TO THE BLOG

Rain, rain, go away! Have you been singing that tune too? It has been such a gloomy August. Trying to ruin the end of summer?!

August always brings that back-to-school feeling. Whether you want it or not, it’s the time of year to get back to the books, routines, early mornings, and all the excitement that comes with a new school year.

Ava is starting her final year of high school next week. And while senior year certainly comes with a few “lasts,” it also brings so many exciting firsts.

The last book pickup. The last homecoming of her high school career. The last time she’ll walk those familiar halls as a student. It all starts next week.

Senior year can bring all kinds of emotions—happy, sad, elated, deflated, and probably everything in between. I’m wishing Ava the most amazing year, filled with friendships, laughter, adventures, and memories that she’ll carry with her for years to come.

Because this isn’t just the end of high school. It’s the beginning of something so much bigger.

Young adulthood. New adventures. New choices. A future that is hers to create.

The days may feel long, but somehow the year will fly by. So, Ava, soak it all in. Enjoy the moments, make the memories, and don’t be in too much of a hurry to get to the next chapter. Before you know it, you’ll be tossing that cap into the air!

Ava is a hard worker, too! She dedicated her summer to being a camp counselor, and I could tell how much pride she took in her job and in working with children. Hard work and responsibility are skills that can’t really be taught from a textbook. They’re built over time, through the people who raise us, the experiences we have, and the choices we make.

And I hope that when Ava looks back at her senior photos years from now, she sees more than just a pretty picture. I hope they bring her right back to this season of her life—young, beautiful, free, proud, and full of possibility.

What a gift it is to capture a moment in time and have a little piece of it to hold onto forever.

Here’s to senior year, Ava. Soak it all in. Your next adventure is waiting. ❤️

Until next time,

xoxo

Renèe

Hello friends! Summer is here, and I am loving it. I hope you are too! Sunshine and sandals… what more could we ask for?

Earlier this year, I was invited to a networking event. Of course, I hesitated. It was last minute, I would be attending alone, I hadn’t reprinted my business cards after I ran out… I was not prepared! But I knew this was something my business could benefit from. Plus, it was being held at a new, adorable floral shop I had been wanting to check out—Bev’s Blooms.

The pros outweighed the cons, so I went.

As a first-timer, I was a bit worried. Would I fit in? Would I feel awkward walking in alone? Happy to report… no regrets! The owner was incredibly sweet, I met a new potential client, and I connected with so many women who own their own businesses. It was inspiring, to say the least!

Side note: If you’re in the Wheaton area, you have to check out Bev’s Blooms!

Okay, back to Ariel.

She has a unique business, and ladies, you’re going to want to learn more about her and the incredible services she provides! Ariel is the owner of Core Bloom, whose mission is:

“Dedicated to restoring pelvic wellness and building lasting strength through expert physical therapy, evidence-based treatments, and mindful movement.”

Ariel is incredibly knowledgeable about women’s health. She helps women restore pelvic health while offering a variety of personalized treatment options. The best part? She travels to you.

From the moment you meet Ariel, you’ll immediately feel comfortable. Her bedside manner is warm, genuine, and compassionate. She is truly a joy to be around, and I am so grateful our paths crossed. Be sure to check out her website to learn more!

Even though I didn’t have business cards that day, Ariel reached out to schedule a brand photography session—and I am so glad she did. From our very first conversation, I felt connected to her energy and spirit. We met at her client’s beautiful home in Glen Ellyn. So I got to see treatment first hand.

Ariel was glowing. From the inside out.

Lesson learned: networking events are fun!

Every person I met that evening was welcoming, inspiring, and someone I’ll gladly keep in mind for future referrals. Ariel is an absolute gem, working in a truly unique niche—one that so many women could benefit from.

If you’re looking for compassionate, personalized pelvic health care, be sure to learn more about her services. I’m so grateful I stepped outside my comfort zone that evening because it led me to an incredible connection, a beautiful brand session, and the opportunity to share Ariel’s story with all of you.

Until next time, friends!

Hello, summer! It’s officially here, and I couldn’t be more excited. Outdoor events, meeting up with friends, dining al fresco—there is so much to love about this season.

One of the best places to soak up summer is right in the heart of Chicago. From the stunning skyline to the endless possibilities for adventure, it’s a city that creates unforgettable memories.

Now imagine exchanging your vows with that iconic skyline as your backdrop. That’s exactly what made Sarah & Matt’s elopement so incredibly special.

Sarah & Matt used Simply Eloped to help create their dream day. Alongside Rebecca of Something Profound Weddings they (literally) tied the knot in front of their five favorite people; their children.

When they look back at their gallery, I hope they are able to relive it all, the emotions, the joy, the electricity the city provides. Strangers cheering them on as they rode their bikes and walked by the happy couple! Everyone in their vicinity was vibing!

