Scott + Kelly | Timeless Leap Day wedding in Rochester, Minnesota

Kelly & Scott

February 29, 2020

I’ve always found writing blogs to be bittersweet. Bitter because I can never seem to find the right words to describe a couples love, and sweet because isn’t that what makes love so grand?

No matter how similar, no two relationships are parallel — they are perfectly imperfect and entirely unique to the individual people we are. We all come from differing walks of life, and connect as something ordinary to create a bond that’s extraordinary.

The love I’ve witnessed between Kelly and Scott is no exception. Their wedding day was filled with belly laughs so strong they made you fall over, 90s music — because lets be real, a celebration without 90s alternative is missing something — and love so true it would make you cry. No, it did make us cry. All of us. It was authentic and true, and everything I could’ve hoped for them.

Since I’m not married, and have no place providing advice to couples for a love everlasting, I’m going to end their blog with a quote. I don’t know much about marriage or relationships, but I do know that being human comes with inevitable imperfection. I’ve witnessed the love of many couples over the years, and the one truth remains that by choosing to marry someone and choose them as your forever person — you’re choosing them for all the seasons, not just the good ones.

Thank you for having me as a part of your day, Kelly and Scott. I love you both and wish you a life full of adventure and love. xx

“Marry your best friend. I do not say that lightly. Really, truly find the strongest, happiest friendship in the person you fall in love with. Someone who speaks highly of you. Someone you can laugh with. The kind of laughs that make your belly ache, and your nose snort. The embarrassing, earnest, healing kind of laughs. Wit is important. Life is too short not to love someone who lets you be a fool with them. Make sure they are somebody who lets you cry, too. Despair will come. Find someone that you want to be there with you through those times. Most importantly, marry the one that makes passion, love, and madness combine and course through you. A love that will never dilute - even when the waters get deep, and dark.”

— N'tima

5 TIPS for a STRESS FREE Family Photoshoot

It’s no secret that preparing for Family Portraits can be a stressful event. Scrambling to get everyone dressed, fed, and cleaned up can get really overwhelming and that lingering anxiety of, “Will the kids get along long enough to do this?”, “Will I look good?”, “What if it’s not worth it?”, “What should I wear?” is no stranger.

I have great news. Not all photo sessions need to be this way! In fact, they can be a great day filled with fun and memories. Every mom’s dream, right?!

By implementing these 5 TIPS not only will the session itself provide you with real, unscripted images that you can look back on and cherish throughout your lives, but they’ll make room for your family to relax, play, and have a brilliant day together.

I’m so excited to share these 5 TIPS to create a STRESS FREE family portrait experience with you!

TIP #1: GET EVERYONE EXCITED

 When you experience stress while trying to plan for family pictures, the kiddos pick up on that stress. Your kids deserve to have a fun, playful experience just as much as you do. So as much as their stress may add some stress to your experience, remember their feelings are valid along with yours. In order to ease or prevent this stress, it’s important to get them involved in the entire experience. 

• When you first tell them about the photoshoot, I recommend doing so in a positive way. Let them know it’s going to be a fun and exciting day for them. To do this you could actually make a day of it and book in a fun activity after the photoshoot or take them for a treat to thank them. Ice Cream or donuts anyone?

• It is also a good idea to tell them that a friend of yours is going to be taking some photos, it breaks the barrier of ‘the photographer’ being a stranger and also takes away any element of surprise. 

Another person to remember is your spouse. This is not always the case, but at times your better half may not entirely be on board with the whole family portrait process either. Remember, their feelings are valid. They may not love being in front of the camera. Can I tell you a secret? I don’t either! By letting him or her know why the photo shoot is important to you, how valuable it is to preserve these memories, and how fun it could be to have a fun family day out, your partner is more likely to get on board. I also highly recommend asking their input and let them be involved in the process. This may get them excited about the day too. Finally, let them know you appreciate their involvement. 

TIP #2: PLAN

Having a plan before the day of the shoot always helps things to go more smoothly!

• When creating a plan for your family portraits, the first and most important thing is to reflect on what you love most about your family. What moments do you cherish? Where do you have the most fun together? What is your favorite thing about each family member? I encourage you to discuss this with your photographer prior to you portrait session. This will give them a sense of what’s most important to you and what to look for throughout your time together.

• Be intentional about the location. Do you have a favorite park you go to every week, is Target one of your favorite places to bond with your kids, do you love to hike in the bluffs? Consider where you feel the most in your element. It doesn’t make any sense to hate bugs and mud, and have your session by the marsh. I encourage you to select a location that your family is familiar with. When you choose a place they enjoy, where memories have already been made, it’s a lot easier for natural interactions to happen. It also leaves room to document the location itself since it’s a significant part of your story. That’s when the magic happens.

