Only 41 days left.

The count down begins. 41 days until the official celebration of love. 

Call me. 

I would suggest a cosy weekend for two in Paris, its lovely. A classic purple box of Vosges' chocolates, mmm. Maybe tickets for two to the Lyric Opera House, all fancy like.

Or.

Just the two of you (and me, but I'm stealth) documenting (in photographs) the countless things that are special about your kinda love. 

Leave the details of your Valentines surprise with me. A quant B&B with a stop to visit the Frank Lloyd Wright tours or Ice Skating on the tip top of the Peninsula Hotel's privet rink and a cozy set of pics taken in the lobby.

Let's create some photographs together. A thoughtful gift for the person you share everything with. I can promise they will make you smile much longer then that box of chocolates. 

How to celebrate NYE in a classy (yet affordable) outfit.

Whew. Made it through Christmas with only 4 added pounds! Hope your holiday was warm and full of all the people you love most.

Nowwwww, its on to planning your New Years Eve celebrations, but before you can celebrate you will need an outfit to wear when you set all those resolutions. Yep, we think you should glow as you plan your 2015 .... but, try not over do the sparkles. Jaclyn, our style spotter, has designed an affordable, yet glowing, ensemble for you to wear when you resolve (like me) to only eat chocolates on weekends and holidays.

OK, let's check this out this chic shopping guide right here on Polyvore.  Cheers, Laura

OVER COFFEE / Tami Inoue on feeling like a fraud, accepting success and learning ... rules foster creativity.

When was the moment you first considered yourself a photographer and how did it feel? 

"Great question. It definitely took a while.  After I quite my corporate job people would ask me what I do, and I kept hearing myself say, “I used to work at State Farm and I guess I’m kind of a photographer.”  That’s how I was feeling…no confidence. Aaaaand after a while, that answer didn’t work because well, it’s been 4 years people. ;) Ha! No, in all seriousness, I think it was when I started meeting people in the industry and all they knew me as was a photographer (about 2 years into shooting professionally).  That was probably when I really began to own that title.  How did I feel? Like a fraud. Haha!! How’s this interview going so far hu? Geesh.  No, but that’s the truth…I remember thinking “If people knew how little I knew, and how heavily I relied on fixing my images in Photoshop, they’d tar and feather me”…’cause I’m not dramatic at all.  I do remember the moment when I made the conscious decision to outsource my editing for a year because I wanted the accountability of other professionals seeing my RAW work and it forced me to become a better photographer.  I don’t cringe at the thought of others seeing my images straight out of the camera anymore, and THAT was when I felt like a photographer."  

You've worked as a celebrated wedding photographer for quite a few years now, what's your future look like? 

Is there someone special that has encouraged your work?

"I could name sooooo many people here.  But this isn’t an Oscar speech…although, should someone ever want to give me an Oscar, I’ve got a speech prepared! :) 

There’s my family who are my greatest encouragers and keep everything in perspective for me.  The people that come to mind outside of them are my blog readers…I’ve blogged for about 8 years now, and there’s a core group that have kind of been with me since the beginning.  They can’t possibly know how I’ve relied on them.  When people “confess” to me that they read my blog, I’m always thinking, “You have no idea how much that means to me!!” No confessions needed…I love it so much.

I’ve also made some really wonderful friends in the industry…and they’re all over the world!  There’s a special bond in this industry if you choose to be generous in your support rather than competitive.  I consider many of these people friends even though we’ve never met face to face."

“Celebrated photographer”…that’s going on my resume! ;) 

I always have this itch to try new things.  In my foreseeable future, wedding photography will be the core of what I do…but I love to play with and study other types of photography.  Right now, I’m really interested in food photography and learning studio lighting.  I have this love for editorial photography and want to really make space for that in my portfolio this coming year.  

I also LOVE writing and talking to people…a little obsessed actually. Because of that, I’m in the works of developing some kind of podcast or video series where I’ll be interviewing people because there are so many great lives and stories that need to be shared…and it will be worked into my blog. Basically, I’m obsessed with a good story in all forms."

 

What words would you use to describe yourself?

