Cookie Johnson's "Believing in Magic" Private Book Signing took place in Chicago at The Grant. This event was, as Cookie affectionately called it, "the most elegant book signing, I've had."
Click here to view the entire gallery of images from the event.
Special thanks to the talented team who brought this event to life:
Emily + Mike both grew up in Wheaton, IL and met through mutual high school friends about three years ago. What I love most about this couple's story is the way in which Mike has fully embraced Emily's 6-year-old daughter, Ava, as his own. It is very reminiscent of me and my stepdad. Being with them during their engagement session made me think back to the memories that I have from when my stepdad first came into my life. I thought back on how he taught me how to ride a bike, that time he surprised my brother and I with a puppy, how he would always pick me up off the floor when I'd fall out of the bed in the middle of the night, and how he always surprised me with candy and a teddy bear on Valentine's Day.
Mike is the same way with Ava. He is protective of her, playful with her and sets a great example for her of how a man should treat a woman in how he loves and cherishes Emily. When he proposed to Emily this past August at St. James Farm, he even gave Ava a mini-ring too, so that she would be included in this journey that they are on to becoming a family. Mike recalls the moment he proposed to Emily & Ava:
I remember the entire world disappearing. I'm typically a very in-tune person with all of my surroundings, the people, weather, nature, etc. But for that moment, it all vanished. I was only focused on Emily and Ava. Both of their reactions, body language and excitement.
One day Mike helped me put Ava to bed and we were just snuggled up with her. Everything about that moment felt so right and I knew he was the one. I had never introduced Ava to anyone else like that before. I love the way he treats Ava and I. I know that Mike is the type of man that I hope my daughter dates one day. Respectful, funny, hard working, passionate…I could go on and on! ~Emily
I would without a doubt have her mental strength. Its actually one of those things that amazes me every time I think deeply about it. I replay memories in my mind of times when I haven't been sure about things and have been given confidence from her. She's strong and I wish I had the ability like her to be 100% with decisions I've made and the ones that are yet to come. ~Mike
Emily, Mike and Ava are so excited to "officially" become a family next July at Fishermen's Inn and I am honored to be along for the journey.
If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo
Briana + Chris' story began in 2013 when they met in Race & Ethics class on the first class of the semester. Briana, a Chicago native, was new to Huntsville, Alabama and struck up a conversation with Chris after class inquiring about what recreational actives were available in the area. The rest was history, Chris has been offering advice, loving, protecting and caring for Briana ever since, and vice versa.
These two have already gone through some very difficult situations together--I'm talking "for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part" situations. But through all of the obstacles that they've faced, their love for one another has prevailed, and their bond, strengthened. Briana, recalls one such moment when she writes:
During one of Chris’ hospital stays. He was hooked up to a respirator, highly sedated and strapped to the bed. At this time his only communication was with pen and paper. On a piece of paper he wrote, “Are you sure this is what you want.” What surprised me in that moment is his wanting to ensure my happiness even if it cost him his own. He wasn't thinking that he could possibly die, but he was thinking of me. It was in that moment that I assured him that I was in it for the long haul.
I mean, seriously, how could you not love these two?! After hearing about how the two of them have overcome so many obstacles together I knew that I had to make this engagement session something special. Not only was this a celebration of their engagement and their love, but it was a celebration of their lives--and that is the greatest gift of all.
So we began the engagement session at Jane Addams Memorial Park, which is next to the Ohio Street Beach.
We then took a short walk over to Milton Lee Olive Park which overlooks the beach.
The view from this pier is one of the best views of the Chicago Skyline--perfect for engagement photos!
"Briana has the ability to see the positive in every situation… she is everything I need, want and more…" ~Chris
"Chris is always who he says he is. He is honest and loving despite his hard exterior. I always feel safe with him and know that he will always look out for my best interest and make sure that I am happy." ~ Briana
2016 has been such a big year for Briana & Chris. Not only did they get engaged this past May, but they both graduated with their Masters in Social Work from Alabama A&M University this past spring! So of course we had to incorporate that milestone into their engagement session!!