• Dress accordingly. Our style of Family Photography is about storytelling. It’s about the beautiful, ordinary moments of life and the relationship you share with the ones you love. Think about how you would normally dress to visit your favorite places. For example, if you are going on what could potentially be a muddy woodland walk, I would suggest you choose rain boots, or hiking gear, over brand new shoes or a dress and heels. By dressing appropriately for your location, not only will it make your photos look and feel more authentic, it will also make everyone in the family a lot more comfortable and reduce stress. No one wants to worry about new shoes or clothes getting dirty when they are out to have fun. 

• Schedule appointments for 1 week before your scheduled session. Plan hair cuts, make up or nail appointment etc. in advance of the shoot so that you and your family can look and feel their best. Your vendors will thank you for planning ahead. :)

• Get the kids (and your partner) involved in the planning. You can do this by letting them help pick the location for your photos, involve them in selecting color schemes, what they are going to wear, etc. If they are included in the process they are more likely to co-operate and have fun!

TIP #3: BE RESTED AND EAT

There’s no one in the world who shows their best selves when they’re hungry, especially not during a photoshoot. If this happens it can result in some really cranky ragamuffins.  

• Try to get a good nights rest before your photoshoot. Set a bed time for everyone, yourself included and try your best to stick to it. 

• Even if you have a family meal scheduled for after the shoot, please make sure everyone has been well fed before hand. Hungry tummies are never necessary. Feel free to bring mess-free snacks and water along too. Kids (and pets) usually enjoy a mid-photo session treat. I recommend having wipes on hand, just in case.

TIP #4: LEAVE LOTS OF TIME TO GET READY

The last thing anyone wants is to show up to their photoshoot location feeling rushed and disorganized. 

• Eat and brush your teeth before you put anyones outfits on. It’ll help prevent stains or spills on clothing.

• Plan in extra time for baths/showers, grooming and putting on clothing. Giving yourself extra time for all of these tasks gives you time should something go wrong or for un-cooperation. This should mean that you will still have time left over and can leave for your shoot feeling relaxed and prepared.

• To help with this process it is also a beneficial idea to try on your outfits a few days in advanced of your shoot. Meaning that there are no nasty surprises when you are getting ready on the day.

• Aim to be on time or early for your photoshoot. This is beneficial for the kids and even the adults. Those few moments before jumping into the photoshoot gives everyone some time to be acquainted before the shoot begins.

TIP #5: BE YOURSELVES AND LET THEM BE LITTLE

I can’t stress this enough. Trying to micromanage the ‘Perfect’ Family Lifestyle image simply won’t work, especially when kiddos are involved. Forcing a kid to smile or perform an action they don’t want to will also result in a cranky ragamuffin. So leave the “cheeeeese” for the crackers, leave the frustration at home, and try to embrace your environment by being as free as possible.

• If your session is outdoors and your kiddos want to splash in a puddle… roll with it. If Dad wants to go and make a tea during the shoot and the little one needs a snack – great! The more you just let your family ‘be’ and embrace the imperfect, the more genuine your end results will be. 

• Don't worry if you find yourself with a grumpy kiddo,  assess the situation maybe they are hungry or thirsty… however sometimes by trying not to draw too much attention to your upset family member, can defuse the situation entirely. Remember - kiddos can feel your stress, so even if they’re upset and grumpy, be intentional about remaining calm, and they will likely follow that.

• Don’t be afraid to show your affection for your spouse or your kids. Always be touching and interacting. Laugh, joke, hold hands, pick up your kids, play with your dog. Remember, the most important part of your session is to document this season of life. Have fun!

• You don’t need to look at or even smile for the camera, by interacting with your family, the environment or even an activity you have chosen to participate in during your shoot will give you the most genuine and authentic captures.

Capturing relational, honest, unscripted moments starts by creating them. By preparing yourself for a stress free and fun family portrait experience, you’ll be ready to capture the beautiful, ordinary magic that already exists within your family.

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out!

DYLAN & BRITTANY | AN ELEGANT CENTRAL WISCONSIN WEDDING

I knew from the moment Brittany & Dylan booked me as their photographer that their wedding was going to be beautiful in every way. This wedding was one for the books, and I don’t know that any image could do it justice. Donuts, amazing friends & family, but more importantly, a beautiful love shared between these two! Brittany was my roommate during my last year at UW-Lacrosse, and over time has become like a sister and one of my very best friends. It was so wonderful seeing so may familiar faces and being welcomed like I was part of their family.

