Melissa Koren Photography

Come On Over

2009-08-04T01:03:00.003-04:00

To the NEW and IMPROVED all-in-one MKP site.

From now on it's just one click to all MKP has to offer at www.melissakoren.com.

I can't wait to see you there!

~Melissa Koren

One of those moments.

2009-06-11T22:33:00.003-04:00

I'm in awe of my job nearly every day, but there are some days, some moments, when I'm just completely dumbstruck but the awesomeness that I get to be privy to.

Like this.

As I'm editing Stephanie & Mike's wedding as fast as I can, this photo came up on my screen and I welled up with tears.

Mike is just about to kiss his bride, to be pronounced husband & wife, and he knows it. He's excited and proud and maybe still a touch nervous, but mostly excited and overjoyed. And while I was quite a bit away, he looked up and right into the camera and shared it with me.

It's an amazing feeling to experience that trust and comfort in one of life's larger moments. And I got to be there. Completely dumbfounding.

constantly humbled, ~melissakoren

Did you know?

2009-06-09T11:57:00.004-04:00

MKP on Facebook! The spot is open for my 100th fan - could it be you?

And just in case you were wondering what goes on, this about sums it up.

I'm so excited to share shots from the weddings of Kristan & John, Kim & Bryan, Stephanie & Mike, and Heather & Chris as well as more of Rachel & Jason's engagement shoot and other things that have been going on! More to come soon! (no really... )

~MelissaKoren

Just a Sunday Hello

2009-05-31T14:11:00.005-04:00

I'm off to pray to the rain gods and shoot Rachel & Jason's engagement photos - and have some yummy Ice House!

But before I go - here's a hello from Avery. She's such a peanut - we never have tiny babies in our family and it's so fun to see something so little! I can't believe she's already 4 weeks old tomorrow. May was a blur. A complete blur!!

Well I'm off while the sun is till out! More posts coming soon!

~MelissaKoren

April Showers bring...

2009-05-02T12:54:00.004-04:00

May Flower Girls!

Ok, so these weddings were last weekend in April, but the abundance of cuteness in the flower girls was just too much to handle!

First Isabel stole the show in Kristan & John's wedding ...

and then Justine (aptly nicknamed 'Tini') twirled and danced her way all they way down the long isle at Kim & Bryan's wedding to capture her curious George prize at the end.

I can't wait to share more from these weddings with you! But first it's off to Stephanie & Mike's York, ME wedding at the Dockside! The rain has held off and it looks to be a perfect day!

~Melissa Koren

A Beautiful Day!

2009-04-22T10:38:00.004-04:00

After all the rain yesterday, this morning is a wonderful surprise! Warm and lovely!
The weekend forecast promises to be even better, and that's just fine with me because I have two weddings this weekend!

I'm going through wedding withdrawal and SO excited to get back in the saddle in the next few weeks. Kristan & John, Kimberly & Bryan and next weekend Stephanie & Mike! I'll have all sorts of new shots for the blog so check back often! I'm also going to be overhauling the website and seeing if I can summon my inner web designer to rock it out!

I've also been getting in touch with my inner boxing superstar. I'm addicted to cardio boxing on our Wii! Hopefully it will help keep me strong and agile for darting around ceremonies & receptions in stealth mode!

And since posting with out a picture is unheard of, I leave you with this shot I grabbed after a family portraits shoot last summer in Prescott Park. It was just so perfectly the embodiment of warm weather - and a great re-purposing idea!!

Enjoy your day!
~Melissa Koren

Taylor's Maternity Pictures

2009-04-14T20:54:00.004-04:00

I'm going to be an aunt! Again!!

Shortly before our adorable nephew Killian turns 2, he's going to get to be a big brother!

He's excited about being a big brother, but after a long Easter morning full of candy and pushing it past nap time, he had NO interest in taking photos with us. But he was stuck.

Taylor rocks these shoes. I LOVE them. She looks amazing for 37 weeks!

My brother's a lucky guy. So pretty!

Woah Baby!

Only a few short weeks til her little girl joins our family!

Hurry up baby! We can't wait to meet you!

~MelissaKoren

Kimberly & Jeff 02.14.2009

2009-04-14T15:01:00.004-04:00

I've had this nagging feeling I've been forgetting something. All of a sudden, it dawned on me - I've posted so many things ABOUT Kim & Jeff's fabulous wedding and the great weekend we had there, I never posted their actual wedding!!

So with out further ado - -

The beautiful Kimberly, getting ready

Her dress was made of the most gorgeously detailed lace.

Her something Blue!

And speaking of blue - her mother's dress was such an amazing color.

I love this moment. The moment when everything becomes just a little more real.

The complete, perfect package!

Meanwhile, the guys were down in the bar .. calming their nerves ..

Jeff & Kimberly decided to see each other before the ceremony. This was the first time I'd done this "formally" - it was SO exciting - I love Jeff's face as he waits for his bride to be to knock on the door.

Here she comes.....

I'd say they approve!

Then off to the ceremony. The fireplace was such a great backdrop!

Everything about the Mountain View Grand is amazing.

And the view is most certainly Grand!

AYKM!?!? GORGEOUS!!

This is my favorite shot. In the stairwell to the wine cellar. I love everything about it. The feeling, the texture, the colors - amazing.

A toast to a job well done!

They had some very cute nieces & nephews! I just love babies in bowties!

Advice & congratulations from family.

Then on to the cupcakes! I love the 'don't you dare' finger.

Dance with dad

And with mom

And then they all let loose and danced into the night! Here you'll note the gentleman on the floor. The song was footloose, and he put his ALL into it! I love the reactions on every ones faces!

A job well done Kimberly & Jeff, it was a wonderful wedding!

~MelissaKoren

How to celebrate a birthday

2009-04-12T09:39:00.009-04:00

Part 1: Let them eat cake.

Cake? Cake you say?

I like cake -and being nearly 2 I can feed myself with a fork. Small bites are for babies.

You know what else is for babies? Forks. I don't need no stinkin' fork, it's just not working fast enough.

Aha! See, I've done it! I've become one with the cake!!

Not to be outdone on her birthday, Nichole decides this is a good idea and she requires a faster method of eating the cake also.

Now that was great fun, haha, posed for the picture.

but wait - - - while i was taking the picture, my brother and my cousin got up from their seats and came around to her side of the table and with lightning speed....

WHAM!

Admittedly the pictures are blurry, but you must forgive me because I didn't see it coming and once it happened I was laughing so hard I couldn't breathe, but still trying to take pictures.

Her clearly indented cake. (p.s. Best Cake EVER - Coldstone Creamery's Cake Batter Confetti)

After we cleaned them up, my cousin redeemed herself by presenting Nichole with her fabulous birthday gift: The Snuggie (the child is only our nephew, we had to give him back)

Part 2: Eat, Drink & Be Merry

Our very very good friend Allison helped me plot and execute a 6 course wine dinner for Nichole's birthday. We cooked and one of our other good friends Annie helped with the wine.

Allison-tong-hands. She was tending to the pork roast.

Course 1:

Annie talking about the accompanying wine.

Course two:

And here's where I failed. After course two was the risotto, which I was in charge of. So for 30 minutes I stirred and stirred and stirred and I made BRILLIANT risotto, however, Annie had topped off my glass repeatedly and my focus got ..er.. distracted, and I forgot to take photos of the rest of the courses as I was too busy eating amazing food and having a great time with our friends. I very much regret not having photos of everything, but I can't be too upset because that was the only thing that went awry!

