Konrad + Loma

Loma and Konrad met on a sales floor. But as ordinary as a retail shop is, their love story is not. They met in Seattle and became friends, but eventually said goodbye when Loma moved back to Michigan. They then reconnected a few years later in Colorado, started corresponding over email, and before you know it, Loma found herself back in Seattle.

Their love endured multiple moves, long distances, and sadly, life’s tragedies. But regardless of where they were at or what they were facing, their love remained constant and true.

When they told us they had never been able to have engagement pictures taken due to life’s circumstances, we were thrilled to be the one’s to make up for that loss. When they modeled for our engagement dinner party, we snuck them away for a little portrait session of their own. In real life, Loma and Konrad will be celebrating their two year wedding anniversary this year. I hope these pictures will tell of the true and lasting love that is so evident between them.

Couple sitting on the porch holding handsEngaged couple rowing the boat on Lake Tahoe with tree line in the backgroundSteering the boat towards the shoreBoy and girl kissing on the dock of Lake TahoePortrait of a married couple

Coffee Date:
Make Your Move

When Vitaliy and I were in college, he took me to the cutest little coffee shop in Chicago. I understand that going to a coffee shop in college is pretty typical, but this coffee shop was not. It was so unique that we paid a visit while visiting Chicago this past fall. And it’s also the inspiration for a date idea I wrote for the latest issue of Styled (02.02.2012).

With the start of the new year comes the realization that we are deep in winter’s abyss. With frigid temperatures and possibly snow-covered grounds, we find our comfort staying indoors and sipping on our favorite warm beverages. The coffee shop being the best of both worlds.

With the ease a coffee shop presents, I find it can usually be far too predictable. A good date has at least a touch of spontaneity or unpredictability. This date idea was inspired by one of our favorite coffee shops in Chicago that offers an array of game choices to add a little personality to your coffee visit.

Surprise your date at your next coffee rendezvous with a favorite board game. If it’s a first date, you will calm nerves and abate the inevitable awkward moments. And if it’s your 89th date, you’ll likely add some much needed laughter and friendly competition to what could have been an ordinary evening.

Scrabble board game on the coffee table. View from above (top).Tea mugs on top of Scrabble game

Matt + Stacy

Everyone has a case of falling in love in grade school during recess. You spot him from across the field and hope you get picked to be on his team for kick ball. And if you’re the boy doing the eyeing, you try to think of a way to start a round of tag just so you can have a reason to chase her. Am I right?

Well, Stacy and Matt didn’t exactly meet on the playground in elementary school, but they did meet on what I would consider the playground for Maritime Academy students – a ship out at sea. Being student leaders finally paid off as it’s what brought the two of them together. But the more time they spent with one another, they soon realized their friendship had become more. And before they knew it, they were engaged and ready to hit the crazy waters of life, but this time as husband and wife.

Matt and Stacy, your wedding was such a great way to start the new year. To have that much sunshine in the middle of winter was just an indicator of the kind of warmth the two of you bring to the world. We wish you a lifetime of love and laughter, but knowing the two of you that won’t be hard. Congratulations!

~V + C

Bride and groom walking hand in hand with a vintage black car in the backgroundWedding dress hanging on the bed inside Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia, CABridesmaids and groomsmen with the bride and groom on the lawn of Jefferson Street Mansion.Wedding at the Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia, Bride and groom portrait.Groomsmen in the Napoleon Room inside the Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia, CaliforniaGroom whispering in bride's ear. Black and white photo.Bride and groom kissing with vintage car behind themBride and groom dancing at the reception. Black and white photo.Bride with her sisters. Formals. Beautiful sunset in the background.