Let’s discuss guests of honor…

Their children. They were the perfect witnesses. No better best man or maid of honor could have been chosen. They brought their love, excitement, and support to every moment of the ceremony, making an already beautiful day even more memorable.

This was a day, I will never forget. I loved capturing this beautiful ceremony blending two amazing families. A true honor.

Until next time,

xoxo

Renèe

Can you imagine setting the table for twenty-nine guests? An entire family, gathering for a special event or holiday means the house is filled with love—in every corner.

This is the Rose family’s reality. The love story of Mr. and Mrs. Rose has blossomed into a garden. This July marks their 50th wedding anniversary! To think how much their family has grown since the beginning of this beautiful relationship. 🌹

I had the honor of documenting the Rose family this spring. The resemblance among the group was striking—siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins all woven together.

Impressively, each member knew their role: smile at the camera, then get ready for the big celebration afterward! They were troopers—and they were fun. It was such a pleasure getting to know the Roses.

Creating these memories for your family is my favorite part of the job—preserving time, capturing the essence of your people, and documenting your story. Your history. A moment where time can stand still, and your images are always there to take you back to that chapter of your life.

As the Roses look back on the last fifty years (a moment to honor you both—cheers to that 🥂), they can truly see how their love has grown into one big, beautiful family. What a blessing. Shout out to the twelve grandchildren!! Here’s to the next chapter!

Until next time,

Renée

Spring is in the air!! Finally!  Us midwesterners must press on through what feels like an endless winter.

Today’s blog is all Dayna and her precious girls. Documenting Dayna’s daughters is important to her. Dayna came to me as a referral in early 2025! (Shout out to my amazing clients who refer their family and friends!) 

An early spring session was a great way to meet the girls without the hectic pace of fall. Everyone wants their fall photos! 😉

These girls are so sweet and our session was fun and playful .

We met up for another session in September. A simple reminder that your child will never be this young again. The girls appeared older and more confident. As we all know each year blends into the next. The days move quicker than ever. Time goes so fast. Dayna was sure to capture all the changes in 2025.

The colors popped, the girls brought it. Cuteness captured and reserved for mom to keep for a lifetime. Making my  job- easy when it comes to showcasing her family. Natural emotions pouring through. Nothing was forced.  

Dayna, I thank you for choosing me to photograph your memories. A true honor. 

I heard winter will return by the end of the week! Enjoy the sunshine friends!

Until next time,

Renèe

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

Happy Holidays! Hope your season has been bright & merry so far! We have certainly seen a lot of snow, and it is not even winter yet!

Back in the fall, I had the pleasure of shooting Matthew’s senior session at Danada House. The weather was perfect, the leaves crisp and full of autumn colors.

Meeting Matthew was also such a joy. He was kind, sweet, and simply adorable!

I was thinking about how life has changed since I was in high school. We now live in an age of instant gratification—music, movies, and communication all at our fingertips. Folks Matthew’s age do not have to wait for photos to develop, wait in line for a new record, wait for a letter from a long-distance friend to arrive in the mail, or carry heavy book bags! LOL.

Our phones have music, photos, emails, and schedules, which is great—but you can also expect a lot more from your daily life. I enjoyed Matthew’s session so much because he seemed so happy to be there. He realized all of the memories senior year would provide. He is living it; he appreciates it. His last year as a soccer player at Wheaton North. His last homecoming dance. His last year—it is here, and he is embracing it all.

Time is ticking by, but there is so much to look forward to. The future is here. Kentucky is waiting for another Garza!

Matthew was joined by his wonderful parents and charming girlfriend. Everyone’s love and affection clear as day. JOY, simple and pure joy. Their last child off to college. Certainly a milestone for his parents.

Matthew, I wish you all the best in your final chapter of high school! And all that awaits you in your exciting future!

Until next time,

Renèe

Sending holiday greetings as we enter the last portion of 2025! It has been an amazing year meeting new clients, catching up with old. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

When I think of my friend, Michele, there are some words that come to mind. Generous, selfless, caring, empathetic, kind-hearted, compassionate.

Michele was our dog walker from many years ago. We met her before we even had children. She is such a wonderful friend to have in your life. Michele loves animals and her fur babies. She always ensures to book a session with her little family. And it has been a honor to capture them for her.

There comes a time, when those pets, can no longer be held, loved in person or taken for walk. The lifespan of our furry friends is far too short. Sometimes their lives are even taken tragically. Making it even harder to cope with that reality that they are gone too soon.

This year, at Michele’s photo session, there was one less snuggly pup to capture. Beau had crossed the rainbow bridge. Making my job feel more important than ever. I am so sorry for your loss, Michele. He will be forever in your heart.

Our pets give us so much joy and although their time here is short, we must ensure to enjoy each minute. Even the muddy paws, barking at the neighbors, and scratching our floors. Give those fur babies a hug & cherish the time you have together.

Until next time,

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