With that I leave you with the menu card from the evening:

Happy Birthday Nichole!!!

Love,

All of your Nearest and Dearest

A Private Wine Dinner from Around the World Just for You

First Course
Mionetto, Brut Prosecco, Italy
Mixed Greens Tossed with Fresh Strawberries and Almonds

Second Course
Tohu, Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand
Seared Scallops with a Citrus Butter

Third Course
LaCrema, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Monterey, California
Risotto with Fresh Peas, Pancetta, and Parmesan cheese

Fourth Course
Candor, Merlot, Paso Robles, California
Beef Tenderloin Bruschetta with Gorgonzola Cheese,
Caramelized Onions, and a Balsamic Reduction

Fifth Course
Yalumba, Barossa Shiraz, Barossa, Australia
Roasted Pork with a Port Wine Reduction and Figs

Dessert
Grahams, LBV Porto, Portugal
Lemon Torte and Homemade Dark Chocolate Torte

And that, is how to celebrate a birthday!

The Bachelorette (Party)

2009-04-12T08:21:00.006-04:00

As I mentioned a few posts ago - we were lucky enough to be invited to our friend & client Kristan's bachelorette party in Boston last month. After being taken the very round about way by the GPS we arrived safe and sound at the parking garage. Not knowing where the night would lead us, I felt it was vital to take this photo:

The 1st part of the party was at Finale in Park Plaza. I'd never heard of this place before and the more I looked it up online the more excited I was to go. I am a dessert junkie - and this was HEAVEN. This cake/torte/decadence was one of the most amazing things I've eaten.

Kristan's sister orchestrated this whole affair, the evening started for Kristan by being surprised by a limo at her house and the got to Boston in style!

Check out those shoes - I covet them!

I've slowly but most surely become a red wine lover, my newest fascination is port and Finale had the perfect thing for me!

They were all tasty, but the 2nd one from the right was my favorite, it tasted like pure maple syrup with a kick - I wanted to pour it over vanilla ice cream - or better yet, fresh fallen snow!!

Kristan & her sister Katelyn (photo by Nichole)

After drinks & dessert we climbed in the limo and headed on to part two

Jaques Cabaret! We had front row seats and a hilarious time!

Kristan & the 4 other Bachelorettes that were there that night got called out up on stage.

The certainly put their all into their acts!

Ah, the life of a starlet!

I am SO SO excited for Kristan & John's wedding later this month at the Bedford Village Inn, I can't wait to share the photos from that!

Annie's Angels Heavenly Ball

2009-04-12T07:34:00.009-04:00

To view the full gallery and purchase any prints please click here.

I am honored to be the "official photographer" for the Annie's Angels Memorial Fund. The work that Bill, Di & their crew do is amazing. This years fundraiser was the 1st Annual Heavenly Ball at the New England Center in Durham, NH.

Welcome!

Bill & Di's daugther Stephanie came up from NJ for the occasion and I finally got to meet baby J. He's such an adorable chunky monkey! Stephanie was my first bride ever and she will always hold a very special place in my heart! It's so exciting to keep in touch with her and watch her family grow!

The Ball was packed with great items you could bid on.

Meet Bill - one of the kindest most warmhearted people you will ever meet. He gives a great hug!

A good friend of the Memorial Fund, WERZ's Ralphie Marino was the MC for the evening.

WHEB's JR was the fabulous DJ for the evening. He did a great job keeping people up and dancing. Shortly after that one of my October couples booked him for their wedding. It was purely coincidence but I was thrilled to hear they'd chosen him and I look forward to working with him again!

And BOY did they dance!! This couple had moves like no other! They rocked it out on the dance floor all night long complete with dips!

Bill's wife, Di -one cool cat!

Stephie has a ritual of singing at all the Annie's Angel's BBQ's so they asked her to sing at the Ball and of course she obliged. She totally nailed her rendition of Black Velvet.

Bill lets loose!

This was the most ANIMATED and amusing enactement of Paradise By The Dashboard Light I have ever seen.
Batter Steps Up to the Plate and Here's the Pitch (Photo by Nichole)

Let me sleep on it?

I gotta know right now!!

It was an amazing event and a great time was had by all. Their already planning for next years - I'll let you know when so you can save the date!

Spring Sale Begins Today!

2009-04-03T09:11:00.001-04:00

Phew - we made it through March! Hopefully April showers will help spring come into full bloom ASAP!

Today starts the sale!! 10% off all prints ordered Fri 4/3 - Sun 4/5! (Prints Only) That's just 3 days so act fast!!

What? 2 discounts?! It's True! Enter the code SPRING10 at checkout through April 30th and get $10 off any order $35 and up. (Prints & Products!) These two offers CAN be combined!

If your event was nearing deadline I've extended it so you can take advantage of these great offers! To check it out go to melissakoren.instaproofs.com.

Also, don't forget to spread the word about the discout cards: $50 off any event package and $25 off any portrait package. If you can't find one near you, shoot me an email! I'll send you a few to keep and pass around!

Ok, here's the handy summary list one more time:

10% off all prints orders April 3-5
$10 off any purchase of $35 or more through April 30th
Be on the look out for event and portrait savings cards
Pass these savings on to your friends and family!!

Happy Spring!!

~MelissaKoren

Spring Sale @ MKP!

2009-03-24T20:03:00.001-04:00

We've finally made it through winter here in New Hampshire (they swear it's going to get warmer any minute now!)

To celebrate and welcome the spring temperatures I'm offering 10% off all prints ordered April 3 - 5th!
In addition, enter the code SPRING10 at checkout through April 30th and get $10 off any order $35 and up.
These two offers CAN be combined!

If your event was nearing deadline I've extended it so you can take advantage of these great offers! To check it out go to melissakoren.instaproofs.com

I've also started creating some discount cards: $50 off any event package and $25 off any portrait package. If you can't find one near you, shoot me an email! I might just have some extras here so you can use the savings yourself and then pass them on to a friend!*

Because I like lists, here are the important bullet points:

10% off all prints orders April 3-5
$10 off any purchase of $35 or more through April 30th
Be on the look out for event and portrait savings cards
Pass these savings on to your friends and family

And since a post isn't a post with out a photo - I leave you with a shot of the FABULOUS desserts at Finale in Boston.

We went down there on Saturday night to help our friend & client Kristan celebrate her Bachelorette Party - It was such a blast, we can't wait till her wedding to John next month!

Happy Spring!! ~MelissaKoren

*offer applies to all customers new & returning on new event & portrait bookings only, cannot be applied to previously scheduled events.

MVG Animal Barn!

2009-03-06T19:47:00.002-05:00

Part of our morning adventure when we went to the Mountain View Grand was to go down to the barn, on suggestion from our waitress at breakfast (oh, the breakfast! I still have dreams about that buffet!!)

It didn't occur to us to drive down, since we could see it from our room, but by the time we got there we realized it was probably only 10 degrees out and WINDY! We survived, and the animals were totally worth the trip.

These two were so cute!

Those eyes!!

Even the animals were c.c.c.c.cold! This poor llama was making 'smoke' with his breath!

These are the rare curly sheep - so much wool! The waitress said 'kind of like your hair!' but she meant it in the nicest way possible :)
We were much more fascinated in them than they were in us!