Navy Pier's ferris wheel, Centennial Wheel, provided thee perfect backdrop for the these photos as we wrapped up their engagement session.
Briana & Chris, you both are already an inspiration to so many people in your lives. Congratulations on this wonderful accomplishment!! I'm honored to be able to document another great milestone in your life come next July--your wedding day!!! xoxo
If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo
Heleen and Aly are a well-traveled, international and adventurous couple. With Heleen being Dutch and Aly, Pakistani, there is never a dull moment with these two. They love to explore new places and activities together. Aly enjoys scuba diving and together they have swam among whale sharks and even climbed "Child of Krakatao", an active volcano in Indonesia. Even their engagement was so perfectly planned to fit their international taste.
While on a sabbatical in Indonesia earlier this year, Aly proposed on a beautiful beach in Lombok during sunset. He had the entire proposal planned so perfectly. Remembering Heleen's love for puzzles, he had jewelry made in Egypt with hieroglyphics engraved on it which spelled out 'would you like to marry me' in Dutch. Heleen had spent the day fasting with Aly and when they were breaking their fast on the beach, he gave her the jewelry and a key and had her decipher the message. It was an engagement that was true to their love and appreciation for different cultures. So naturally, they wanted to be sure that their engagement portraits celebrated both of their rich heritages. Therefore, we started the engagement session at the iconic Kinzie Street Bridge in traditional Pakistani attire.
After a quick wardrobe change, we hoped in an uber and headed to Adler Planetarium for the second half of their engagement session.
We arrived just in time to witness a gorgeous sunset. I was in awe of the warm golden haze that we captured...
...and these two were in a world of their own.
We literally shot until the sunset. Just look at that view!! It so true, that no matter how far you travel, there's no place like Chicago…. Oooops! I mean, there's no place like home :)
If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages for years to come! xoxo
Anne and Jeff married at Metropolitan Club on the 66th floor of Willis Tower, with breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline--perfect for a couple who loves the city as much as they do!! But even more special than the spectacular views was the love and affection that surrounded this fun couple on their BIG day.
Anne and her girls got prepared at The Hotel Chicago Downtown, Autograph Collection in a warm sun-filled room as the city buzzed below.
Meanwhile, across town in their home, Jeff and his groomsmen prepared for the big day.
Anne and Jeff opted to see each other before the ceremony, which created lots of time for wedding portraits. So we set off on an adventure around the city of Chicago!
First stop: the park outside their home.
We then jumped on a trolley and headed to Adler Planetarium for more wedding photos. The view of the Chicago Skyline from the planetarium is simply to die for.
We ended our journey on the River Walk outside of City Winery. The same place where I photographed their engagement session a few months prior.
Don't you just love these two?!
Now off to the altar--the altar with a view for their wedding ceremony at the Metropolitan Club on the 66th floor of Willis Tower.
And yes, they paused for a "newly-wed selfie" before they made their exit. Such a fun pair, those two!
Anne surprised Jeff with a grooms cake that was shaped like a Michigan baseball cap. Needless to say, this Michigan fanatic LOVED it!! Way to go Anne!
There were so many laughs, memories and tears shared throughout the day as Anne and Jeff's friends and family celebrated their new union. They even took time out to commemorate Anne’s late father, Willis. Even though Anne’s father passed in 2014, he was there in spirit. He was there in the special touches, like the locket wrapped around Anne’s bouquet, and the heart patch of his favorite shirt that was stitched to the inside of her dress just over her heart.
His presence was especially felt during the reception when Anne's maid of honor stood to give her speech. She talked about the agreement Willis made with Anne before his passing and how he would let Anne know whenever he is around by leaving change, specifically silver (nickels, dimes and quarters). She then invited all the guest in the room to grab the change that she had placed in the center of their table and shower the couple with it. Before I knew it, coins were being tossed into the air and landing around my feet on the dance floor.
Love, respect, affection and honor was in the air and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. I stood there weeping like a baby behind my camera lens. Even now, as I type this, tears are welling up in my eyes. It was a special moment, very powerful and one that will never be forgotten.
