious, emotion-filled frolics with couples; our cameras in hand. (Although cheesy sounding and needs to be visualized in slow motion, is not far off from how we feel about all of our brides and grooms.)

In continuing awesome couple fashion, Danielle and Dan were our kind of love. Although it stormed well into their day, soon after their vows, the sunlight flowed. I can't believe how much they laughed together! The day flew by for us and we feel quite honored to have shared it with them.

P.S. The flowers were beautiful. So many rich fall colors and cool little berries, puffs and blooms just begging to be fondled. Although I've probably mentioned it before, and know I will again, Bridget has a brilliant design sense that makes my eyes giggle. I both respect and envy her. Onto the pics!

Amanda + Brian

2007-10-12T23:01:00.001-05:00

Usually, couples find us through advertising or, our favorite, by word of mouth and referrals. In this story, we met Amanda at our local Kinko's. I was having a proofbook bound (back before we did the linen ones) and getting ready to ship when our cover caught her eye. When she and Brian got engaged, she dusted off the business card I'd given her and contacted us. (And how glad we are she did!)

Their ceremony was at the beautiful chapel in Powell Gardens; the morning light in there was so lovely. It seems I've been getting all misty-eyed more than I used to at weddings. I think the longer it's been since our wedding, the more moving it is to be reminded of that 'first dance' feeling. (Or maybe...it was allergies? ;-) Their first dance was like they were the only people in the room. There was no announcement or spotlights, everyone was talking and having brunch, and they just started dancing to the music of dj ipod.

New Website Tah Dah

2007-10-09T15:13:00.000-05:00

We're excited to finally have our new site up. All I need to do now is get the invitation end finished and I won't have to stare at code ever again. Okay, well....maybe not ever...Thankfully our friend Matt with Fuzzy Logic will be helping us with the invitation site as it's gone beyond my realm of knowledge. Six months from now, we'll probably change the look of it, again. But I love trying new things and am always looking to evolve our branding.

Hopefully, you'll find our new site warmer, easier to navigate, and as functionally 'pretty' as we intended. I know a lot of photographers have fully Flash based sites, but we chose to keep things simple. (Although there are some beautifully designed ones out there!) Maybe on our next update we'll introduce some Flash.

Anyways, hope you enjoy the new site! Let us know what you think!

Angela + Alan

2007-09-30T15:48:00.001-05:00

Here are a few shots from Angela and Alan's (a+a) wedding on the 22nd. They were a true inspiration to witness; so confident and calm about the whole event. I could only hope to go through a normal day in life so gracefully! I believe they just got back from their honeymoon in Greece. (I hope they share some of their pics! Maybe I can Photoshop Joel and myself in front of the scenery there...)

Fourth Place in WPJA Contest

2007-09-20T20:15:00.000-05:00

I captured this conversational car ride during Trisha and Kiko's wedding back in March. This image was awarded fourth place in the Silhouettes, Shadows and Good Light category in WPJA's most recent competition. Whoohoo!! We're so stoked!!! Many thanks to Trisha and Kiko for letting me hitch a ride to the reception in the old Volvo station wagon. (Lovingly referred to as "Big Beige")

Veronica + Kevin

2007-09-19T14:58:00.000-05:00

Here are a few of my faves from Veronica and Kevin's wedding on August 25th. They are such a vibrantly relaxed couple. (The kind of combo you wouldn't think could happen, but I think describes them well.)

I got the pleasure of not only being their invitation designer, but also a photographer. (They run a small wedding videography company here in Kansas City called Saffron Sky.) Their reception was held in the more recent addition to the Boulevard Brewery. A beautifully modern venue, with minimal industrial decor and a wonderful KC skyline view. At the end of the night, we were invited to try a few of their beers. (Probably the freshest possible!) Bob's 47 was a delicious favorite of ours.

All images copyright 2007, Blue Window Creative

Lady on Scooter Meets Tough Guy on Chopper

2007-08-28T10:39:00.001-05:00

Although this isn't really photography or design related, it's something I thought was cool. We were leaving the grocery store the other day and a lady, probably late 50's-early 60's, was tooling around the parking lot on a little moped. (This will be about the age when I will be running about on one, although Joel wants one now.) It had a cool basket on the back and we followed her out onto the street; not in a stalker like way, but in a normal flow of traffic way.

