TO THE BLOG

Hello!! Here we are, another year has flown by. I hope your holiday season was filled with love and joy and all of the good things. As I close out 2025 with this final blog, I’m holding a bittersweet gratitude for the clients who made this year so meaningful. Most I knew, some I just met, all I just adore! So cheers to another wonderful year capturing your greatest treasures and memories. I could not be more honored to be the person you selected to do so.

Now imagine you move to Chicago. New city, new apartment, new chapter. Not knowing, your fate has been decided. Your soul mate lives in that exact building. Your future awaits. He spies you in the elevator and he knows you’re the one. The courage, to knock on your door. Do you believe in destiny, I know Kelly & Rony do! They just tied the knot in an incredible, intimate ceremony and reception.

A knock on your door from a stranger turns into a real, love, story. It is what romcoms are made of! And it was a true honor to capture the love story of Kelly & Rony this month! They are a true match indeed.

I have had the great pleasure getting to know Kelly and Rony throughout the duration of the year! They planned their elopement alongside Simply Eloped back in February. We chatted about their plans and visions for their special day. They were so excited about all that was to come! The most important thing to them was celebrating their love, their way, with their closest family and friends. The venue, an unique wedding location- a former firehouse.

Everything they envisioned, came to life. All the out of town family, friends, present. The atmosphere, perfect. I mean, look at Kelly’s smile! Congrats to Mr. & Mrs Youkhana! Wishing you a life time of happiness together!

Well, that is a wrap for 2025. Wishing you the best for 2026!

xoxo

Renée

Hello & Happy Fall! It just snowed & it is early November! The snow has got me a little excited about the upcoming, festive season!

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday! It’s about giving thanks for all that you have & let’s be real…about some tasty food! Growing up in an Italian family, we go all out. Ravioli to start , turkey and stuffing in between, desserts  … you get the idea. 

Speaking of thankfulness, I can imagine how grateful Andrea was this entire year watching her beautiful baby girl grow before her eyes. All mothers can speak of how fast their babies become toddlers and so on. You look back at old pictures and some of those infant stages are a complete blur. Always reminded how time is a complete thief. One of the hardest parts of watching them grow up, is how fast it all goes. Each year becoming more independent. That is a blessing as well, but you can’t help but think, they don’t need you as much anymore, they don’t play with those toys any longer, their own opinions becoming more clear.

I normally wait until the day after Thanksgiving to decorate for the next merry season. But this year my desire has crept in early! I am holding back from decorating just yet, but I’d love to share with you, these images from last holiday! 

A wonderful reminder of that time in Andrea’s life. A new mom, a new routine, a growing family. 

A look back at what is in the distant past. Your baby girl, now almost one years old. A lot has changed, and perhaps so have you.

Cannot think of a better gift.

Until next time,

xoxo

Renée

Hello! Hope your fall is going well. The beauty of this season always has me in awwww 🙌

Question for ya, how long have your known your longest friend?! When I was in fifth grade, I was reunited with a preschool buddy. Our mothers told us, we shared a locker in preschool and were always together. I will say I remember having a locker and thought it was so cool, being so young. My little red headed friend, another bonus to preschool. So in fifth grade we went right back were left off. In the same class, same interests, both having a really strange haircut. We kinda needed each other to get thru that awkward stage of adolescence! And we have been friends ever since! Forever friends.

Now in our 40’s…whoa, time flies. Still friends. Even when life has naturally guided us in our own directions, we can still have a good ol’ time together. We have shared many, many great times! From parties in the woods, trips to her cabin in Wisconsin, scary movies in October, having great laughs, got into some trouble we could always find our way out of! One time we went to what we thought was a Halloween party, we were the only two dressed up…at least, we had each other!

I always loved Cari’s family as well, her sister Courtney, adoring mom- Cathy & her hilarious father. RIP Jimmy. Amazing, aunts, uncles cousins. Remember, we go back. Good people.

Let’s move on to Cari & George! A wise person recently told me, “what is meant for you, will find you.” That really reminded me of Cari & George. They ended up, being each other’s person. Knowing each other for a very long time, but at the end, they were meant to be together. And I love fate, destiny if you will. George is the kind of guy who will make you laugh no matter the circumstance. We all need a George in our life. He turns nothing, into hilarious. I also, love laughter. It is medicine. If I might say, I feel like George helps fill the void of Cari’s father. Just as funny, a good person to have by your side. Sadly, he lost his battle to cancer.

Cari & George planned an epic Chicago wedding weekend! Married on a Friday on the Gargano’s (George’s parents’) rooftop! Celebrating Saturday at the beautiful riverfront restaurant, Gibson’s Italia . It was an honor to be asked to photograph this very special occasion!