"Quirky.  I used to say “weird or nerdy” but friends gave it a sweeter word by calling me quirky. ;)  I get compared to Jessica Day from New Girl a lot.  I say I’m her without the professional writers and great wardrobe…which is just scary. 

Thinker…a friend said to me once, “Your wheels are always turning”.  

I’m not sure what the word is but someone who always likes to have fun.  My brother-in-law thinks it runs in our family.  Always up for a party! He’s right. Even if it’s cleaning or doing something mundane, if it can become something fun, I’ll do my best to make it that."

Where is the most memorable place you've shot?

"I would say, an elopement on the cliffs in Seattle, WA…it was stunning!!! And the entire country of Ireland because I love that place.  I have a dream of shooting in Japan some day, and I think that will rank right up there."

What inspired your love of fashion and editorial photography?

"I’ve loved it ever since I was little. I remember tearing out JCPenny pictures!! Haha!! Yikes.  Although, that may have been a crush I had on the model wearing the black wolf t-shirt. Yes, I did in fact, just share that fact! ;) 

I think what I like about fashion and editorial photography is that the rules are mine.  Don’t get me wrong, I love rules.  Loren Michaels (creator of SNL) once said that rules foster creativity…and I couldn’t agree more.  What I love about wedding photography is that it’s about documenting the beauty of a day…but because of time constraints and wanting to deliver what the bride expects, I take less risks.  I am more focused on creating emotion.  Whereas, editorial is telling a different story, it’s capturing a different feeling, a curve, a shadow, a concept…and I have time to really think it through and the  freedom to make mistakes (because I’m not getting paid at this point!) makes me try things I wouldn’t otherwise."

You've had the opportunity to travel and shoot with some extremely talented people… what has left the greatest impression on you?

"Yes, I have…and sometimes I pinch myself thinking how fortunate I’ve been to meet the people I have.  The greatest impression I have is how it’s the smallest details that separate the good from the great.  It’s where the good shoot for “good enough” and the great will switch out a lens, or add in fill light, or will try for one more location…because they know it could be better.  The great are very intentional.

I think it’s also how brides remember the feeling of their day as much as their pictures…and how someone can deliver beautiful pictures, but if the photographer takes their finger off the pulse of the day…how the bride is feeling in that moment, it can change everything. I’ve seen photographers pull brides from a cocktail hour to get a shot the bride doesn’t care about, or scolding the bride for “not having fun” when she’s clearly just self conscious or stressed and just needs to laugh or given a moment to breathe. It’s learning to know when to push and when to let go."  

            What's your favorite feeling to capture with a lens?

"Anything that reads as genuine.  On a wedding day, I love shooting the Groom/Mother and Bride/Dad dances, because they are some of the sweetest emotions shown all day.  I really love those images.

I’ve also been given the HUGE honor to shoot about 3 family sessions where the father was dying of a terminal illness.  I can hardly describe how I feel on those shoots…the emotions are so profound to me.  They’re some of my favorite shoots because I find that they’re really generous with their emotions…they love beautifully and a look can say more about how they feel and love than anything I could ever write. Close to that is shooting in a hospital room after a delivery.  The bookends of life are some of the most profound and my favorite to capture."  

Favorite place in Chicago to hangout?

"This is like picking my favorite niece or nephew…I can’t do it.  But, this past year, I discovered the most amazing library at the University of Chicago.  It made me feel like I was a character in Harry Potter, and I loved it.  I go there to really hunker down and work."

Your biggest fear?

"Looking back with regret.  I don’t like regret but I allow myself to feel it because it motivates me to not do something or to do something.  Tied to that, I have a fear of, “What if I miss out on something in my future because of something I’m doing or not doing now?” I get asked about taking risks a lot…which is funny ‘cause growing up, I wouldn’t say I was a risk taker.  Even now, I’d say that maybe I have a different definition of risk.  Like, to me, taking a trip to Europe by myself doesn’t feel like a huge risk.  Getting married young and having kids, that felt like the huge risk.  So it’s how you define consequences and reward.  I look at my sisters, brothers and friends as the real heroes and brave ones because to me, being a parent to young kids is one of the most difficult jobs I can think of because it never ends…it’s wonderful, but also a huge risk in my mind. :)"

Who are some of your greatest influences in the photo world?

