Naperville Engagement Session: Colleen + Greg

Colleen and Greg are dear friends of Lance and I. Lance and Greg’s story started many years ago when they met in 8th grade. But it wasn’t until last January when they reconnected at a engagement party of a mutual friend, that the four us, Lance, Greg, Colleen and I grew closer. When we stepped into the party that night, Greg greeted us with a big hug and introduced us to his lovely girlfriend, Colleen. And go figure, we already knew Colleen!! She was a member of the gym that Lance teaches at! Well the four of us were inseparable that evening and thus began the rekindling of what I hope to be a lifelong friendship. Since then, it’s been a crazy ride of attending various wedding events, bowling in the midst of thunderstorms, hanging out on weekday nights (hey, I’m a homebody, don’t judge me), and even Colleen becoming my chiropractor– yes, I know, beauty & brains, she’s the total package!! I am very grateful for the friend Greg has been to Lance over the years and the for the wonderful doctor Colleen has been to me. It is an absolute honor for me to capture these precious moments for them. Can’t wait until Sept 5, 2014!!

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Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography

Anika 10 days old | Chicago's Premier Newborn Photographer

Ray & Stephanie are one of my favorite couples of all time!! Lance and I have gotten to know them over the years and we've developed a friendship that has been mutually enriching. After years of not being able to conceive, the Lord blessed them with a precious baby girl and she could not be more prefect then she already is. I feel so honored to have had the opportunity to photograph little Miss Anika!

West Baden Springs Wedding: Jenna + Grant

I’d never been to West Baden Springs, Indiana. I’d actually never heard of it before meeting Jenna & Grant. When they first told me their wedding would be at a resort in Indiana, I honestly didn’t think much of it- after all there isn’t that much excitement here in the Midwest. But boy was I wrong!! When I pulled up to West Baden Springs Hotel, I was amazed to discover that it was a massive castle in the middle of Indiana! Who knew?! Excitement filled my body as I began to think of all the awesome photos we would take there!! It was luxurious, classy and elegant- all the attributes that Jenna herself embodies. It was the perfect location for this lovely couple.

Jenna & Grant, thanks for inviting me along to join you all on your wedding day. The love and complete adoration that you two have for one another is inspiring. Grant, as I’m sure you already know, you’ve got yourself one special lady!! Jenna’s gentleness and kind-spirit is so endearing- she’s truly one in a million! Congratulations!! I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and love together and many many blessings along the way! -Nicee

Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography

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Brooke | Chicago's Premier Family Photographer

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It is always such a pleasure to photograph the children of my old high school classmates.  Not only am I able to catch up with old friends, but I love being able to see how their children resemble them.  

Well today's princess is a replica of her mother, and it was such a pleasure to meet her for the first time! 

Best wishes on all your future endeavors, Little Miss Brooke!! 

Pam Tyus Headshots | Chicago's Premier Family Photographer

The other day my cousin, Pamela Tyus, called me up saying that she needed a few professional headshots for her portfolio.  So I packed up my equipment and headed to Chicago, IL.  What was meant to be an hour and a half photoshoot turned into 8 hours of styling, shooting, snacking and much needed laughter.  I don't think I've ever laughed harder in my entire life!!! It was definitely an abs workout! Lol.  Here's a sneak peek of a few of my favs from her session, well the ones can be released to the public ;-)  I had a great time Pam!  I wish you much success in all your endeavors!! *MUAH*

Chicago River East Art Center Wedding: MALLORY + TOM

When I woke up to raindrops hitting my window on the morning of Mallory & Tom’s wedding day I was saddened by the possibility that this bride wouldn’t be able to take her pre-ceremony photos around the city as we had both hoped.  A few days prior Mallory and I had mapped-out our route around the city of the top 3 places that she wanted to have photos taken- we were ready.  A stormy day was not what we envisioned for her bridal portraits.  However when I arrived to her hotel suite later that morning, Mallory didn’t seem phased by the clouds at all.  She laughed with her bridesmaids, glammed up, and slipped into her dress with such confidence as if there wasn’t a cloud in the sky.  I was amazed by her calm demeanor and carefree attitude throughout the morning.

Well, to our surprise, just past noon the clouds parted and the sun began to fill the suite!!  We all beamed with excitement as we boarded the party bus and headed on our way.   Even with the humidity and wind, Mallory was radiant- simply breathtaking.  Which resulted in some pretty spectacular photos!

That evening, all the toast & speeches that I heard from their close family members and friends confirmed all that I’d witnessed throughout the day.  Mallory and Tom are a dynamic duo!!  They live in the moment and enjoy every moment with each other regardless of the circumstances at hand.

Mallory & Tom, thank you for the opportunity to share in your big day!  I wish you both all the best as you embark upon this journey as husband & wife.

Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography

Willis Tower Engagement Session: Mallory + Tom

The second I began clicking my camera, the sparks began to fly. The love that these two share for each other is electrifying!  And I mean- how couldn’t it be!? We’re standing on a ledge of a skyscraper overlooking the city, but even more than that, Mallory is one gorgeous woman! She is glamorous! And Tom, well he truly adores her. I mean it’s not everyday you meet a man who surprises his girl with a pair of Christian Louboutin stilettos! How awesome is that?! I am truly looking forward to their wedding at the River East Art Center this summer. Something tells me that it’ll be a spectacular event!

Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography

Kinzie Street Bridge Engagement: Jenna + Grant

It’s not every day you meet someone bold enough to wear bright blue pants; so I must admit, I was a little nervous when Grant & Jenna strolled into Starbucks to meet for their engagement session. However, after the first few clicks of my camera, and a couple of fun jokes in between, we were fast friends. We started our shoot on the Franklin Street Bridge, downtown Chicago then decided to take a stroll over to the, ever so popular, Kinzie Street Bridge for a few shots where these two soon decided that it was time to pull out their cool shades! Lol. I don’t think either of them could have chosen a cuter companion as they both complement each other so well. Jenna’s reserved personality is the perfect match to Grant’s cool hair-slicking persona. And together, they are complete-- a perfect match. I am so looking forward to their wedding at West Baden Springs Hotel on the French Lick Resort in Indiana. I know it's gonna have a blast!

Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography

Kameron 8 days old | Chicago's Premier Newborn Photographer

I could not let another day pass us by without sharing this amazing post of a thank you note that a recent client of mine wrote.  

When I read this I was beyond speechless. 

I actually teared up a bit. 

I received the final pictures in the mail yesterday and I have to say they made me tear up a little bit! I am not an overly sentimental person but I think that those photos were absolutely stunning and I could not possibly be any happier with the results. I want to thank you for all your hard work and devotion to providing your clients with the best photos possible. Everything about my experience working with you was truly above expectations. Being a first time mom, I think I was more than a little nervous about Kameron being fussy or not being able to get him to stay asleep but my fears were definitely put at ease as soon as you started working with him. I still can't believe that you don't have children of your own with the patience and caring that you have for other people's babies!

From the moment I saw the photos on your website, I was sure that you would be the perfect photographer for my lil' Kammy. I knew that you would give me the exact type of pictures I wanted instead of those generic portrait studio pictures that don't capture the true essence of a newborn baby. I am so glad that I found your postcard at my OB's office and I will definitely be telling everyone in my life where I got my beautiful pictures from!

Nicole-  It was such a pleasure to meet you and your family and to have the opportunity to work with your handsome baby boy Kameron.  He was the most perfect (and gorgeous) client!  I so enjoyed posing him, wrapping him, propping him up, and photographing him in your arms!  

Thank you for entrusting me with your most valued possession.  I am truly honored :)      

Watson IV, due March 2013 | Chicago's Premier Family Photographer

This week my brother, his wife, and my adorable niece are home for the holidays!!  I am sooooooooo incredibly excited.  I have truly enjoyed every second I've gotten to share with them this week.

Today I'd like to take the time to announce to you all the expected arrival (March 2013) of my precious nephew Watson IV.  Yes, I know what you’re thinking, the 4th… the 4th?!  Yes, my brother and his lovely wife have decided to stick to family traditions and carry on the name of my grandfather Watson.  While such traditions are almost unheard of these days, my grandfather would feel so honored to know that his great grandson will bear his name.  Names are very important in my family and I am proud to be apart of this great tradition!  It’s so amazing to watch my family grow.  My sweet niece is going to be an awesome big sister!!  I cannot wait to meet my little peanut (as I am naturally obsessed with every child Watson & Kelli create)!  And of course his newborn session will be amazing!!!!  So stay tuned for adorable newborn photos once he makes his debut.  #proudauntmoment

Congratulations you two!  Love you guys to pieces :) 

Sam 3 weeks old | Chicago's Premier Newborn Photographer

After a long weekend of mini photo-sessions, photographing baptisms, and making holiday preparations, I packed up my studio and headed to do an in-home newborn session for my friend Rachel.  There is no other family that I would rather spend my Sunday afternoon with than Sam, Jack, Rachel, and Adam.  From Sam’s a-mazing baby Mohawk to Jack’s elf pajamas.  I was thrilled to be asked to photograph these brothers for their family holiday cards. 

I am delighted to welcome Baby Samuel to the World!!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!! 

Eliana 11 days old | Chicago's Premier Newborn Photographer

So let's just say November was "High School Reunion Month" as I had the privilege of photographing several newborns who's parents were my high school friends.  How exciting is that! 

Meet Eliana.  Beautiful Eliana is such a sweet baby girl.  She slept throughout our entire shoot and never once made a peep.  I so enjoyed my time with her.  

Congratulations Carissa & Luis!  Eliana is a doll :) 

Don't you just love that smile?! Priceless

Josiah – The Cat in the Hat | Chicago's Premier Newborn Photographer

As a child with a speech impediment, I was not too thrilled about Dr. Seuss’ book “The Cat in the Hat” growing up.  I despised it actually because I was never able to properly pronounce the word “cat”.  Well, today’s newborn totally redeemed my relationship with this children’s book.  He gave it whole new meaning for me!

Meet Josiah!  I am totally in LOVE with my friend, Krystal’s newborn theme.  From the moment I saw a picture of Josiah’s name in Dr. Seuss-styled wooden letters, I knew we’d have a fantastic shoot!  And boy did we have a blast.  I can’t think of a more perfect baby to put in a cute Dr. Seuss outfit then this sweet boy.  

Congratulations Krystal!  Josiah is such a sweetiepye!  Thanks so much from adding your own style and creativity to our session.  I had a blast photographing your baby for you.  He is sooooooooooo loved and I know he'll be well taken care of.

Welcome to the World Josiah!! 

Cameron | Chicago's Premier Newborn Photographer

So the other day I had the privilege of hanging out with the cutest little boy ever…  Meet Cameron!  I cannot even begin to describe all the cuteness that is Cameron, without first telling you about his wonderful mother, Kerri.   I met Kerri last year when I began physical therapy for my hip (yes, it’s true.  When the weather changes, my hip goes out).  While Kerri was not my actual physical therapist, she was always welcoming and always greeted me with the warmest smile when I arrived for my sessions.  Her friendliness created a warm environment for all the team members she worked with.  

Now Kerri and her hubby, Scott, have welcomed a beautiful baby boy into this world-  and it’s obvious that he is tremendously adored by them both.  

I'm so excited for you two and this wonderful new journey you have begun!  

Congratulations!!  And many many blessings to you both!

Welcome to the world Baby Cameron!