 ANABELLE // 13 DAYS NEW Milwaukee Lifestyle Newborn Session // Mequon, Wisconsin Sweet little Anabelle was an angel during her Milwaukee lifestyle newborn session. This adorable 13 day old enjoyed cuddles with mama and slept great during her session. Enjoy this little sneak peek into her session!
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 Guys, I am BEYOND excited to share a little secret with you... my wedding from last summer is FEATURED in a publication, ChicagoStyle Weddings Magazine. Eeek! I am grateful and humbled. Truly. I can’t even put into words how happy it makes me. At the start of last year’s wedding season it was my goal to have a real wedding featured in a publications. And this year it came to fruition! Dream big my friends, you never know what opportunities will present themselves and make your dreams/ goals come true.
 NINA & SAM Urban Ecology Center Wedding // Milwaukee, Wisconsin “If I had a flower for every time I thought of you… I could walk through my garden forever.” ― Alfred Tennyson Nina and Sam’s wedding was a nature and love-filled ceremony I will never forget. The couple wed at The Urban Ecology Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where their venue provided a rustic, scenic backdrop for their summer nuptials. This natural oasis in the city perfectly complemented the couple’s natural vibe. Overlooking the Milwaukee River and the forests surrounding it, they chose the ideal location to reflect their ultimate vision. 
   
 Nina looked beautifully boho-chic with unique, gold accent jewelry and a one-of-a-kind hair piece. Her sparkly heels added an element of fun glam to her feminine lace gown. Her bridesmaids wore mix-matched grey tone dresses in various textures. Their colors paired beautifully with Milwaukee Flower Company bouquets that included lush green textures with yellow and pale orange flowers. The overall color palette was serene and lovely.  
   
 
 
  Nina and Sam’s ceremony took place in a forest with their closest family and friends sitting on wooden benches while Nina and Sam lovingly exchanging their I-dos. Their ceremony included a tree-planting ritual, too. Such an awesome part of their ceremony!      Their nature theme continued into the reception where Nina and Sam included thrifted animal figurines, sprayed gold, as well as featuring animal prints as their table numbers. Green florals were placed perfectly on tables in thrifted, mix-matched clear vases, and the lovely couple had a fun photo booth that featured animal hats and ears, all of which their loved ones thoroughly enjoyed!
  Their guests sipped on signature cocktails named after their two Weiner dogs, The Okie Fashioned and Salty Pretzel Dog. Nina and Sam did a fantastic job of incorporating special details reflective of their lives into their ceremony. They also opted for ten different honey pies in lieu of cake, all of which looked absolutely delicious!
 Nina and Sam, thank you for choosing me to capture your beautiful day! Cheers to all the happiness, love, and delicious food as you honeymoon in London and Italy. Love + Appreciation, Dom  Venue : Urban Ecology Center Photographer : Dominika Photographer Associate Photographers : Tegan Hotel : Ambassador Hotel Florist: Milwaukee Flower Co. DJ: Prescott Sobel Caterer: Bel Air Cantina Bar: Pour Inc Hair: Kaley Joy Wittnik from Amity Loft MUA: Kelly Schubel Editor : Sharp Editorial MEMORABLE MOMENTS Nina and Sam shared a heartfelt, priceless moment before their first look. They wrote one another a card and decided to read their cards aloud, as they stood with their backs to each other, before seeing one another for the first time. The love in their eyes was a joy to capture! Not only did that share in that sweet moment, but they entered their reception by sliding down a slide, and their bridal party did, too! Yes, a slide! This couple was a blast to capture.   ANNE & NICK Lowes Chicago Hotel Wedding // Chicago, Illinois “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” – Leonardo DaVinci Anne and Nick wed on what was truly the perfect Chicago day! This gorgeous couple tied the knot overlooking the spectacular Chicago skyline at the Loews Chicago Hotel, just steps from the Navy Pier. The beautiful backdrop set the stage for a lovely moment in time. Anne looked flawless in her Alexandra Grecco gown, accompanied by the most beautiful accessory, her fabulous 30-week-pregnant belly. This sophisticated beauty radiated with joy and love, from start to finish, on her special day. She paired her gown with a perfect pair of Manolo Blahnik heels and a priceless, custom ring she received from Nick’s grandmother. Her entire look was not only meaningful and special but absolutely stunning.
  Nick looked dapper in a classic tux with his initials inscribed in the coat’s liner. Anne and Nick’s eye for detail made for lovely, special additions to their wedding looks. Everything down to the chic white florals, which Anne picked out, paired perfectly with the classic theme of their wedding. 
    