I LOVE the construction of barns - this roof was just amazing, I was mesmerized!

As we were about to leave we found the hot cocoa station. It made our walk back to the hotel much warmer!

I'm nearly finished with Kimberly & Jeff's wedding, I keep finding favorites and I can't wait to make a full post!!

~Melissa Koren

Upcoming Events!

2009-03-06T14:59:00.001-05:00

Next Saturday I'm going to be photographing the Annie's Angels Heavenly Ball at the New England Center in Durham, NH. I decided to make up some promo cards so I can let the attendees know where to find the shots after the event and that a percent of the proceeds will go back to Annie's Angels. I'm pretty excited about the way they came out - and how FAST! I ordered them on Friday, and they were here on Monday - in the snow storm none the less.

For more information on Annie's Angels & The Heavenly Ball, check it out here - you can even find out how to win free tickets.

Hope to see you at the ball!
~Melissa Koren

Sneak Peek:: Kimberly & Jeff 02.14.09

2009-02-16T21:19:00.001-05:00

Did we ever have an AMAZING time with Kimberly & Jeff at their beautiful wedding on February 14th! I've got a million (give or take) images to go through but I thought I'd share a few that caught my eye before I dive in.

AYKM!?!?!?!? Kimberly - you are GORGEOUS! And good job picking a hotel that matched your flowers ;)

I love this detail shot - Kimberly's mother did all the wedding flowers, they were so perfect!

Kim & Jeff saw each other before the wedding, it was so anticipatory! I loved it!!

I won't lie, it was cold. And windy (we almost lost the veil but I would never let that happen!) But we had a great time using the beautiful mountains as a backdrop.

I can't wait to post some more from this wonderful wedding!

Winter Wonderland!

2009-02-14T10:56:00.002-05:00

I know we're all a little fed up with cold, and winter, and snow, but the Mountain View Grand is SO beautiful, I found a new appreciation for it! You know, at least for a day or two ;)

I'm here for the wedding of the fabulous Kim & Jeff - as I arrived last night, the sun was starting to set. I dropped my luggage, grabbed the camera and ran outside.

They have a skating rink and nightly bonfires, sugar on snow & all the winter sports activities you can think of.

I love this, shot with my new 5D.

The breafast buffet this morning was DIVINE! I can't wait to eat again tomorrow. But first, I think I'll go out to the barn and visit the animals including some rare wooly sheep and then - it's wedding time!

Matthew Turns 2!

2009-02-01T15:31:00.002-05:00

2 years ago I was just starting to dive into photography as more than a hobby. My friends asked me to take some photos of their new baby, Matthew. He was only about 2 weeks old here.

And now, he's TWO!

I can't beleive it's been 2 years - we've all had so much fun! He's the cutest little boy, so full of personality!

His mom and dad helped him blow out his candles.

On this AMAZING cake that his mom made and decorated. It was so gorgeous and SO tasty!

Happy Birthday Matthew!!

~MelissaKoren

Life's a Beach.

2009-02-01T15:31:00.001-05:00

Last weekend we decided to take the cameras on a little outing. Unfortunately, the weather decided to get cold, and fast. So we only shot a few chilly photos and then packed it in.

Nichole had a great time with our new 18-200 lens.

Theses icicles are hanging off our apartment - they're coming from every where!

Keep Warm!

~MelissaKoren

Out & About

2009-01-22T21:32:00.001-05:00

In what very readily feels like FOREVER ago, I met up with the fabulous Arie Kidder and took some photos of her amazing cakes to submission from Grace Ormonde weddings. Well it looks like we made a good pair because her cake is now on display on the web

And in their gorgeous magazine

I also made up this, for ads and who knows what else.

2009 is off to a great start! I look forward to everything it has to bring!

Hilary's Maternity Pictures 01.01.09

2009-01-22T21:17:00.000-05:00

Hilary was due yesterday, but babies like to take their time so we haven't had any news yet. She's so excited about being a mother though. We were going to take some photos a few weeks ago, but we had a crazy blizzard and decided to reschedule. I'm glad we did - I like to wait as long as possible to have as much belly as we can to shoot! I went over to their house on New Years day and we went up to the nursery.

I love the shot of her and Rich - there's so much joy in their faces!

Hilary may be a first time mom, but she's been helping Rich raise his son Zac for more than a few years. Both these handsome guys are super excited to meet the newest member of their family.

This was all Zac's idea, I can't take the credit, but I totally love it. This baby is destined to be a superstar!

A few more shots of Rich & Hilary before they have their hands full of new baby!

I'm so excited for them! Thank you so much for doing that with us. It was very fun and you can see that in the pictures. ~Hilary

Thank you guys for having me to your house and in your life. I can't wait to meet the little one! Good Luck Guys!!

Isabel turns 3! 01.17.09

2009-01-19T21:19:00.000-05:00

Isabel is the daugther of our new friends Stephanie & Jeff. She is a firey red head who just happened to turn 3 last week. She has the best birthday shirt ever- and who says redheads can't wear pink! I love that the "Little Miss (and Mister)" books are making a comeback. I had them when I was a kid (most notable Little Miss Bossy & Little Miss Helpful (no comment). We got her little miss chatterbox & little miss giggles - it sums her up perfectly!

Mmm cake & icecream!

She's just soooo cute!!

This was her reaction as her Mom & Nichole paraded in her myriad of presents. TOO funny!

And this was her thank you to the crowd. Gotta love the confidence and gratefulness of a 3 year old!

Happy Birthday Isabel!

"The photos from Isabel's party are amazing!!! You are amazing!!! If anyone needs a photographer.... I will soooooooo recommend you!!!" ~Stephanie

Christmas 2008

2008-12-28T21:13:00.000-05:00

Christmas!! Our Christmas consists of Christmas Eve at my parents, then back here for a few hours of sleep, then we have Christmas Morning with Benjamin at our house and head back to my mothers and wind up at my Grandmothers house.

Nichole acting as the Tickle Monster!

My son, nephew and 1st cousin once removed (what a weird family relation term). But as far as their concerned, they're all cousins. I wanted to get a picture of all the boys, but the younger ones weren't so interested in cooperating.

Oh, no! Does he have a fever?

My brother and my son - two peas in a pod. My brother is 6'2'' and my son is only 8- yet they look about the same size. I'm in SO much trouble! :)

Ok, I'm obsessed with this face, but wouldn't you be too?

The cuteness!

Every year be gets new PJ's for Christmas, this year he got a new mood glowy thing too - he was psyched.

My brother found these marbles with real bugs inside. I love this shot!

Mums tree :)

My favorite part of Christmas. Every year, since I was born, my dad has read The Night Before Christmas to us, for a book that he's had forever and was published when he was a toddler. Boy has his audience grown! Look at my kiddo, he's nearly too big to sit on my lap :(

Our tree, for the first year ever we decided to get a real one, I loved it!

My son is a bit of a dork, and he asked for a lump of coal from santa. So santa, not wanting to let him down, obliged, and also sent him something a little more interesting than just a lump of coal.

I love Christmas morning hair!

We got a wii, and a wii fit, but the most exciting game for B was the Carnival games

Sophie the Christmas chihuahua

My dads Christmas consisted of guitar loot to grow his renewed obsession with guitar.

My mom's christmas consisted of whiskey. Hmm.