Once the tears were dried, it was time to honor Willis, Anne and Jeff through dance and celebration and so the party continued.
Anne and Jeff ended their night with photos at the Skydeck Chicago on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower. It was the perfect ending to such a spectacular day!
View their wedding slideshow below!
Many thanks to the amazing team who brought this celebration to life...
Venue: Metropolitan Club
Paper goods: Spilled Ink Press
Florals: Davenport Design
Gown Designer: Watters Bridal
Makeup: Christine Zafiropoulos
Hair: Stephanie Minier
Cake: Bittersweet Bakery
Music: Mike Tawney
If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo
When they first met, there was an immediate connection between them. Trista was mesmerized by Danny's blue eyes and Danny was enamored by Trista's persona and humor. Their connection was instantaneous and electrifying. They were so intrigued be one another that they spend the entire night outside sitting cross-legged on the sidewalk talking and laughing until the wee hours of the morning and the rest was history. Their love and support for one another is what every girl wishes to someday have.
"He loves us unconditionally and everyday he wakes up and makes it the best day with his optimism. When I get home from a rough days work, he gives me a big hug and takes the weight of the world off my shoulders…" ~Trista
"I was sick and had spent time in the hospital for a scary couple of days. While there I reflected on all the different grandiose proposals I had dreamt up and threw it all away... I realized I didn’t want to wait another day, another minute to propose to the love of my life, so on the day we were celebrating Christmas I completely surprised her with the proposal and it was just a beautiful organic moment in time that I'll never forget." ~Danny
"Trista is so supportive. I feel like I could quit my job and sell peanuts at Wrigley and she’d be so happy I’m following my dreams. That kind of verbal support is empowering and satisfying." ~Danny
Trista & Danny are extremely driven, hard working and adventurous. They are also the proud parents to a beautiful boy named Connor. They are set to marry this September at Black Hawk on the River in Boise, Idaho.
Anne and Jeff are a very fun, loving and adventurous couple. They initially met through mutual friends at bar trivia and after seeing each other around a few times, they finally hit it off one night at Will’s Northwoods Inn on St Patrick’s Day 3 years ago. Anne recalls, “Jeff was wearing a 'Happy St. Patrick Swayze Day' t-shirt and I was wearing a Chi-rish shirt. I was obsessed with his and we decided it would be a great idea to switch shirts for the night. It was after the shirt switch that he asked me on our first date.”
These two are always on the go and up for a fun adventure. Not only do they have an immense love for the great city of Chicago, but they also love traveling to different places around the world and just exploring with each other. Their greatest adventure together being their trip to Europe where they visited Paris, Barcelona & Madrid. I know they will have many more exciting adventures together in the years to come.
I am most attracted to Jeff when he looks at me from across the table or at a bar. There is something in his eyes that glimmers and the connection we have in the moment is wonderful! ~Anne
At night, right as we have both hopped in bed, we will jokingly annoy each other. I feel like I’m laughing every night before bed...and for literally no reason other than Jeff saying something funny or trying to tickle me. ~Anne
When she’s at home and it’s just us, she will talk to our plants as if they are pets when she’s watering or trimming them. It sounds weird but it makes me laugh. ~Jeff
If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo
2015 has been a good year for this couple, full of celebrations and new beginnings. I first met Michele and Walid in March when their family of 2 became 3 and they brought little Elliot into the studio for newborn portraits. He was so cuddly and sweet. A few months prior, Michele and Walid had secretly eloped here in Chicago at the Lincoln Park Conservatory. This fall, they decided to host a wedding reception at the Garfield Park Conservatory with their families and close friends. It was a wonderful celebration indeed!
How sweet is little Elliot??
After a few shots in the hotel lobby we headed outside.
Elliot flying away...
...and then to the gardens...
The celebration begins.
Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography
“…watching Nellie break into her solo dance routine at her Pom team’s Spring Dance Showcase. I was extremely preoccupied with work around that time and didn’t realize how much effort she was putting into this. But when I watched her dance that night and her girls break into utter glee, I was reminded of how truly amazing she was. I was also filled with guilt that I had briefly allowed myself (b/c of work) to forgot how truly amazing she is and how lucky I was to be with her. It was at that moment I realized how stupid I was to have someone so special in my life and for not dropping everything else going on to IMMEDIATELY propose to her. I started researching engagement rings the very next day and purchased one a couple of days later.” ~John
For me, it is easy to get so consumed with meetings, with shooting and with editing that I too can forget just how blessed I am to have my husband in my life. So reading John’s words were so endearing. The love, compassion and gentleness that he shows Nellie is so heartfelt and sweet. I am so honored to be apart of their journey. Can’t wait until their romantic wedding at Englewood Resort & Spa!
Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography
Felicia & Bart's urban wedding took place on a warm summer day at Pazzo's 311 in Chicago, Illinois. Their marital union is a result of dreams, fate and the childhood wishes of a three year old girl. Growing up Felicia's mom always teased her about her preschool friend Bart and how everyday after preschool, Felicia would come home and tell her that she was going to marry Bart and they were going to have 13 children! Felicia often thought her mother made the story up because after all, how could a three year old already be planning a family? Fast forward 15 years to a few weeks before Felicia is set to head off to college while she is attending her friend Britton's graduation party. Britton, walks up to a group of her and her friends and introduces them to his college roommate, Bart. Felicia immediately recalls her mother's stories and tells him, "I went to preschool with a guy named Bart." As luck would have it, this was the same Bart from preschool! A few months later the two reconnected while Bart was in Chicago during Thanksgiving break and the rest is history!
The decor for this spectacular wedding is just as unique as this couple's story. The blue and purple color scheme was inspired by Felicia's favorite flower, orchids, and a navy blue James Bond tuxedo with a black lapel. Felicia loved the idea of having gold as the accent color since it was less common then silver. Consequently, gold accents ended up being much harder to find which lead to a few DIY projects which included: table numbers, gift card box, menus, escort cards, etc. In the end, these colors came together in a very tasteful and elegant way.
View their wedding slideshow below!
Many thanks to the fabulous team who brought this celebration to life...
Venue: Pazzo’s at 311
Event Planner: One Fine Day Events
Cake Designer: Oak Mill Bakery
Makeup Artist: Danielle Rochon Makeup
Floral Designer: Bella Flora Inc
Cinema and Video: Borrowed and Blue Productions
DJ: Charles Protege
If you enjoyed reading about this lovely couple, why not tell them so?! Spread the love by leaving well wishes and congratulations in the comments section below. They'll enjoy reading your messages in the years to come! xoxo
There’s no greater feeling than walking away from a photo session feeling 100% reassured that photography was what you were created to do in life. That’s how I felt the night I wrapped up Amanda & Nick's engagement session. The chemistry between the two of them was so electrifying and they were so free and natural in front of the camera–seriously every photographers dream! We began their engagement at the Bahá'í House of Worship then took a stroll across the street to the beach just in time to catch a beautiful sunset. So excited for their wedding next summer at the Sheridan Shores Yacht Club!
Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography
Before even meeting these two in person I knew I was in for a treat. Just listening to how each of them describe the best qualities of the other was so endearing, I just knew the sparks would fly during their engagement session- and boy did they fly! It was so fun to watch them cuddle in the freezing cold. They definitely warmed my heart. Can’t wait to celebrate their big day!!!
Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography
I can’t even begin to describe how amazingly adorable this couple is. Their story is literally like a fairy tale–something straight out of the movies. They first met while in preschool, where a young Felicia would proclaim to her mom that she was going to marry Bart someday (talk about a self-fulfilling prophecy). Fast forward about 16 years and they reconnect with one another through a mutual friend just before heading off to college in separate states. They strike up a fast friendship and soon after begin dating. Even from several hundred miles away, their love for another remained strong. Now here they are about 9 years later on their way to the alter and their love for one another is stronger than ever before, so much that I could honestly feel it during their engagement session! I seriously had major goosebumps while editing their images. I am so honored to have been chosen to capture these special moments for them. Congratulations Bart & Felicia, I cannot wait for their glamorous summer wedding at Pazzo's 311 next year!!