Before I share some of the pics of this fabulous weekend, I must also add, the Garganos are also, truly an amazing family. So two wonderful families were united that weekend, it was so beautiful to witness! Welcoming, warm, friendly, funny. Top notch! Plus, George’s daughter (who officiated the ceremony) gave the most heartwarming speech. The entire room was so touched!

Cheers to a glorious weekend & couple! 🥂

Love you, Cari! George, you are an amazing addition to Cari’s life. Thank you for bringing her endless laughter.

xo

Renèe

Hello again! Hope all is well! What about this fabulous weather we are experiencing?! It’s the perfect blend of I am not freezing and I am not sweating chasing my kids around! What more, can we ask for? I think it allows us to spend more time outdoors and reflect on the beauty of the season!

So here we are, in the “ember” months already. Another year is just flying by. I am going to go back to some amazing fall sessions from the year previous so we can start to embrace those gorgeous colors!

I introduce to you, the Washburn family! A stunning little crew if I may say. We met last October to take family photos. As they had recently become new parents of their adorable baby girl, I could see why they would want to capture this season of their lives!

It is hard to resist not loving this time of year. When all is golden. Autumn is a gentle hush, a season stitched with warm sweaters, crisp air, and the sweet crackle of crunchy leaves.

I’m so glad the Washburns were able to capture some sweet memories with their new family amougst the beauty of fall.

To think, they now have a one year old who will enjoy walking (or toddling) thru those crunchy leaves as well this year. Last year, she was safe, in your arms. Just a reminder to embrace the season, take in all the memories – time really flies folks.

With love,

Renée

Hello! Hope all is well in your world. 🌎

Life certainly has its twists and turns, sometimes the turbulence can get to be too much. It’s during those times, you are really tested and reminded to see what matters the most. It isn’t your house, your car(s), the miscellaneous things we buy to fill voids.

It’s the people. The people you love, the children you created. Your family.

“Family is not an important thing, it’s everything”  – Michael J. Fox

When your babies are small, you look into their beautiful eyes and wonder, how you got so lucky. And as they grow, you try to remember them as they were before. Small, innocent, carefree, exploring all that is new to them.

Sometimes you look back at a photo and it is hard to place that moment back in time. Luckily we have camera rolls full of images that remind us, just how fast time really travels.

Your baby turns one and those babbles and bottles become part of their history.

Just a simple reminder, to embrace each day, cherish all the memories, and snap pics along the way of course! Hold their little hands as long as you can. Kiss those scrum-shish cheeks. Be grateful you can tuck your kids in a warm bed each night. Be present, be free, make memories.

Thank you to the Brzozowski for being brave enough to brace the August temps and for allowing me to capture, a little slice of your heaven. They really are a picture perfect family. And it was super fun to get to know their little loves.

Best part of my job is taking photos of the entire family that my clients will adore, a gallery that include mom and dad too! Having fun while doing it. I am here for all of it!

Cheers to you, parents! You are the light of their lives.

Hello again! Summer is just passing us by as we approach August! I have had a busy summer with more garden sessions then ever before! That makes me very happy. To take advantage of the flowers and all the colors, it is just the opportune time in this photographer’s eyes!

Today, I share the session of Iririan and Sam! Sam popped the question on Valentine’s Day 2025! When I heard from this adorable couple earlier in the year, they shared they would love to take their engagement photos at the Chicago Botanic Garden! That is honestly one my favorite places to be! And sadly it had been too long since my last visit! SO a happy dance was happening on my end!

On my drive over to the garden the day of their session, I heard the “Forever Young” Remix! 😉
A classic song (with a catchy new beat) about remaining young and free, well forever. It had me thinking how I used to think being in your 40s was old. Well, twenty some years later, 40 is no where near old, just more experienced and wise.

Meeting Iri & Sam in person, I felt that youthful energy thru their presence. They are young, they are in love and have both of their futures to look forward to. It really is a wonderful feeling. And, you know, life is short! So enjoy each day to fullest. I feel like Iri and Sam have the same mindset!

This adorable couple share a love of music, food, attending sporting events & spending quality time together. Each date, thoughtfully planned. We walked around the gorgeous grounds capturing the scenery, just is awe of the all beauty surrounding us. These kids are the sweetest, and I am so thrilled I was about to capture their love story!

Walking thru the gardens, with your love by your side, that is a good day! You would never even know, we waited for hours for a rain storm to pass that day. Good thing you can check the weather before a long drive! So excited for these two! They sure have a lot to look forward to!

Until next time,

Renée 💕

Hello, Hello! I hope you have been enjoying your summer! It tends to go faster than those cold months, doesn’t it. YEP, it is HOT, I’d rather cool off than be COLD. The days are long & full of sunshine!