"Photography: Vivian Maier, Annie Lebowitz, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Joey Lawrence, Elizabeth Messina, Jasmine Star, Oddur Thorisson"

Lipstick or heels?

"I’d love to say both…I’m always all about a good accessory…but if I had to choose, heels." 

Tami and I became fast friends when I moved to Chicago two years ago. We've shared countless cups of coffee and the ups and downs of this industry we are so lucky to be apart of. 

We both are looking forward to creating a new photo series together early in 2015 influenced by our love of style, beauty and editorial photography.

To our faithful blog followers we'll be dishing out an eye full of beauty so stick around.

And don't forget to give Tami some love right here on her blog.

STYLE / A fresh take on style with Jaclyn Puccini - our newest stylist!

Who first sparked your interest in style?

"My mom really encouraged style at a young age and believed one should always look the part. As a young girl I remember looking up to my mom’s sense of natural style and sophistication. I can recall laying out my outfits on my floor for the following day of school as early as 1st grade. My Mom dresses up where ever she goes and has instilled in me the desire to always look my best."

Where are your 3 favorite places to shop? 

"I really love Zara, Topshop, Pitaya, Vintage Charm just to name a few."

Describe your personal style.

"My favorite style is bohemian chic with a slight edge."

What is your favorite style blog?

"I love Sincerely Jules’s because she knows exactly how to layer different pieces of clothing and jewelry that all look amazing."

Where do you get inspiration for an outfit? 

"I find inspiration from fashion blogs, Polyvore, my friends, and browsing my favorite stores."

What inspires you?

"Wandering around the city of Chicago and observing how captivating it is inspires me. I love finding new French cafes to satisfy my macaroon obsession, or coming across a unique vintage find. I think that being genuinely happy doing the things I love leaves me feeling very inspired."

You’re planning to spend next fall in Europe, in what ways do you hope to expand your style while abroad? 

"I will be staying in the Rome Felice Center through Loyola University Chicago. I want to travel to as many places outside of Rome as I can. I would love to go to Paris, London, and Prague. I am beyond ecstatic to push the limits of my style and take risks as I start a new journey traveling. I will defiantly be rocking ponchos, fedoras, leather leggings, and jumpsuits!"

Describe yourself in five words.

"Joyful, Sincere, Attentive, Charismatic, and Imaginative."

You come from a big Italian family, what are a few style tips that have been passed down to you?

"One thing I have learned from my Grandma and Nana is that accessories are important; they bring the whole outfit together. My Nana and Grandma always wore lipstick, jewelry, and a great purse, always looking chic and put together."

Your mom's style has a sophisticated Jackie O flair, what about yours? Any influences that have made an impact on the way you dress? 

"I love Kate Middleton for her classically graceful style that's so timeless. My daily style incorporates many different looks based on how I feel that day, but I believe that if you look classy and timeless you can never go wrong."

............................................................................

Jaclyn Puccini is a talented young stylist that I'm thrilled to have joining Everyday Charming this January. Stay tuned as we broaden our services from personal styling for photo sessions to the addition of styling for special occasions, complete wardrobe refreshing or a simple consultation to recommend items to retire or new flattering additions. As your personal stylists or shopping assistants we would love to have a chat and advise you in 2015. May your holidays be every bit as lovely as your wardrobe. Warmly, Laura Rose

What you must know to plan an effortlessly beautiful photo shoot.

When did photography become something you wanted to spend your hard earned money on?

"Definitely after we got engaged. I wanted the best photo experience for our engagement & wedding images. It was a must!"

You've described photos as some of your most valuable possessions, tell us why! 

"Those little smiles, the laughter, I want those things engraved into my memory, and photos help me remember. It's also super important to me to share those moments. Some of my favorite times are when I find people going through our albums. They smile, ask questions about certain photo moments and I get to share a piece of our life with them."

Who's influenced your interest in photography?

"My dad, he's the one who passed down his love for photos and memories to me. Also, my Grandpa is the photographer hobbyist in our family, he sees beauty in interesting landscapes and old barns and houses and I appreciate that!"