Killian in his christmas PJ's & new robe!

We got my brother the book "stuff on my cat" .. it was a hit.

Unless you're my mothers cat...

Spy night vision goggles.

Sorry, its that face again.

Nichole rockin out on the mini guitar

All the technology and noises and toys in the world and this simple spider man toy was what he kept going back to and play with over and over.

...and to all a good night!

Sue & Mary 12.06.08

2008-12-27T21:11:00.000-05:00

Sue & Mary had their wedding on a lovely Saturday in December. The church was gorgeous.

This picture makes me smile because I love how it represents their family and what's to come.

Their program in the stained glass window

Their twins walking down the isle. These two are heart breakers and they were SO well behaved all day.

Sue and Mary being escorted down the isle.

Seriously beautiful church - and I love the advent wreath.

The sand ceremony. Each of them had a color, the kids knew exactly which color was theirs and what to do with it.

At the hotel - I love Christmastime weddings - there are so many fun decorations!

Reception time!

Sue and Mary are insane, and I mean that in the best way possible. They have been together for many many years and have a tradition of having a holiday party every year and having all the family over and all the kids get to demolish a gingerbread house. So instead of their party, they planned their wedding. They made a gingerbread house for every table's centerpiece and a gingerbread man for every guest.

The kids watching their mom's have their first dance.

Another family tradition was Irish Soda Bread - which the someone else in the family made for every table.

This family is amazing. As I said they've been together a long time. (I want to say 26 years). The world has come a long way on that time and to watch Sue & Mary wed, was an emotional event. Her sister couldn't look at her during the speech because she was sure she would lose it.

The kissing can was great fun - all the couples names were in the can, and every time they clinked on a glass for Sue & Mary to kiss, the DJ would pull a couples name out of the can instead, that could would approach the dance floor and show of their best lip lock! It was so entertaining!

I mentioned they made the centerpieces. But the real centerpiece of the reception was this gingerbread castle that says "Dreams do come true" and in the top turret there you see "Mom, Mama, R & A" representing their family.

I also mentioned that the kids would demolish the gingerbread house - well, were they go! Instead of cutting the cake, the kids (and adults) came up and dug in!

Mmm candy!

Then they danced the afternoon away!

Hmm, I wonder what song this could possibly be!? :)

Sue & her dad

A family dance.

What an wonderful day - these women are strong and loving and it's obvious that everyone around them loves then and appreciates them for that fact. Their twins are the apples of their eye and they're all so grateful for everything they've been blessed with.

Congratulations Sue, Mary & Kids! Thank you for allowing me to witness your journey!

"R" Christmas Kids!

2008-12-20T22:35:00.000-05:00

These three are too cute. I was supposed to meet up with them for a relaxed at home session so their dad could do christmas cards, unfortunately the kids were sick so we had to reschedule and time was tight. I met them at the town hall while they prepared their tree for auction and snapped a few quick shots of them in their crazy hats!

Merry Christmas!

I can't wait to have some more time to photograph these beautiful faces!

The "S" Family 11.16.08

2008-12-12T22:26:00.000-05:00

The things about living in the town you went to school in is inevitably, you run into people! Nicole and I took highschool Spanish together. Now she and her husband (another classmate) and their three beautiful children live just around the corner from us. Together with their syblings and parents we met up in town to take some photos!

I asked him to touch noses with his mum. At least he's a good listener!

I'm so lucky to have reconnected with so many great people and that they allow me to photograph their beautiful families! Thanks guys I had a great afternoon!

Katie & Shawn 11.11.08

2008-12-11T22:05:00.000-05:00

Katie & Shawn found me through Monica & Rob. Shortly after Monica received her photos Katie emailed me and told me of her super secret surprise wedding. I was so excited to hear about her plans and thrilled I was able to be a part of everything. The premise was that their family was coming to their house for their wedding shower. What the didn't know, was it was really their wedding day!!

I met them at their house and the girls and I headed down to the salon. Zoe wasn't so sure about curling irons and hair-do's but being a princess isn't easy work so I found a photo of Belle for her to focus on while the hairdress gave her a flowergirl hair-do fit for a princess!

I'm not sure if Katie was looking at a photo for inspiration too?

Almost done - so beautiful!

Katie wasn't almost as done - too funny!

Seeing the finished flowergirl!

GORGEOUS

The staff at the salon were great - A little makeup for the princess :)

This was their cake topper, and I guess Zoe decided that they were lonely so they got a my little pony to keep them company. It was so adorable.

Katie & Shawns rings - and the beautiful necklace they bought Zoe to remind her of that amazing day.

Katie & Shawn's gifts to each other.

I love this shot - do you see Zoe's little eyes peeking through?

And then, it was time for the guests to start and the surprise to come!

Zoe has some awfully cute cousins.

Perfect!

Melissa!!! Shawn and I just sat through and looked at all the pictures and I don't think thank you could ever be enough. The pictures are amazing and everything you did to save the day was equally amazing. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts and thank goodness there are people like you who truly put their hearts in what they do. Thank you so much again, Shawn and Katie

Katie & Shawn I wish you all the luck in the world! It was wonderful to be a part of your day!

Stephanie & Mike 11.02.08

2008-12-08T21:40:00.000-05:00

Stephanie & Mike are getting married in York ME in May. They wanted to get some good York scenery in their engagement photos so they asked me to meet them at Nubble Light. It was cold, I can't lie, but these two are so cute it didn't matter!

Nothing says York like the lighthouse! They'd never even been here before -we had a great time!

After the lighthouse we decided to go down the road a piece and see if we could get out of the direct wind. They also wanted some shots with their adorable puppy!

Melissa These came out fantastic. GREAT WORK... we are both so impressed... I love them! THANK YOU!!!! THANK YOU!!!! THANK YOU!!!!! ~Stephanie & Mike

Thanks for braving the cold with me Stephanie & Mike! I had so much fun and your puppy is just too cute for words! I'm looking forward to May!

Katie & Jed Engaged! 11.02.08

2008-12-08T21:36:00.000-05:00

I met Katie & Jed at Kate & Marcus' wedding. Katie was in Kate's bridal party and I was SO excited when she asked me to photographer her wedding in December 09. We met in Portsmouth on a frigid day to take some engagement portraits. They were total troopers and we had a great time! Katie found this amazing red coat - it was a hit!

Jed is such a sweet heart, and a total character. His 'reaction' to her ring!

They are just too cute for words!

The foliage in Prescot Park lingers a little longer.

Then they indulged me and played beside traffic under the bridge. I think it was worth it -

AYKM!? I LOVE this shot - and this tree - and this couple!!

Congratulations Katie & Jed! I can't wait to see you at your wedding!

Hi Melissa, I wanted to thank you for the beautiful engagement photos. We will be looking through and ordering some shortly. I think we really have quite a few nice ones to choose from. Thanks again for the wonderful photos. I look forward to hearing from you. ~ Katie

Kacy & David Engaged! 11.01.08

2008-12-06T21:24:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in my previous post, Kacy & I have known each other since 7th grade. Shortly before we set up their family portraits, David & Kacy got engaged. So it only made since to leave the rest of the family behind and run off and take some engagement portraits! We decided to head to the parking garage in Portsmouth and see what we could work out there.

And did they ever work it out!

AYKM!? Those EYES!

I'm so excited for their wedding in October!

