TO THE BLOG

Hello! Welcome back to the blog! September is in full swing, full of packed schedules, cold meds (for those back to school sicknesses) and some pretty decent weather!

Back in August I had the privilege of photographing a family’s new baby boy, Lincoln!

A little back story…my husband has worked on and off with a really great co-worker. Thru the years, Rory spoke of him often, stories they shared, recommendations on local restaurants, family, etc- he has twins too!

It was to my surprise that I got a message from his daughter, Jasmine reaching out for a photo session! I guess in all those conversations my husband gave his recommendations too! Thank you, Rory!

Jasmine and her wife, Jess, just welcomed their second son and wanted to capture the family at home. They also just purchased a new home in Wheaton! I was so excited to meet them all! And that they lived in Wheaton too!

Sweet little Lincoln had arrived early so he spent some time in the NICU before he got to be welcomed home by his family, including big brother, Monty. This session was so special. I really enjoy capturing all of those precious moments after bringing baby home. We can all admit, that this time can feel like a complete blur, feedings throughout the night, taking care of your other children, remembering to eat yourself. So snapping these photos just lock in these memories for them.

They spent all this time, making sure his nursery was just right. All the thoughtful touches were just so sweet!

The amount of love, joy, happiness felt in their home was beyond compare. Their family now complete. He is home now.

Cheers to big brother too, what a champ! Super fun, loves his trains and trucks! He just started school and will have all his “firsts” to come as he transitions into his next chapter.

A brand-new home. Two beautiful boys. A family founded in the love of Jasmine and Jess.

A real love story.

Oh, and we can’t forget Jackson. 🦮❤️

Home is where your story lives.

Thank you for inviting me into yours, J & J.

I am so honored I got to capture this beautiful little chapter for your family.

Until next time,

Renèe

Hello friends! Back with another Senior Session addition to the blog!

I am truly so excited about all of the seniors I met this year! Class of 2027 is an amazing group of kids! They are all unique with their own special set of interests and personalities. Their futures, so exciting! Another friend of a friend (so grateful for your referrals) we decided to meet in St. Charles at a really nice park! Pottawatomie Park is a lovely park featuring the Fox River!

Today, I introduce you to Antonio! Also a Bartlett senior. These Hawks really showed up! So many of you from BHS!! He is on the boys varsity soccer team. GO # 7!! I love that he brought his jersey and ball to his session to capture this amazing time in his life.

Antonio can go from mid fielder to GQ in a quick minute! With a change of a perfectly curated outfit, he was stylin as can be!

I was diggin’ the vibe Antonio brought to his session. Total James Dean coolness!

I also loved that, in his questionnaire, he mentioned how proud he is of his Italian culture and family values. As a Paisan myself, I can totally relate to that sentiment. Growing up with those Italian traditions stays with you. They become part of who you are, and you want to pass them along to your own family. There is a real sense of pride that comes with it. 🇮🇹

When I asked Antonio what has shaped him into who he is today, he shared:

“My family always being there for me in everything I do. My parents instill strong values and morals that make me who I am today.”

I think that says so much about him.

During the session, I showed the back of my camera to his mom, and she started to tear up.

That moment got me, too.

Because suddenly, she could see it—the boy she raised, standing right there, closing one chapter of his life and getting ready to step into the next.

That’s amore. 😢❤️

It was so fun getting to know Antonio and talking about rounding out his last year of high school and moving into the next phase of life. He mentioned being a little sad that this chapter is coming to a close, but excited at the same time.

And honestly? I think that pretty much sums up senior year.

So here’s to the Class of 2027 and all that is ahead!

Antonio, I hope this is your best season yet! ⚽️

Have an amazing Senior year, Antonio!

Until next time, friends.

Ciao!

Renèe

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