Any how, I’d love to share my most recent elopement with you. Coordinated by Simply Eloped, this ceremony was sweet and full of gorgeous scenery too! The event was held at the Morton Arboretum in the Fragrance Garden. Walking thru the grounds, you felt a sense of calm, and gratefulness. They both nature, so this venue was spot on!

They started off with a First Look. Such a wonderful way to start your day and ease your nerves. You are both present and in the moment. I hope they can look back at their images and can just relive how they felt. The joy showed from behind my lens.

It was HOT, but that did not stop these love birds from making the most of their magical moments. The colors chosen by Stephanie were bright, beautiful and vivid. A vision, in white, Stephanie was glowing from the moment she stepped onto the property. Chase, calm and collective. Both ready for the next step in their relationship.

Stephanie & Chase wanted to celebrate their vows with their closest family and friends. The ceremony was intimate and tender. It was a true honor to capture their story that day. After a touching ceremony, Stephanie & Chase exchanged their vows privately. I am sure they counted their blessings that they crossed paths back at the University of Iowa. From that time on, they have been in each other lives one way or another, and now, as husband and wife.

After, we convinced the pair to take photos around different areas of the Arboretum.

Surrounded by love ones, in stunning scenery, a gorgeous bride, and happy couple- the day was a WIN WIN!

It is always my pleasure to capture your special moments. Cheers to Stephanie & Chase!

Until next time, friends. Be well.

Hello hello! SUMMER is here! Are you enjoying this season? I sure am. Pool is open, the days are long and the sun is shinning. I may hide in AC during those peak heat hours, but hey, you gotta make sure you do not melt!

I’d love to share my most recent elopement with you. As a partner with Simply Eloped, it was an absolute honor to capture Jessica & Matt’s special day. Simply Eloped coordinated all the details, that makes it easy for couples to just show up & get married!

The location, such a neat Chicago landmark- The Firehouse. This firehouse was built back in 1906 and had four horse stables. I mean, can you imagine it all- the history is rich!

Jessica and Matt live in South Dakota, but wanted a destination wedding. They love Chicago so it was a win win! When I first met Jessi and Matt via Facetime, they shared they met in a psych ward…..both employees. I mean, what a story!

They shared a beautiful and intimate ceremony with their closest family & friends. It was perfect. They started their day with a first look.

Then, in firehouse fashion, this brave bride made her entrance in the most memorable way!

To witness the love and devotion Jessi & Matt share, was a true honor. I hope you enjoy these images with each passing year. Cheers to you both!

Until next time, friends.

Renée

Sometimes, things are just meant to be. You know that feeling, like it all worked out the way it was supposed to.

It was a random Wednesday in early October. I received a text message about possibly booking a fall senior session. It was already fall, so my schedule was pretty booked up. BUT I had an opening for the coming Sunday & it worked for the client too! I was going to be in Wheaton for other sessions. The weather seemed pretty perfect, the colors still present. Let’s do it!

So I met Jackson and his lovely mother at Hurley Gardens. One of my favorite photography locations. I must say quickly upon meeting Jackson, I was impressed! He was kind, polite and while speaking to him I learned he was also very smart! Favorite subject, Chemistry. Jackson mentioned PRE MED ! Plus a complete soccer star! Impressive kid!

His mom just really wanted to capture him at this very moment of his life. Paula, I could not agree with you more!

I am excited he was up for the opportunity as well! It is not always the senior fellas who want to hang out in front of my camera, of course, they totally should! LOOK at these amazing results!

Remember folks, take the photos! Soon Jackson will be graduating from Wheaton North and heading off to college. Likely feels like he was just starting Kindergarten to mom. Big things ahead for Jackson! Congrats on graduation and best of luck in the next chapter!

Until next time, friends!

Renèe

Hello! Marching right into Summer!! We are approaching temps in the high 70s as we move into mid March! Summer months and weather will be here before we know it, we will have survived another Midwest winter! Can you tell, that excites me?!

Today, I am showcasing a very special client. I met her when she was just 6 months old!

Precious as could be, Mya touched my heart. She is such a sweet child. She has an infectious smile. When you look into her eyes, you can see the happiness that fills her days. There is a reason for that happiness, and her name is Lindsey.

Last October I saw Lindsey and Mya for their fourth photo session together. It is always my pleasure to capture the love these two share.

As Mya was approaching two, you could clearly see how much she was enjoying her next chapter. She was no longer a baby, it is her life and she is going to enjoy all the exciting, independent things about it!

As each year goes by, Mya steps into her new phase with confidence and joy.

Thank you for the opportunity to watch Mya grow. She has a special place in my heart. I am so grateful to know both Lindsey and Mya.

Until next time.

Renée