The "D" Family 11.01.08

2008-12-06T21:13:00.000-05:00

I have known this family since I was in 7th grade. We lost touch for a while, but it's amazing what comes of addiction to the internet! We reconnected 3 years ago and it was wonderful to find out they still lived in the area! They asked if I could do some family portraits for them and of course I said yes!

Their family has expanded and now they have this gorgeous little boy in their world!

With his dad.

This boy used to annoy me in quintessential little brother fashion. It's so amazing to see him all grown up!

My best friend in Jr. high, her fiance & his son.

Gramma

With the puppies!

Girl power

Mom & Dad!

The kids and their partners.

The whole gang!

This was so much fun! I'm so glad to have reconnected with them!

Melissa, I can't tell you how impressed I am with what you can do with a camera. We had such a good time, and it shows. I don't know how you made us look so good. A world of "Thanks" comes your way. ~Chris (Mom!)

Sherry & Corrine 10.31.08

2008-12-05T21:12:00.000-05:00

Sherry & Corrine called me from Germany and asked if was available on 10.31 for a wedding in Boston, on a boat. I was so excited to be able to say yes!! I got into Boston a little early and had a nice relaxing meal in the Seaport Hotel lounge and then headed off to the dock! The weather was SO amazing - I had pleny of layers for Boston in October, but never needed any of them.

Their family made and glazed all these bud vase favors, I loved the color.

Their neice, SUCH a cutie!

Things got started a little late - we were supposed to be at the ceremony location at sunset, but we were just leaving as the sun started to set. It all worked out though - and the scenery was just amazing.

Here come the brides!

They aquired their dresses in Germany, they were so stunning.

Trying to light the unity candle - it was sort of windy on the moving boat!

A few formals before the sun ran away for the night

These crystal boats were wrapped at everyone's place settings. Their rings are gorgeous - interlocking diamond & wedding band - one is round cut, the other princess cut.

Their other neice, and flower girl, she was so lively!

Dancing with dad.

Who didn't stop dancing all night!

More skyline as we approach the harbor.

Sherry & her brother

One last dance before we departed.

What an amazing event! These two have great family & friends and everyone seemed to have an aamzing time. Shooting on a boat was a LOT of fun -and the guests took good care of me making sure I didn't fall overboard and allowing me access to move around the crowded deck to try and get shots from all angles.

I wish you all the luck Sherry & Corrine!

Reed 10.24.08

2008-12-02T20:45:00.000-05:00

This little boy captured my heart. He's got the most animated stories and expressions. We talked about kingergarten and halloween. I have a feeling even if his mother hadn't promised him chocolate chips for behaving, he would have behaved anyway. He had a great smile, great attitude, and a great sense of adventure!

Way to own the scene Reed!!

I want to shoot everyone on this old ford now...

Can you stand it!? What a charmer.

Hi, Melissa, Thank you! The pictures are beautiful and I'm sending the link to some friends so hopefully you'll be getting some calls. It's going to take me a little time to decide as you got some great ones! ~Pam

Thanks Pam! I had a great time meeting you and your son!

Keith & Taylor 10.18.08

2008-12-02T15:58:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned when I posted their shower photos your baby brother getting married is .. weird!

I don't know why exactly, it's just.. amazing that that snot nosed little bratty brother that you used to loathe and pick on and fight with relentlessly is now a grown up, and a father, and a husband.

The day had come, and the weather was amazing (a bit chilly, but it was mid-October). Taylor's brother Ben had come up and he knew where it was at!

The INCOMPARABLE Dori set up shop in my mother's living room and worked her magic. Seriously, she is THE BEST hairdresser ever. (And I'm not just saying that because she's done my hair for 5 years and made my wedding day hairdo to die for!)

Our friend Christina made this cake, and the log stand it's sitting on. It couldn't have been more perfect and we're all still in awe of it to this day!

My brother is 6'2''. Taylor, is not. Not even in these shoes but it did cut out some of the nearly 1' height difference :)

Instead of a ring bearer pillow, my brother grew some moss in a pot and my son, ring bearer extraordinaire, carried the rings in here.

The beautiful ceremony location.

The grass was SO green! Perfect, since that was the wedding color too!

The dress

Taylor getting shellacked.

gorgeous.

Our nephew, Killian! All tuxed out and ready to rock!

The ceremony

I think this is when they asked Keith if he would take Taylor to be his wife. He had to stop and think about it. Twit. er, I mean, see? He's still my baby brother.

Benjamin keeping the rings safe.

Notice anything wonky about this photo? He offered her the wrong hand for the wedding ring. After about 2 minutes of it not fitting, they figured it out and switched off. We laughed!!

My grandparents with their youngest great-grandson

Seriously? Wow. My brother is now a husband.

Family!

Have I mentioned how much I love October?

My parents dancing

Taylor & her baby boy!

My grandmother dancing with my brother

Nichole pulling double duty as MC and helping out and 2nd shooting with me!

Everything was crisp and earthy. Beautiful!

Lemon cake, YUM!

Nichole & baby Reed - he looks SOOO dapper!

The green petticoat & shoes!

The end of the night- a classic look!

I'm very excited to report that I we will be Aunts again as Keith and Taylor are having another baby in May! I can't wait photograph her(?!)

Thanksgiving 11.27.08

2008-11-30T22:28:00.000-05:00

This year Thanksgiving (as most things are) was at my parents house. The table was set so festively!

My dad has started to acquire quite the collection of guitars!

My cousins baby - she's got intense eyes!

Mum & Nichole.

Killian rocking out and marching to the beat of his own.. casio.

YUM!

Killi takes on the turkey leg.

Taylor's baby bump is starting to show - meanwhile Killian gets a hold of the whipped cream beaters.

It was a great day!

Stephanie & Todd 10.12.08

2008-11-30T22:01:00.000-05:00

Stephanie & Todd were married at the GORGEOUS Methuen Music Hall. What an amazing venue this was!

Seriously incredible.

Then it was off to Promisese to Keep in Derry, NH for some outdoor formals and the reception!

Yay for fall colors!

Their reception was a beach themed wedding with a pirate twist - it was Great fun!

They had an awesome guest book idea: They got an art book full of seashell pictures and had the guests sign around it - with a plumed pen none-the-less!

And they danced -

Then the DJ had all the men gather in a circle around Stephanie and serenade her till Todd came in to rescue her.

After that it was Todd's turn. He was placed in a chair at the front of the dance floor and the ladies all lined up down either side of him and can-canned while in pairs came up and kissed him on the cheek.

Until it was Stephanie's turn to come in and rescue him!

The groomsmen went out of the hall for a moment and all returned with eye patches, grabbed their signifigant others, and whisked them onto the dance floor.

Stephanie & Todd, thank you for a wonderful adventure! Your venue's were amazing and your pirate details were great! Best of luck!

~MelissaKoren

Laura & Kristen 10.11.08

2008-11-29T14:59:00.000-05:00

Laura & Kristen found my magnet in their goodie bag from the Same Rights Same Love expo last October. I was super excited to get their phone call because they were my first same-sex wedding! I met them at the Radisson in Nashua and we snuck outside for a few shots before the ceremony.

Then as we waited for the events to begin I poked around their reception - I laughed SO HARD when I found these at their sweetheart head table:

Their ceremony was so sweet. Tears! (mine, and everyone else's)

Also, the atrium area where they held it was GORGEOUS!