They probably had the nicest weather of the year for their wedding weekend which made for some of my favorite bride & groom portraits to date. This wedding held lots of shifts and adjustments in the schedule, but we made the best of it and everyone came out like rockstars.

There were so many happy tears (mostly from me - lets all cry together). This was such a special day for a truly amazing couple. I feel so honored to have been there to witness it and capture it for you two! Enjoy this beautiful new chapter in your lives! I can’t wait to see how life unfolds for you. xo

Ceremony | St. John the Baptist, Marshfield, WI

Reception & Catering | RiversEdge Golf Course & Banquet Hall

Cake | Sweet Retreat Cakes

DJ | CMC Music

Bridal Hair & Makeup | Mallory Hauke Makeup, V and Company Hair

Florals | Green Bee Floral Designs

Photography | JMEG Photography

Videography | Post Wedding Films

Rochester, Minnesota Photographer - JMEG Photography | Newborn Lifestyle Session - Allen Family

One of my very favorite things about being a lifestyle photographer is creating honest portraits of life. Being able to grow with couples from the beginning of their love story, all the way through the messy, chaotic, intimate seasons of parenthood.

I love being a part of every season, but If I had to pick one thing to be my favorite, it would be the transition of mother’s in waiting to the shift of new life. New parents, new family, and embracing the new normal of all things family. Creating intimate portraits of the beginning is my greatest honor, and with the Allen Family, this was no exception (see their Newborn Lifestyle Session below! xx)

I remember waiting so impatiently for the day I’d meet my baby boy, and today it seems so long ago that I first called myself, “Mom.” Now I feel like I barely remember my name some days (can I get a witness?) In this season, during this moment, on this day, and among the chaos, errands, tantrums, snuggles, and curiosity for all things, I’ve learned that each day holds an opportunity for newfound beauty and adventure. I’m so grateful to not only be a part of this life, but to have the chance to be here for yours.

Mal + Cody, thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of your journey. I love you both and you’re doing such a great job.

Welcome to the world, Baby Wyatt. You are so loved. xo

Birth Photography | Adley - Rochester, Minnesota

Motherhood is HARD. From the positive pregnancy test, to the labor + delivery experience, and all the way through the journey of life.

If you’re someone who has through morning sickness, you know that it can make you feel like you’re in the midst of your last moments. You say RIP to a lot of things, like your bladder for instance. Once you carry a child, your relationship with your body (and the toilet) becomes pretty intimate. There are lots of tears, challenges, and lots and lots of coffee, but there’s something important to be said about the struggle, you’re in it, and that in itself is something to be grateful for.

I’ve learned over the past year that when we have things that we complain about, often times someone else would die to experience them. For example, the constant back aches throughout pregnancy? Sister, if you're in the midst of that, I love you and you’re doing a great job, but if you’re a woman who longs to feel that back pain, and who’s so patiently awaiting that one positive pregnancy test, I love you more. I need you to know that I see you and you’re doing a great job.

This particular birth story is near and dear to my heart for so many reasons, but the most important reason of them all is that it brings hope.

Ali + Kristen spent months, even years enduring fertility treatments in hopes of that one positive pregnancy test. Kristen has scars on her body now, not just from baby, but from the needles and the blood tests required to start their journey as parents.

Here is a glimpse into their story with their sweet girl, Adley.

If you’re still waiting for this experience, I hope you find comfort in knowing that the universe works in mysterious ways. I have hope for you no matter where you are in your journey, and I’m sending you so much love and positive energy along the way.

xo,

Meg

The Beauty of Community over Competition - Celebrating the life of Nicci Sylvester

I have always been a firm believer that when a community of people come together the world heals a little more.

This past Sunday, December 9th, 2018, I had the honor of attending an an event to celebrate the life of Nicci Sylvester. This event was so incredible, and unlike any event I’ve ever seen. Chefs from the same city, located not blocks from one another, came together and devoted their time and expertise to celebrate Nicci’s life, and support her family and loved ones.

Seeing everyone work together in harmony, regardless of competitive factors was one of the most heart-warming things I’ve seen in a while. With modern day technology, it’s so easy to get caught up in the world of finance and competition, especially in the world of business. So much so, that sometimes we forget that we wouldn’t be here without the community around us.

At this event, there wasn’t an ounce of competition in the room. Everyone was united, sharing memories and giving support to one another. I had the opportunity to document the love + kinship from this day, and I can say with 100% certainty, when this community comes together, the world heals a little more.