How do you begin to plan for your photo shoots? 

"Oh my, with great fear & trembling!  OK, not really but my husband will tell you it's quite the process for me. I determine the "feel" that I want, then choose locations and outfits from there. I begin with mad Pinterest pinning, then choose a location that best exemplifies what I've pinned. Then it's time for outfit shopping!"

*Special note. Everyone has a little trouble deciding where to start planning for a photo shoot. Check out Joy's Pinterest board here or e-mail me for a few ideas laura@everydaycharming.com

Type A or Type B?

"I would say I lean more towards A.... But have several B tendencies." 

Where do you gather inspiration for a photo shoot? 

"A lot of times its from a setting I see in a picture or in real life. I mentioned "feel" above and while that is kind of vague, it's super important to me. Do I want our photos to make me feel cozy & warm? Classic & sophisticated? A lot of times simply looking at a big, beautiful house can get me inspired and on the lookout for a location that is similar. I also gather inspiration from Pinterest. Oh my, that is a black hole for me!"

What kind of moments did you want documented during your engagement session? 

"My husband and I were engaged long distance at the time, so I really wanted our smiles, laughter, conversations and affection captured. I wanted to be able to look at the photos of when we were apart and instantly be taken back to those moments."

Tell us one funny thing your husband does that nobody sees but you? 

"He sometimes walks around the house crooning a certain country music song.. while doing a little dance, think Charlie Brown Christmas shuffle dance."

Who are some of the most inspiring artists to you?

"Jasmine Star, Steve Willis and Sam Hurd are all photographers that I consider artists and find very inspiring. Also, the paintings of Akiane Kramarik. Her portraits of Jesus blow me away!"

How would you describe yourself? 

"Lover of Jesus, lover of my family, Introverted, deep, creative yet structured, fiercely loyal, down to earth."

You have two of our favorite Luxe Albums … what do you think of them? 

"I think they are absolutely amazing. I keep them out for people to look at and they are always amazed at their beauty and quality! The photos are so rich looking, and they feel wonderful as you're flipping through the pages. I'm confident they will keep my memories safe for years."

What memories do you love most from your wedding day? 

"Seeing Aaron for the first time that day, our first kiss, watching the rain dissipate and the sun appear just in time for the ceremony, walking down the aisle, bawling at first, and then I couldn't stop smiling!"  

What special moments did you want to capture in Kansas City? 

"We had been married for 6 months or so, and I wanted to capture our new life together. All the new kisses, laughs and goofy moments that comes with being a newlywed. There really is something irreplaceable about that time and I didn't want to forget it!"

Why did you choose Kansas City for your casual "Mr. + Mrs." shoot?

"We had just moved there, and had discovered SO many beautiful places around town - the Plaza, Loose Park - I wanted to capture our new home and all of it's gorgeous locations!" 

The Philip's house has grown since we began documenting your life 6 years ago, tell us about your newest addition. 

"Oh Marlie! She is our Border Collie and we absolutely love her. She's spunky, friendly, cuddly, and so darn cute! Most of the time she is full of energy, but is getting older and calming down some. We got her at a local shelter and she's been so much fun and guards our yard from all the squirrels!"

So we've talked about a bookshelf full of Luxe albums to document your life together, what can we expect next?

"Oh the possibilities! Maybe a canvas or two and many more prints to fill the walls!" 

What kind of emotions do you have looking back at all the images we've captured together? 

"Thankful, thankful, thankful... for all the moments we've had and the hope of more in the future. I also get that warm fuzzy heart feeling that has no name."

What's one special place you would love to have a photo taken?

"I've always wanted to have photos taken in historic Virginia or Washington D.C. I think those old buildings are beautiful!"

*Joy and I met almost ten years ago in my first tiny studio in Central Illinois. I went on to capture her engagement, wedding, honeymoon and lifestyle photos and became great pals along the way. Joy caught my vision for Everyday Charming and began four years ago as our digital artist, retouching every image that crosses our memory cards. She also has played a key role in our newest addition, Charming Child. Its beautiful, honest, people just like Joy that show off what we love to do most, document love and live. -Laura