Kristen's Mum & Dad - I adored them!!

The wedding party- those two girls are Laura's daughters, that's right DAUGHTER'S. And she was just about to be a grandmother! I still can't believe that.

My place setting - and the adorable personalized M&M's with Kristen & Laura's mugs on 'em.

The first dance.

Kristen giving Laura some instruction about how to (not) feed her cake.

Ok, I don't normally post my meal, but this was one of the most beautiful & tasty dishes I've had. It was a vegetable Napoleon and I would have eaten it 10 times over and still have dreams about it to this day.

After dinner: Dancing!

Getting Gram up to get footloose!

Kristen and her dad danced

And her mom cried

Then Kristen's dad danced with his new daughter-in-law

And EVERYONE cried.

Kristen then shared a special dance with her BFF Marshall

And Laura danced with her daughters

A final parent dance with Kristen & her mum.

Then it was time to PARTY!

Thank you! They look amazing!! ~ Kristen

Laura & Kristen - what can I say!? Thank you for being my first 'gay wedding' you've certainly set quite a precedent ;) Your friends and family are amazing and I loved every minute of it!

~MelissaKoren

Holly & Will 10.10.08

2008-11-28T14:17:00.000-05:00

When I first met Holly & Will I realized how amazingly down to earth and wholesome they were. Being in attendance at their wedding made me realize that even that was understated and that they were just amazing. Every detail was thoughtful and gorgeous.

Holly & her sister - I LOVE Holly's dress, the delicate sleeves suit her so well!

Will as he sees her approach the isle - the look! I almost started crying right then!

The bridesmaids caught Will's look too - except Holly's sister, she caught me!

This may well be my favorite wedding moment ever. As they kneeled to pray they folded into each other in a perfect yin/yang. I was so taken I think I forgot to breathe for a minute.

The AMAZING barn where they had their reception - a fall harvest dinner and barn dance!

In authentic barn dance style they had two musicians who called out the dance formations as we went through out the night.

About 1/2 way through the evening, I realized why this seemed so familiar to me - they had been the ones to lead the 'barn dance' for Dave's 80th Birthday Party!

For their last dance, Holly and Will started the crowd in signing "Lord of the Dance (Tis a gift to be simple)" and they all joined hands and danced around the barn and the property. It was such an amazing evening!

Hi Melissa, The photos look wonderful! It is so exciting to look through all of them. You do such nice work! I know our families and friends will enjoy seeing them all, too. ~ Holly

Thank you Holly & Will for having me! It was such an honor to be at such a lovely wedding! I have to admit, one of my favorite parts were yourJenness farm soap favors because they were the same thing that we had at our wedding!

~MelissaKoren

Susie & Gus 10.03.08

2008-11-25T11:24:00.000-05:00

I met Susie at my favorite restuarant, it was an early afternoon and very quiet and we started chatting - she mentioned she was getting married and I mentioned I was a wedding photographer and presto! I was so excited for their small intimate wedding at the York Harbor Inn, ME. The weather could not have been more perfect!

I arrived at her suite as she was finishing up. Her bouquet was stunning!

What a gorgeous bridal party!

Her fiance, Gus, as Susie makes her grand entrance.

Then it was outside for some 'formals'

Did I mention the weather was amazing?!

These two were so simply, purely and naturally in love - it was a joy to be around!

Susie took off her shoes to walk through the grass and I snagged them for a quick set up on the wraught iron fence.

Their 'reception' an AMAZING dinner for their family and closest friends.

The guests egged them on into a quick first dance as a married couple and Gus went in for the dip!

Susie & Gus! Thank you for having me as part of you intimate and special day. I very much enjoyed myself and your friends and family made me feel especially welcomed and at home. With love and support like that you're destined for a life of wonder & surprise!

~MelissaKoren

Jenilee & Brian 09.28.08

2008-11-24T22:48:00.000-05:00

Jenilee & Bryan were also married during Hurricane Gloria - though the worst of it had passed, it was still too damp and dreary outside for the ceremony so they instead had it in the hall of the gorgeous Spring Hill in South Berwick, ME. Their favors looked DIVINE!

I loved her color scheme, that lime green is totally becoming one of my new favorite colors.

The posse. Theses little boys were hysterical. The one on the right is Jenilee & Bryan's son. It was so adorable to see them run around in their little tuxes!

The ceremony

It was a wonderfully sweet and touching ceremony, not a dry eye in the house.

First dance as husband and wife!

The toasts, more tears, so much love!

The foliage was divine!

The DJ gathered everyone for a group shot and then had me stand on a very expensive speaker to get the shot!

Brian wanted to make sure he had backup incase I didn't do a good job..

Searching for the garter! Jenilee just too cute for words!

I loved the concentration on their faces during the bouquet and garter tosses

Congratulations Jenilee & Bryan!

I hope all is well! Sorry it took me so long to use the print credit. I just figured after the holidays and what not it would be easiest to sit down and TRY to decide which I liked best... It wasn't easy! You did an amazing job and I'm very happy with how they turned out! ~ Jenilee

Thank you for having me!

~MelissaKoren

Rachel & Michael 09.27.08

2008-11-21T22:29:00.000-05:00

Rachel and Michael! What can I say - I've had SO much fun working with these two. They were referred to me by the fabulous Kate & Marcus.

I met with Rachel and her mum at their beautiful house in Kennebunkport and we lined up engagement photos at the Wentworth where they got engaged, shortly there after. Then in the summer it was back to Kennebunkport for a gorgeous wedding shower!

Finally it was time for the big day! Unfortunatly, it was also time for Hurricane Gloria. The ceremony was supposed to be held on the grounds of St. Ann's church with the ocean behind them, but instead they rehearsed and wed inside this amazing stone church.

Nothing could upset them though - and they got through the rehearsal all smiles!

The next day I arrived at Rachel's mum's house as they were finishing up the preparations. I LOVE the stars that Rachel has on her back.

Some garter help -

And a few portraits...

SO gorgeous!

I'm not sure who was more exstatic through out the wedding process, Rachel or her Mum!

AYKM!? All this beauty in the same place!?

Rachel arrives at the church and is greated by her dad..

Her father and grandfather walked her down the isle

They did it! Married!!

Then we braved Gloria to try and get a few outdoor formals. (brr!)

They took a horse and buggy from the church to the Colony Hotel down the road - and everyone had to wait for them!

The Colony has AMAZING grounds - the rain kept us under cover, but their wrap around porch and gazebo still allowed us to be outside!

The joke in the wedding planning was that there could never be enough starfish!

During the toasts

Bridesmaids hustle!

The band, the Metro, out of Boston - they were AMAZING. Tracy Rose, the lead singer, has the most beautiful voice and they have SUCH great energy as a band, every one danced ALL night!

Even Rachels' grandmother - who I only saw sit down ONCE!

Rachel pulled me aside and warned me that she wasn't acutally goign to toss her bouqet, she was going to football pass it to her sister (unbeknownst to her!) This was the crowds reaction and she received the pass!

The last dance of the night

Hi Melissa the pictures are amazing!!! You are a wonderful photography. Thank you so much! I also wanted to let you know you were a great help at my wedding as well as a photographer. I'll be contacting you soon to order pictures:) ~Rachel

Rachel, Michael & your families - thank you so much for taking me along on this adventure! About 1/2 way through the wedding I realized that this was it - and mentioned to Rachel I was going to miss her! She said no way, I was their photographer for life! Well, I'll take that challenge and run with it!