       
These two kind spirits were lovingly surrounded by family and friends as they said their memorable “I do’s”, and their breathtaking outdoor ceremony took place on the terrace of the Lowe’s hotel, offering a spectacular view of the city skyline. Their day was filled with love, laughter, and happiness. Everywhere you looked, guests were enjoying themselves, relishing in the moment, and sharing in Anne and Nick’s happiness. 
  
  At the end of the night, Anne traded her Manolo Blahniks for a comfortable pair of Birkenstock sandals, giving her feet (and back) a bit of well-deserved rest. As the evening came to an end, Anne and Nick took a couple of moments to themselves, taking in the breathtaking views on the hotel’s terrace, as their guests danced the night away on the floor below. They had bliss and joy written all over their faces as they quietly reflected on their perfect evening.  Anne and Nick, thank you for choosing me to capture your beautiful day! Cheers to a lifetime of joy, health, and love. Love + Appreciation, Dom Venue : Lowes Chicago Hotel Photographer : Dominika Photographer Associate Photographers : Lottie & Kat Florist: Steve's Flower Market Stationary: Magnificent Milestones, printed by Bella Figura Calligraphy: Intap Calligraphy Dress: Alexandra Grecco Dress Alterations : Dress Doctor Makeup Arist : Nika Vaughan Hair: Three One Two Bridal Illustrator: Kristine Steiner Bakery: Cake Chicago Band: Maggie Speaks Editor : Sharp Editorial MEMORABLE MOMENTS Anne and Nick changed up their parent dances and invited ALL parents to dance with their kids on the dance floor. Nick’s 90 year old grandmother shared a beautiful dance with her so, Nick's dad.  Anne and Nick also had the talented, Kristine Steiner do fashion illustrations of their guests during cocktail hour. What a great and memorable gift! 
 A. FAMILY Milwaukee Family Session // Milwaukee, Wisconsin Ingrid and her little sister, Kay were delightful during their summer family session. They kept giggling and big sister Ingrid, kept making silly faces which perfectly showed off her fun loving personality. I am so happy to have been able to photograph the A. family and their growing Milwaukee family! Thank you for an amazing laid-back session! 
 
  LUKE & KATE // 8 DAYS NEW Milwaukee Lifestyle Newborn Session // Mequon, Wisconsin Truth bomb : the last time I have photographed newborn twins, I was just starting out in my photography journey. I convinced my cousin and his wife to take a chance on my photography skills by practicing on their adorable newborn kiddos. Well needless to say, the shoot was tough - lots of crying and lots of attempts at posing - I quickly learned a very important lesson...newborn photography is not as easy as it looks on YouTube videos. Who would have thought?! ;) While I am sure they appreciated those photos looking back I can only shake my head. So naturally I was a little anxious when Kristin reached out to me to photograph her latest arrivals, Luke & Kate. While I felt comfortable posing newborns, as at this point I had 7 years of newborn photography under my belt since the last twins session, I had a hard time shaking off my worry. I am happy to report that Luke & Kate's session went off without a hitch! The two 8 day old cuties slept the whole time. They felt comfortable cuddling next to each other and loved snuggling up to mom and dad. These two rainbow babies were amazing to photograph and I am grateful for the opportunity to capture their first week of life. Enjoy!  
 
 
COURTNEY & KYLE Westmoor Country Club Wedding // Brookfield, Wisconsin Courtney and Kyle were an absolute joy to photograph! You could just feel the love in room. The lovely couple got married at the Westmoor Country Club in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The same venue where her parents got married on May 18th, 30-some years ago, just one day before Courtney and Kyle’s wedding date. Their day was sheer bliss, filled with lots of happy tears. Truly, I teared up at least three times! 
  
