Month: June 2022

Kieran was the first person I met when I started working at UW Health several years ago. I remember it like it was yesterday. I was early for clinic, awkwardly hanging out in the work room, waiting for the person I was training with to arrive when in walked Kieran. She greeted everyone around with a cheery hello while setting her bag down, walked over to me with her effervescent personality introducing herself so confidently and in a way that made me feel instantly welcome. I think she said something along the lines of – “Hi! I’m Kieran, we’re working together today! I like to go out and hang out outside of work so if you ever want to do that, let me know.” Honestly, I was a bit shocked and took a second to respond. I mean here I was, my first day in a new job being welcomed so openly both in a work and social capacity. In that moment, I felt that I was where I was meant to be – I know that’s cheesy as hell, but I am serious! I was in awe of Kieran (still am!) and hung on her every word during training, thrilled to be learning the ropes from this cool chick. Eventually I took her up on hanging out outside of work and we became fast friends. Kieran has impacted my life, professionally and personally, in ways that I cannot begin to express effectively enough to do them justice. I cannot picture my life today had I not met Kieran. She’s one of my best friends, she introduced me to my husband, Kieran stood in for my mom, getting me ready for my wedding and the list goes on and on.

A couple years ago Kieran decided to go back to school to become a Physician Assistant at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Today, she received her White Coat signifying the successful completion of her didactic training year. You know what they say though, no rest for the weary! Next week starts clinical rotations.Thankfully we were able to carve out a little time after her ceremony to capture a few photos.

Congratulations Kieran!

I am so grateful for the impact you have made and continue to make in my life. I am beyond proud of you in all the ways!

Love,
Jen

Who would have thought that drinks at Oliver’s Public House would eventually lead to the perfect Sedona, AZ proposal and planning a wedding at one of your dream destinations, Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada?

Well, for Michelle and Brandt, it did and today I get to share their engagement session with you!

In the days leading up the photo session, both Michelle and I had been anxiously watching the weather wondering if we would get rained out. The day came and we moved the session up to beat the rain, ending up with the perfect weather. They were even able to bring their dogs, Kevin, Missy and Puggle, along! Together, we were able to walk around the Capitol, Monona Terrace and Vilas Park areas snapping these gorgeous images.

Now, I can’t tell you about their engagement session without telling you how they got engaged right?! Right!

Here’s how it all went down.

Michelle and Brandt spent a few days with Michelle’s family in Chicago. During their time there Brandt was able to get Michelle’s parents blessing to propose, while keeping his quickly approaching proposal plans under wraps.

The two headed out to seek warmer weather in Arizona on vacation with Brandt’s family. On the day of the proposal Brandt booked Michelle a manicure during which he rushed to the grocery store to buy champagne and charcuterie. After her manicure Michelle met up with Brandt and Brandt’s brother, Alex for a hike.

The hike! (wink, wink)

Behind the scenes, Brandt had clued Alex into his plan so he could capture some photos and asked his mom to plan to have the champagne and charcuterie ready for when they returned. I’m sure she might have suspected something, but Brandt didn’t give away his intentions. Who knows? It could have been a late birthday celebration for Michelle…

Anyway, Brandt’s plan was to take Michelle to the top of Bell Rock, which if you’ve ever hiked in Arizona, it’s a feat! The final assent requires traversing an unmarked trail with a high degree of difficulty and utilizing ropes for the last 50 ft at a 90 degree climb!

They didn’t summit, but made it pretty close and decided that would be as far as they would go. Just then, with panoramic breathtaking views of Sedona Red Rock serving as the perfect backdrop, Brandt got down on one knee, removing the most exquisite ring from an Oral-B floss container (this little detail is super on-brand as Brandt is a dentist) and popped the question. Michelle was completely taken by surprise and answered Yes!

(If you’re wondering about the photographer, Alex, he captured some beautiful photos.)

They returned to celebrate with Brandt’s family and then a few days later they flew back to Chicago and got to celebrate with Michelle’s family before returning home.

How perfect is that!? Brandt – you did a stellar job! I love that you completely surprised Michelle, made sure her nails were perfect and were able to share this with both of your families!

Michelle and Brandt,

Congratulations and thank you for choosing me to capture your engagement photos. I had a great time during your session! I cannot wait to hear all about your wedding!

Best,
Jen

Want gorgeous images like these? Contact me! Let’s book your session.