This was a great wedding for me also in that there were 3 of my brides all in the same place! Rachel, Kate & Rebecca. Thank you guys for referring me amungst yourselves!

~MelissaKoren

Heather & Dave 09.13.08

2008-11-19T21:27:00.000-05:00

I met Heather and Dave as the DJ's at Kitty & Pat's wedding in May. A few weeks later I had a meeting with a couple through a wedding coordinator and imagine our surprise when we saw each other again! I guess I made a good impression though, because they booked me on the spot!

Their coordinator, Jennifer, did an amazing job with all the details!

And Heather has an electrifing smile - she was so excited!

With this ring...

The wedding was held in their backyard, which ajoins with their parents backyard. It was very nicely set up and Jennifer had made this fun directional signs.

Heathers daughter - what a GORGEOUS family!

Paparazzi!

Heather's dad gave a speach and it was so sweet and touching. He had mad a manual on raising a daughter, it was a great and idea and fabulously executed. We were all brimming with tears.

First dance!

Heather's mom during the father daughter dance.

Mission Accomplished!

Heather & Dave - thank you for having me at your wedding. It was full of family and love and it was wonderful to be there.

~MelissaKoren

Ethan & Emily 10.04.08

2008-11-12T21:22:00.000-05:00

I have known Ethan & Emily's mom and dad since we were all in High School. Like most, we lost touch for a while but then reconnected via the wonders of the internet. It's been great reconnecting, and even more so getting to know their adorable children!

Nichole & I met them in Portsmouth at the gardens to run around and see if we could get some unobtrusive 'relaxed' portraits.

Ethan is a character. Full of stories and expressions and ENERGY! The best sitting still pictures where while they were up the tree :)

Emily is SUCH a peanut - and a princess - and she knows it. She's daddy's little girl through and through, but she has no qualms about beating up on her big brother.

Thanks Laurie & Brian for letting us run around and 'shoot' your kids! I can't wait to do it again next year :)

Molly & Drew 10.04.08

2008-11-12T21:08:00.000-05:00

Molly & Drew are engaged. And stunning. Seriously, what a beautiful couple! Molly contacted me after she was referred by a friend - I was super excited to meet them on Hampton Beach for some engagement shots.

It wasn't exactly warm that day, especially with the ocean breeze, but they were total troopers!

I was also super excited because Nichole came along to second shoot with me - she got some fantastic shots!

Then we headed back through Exeter to find some foliage - This tree was just so glowing and warm!

Oh my gosh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They are fabulous. I love the black and white photos! My favorite!! Oh I am just so over the moon. I wish you could do our wedding! ~ Molly

Molly & Drew- you were an absolute blast to work with! Thank you for being up for anything and full of smiles! I wish that I was able to do your wedding too!! All the best - and I'll hopefully see you around town!

~MelissaKoren

Rachel's Senior Pictures 09.30.208

2008-11-09T20:51:00.000-05:00

Rachel is a senior! Working through her last year of high school it was time to immortalize it for the yearbook! We took a quick ride around Portsmouth on a gorgeous September afternoon and snapped a few shots for her to chose from.

Congratulations on your impending graduation Rachel!

~MelissaKoren

The "L" Family 09.21.08

2008-11-08T20:17:00.000-05:00

When John asked his stay-at-home dad's network if they knew any photographers, my good friend, and SAHD, Bill volunteered me. I was very excited to get the email from John asking if I could come down and take some photos of his BEAUTIFUL family. Seriously, these folks are stunning - those little blonde boys with the crystal blue eyes!?!?! Even the family dog was too cute to resist.

Melissa,

Wow, you took so many great pictures its been tough picking which ones we want. They all look so great!

Thanks,

John

John & Family - You're welcome! Thank you for being so hospitable to me and letting me capture the wonderfulness of your family!

~MelissaKoren

Liz's Senior Pictures 09.21.08

2008-11-08T20:11:00.000-05:00

Liz is a going to graduate in 2009 and so that meant it was time to get her senior pictures done! She boards her horse at the same stable where I did Shauna & Ali's senior photos last year and was thrilled to hear that their mother's had recommended me. It's so fun to work with the girls, and their horses!

Hello Melissa, The pictures you shot were beautiful. We had alot of great choices! Thanks for everything. ~ Eileen & Liz

You're both so welcome! All the best to you Liz as you graduate, I'm sure you'll conquer the world!

~Melissa Koren

Reed, Age 5

2008-11-07T14:30:00.000-05:00

Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting this little boy and his mother. I went to their gorgeous old farm house and we went for a walk down a quintessential country lane, complete with cow patties. I got so many great shots of this delightful little boy. He was such a trooper and an amazing listener - though - if I thought I was told I would get chocolate chips for being a good listener, I'd be all over that too!

I can't wait some with you, but I'm still in full force editing of events before I have time to blog. Until then though, I just had to post this one. Mostly because I can't stop staring at it.

Happy Friday!
~Melissa Koren

Nicole & Bryan 09.06.08

2008-11-06T20:44:00.000-05:00

Nicole & Bryan got married at the absolutely gorgeous Zorvino Vineyards in Sandown, NH. The day was hot and humid and full of rain, but it timed itself well and we were able to take a few formals outside in between downpours.

I arrived just as Nicole was starting to get dressed, she already looked absolutely stunning though!

The lines in Zorvino are awesome, lofts, exposed beams, spiral staircase and the shoes.

Her fall colors and bouquet were perfect!

And the cake tasted as good as it looks.

A few last minute touch ups

The flower girl was anxious to see Nicole coming down the stairs and was trying to find the best vantage point!

I love the look on the ring bearers face here - he wasn't an overly smily boy but who could help but smile at this moment!

Nicole's parents as they light the unity candle

AYKM!? So gorgeous!

I love the way Bryan embraces Nicole - completely all encompassed.

Cake!

They had an awesome candy buffet station - my favorite old school ones were the pastel wafer discs with the little candy beads in the middle.

Nicole & Bryan, Thank you so much for having me as part of your day! Your smiles and happiness were contageous, I loved every minute of it!

~MelissaKoren

Reed & Family 09.21.08

2008-11-05T12:35:00.000-05:00

Last September, I took some maternity portraits for my cousin Catrina. Almost a year later, we revisited the scene of the 'crime' to take some "my first halloween" pictures with her son, Reed!

I am partially bias, I admit, but I swear, he is the most beautiful baby I've ever seen. And this turkey costume - I was speechless, all I could do is take pictures!

Reed didsn't find the costume as amusing as the rest of us.

But he settled in.

With mum and dad.

The eyes. ... and the grass in the mouth!

My favorite 2:

Mum's trying to eat her turkey dinner early!

And a few sans costume - I love this family!

Drool - and baby feet!

Hansome boy!

My cousin is such an amazing mother, and to think, I used to babysit her! (I take no credit for her mothering abilities, I just can't believe I used to feed her bottles and such!)

Thanks Bean, Matt & Reed for being my family, and for being my models! You're gorgeous and I adore you!