Makeup by Danielle Rochon Makeup
Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography
Sometimes you have to work hard to pull the emotions and expressions out of a client being photographed, other times, the sparks just fly on there own. This is one such case. Watching Colleen smile brightly while staring into Nick’s eyes will give you shivers. You can just tell that they are made for each other. Her bubbly spirit is the perfect compliment to his serious demeanor. After spending the day with them, I have learned that even though Nick looks like a stern serious guy- he loves his family dearly, is a loyal friend and he’s crazy in love with his bride. Colleen and Nick, it was a pleasure to be apart of your big day! Congratulations!
Special thanks to Collin Pierson of Collin Pierson Photography for second shooting this wedding with me!
Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography
There was never a dull moment growing up with my cousin Lauren. From running through the house playing tag, getting in trouble for breaking something, to putting on dance performances for our entire family during the holidays-- we always had a blast together. Lauren was the dancer in our family. She was always bouncing around, flipping and bustin' moves. I, on the other hand, was what I like to call "rhythmically-challanged". I had no rhythm, no coordination, and no confidence to try to perform in front of anyone. But it never failed, every holiday season Lauren would choreograph a dance, force me learn it and make the entire family sit down and watch. I'd be behind her stumbling over my feet and butchering all the steps she spent hours teaching me and she'd be grooving right along. I've never met a person who loved to dance as much as she does, it just comes naturally for her. She was destined to dance.
Lauren, I am so honored to be apart of your journey and to be able to capture these shots for you. I wish you much success in all your endeavors. When you make it big, don't you forget about us little people. Lol.
Love ya girlie! :)
Little Matthew and his big sisters Anna & Angelina seriously gave me baby fever. I had the best time cuddling with this little cutie and giggling with his sisters. They are all so very sweet. Just from being around them for the short time that I was, I could tell that their lives are filled with parents and family members who love and adore them to the fullest. I foresee a lot of fun days ahead for these 3! Welcome to the world, Matthew!
From the day we initially met in the corner of a coffee shop, I knew Brittany & Joel would be an amazingly photogenic couple. Just as I expected, this vintage bride was stunning on her wedding day! So much that I wasn’t the only photographer snapping photos of her that day. As we walked through the Chicago Botanic Garden strangers were wiping out their phones left and right taking photos of her! It was so funny! The smiles, laughter and great attitudes were just what we needed to get us through the storm that rolled in later that day. Thanks to great supportive friends, a fun uncle who officiated the ceremony and hard-working vendors, even the rain outside couldn’t put a damper on this bride’s radiant glow! Congratulations Brittany & Joel!!
Photographed for Melissa Marie Photography
Meet Luke! I've been waiting for his arrival all year long! His mother, my dear friend Galina, and I have been planning his newborn session since January. He was the perfect little sleeping baby and he was oh soooooooooooo sweet… I mean just look at those cheeks!!! I can't wait to watch him grow up over the years! Love this wonderful family.
Welcome to the world, Luke!
Walking through the Chicago Botanic Garden for Nick & Colleen's engagement session made me remember how wonderful it was to be engaged to the man of my dreams. How sweet it is to love and be loved in return. It is a true blessing.
Watching them smile at one another was so contagious and their laughs were even more endearing.
The love that these two share is so captivating and warm. Congratulations Nick & Colleen, I cannot wait to celebrate your wedding this September!
Photographed by Nicee Martin for Melissa Marie Photography
From the moment we spoke over the phone, I knew I'd be working with a spectacular family. Kelly was interested in using portraits from her session to gift to her father and father-in-law for Father's Day- how thoughtful is that?! She came to our session prepared. She had the wonderful idea to have me capture a photo of her son blowing a dandelion because her father had a photo of her doing the same when she was a child. I thought it was a great idea- and to be honest, the photos of her and Aaron with the dandelions are some of my favorite captures from this session!! I love when my clients add sentimental value to the images we create, it makes what I do all the more worth it to know that these images will be so highly valued by their family.