I want to extend a personal thank you to all of the business’ that chose to partake in this event. You have beautiful souls and were an absolute joy to work with. I’m grateful to know you.

xo,

Meg

Birth Photography | Canaan - Rochester, Minnesota

Babies are the worlds greatest blessing.

When Andrew and Brandy first contacted me about documenting their birth story, we were strangers. It didn’t take long for me to love them, whole-heartedly. They gave off this sort of energy and strength that I’d never experienced in a couple before. I knew nothing about their story, or the obstacles they’d overcome.

Infertility is a painful reality to endure. You dream of having children; you invest in a home with enough bedrooms to fill with little ones. You hope to grow throughout the holidays as a family, making endless memories within those walls you’ve worked so hard to create. With infertility, however, those rooms are a constant reminder of the dreams which resist to come true, and bring a constant ache, and longing for that one positive pregnancy test.

Canaan Joseph Allen is the beautiful little boy shown below in these photographs. Andrew and Brandy never gave up hope on their little miracle, and I’m so incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to document their birth experience.

Birth Photography | Adeline + Eloise - Rochester, Minnesota

Not all mama's are blessed with the opportunity to see their baby brought into this world.

Some have to lay in anticipation behind a curtain, waiting to hear their baby's first cry. Praying under their breath that everything's going to be okay.

Those mamas are c-section mamas, and they are one of a kind.

The images below are from one of the c-section deliveries I had the honor of documenting. This mama was a total rockstar, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to document her story. ❤️

To learn more about our birth story collection, follow the link below! xo.

www.jmegphotography.com/the-birth-story

MN Events | Cabin Fever Bean Bags

The Cabin Fever Bean Bag Tournament is a charitable event working to support the Eagles Cancer Telethon which is dedicated to improving people's lives and has been raising funds to support cancer research for over 60 years.

The event has taken place in Rochester, MN since 2010, and this year, I had the honor of documenting it. Words can't even begin to express the emotions I felt throughout this event. Each fighter came to the stage, and bravely shared their story. The story of their beautiful, ordinary life, that soon took a turn due to cancers rath. If you have a moment, I would encourage you to follow this link to read a bit more about these incredible people. 

http://www.cabinfeverbeanbags.org

To the fighters, and their loved ones, thank you so much for sharing your stories with me, and for allowing me to be a part of this incredible day. You truly are amazing.

Day in the Life | Photography Services - Rochester, Minnesota

Ever since having my son, I find myself, like so many other busy moms, behind the camera, eagerly snapping pictures of his landmarks. I capture his first smile, his first tooth, his first steps. I find myself proudly scrolling through image after image of him interacting and playing, when I stop to think, "Where are the pictures of me with my baby?" This motivated me to start offering a new type of photo session.

Storytelling Sessions

These Documentary-style sessions are designed to capture the moments that often become overlooked: morning snuggles, coffee with friends, bath time, or holiday baking. As time passes, these will be the most important moments, the memories you'll never want to lose.

These sessions can be held in the comfort of your home or elsewhere. I can capture your baby's morning yawns and messy hair as their tired eyes struggle to open. I'll carefully document playtime on the floor with belly laughs and giggles, or I can join you for pizza and game night, a visit to the park or a trip to Target. 

Not all of these will be fancy shots, but they will be real, authentic images of your current everyday life. Because as mundane as a sink bath may seem, soon these days will be gone, but through photographs, they can be remembered and cherished forever.

In-home Storytelling

Home is where it's at, it's where our people are, it's where life happens. It's a space that's intricately woven into the culture of family.

Home is where our foundations are laid out for us, and our identities are solidified. As a mother, I want my kids to grow up knowing who they are, where they fit, and to know that they always have a place, no matter how far they wander.

Investing in these sessions will give you and your children something tangible to remember these moments and will reassure them that they always have a place and know where they belong..

Investment

Storytelling Sessions:

Includes a phone, email, or coffee date consultation, up to one hour of documentary-style photo coverage in the comfort or your home or elsewhere, and a gallery reveal. (No digitals are included in the session fee)

After your session, purchase only what you love from an a la carte menu of prints, products, and collections! Contact me for the details!

Book your Storytelling Session before December 31st, 2017 and you'll be gifted an 8x12 fine art print, professionally mounted and ready for framing (artist's choice).

Ellis is 3 months!

It's hard to believe that our baby is 3 months old! When people told us that babies change fast, they weren't kidding! In celebration of his third month of life, I thought it'd be a good idea to do a review of his second month.