 Courtney and Kyle exchanged thoughtful gifts before their ceremony. When Courtney was opening her gift from Kyle her bridesmaids started tearing up, too. One of the bridesmaids tearfully exclaimed, "He loves you so much!"
Before the ceremony, Courtney also exchanged gifts with her parents, another sentimental moment, especially because of the special relationship Courtney shares with her dad. Courtney made sure to tell her dad that she will always be his little girl. They even threw a football around before the ceremony.
Courtney looked stunning in her wedding dress. The lace detail of her dress, paired with her jewel-embellished hair pin, was so feminine and beautiful. The groomsmen looked rather dapper in their grey suits with sage-colored ties, and the bridesmaids looked lovely in their light blush-colored dresses. The combination of neutrals, blush, and light shades green looked ravishing against the backdrop of the Country Club.
The ceremony was a true display of love and warmth. Kyle teared up when he saw Courtney walk down the aisle. Big tears rolled down his face, and the moment was priceless. His best man even put his arm on his shoulder to comfort him. 
 
 
 
 During the father-daughter dance. Courtney quickly stepped off to the side to take off her shoes. Everyone in the audience thought she wanted to be more comfortable, but she actually removed her heels so she could dance on her dad’s feet. I could barely contain my tears! 
I have to say, the love Courtney and Kyle share is truly a once-in-a-lifetime love. They were happy and giddy the whole day, exchanging cute smiles and looks as the day progressed, adoringly looking at one another throughout the entire evening.  Courtney and Kyle, thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the opportunity to capture your beautiful, love-filled celebration. Cheers to a lifetime and beyond of joy, happy tears, health, and love. Love + Appreciation, Dom Venue : Westmoor Country Club
Photographer : Dominika Photographer Associate Photographers : Colleen & Tegan Florist: Avenue Bloom Makeup Arist : Jennifer Janssen Makeup Artistry DJ: Scott Knapp from Magnum Entertainment Guitarist: Bret Huotari Stationary: Haley King Co. Editor : Sharp Editorial  M. Family |
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Cooper Owen // 6 Days New
Milwaukee Lifestyle Newborn Session // New Berlin, Wisconsin
It's so wonderful to see the transition of my wedding couples from bride and groom to mom and dad. I feel so much gratitude when they ask me to photograph their growing families and to capture the most special (and precious) moments of their lives. Meeting Heather and Jeff's little baby boy, Cooper Owen, was such a pleasure! The little handsome fella slept the whole time and enjoyed cuddles from his mom and dad. Heather and Jeff, congratulations on your new addition!
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Talia & Stephen
Blue Harbor Resort Wedding // Sheboygan, Wisconsin
I was truly honored to capture Talia and Stephen’s lovely, joyful wedding. Their sweet celebration was full of fun, love, and laughter, from beginning to end.
Talia and Stephen tied the knot at Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a lakeside hotel nestled on the western shore of the majestic Lake Michigan.
Talia and Stephen tied the knot at Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, a lakeside hotel nestled on the western shore of the majestic Lake Michigan.
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Talia’s four bridesmaids dawned lovely, knee-length, royal blue dresses which coordinated perfectly with the serene surroundings of Lake Michigan. Stephen’s four groomsmen also added a touch of blue to their traditional tuxes with their coordinating, royal blue vests. The bridesmaid dresses as well as the groomsmen vests were all handmade by Stephen's talented mom!
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The couple’s ceremony took place overlooking the lake which added a tranquil, stunning backdrop to the pair’s beautiful celebration.
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In nearly every photo, Talia and Stephen are gazing into each other’s eyes, about to burst with both love and laughter. Photographing this couple was not only an honor but a blast, too!
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From the ceremony to the reception, the atmosphere remained fun. Talia and Stephen are wonderful, laid-back people who had an incredible time celebrating their blessed union with their family members and friends. There was so much laughter throughout the day, I knew I was in the presence of two people who would love and laugh their way through life together. Truly, all they wanted was to celebrate the most important day of their lives by sharing their love and having a good time with the special people in their tribe. Mission definitely accomplished. Talia and Stephen conveyed an atmosphere full of love that each person clearly felt.
Talia and Stephen, thank you for the opportunity to capture your wonderful wedding! I had a great time not only photographing your beautiful day, but sharing genuine laughs with you and your incredible guests. Cheers to a lifetime and beyond of love, happiness, and more laughter, and I hope you have an amazing time on your honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta.
Love + Appreciation,
Dom
Love + Appreciation,
Dom
Venue : Blue Harbor Resort
Photographer : Dominika Photographer
Associate Photographer : Amy Erickson
Editor : Sharp Editorial
Photographer : Dominika Photographer
Associate Photographer : Amy Erickson
Editor : Sharp Editorial