At the stoplight she pulled up next to the tough looking biker on a chopper she'd been following. We were turning left, so were right next to them. She said, "Want to trade?" to the the seasoned biker. He laughed heartily and asked, "Where's your helmet!?" I thought it was hilarious as the tough leathery biker guy was asking the little white haired lady on her scooter where her helmet was. She then proceeded to tell him it was under her seat and she normally wears it; but they were both laughing and having one of the best stoplight conversations I've ever witnessed.

Blue Window Invitations

2007-08-20T13:14:00.000-05:00

One of our recent projects, and a personally exciting one, is making our invitation design more accessible to all, no matter the geographic location. Up to this point we have dealt with custom designs for couples that see what we've done and want us to design something unique for them. I love designing invitations for a few reasons.

Firstly, is the format. With the exception of a few, we have designed self-mailing invitations. Meaning: no envelope needed. Just fold, seal, address and mail. I think this is such a great way to present an event's first impression. It'll look great on the fridge, stand out from the normal black on white with white border invite, and less environmental waste is a bonus. (No envelopes to throw away.) We also build in the RSVP card so that they just tear it off, and mail it back as a postcard. I enjoy the challenge of making something functional, beautiful as well.

Second: Although I enjoy a nicely arranged clean layout, I adore the curves, ornate images, and patterns that I get to play with. Equally indulgent, is when I get to incorporate weathered textures and incredible typefaces. Once I did a couple for friends, I started designing invitations just for fun when I found something inspiring. Then decided it would be a long time, if ever, before I got burnt out on these. Hence, Blue Window Invitations was created.

So this is kind of a sneak peak as to what our new division, soon functional at http://www.invitebluewindow.com/ , will be showcasing. With any luck, we'll be able to get the e-commerce all set up and available this fall. Check back for additional energetic updates! (If you are interested in invitations before then, just drop us a line: bluewindowcreative@gmail.com )

Melissa + Nathan

2007-08-16T21:42:00.000-05:00

It seems we don't cover many morning weddings, but this one made me want to seek out more of them! (Although I woke us up way early thinking we needed 2 hours to get dressed and 1 to drive 5 minutes to the Simpson House http://www.simpsonhouse.net/ ) It was quite a different atmosphere. Guests were just hanging out and talking, having brunch, a little ceremony in the garden concluded by a procession led by the violinist. Gerber daisies and a simple dress; Melissa was determined to have a wedding dress she would be able to wear to the market if she wanted. And, no offense to other delicious cakes I've enjoyed, probably the most inventively, tasty cake. It was Pistachio cake with Blackberry filling, coated with Chocolate Gnoch (I think that's spelled correctly.) that had just a little bit of Cayenne pepper in it. I was envious of the leftovers they had to take home. Here are a few images from their preview for your viewing pleasure:

This was where I 'hid out' for most of the wedding while Joel shot from the front. It was such an cool find, I had to take advantage. I was also quite proud of myself for not squealing and flailing my arms when I walked through several spiderwebs to get there.

I love this shot from Joel! It looks like it could be in a magazine from the 40's. It's actually a reflection in a mirror that he caught as they were exchanging gifts.

Also, she gave us one of the best compliments I think we've ever received. It was towards the end of the day and she said, "You guys are doing such a great job. Several of my family members have asked me why I didn't hire a wedding photographer."

WPJA Contest

2007-08-13T18:42:00.000-05:00

Last Friday I entered some of our pics from this year into WPJA's second quarter contest. The winning images from these contests are always so inspiring for us! http://www.wpja.com/ It stands for Wedding Photojournalist Association and is such a valuable resource with great articles. Check us out under the Missouri list. Here are some of the images I selected to enter:

Image from Cayce and Timmy's reception back in June. Their wedding was actually in Jamaica a month earlier; a welcomed treat for us!

This was a friend's wedding near Iowa City. Joel was actually one of the groomsmen in this shot from the receiving line. I love the sun rings and the long shadows that came through in this.