Ellis had his 2 month appointment a week late, and he measured in the 99th percentile for his head, aka: the "Branson big head." 10 pounds 7 ounces for his weight (which is very low considering he was 9 pounds 9 ounces at birth), and 23.5 inches long. 

At his appointment he received his first set of vaccinations. I'm not sure which one of us cried harder, Ellis or me. It was awful and heartbreaking in every way. The doctor was impressed with how alert he is, at his ability to hold his head up, and his leg strength. I am still exclusively breastfeeding, which we've finally gotten the hang of!

Ellis is a very happy, sweet & expressive baby, which made his second month of life so much fun! Here are some memories from his second month of life that I want to remember.

*This is the month that he finally adjusted to tummy time with no tears!

*He has finally figured out how to coo, babble, and make squeaky noises when he's excited. 

*He loves to watch The Magic School Bus, Rugrats, and Disney movies

*He does not enjoy having a wet diaper and cries the second you lay him on the diaper changing table.

*He's starting to enjoy bath time and enjoys it as long as Jimmy or I am in there with him.

*He is starting to teethe 

*He is an amazing sleeper! Jimmy and I are getting more sleep than people told us we would and we're grateful for that! Ellis still has some nights where he's uncomfortable, but I'm completely okay with that, as I know the days of him needing me as much as he does now are numbered.

*His routine is nurse, burp, have story time, snuggle, get his marshmallow sleeper on, and go to bed between 9:00 and 10:00 PM and he usually sleeps until 6:00 AM (aside from the 3:00 AM feeding that I have to wake him up for.)

*His 0-3 month clothes are slowing being exchanged for 3 month and 3-6 month and I'm not ready for it!

*He's around 11.5 pounds and we're still working hard to put meat on his bones!

*His smiles are my favorite part of each morning. I wake up, lean over the bed to see him wide awake in his Rock n' Sleeper and as soon as he sees my face, he smiles.

*He has Uncle Nick's smile

*He has rolled over from tummy to back one time but has yet to repeat it.

*He absolutely LOVES music!

*He follows Jimmy and I with his eyes and can follow our voices.

I'm a bit emotional that I haven't been able to document the first moments of his life more, but with my recovery, it just wasn't possible. I'm going to make an effort to document the upcoming milestones of his life and our life as a family in the months ahead.

Here are some photos from Ellis's second month of life. I hope you can enjoy them as much as I do!

Rayah & Cody | WI Engagement

Every memory created in the company of someone you love is one to be cherished forever.

I have had the opportunity to watch Rayah & Cody's relationship grow and I could not be more grateful for them. From their studies in college all the way through graduation, I have watched them transition from being able to laugh together to having to face the struggles of a long-distance relationship.

Despite everything they have endured, they have come out of their trials like kings of the world. Their friendship is the foundation of their relationship and it is apparent when you see them together that they are the perfect match. No matter what gets thrown their way, they are in it together - 100%. 

Cheers to this incredible couple on the celebration their engagement! I can't wait to see what the future has in store for you. <3 

Anna & Andrew

Marriage isn't always easy. In fact, it rarely ever is. He leaves his socks on the floor, she won't stop nagging. It's the epitome of patience at its finest.

Anna and Andrew are two amazing people. They bring out the best in each other, even during the most difficult times. Having the opportunity to capture their unconditional love in photographs was a complete honor, and they made my job all too easy. 

Happy 3 Year Anniversary, Mr. and Mrs. Bayliss! Here's to another year of laughs, love, and happiness!

Cheers! <3 

The Adams Family

These two people are full of enough love, fun, and laughter to flood the entire state of Minnesota. From the moment our session began, to us saying our goodbyes, there was never a dull moment. Unless of course we're considering the bugs, crowds, and rampant humidity. Ashley and Sean are sincerely awesome human beings who were determined to capture genuine moments as a surprise gift to their parents. With their entertaining inside jokes & quirky personalities, they made my job all too simple. We kept the session on the down-low and Mom and Dad were surprised! Despite all of the bugs that Sean swallowed, I think it's safe to say that our session was a success!

The Branson Bunch

Each family has a unique structure, some days it's all smiles, and other days are less picturesque. The best part is, when you're part of a family you share a common thread with the rest of the world: the element of chaos. In the Branson Family, chaos is incorporated into the daily grind. On a good day, you'll often find Lily and Liam: playing, and occasionally throwing rocks at each other, saying "I hate you" with smiles on their faces, or hitting each other with sticks. That may seem odd to some people - but it's not in this family. Here it's just another way to play; it's another way to show love and they like it that way. 

For the Branson's complete photo gallery, follow the link below:

http://jmeg.shootproof.com/gallery/thebransonbunch