Dayton Weddings | Echo by Design | Wedding + Portrait Photography

..Zach + Cara | Two People That Just Fit..

We just fit. Nothing better could describe these two because they have such sweet elements in common. They both adore the beach, are total foodies who love to work out, and their favorite time of year is fall. Not to mention the wonderful holiday of Thanksgiving!! {As if we couldn’t have guessed that…right?!?}

Zach + Cara met in physical therapy school in the fall of 2011. When they first met, they were both dating other people. After things ended, on both sides, they began to hang around each other a little more often. Each one making it a point to see the other. There was a gravitational attraction and neither could hide it. Not even with their best effort. Cara explains, Things really took off from there. Things with us have always been easy…we just fit.

They bonded over all the things they loved. Physical therapy. The movies. And trying craft beers. Then Zach proposed! On July 25th, approximately two years after they met, he gave Cara the surprise of her life. She had a really long day at work and when she met Zach, she found him surrounded by 60 tea light candles and a bottle of her favorite wine. She remembered, I was completely caught off guard!! In the midst of shock and total excitement, she accepted his proposal.

So here they are, planning their wedding for their favorite season of fall next year!! We chose to meet up while all of the leaves were beginning to change color. So, while they snuggled away in each other’s arms, I caught each little glimpse of love that existed. I loved the way her head fit so perfectly in the crevice of his chest, and how their arms just entangled in each others in such a comfortable way. But my favorite was how they could smile so brightly one minute and then take it all in with a happy peaceful face the next!!

Zach + Cara, it was such a blast hanging out with you and I’m so glad that we had the opportunity while the weather was absolutely gorgeous!!! Let’s hope that this is an indication for your nuptials next September! I wish you guys a fabulous year of planning and I’m honored to be asked to celebrate with you on your blessed day!! I just know it’s going to be a good one!!

..THEY JUST FIT..

love, echo

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echoes of love

..The Herrmann Family | The Last Six Months + Fall Portraits..

Back in May I had the opportunity to capture Holden’s ..newborn portraits.. and I can’t believe he is almost 6 months old! After catching up with Nick and Jessi at their fall family session, it is so good to hear that they are doing great and adjusting well to parenthood. After asking how it was going they mentioned, Nick and I just looked at each other this last week and said we finally felt like we are in a groove. Nothing like a baby to keep you on your toes and to keep you guessing! Much agreed, because honestly, there is nothing more that will turn your world upside down in the best possible way!! Holden is such a happy baby and it is so easy to want to spend every second with him, I sometimes have to tell myself that I need to give other people time with him too ha!

Holden is truly one of the quietest and happiest 6 month olds that I’ve ever photographed. He is such a little sweetie! Nick + Jessi explained to me just how lucky they felt for having him be so content and happy!! {I’m praying my #2 is that way!} Right now, Holden seems to smile at just about anything. Mostly if you give him a little scare like a little “Boo!” or jump out from hiding he will jump and then smile and usually let out a little laugh. He also smiles at his Daddy ALOT and all of the time! Holden also loves his bath time at night. He can be so tired and fussy and as soon as we walk into that bathroom he starts to smile because he knows its time for his bath!

Mid session, we stopped for him to have a bottle, refuel his little system! We chatted about being parents, traveling with a baby, and learning to remember every possible thing you need before you walk out the door to wherever it is that your going!! We laughed when we agreed that you are bound to forget something! Such is the life of parents!

I love being a parent though, and nothing in the world can change that feeling. It’s irreplaceable and I know Nick + Jessi feel the same way. So I gave them the opportunity to gush over their little guy more than once. Nick’s favorite thing about Holden right now is that he is constantly blowing bubbles through diaper changes or random night feedings. He laughs to himself when he can hear him doing it over the monitor. Jessi loves his smiles, especially when she has had a bad day at work. In just one smile she explained that it can become the best day ever!

The next 6 months they still have a lot in store with him, growing, more teething, and mobility! Nick says, I’m most looking forward to Holden getting on the move. He has finally mastered rolling from his back to his tummy and is doing it all all of the time now. It is only a matter of time until he is going to be scooting around the floor and into everything! Jessi says, Being a mom and dad has truly put new meaning into our lives. Holden has allowed me to realize what is important in life. I am so looking forward to our first zoo trip, first Christmas, first birthday, first trip to the beach…pretty much his first EVERYTHING! I am so happy to experience all of these firsts as our own little family!