Another image from Cayce and Timmy's party. This was pretty much the only light available on the patio, so we made it work! This was at the Berg Event Space down in the Crossroads District. It's an amazing space and we dream of having one similar someday.

A moment of sing-along passion. This was from Leann and Bryan's reception in Leavenworth, Kansas. I was lucky enough to be standing on a chair for an aerial view. They are actually fellow wedding photographers from Chicago and were so great to work with. Here is another image from their day that was a close second in the dancing submission. Those were giant red under garments that he jokingly pulled out from Leann's dress when he was going for the garter. He also pulled out a beer!

Whoohoo for the Weekend!

2007-08-03T21:56:00.000-05:00

This has been one sleep-deprived week! We gave our portfolio a long needed overhaul as well as jazzed up some of our invitations we're getting ready to release. I'm so excited about these! I wish I had my design sense four years ago when I was doing our wedding invitations. I am almost thinking about posting them sometime just for laughs. They were actually stick people renditions of a bride and groom; pretty amusing.

I've also completed the designs for our Blue Window Design as well as the Blue Window Photography site. I think I might be digging myself hole for taking on three sites at once. Or possibly, it's our developer that I'm dragging in the hole with me. Matt with Fuzzy Logic Systems ( www.fuzzylogicsystems.com) is actually the most amazing web guy I've ever dealt with. He doesn't use too many nerd-speak words that are over my head, and when they do come up-he takes the time to explain things. Consider this my shameless plug for him, but he's superb to work with! I also designed his site and logo. I based the 'fuzzy' off what my world looks like without glasses.

However, on to the weekend!

Business of the Month at Costco

2007-07-27T19:21:00.000-05:00

There are a few things we are poster children for. One of them is Craigslist (http://www.craigslist.com/) and the other is Costco. Friends will ask where we got our couch and we say Craigslist, ask where we got 25 pounds of blue corn chips and the answer would be Costco.

They have a bulletin board where they feature a different business every month. August is our month! After measuring our three foot space, a few trips to the photo lab and a couple cups of delicious coffee later, we're up! It was pretty funny putting it up as we were there meticulously arranging foamcore photos on this board. They were definately goosebump quality. I told Joel we look more like the interns that Blue Window sent out to Costco to do their grunt work rather than the photographers that took the cool pictures. Here are a few teasers that are up, although they are much better in person. This is the Costco at Linwood and Gillham here in Midtown.

Blue Window Creative

2007-07-25T22:20:00.000-05:00

Recently upgraded to Blue Window Creative from Blue Window Photography and Design. It's shorter, all-inclusive (like a resort without the free drinks) and is something we're excited about growing into. BWC, as we lovingly call it, is focused on many things but in all areas-we search for visual solutions. Whether it's how to organize information or the best way to document a wedding we strive to create something powerful that communicates.

Blue Window Creative

New Site!

Blue Window Creative Website

Our Schtudio

Upcoming Bridal Show : April 6th

Ashley + Dave Save the Date

Givin' Blood

Welcome, Frankie Morillo!

On Front Page of [AG]WPJA

Facebook-ites

Vintage, Ethnic, and Unusual Weddings

Paper Source Wedding Shindig : February 16th

New Website!

Leslie + Chris {In Portland Oregon!}

Fleurition Invitation Available

The Staats Family

Accepted into the Artistic Guild of the WPJA

Lori and Ava

WPJA Third Quarter Contest

Photoless Surprise, for the moment.

Lindsey + Dan

Lindsey + Dan Engagement

Call for "Ignore the State of the Dress" Shoot

Slightly to the Left of Photojournalism

KayAnna (Our First 'Destination' Sr. Pics!)

River Market Artfest

Danielle + Dan

Amanda + Brian

New Website *Tah Dah*

Angela + Alan

Fourth Place in WPJA Contest

Veronica + Kevin

Lady on Scooter Meets Tough Guy on Chopper

Blue Window Invitations

Melissa + Nathan

WPJA Contest

Whoohoo for the Weekend!

Business of the Month at Costco

Blue Window Creative

New Website Tah Dah