Nick, Jessi, + Holden! I have been so blessed to capture your little family and I am so thankful that I will have the opportunity to continue to do so!! I can’t believe Holden is almost 6 months old and I pray that these next 6 months you take everything in! What an adorable addition he has been to your family!! Thanks again!

..IN A GROOVE..

love, echo

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echoes of love

..Eric + Nichelle | A Treasured Wedding Day..

Today you chose this beautiful church to marry, that is what the pastor had to say opening up his message. He had traveled to be with them as they became husband and wife, as most of their guests had. Eric from Chicago and Nichi from Pennsylvania, with Ohio being the in-between. The place where they have settled and have begun to call home. The gorgeous architectural features of the arches accented the way towards the altar while the painted murals overlooked them. They stood happy, excited, and blessed. Blessed that so many people had come to be with them for this moment. They listened to the readings and to the Pastor, and before they knew it they were exchanging their vows. Taking each other forever. They placed each other’s rings on and the precipice of their ceremony was coming. Building. Everyone around them smiling and waiting for the blessings to congratulate the happy couple. And then finally, he announced them as the new Mr. + Mrs. and the applaud roared out and filled the chapel from wall to wall. Their smiles so big, so evident.

After they had greeted each person that had come from near and far, we headed outside. It was the most perfect day. The sun was out, it brought everyone’s happiness to an even higher level. We enjoyed portraits at a near by garden and we had a fabulous time. The bridal party was fun, they kept things light, and before they knew it they were back to their own little party on the bus! As always, it was my favorite part of the day. Portraits! There was a glimmer in their eye. Almost as they were second guessing if it was a dream and if what they thought had just happened, indeed really did happen. Her shy smile was on in full force as Eric put his arms around her. They laughed together and really had some time to themselves for the first time since walking down the aisle. We bounced around the garden, utilizing some of the great sunshine that was pouring through the trees till it was time to head on to their festivities!

Eric + Nichi wrapped up their night at The Savannah Center in simplistic wine corks and pink roses! The tables danced with both as the bright orange sashes covered the chairs. And who couldn’t notice the tower of delicious cupcakes, just waiting to be had!! It wasn’t long before the bridal party was announced, toasts, dinner, and cupcakes were shared. But one of the sweetest moments of the evening, something so very special to them, was the anniversary dance. Eric’s grandparents had been married for 61 years, and they were out sharing their dance of the evening. Her smile matched the same smile that Nichi had on, and she was never so proud to have her husband in her arms. Announced the winners they asked to share something special, they both said, Treasure each other.

It brought tears to my eyes, because after all that’s what marriage is all about. It’s about those moments that you want to fight with each other when there is no reason to be fighting. It’s about those moments where you bask in the happiness and think, it doesn’t get much better than this. And it’s those moments where you look at a couple who have been married for sixty one years and your proud to call them your grandparents. For they have figured out the true meaning and secret to marriage. Congratulations to them and Eric + Nichi!

Nichi wore a necklace that was the first piece of jewelry her father gave to her mother.

Did I mention that Eric loves karaoke? That’s how he first caught Nichi’s attention, so it was only fitting that he give her a show on their wedding day!

Eric + Nichi!! Thank you so much for allowing me to be with you on your ever so beautiful day! It truly was a love worth celebrating and I’m so glad that you can call each other your own now!! To you both I wish nothing but marital bliss and happiness and I know you will have both!! Congratulations again, we were so honored to share it with you!

..TREASURE EACH OTHER..

love, echo

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echoes of love

..Emeline | Sweet Little Girl Is One..

It wasn’t too long ago that I shared this sweet little girls parent’s nuptials! I knew then that we would be meeting up again to photograph her turning one year old, and I couldn’t wait because she is about as adorable as they come! I think she knows it too!

Emeline was born on October 9th, 2012 to Jesse + Alexandra, and they were thrilled to become parents. Alex remembers, Jesse and I always knew we wanted a family, and we were overjoyed from the minute we found out we were pregnant with Emeline! We were smitten! During our session, I asked them if Emeline had any special resemblance in the family or if it was just a name they liked? They said, At first it was just a name we liked, but later we found out two family members on Jesse’s side had the name! {I love when little one’s have incorporated family names!}

More on this little cutie, She likes baths, playing, dancing, having her picture taken {win on my end!,} books, tupperware and cups, her blankies, and musical toys! Not to mention she absolutely adores her stuffed animal dogs and the family’s Boston Terrier, Dexter! She was pointing to the cats on the property and saying dog, it was pretty cute! She is a very active baby and always has been. A little social butterfly per se! And once we got her attention off of the rocks in her hand, she was all smiles. She loves waving to people and trying to get their attention. Oh!! And she isn’t a picky eater! {Whoa! That would be so nice to have right now!}

Her parents adore her! We are so blessed to have such a sweet, caring, smart, beautiful little girl! She is everything! Every day being something new to be amazed by. She has always been a good baby. This year has gone so fast, we are excited at all that is to come while already missing what has past. We are blessed to have our families and each other.

Our time together was precious, and I absolutely love her Momma’s style! The little details, and the cake! Mmmm, the cake! Emeline had a blast! Happy First Birthday little one!!

Jesse + Alex, if you don’t already write notes to this baby, please right this down for her. She will love to hear the words you have had to say and she will cherish them forever!! Thank you, thank you, thank you for allowing me to photograph your sweet baby girl! She is a doll baby and I adored my time with her!! I hope her next year of life is as much of a blessing to you and that she goes on to explore the world as only she knows how!! Thank you for sharing your time with me!

..SOCIAL BUTTERFLY..

love, echo

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echoes of love

..Caleb + Emily | Some Endowed Trust And A Good Time..

They knew each other in high school, but never made the connection. Maybe they were too young, or too many dreams ahead of them, or in a way maybe they just didn’t see it. Yet. In 2009 when Emily was a freshman in college they reconnected. They began to talk. After many months of talking, Emily went to Italy for 2 whole weeks! Maybe it was then that Caleb realized that she was the one. That there was something special there to pursue.

Once Emily returned, they began dating June 27th, 2010. She shared, We have spent almost every day together ever since! They both loved being outdoors and spending time hiking. They bonded over long summer seasons, her schooling, and his pursuit of law enforcement. Things were exactly how she wanted them to be.

So a few months before their two year dating anniversary, on February 10th, 2013, Caleb figured it was time. Time to put a ring on the finger of the woman who made him the happiest he would ever be. He planned on a hike, nothing out of the ordinary for them. Something she wouldn’t see coming. Before they went off on their own little adventure together, he had pre-planted the ring in a hollowed out log. Emily remembers, When we got to the log, he got down on one knee to pick up and asked me to marry him!! All the feelings from the last three years of talking, dating, and memories without him there came to her like a rushing flood. She couldn’t live without him. She didn’t want to live without him. So she said yes and agreed to marry the love of her life!

Their planning began, and the quest for a venue for their big day was upon them. They had found my portraits through one of the locations that I had photographed before, and unfortunately I didn’t have a good professional experience there. Although I have never refused to photograph at a certain venue before, I went on to tell them and show them reviews on BBB and other sites that this was not a venue I felt comfortable shooting at anyone. All in all, I was hesitant to share and because I did, Emily + Caleb placed a trust in me that you can’t normally generate that quickly! In essence it was the opportunity to form a connection in their relationship, along with my own in order to make their wedding day the absolute best it could be! {They have been extremely grateful, and so am I!! I have to look out for a bride, whether they decide to book with me or not!}

Needless to say we couldn’t wait to meet each other, and finally…like, finally after tons of emails back and forth we had the chance to meet at their engagement session. We had so much fun and although they were a little shy in front of the camera at first, by the end of our time together I didn’t even have to begin to tell Caleb the moves I needed him to make!! He was working it and loving on his lady like there was no one around!

Caleb + Emily, I am so blessed to be photographing your wedding in Mansfield next year!! I know that trust is something that is so hard to give, especially when it comes to your wedding day, but I am soo thankful that you have given that gift to me! I wish you blessings as you continue on this less than 9 month journey of becoming husband + wife!! Can’t wait!!

..TRUST..

love, echo

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echoes of love