~MelissaKoren

Taylor & Keith's Wedding Shower 09.14.08

2008-11-01T12:13:00.000-04:00

It's a very strange thing to see my baby brother prepare to be married. But he met his match and they are in it for the long haul. To start off the celebrating we had a shower for them at my mothers house. Cake, babies, presents & family. You can't get much better than that!

My grandfather and my brother's son and Killian, and the bride to be Taylor holding my cousin Reed.

My brother, getting in my shot.

Daddy and boy playing music, a very common site.

Reed - the cupie doll with the eyes and curls to melt your heart (just wait till you see his halloween shoot!)

My grandmother

Present time - they got quite a haul of household goodies.

The picture that my son drew for his first day of 3rd grade about what he would be doing this year. He was the ringbearer in the wedding so he drew a picture - he asked what their colors were (since it was the 3rd wedding he was in in 6 months) and I told him green and white, so he designed her a fantastic dress!

We had a great time - the wedding photos will be posted soon!

Myriah & Tim 08.30.08

2008-10-30T13:38:00.000-04:00

Myriah & Tim were married on a gorgeous property in Northport, ME. The weather was absolutely perfect and the details were were wonderful!

Myriah was stunning!

Forever in each others hearts, and hidden inside their rings.

There were many tears of happiness shed!

Then it was off to a private beach for the formals. The boys wanted to emulate 'the captain' I needed to change it up a bit so I asked them to 'captain' in the other direction - then they hurrahed that I made it a verb.

What an amazing location!

I loved her dress! So gorgeous!

More tears during the father/daughter dance - mine included! Yay for autofocus!

What an amazing day! Thank you to Myriah & Tim and their families - I had a great time!

Ronna & Joe 08.23.08

2008-10-29T18:42:00.000-04:00

Ronna & Joe had an outdoor ceremony in Prescott Park in Portsmouth, NH. The weather could not have been more perfect!

I arrived at the Hilton just as the final touches were being added

A few shots of perfection before we jumped on the elevator.

Ronna & Joe decided to do their portraits before the ceremony so we took the limo over the the gardens and stole the show. One girl came over and asked Ronna if she could take a picture of her hair because she was getting married soon and it was exactly how she wanted hers!

Then it was time for the ceremony. With all the confidence in the world, they made their way down the walkway.

And then - they were married!

A few quick just married shots and we were off to the reception!

The first dance- these two are so adorable together, full of fun, life and love!

Joe & his mother

Ronna & her dad

And then they danced the night away - they were a lively bunch!

What a great wedding! Thank you Ronna & Joe for asking me to be a part of your day!

Hi Melissa,
The pictures came out awesome. There are a couple that are pretty funny :-) Thanks again you did a great job. Ronna

The scoop

2008-10-28T15:49:00.001-04:00

Boy do I owe some posts. Where have I been, slacking? Lazy? Ignoring you all? Never!

Business has been booming! I had everything under control until I had the misfortune of getting a virus on my computer. Not the file eating kind, just the so annoying and you can't open anything with out it taking 400 hours kind. On the plus side, I had already placed an order for my new super fast laptop, on the downside, I lost over a week of productivity (and eating and sleeping) getting the virus off my old computer (at least to the point where it was functioning enough) and setting up my new computer.

So now I'm playing catch up on productivity (the eating and sleeping will have to wait) but in the mean time, a sneak of all the posts I owe!

In no particular order, here's what I've been up to the last 2 months..

Ronna & Joe had a GORGEOUS wedding at Prescott Park in Portsmouth, Holly & Will had a fall barn dance - complete with fiddlers, it was so quaint and New England.

Myriah & Tim invited me up to Camden, ME to shoot their spectacular event - they were all so happy they jumped for joy!

Nicole & Bryan got married at Zorvino Vineyards on a VERY humid Saturday in September there was a lot of rain too, but we still managed a few outdoor shots, stunning!

And their bling wasn't too bad either ;)

Heather & Dave tied the knot in a wonderful backyard ceremony with Heather's beautiful daughter serving as the maid of honor - what a good looking family!

Rachel & Michael rehearsed - then tied the knot - all during the remnants of a hurricane, nothing could put a damper on their perfection though!

Susie & Gus had an intimate ceremony & reception at the York Harbor Inn and Jenilee & Bryan had a touching & emotional ceremony at the Spring Hill Lodge both in Maine.

Kristen & Laura tied the knot at a great get-together at the Crowne Plaza in Nashua, there were so many sweet moments, but this dance between Laura & her daugther near about did me in.

Stephanie & Todd had a pirate/beach themed wedding with some great surprises. And in my final wedding so far this year, my baby brother and his fiance had a wonderful ceremony in our family's backyard.

Also - Molly and Drew are gorgeous, and engaged!

Jack & Gavin are brothers for life.

Liz is a Senior! And a fantastic equestrian.

Rachel is a senior too! And Reed is a spitfire - that boy is just FULL of stories!

And here's the other Reed, my cousins baby boy, ready for Halloween, or is it Thanksgiving?

And Ethan & Emily who's smiles tell you they're up to something, but they sure have fun doing it!

That's the sneak peek - this weekend, 3 engagement shoots and a family shoot (and my dad's birthday, happy birthday daddy!)

Full posts to come just as soon as I can!

~MelissaKoren

Kris & Jerrod 08.22.2008

2008-09-22T21:19:00.001-04:00

62 days to perfection! Kris and Jerrod had a whirlwind wedding planning period, from inception to completion it was only 2 months - and although Kris grew up on NH, they live in Baltimore so it was a destination wedding none-the-less!

You never would have guessed though - everything was so detailed and gorgeous and somehow Kris even wrangled the weather into cooperation and had a perfect sunset wedding on the ocean.

A good friend of the family lent their home for the preperations and mum & gram helped her get ready.

With the tiki torches perfectly set, the sun setting, and the crowd gathering -

Jerrod waited (a bit nervously) for his gorgeous bride to be escorted by her father.

Yay! They did it!

NH is of course, on the east coast - but there's a bit of coastline here and there where they sun sets on the water - but also the power plant. Kris & Jerrod wanted a shot of them holding all that nuclear energy in their hands - but I don't think they need it - they're totaly energetic enough!

The reception dinner was amazing -

Kris' brother's wife is an extremely creative artist and she made the cake topper. A lobster and a crab holding claws. The lobster is meant to represent Kris and the crab represents Jerrod, who is a Maryland native.

G.O.R.G.E.O.U.S!

Melissa!

Thank you so much! The photos are absolutely wonderful! We can not thank you enough! I warned you I usually take terrible pictures - I normally hate all photos of myself - but you took some amazing photos that even I can admit that I look great in them. I think you really captured the energy and love of the occasion. I have no idea how we are going to pick just a few from so many great pics! We are going to have to make some tough decisions when putting together the albums!

It was such a pleasure to work with you! Seeing these photos brings everything back (I can not believe it's already been a month!)- you really capatured the love and fun and energy of the evening.

We can not thank you enough!

Love,

Kris & Jerrod

Kris & Jerrod - Beautiful people! I'm glad that you can see that in your photos! What an amazing group of friends and family you have the love and fun and energy was completely abundant! It was an honor to be involved in your wedding!

~MelissaKoren

Monica & Rob 08.16.2008

2008-09-17T20:44:00.001-04:00

Monica & Rob and I met last November to do some low key engagement pictures and talk about their wedding in August. The time FLEW by and before I knew it, I was at an amazing 'back yard' wedding. The guys constructed a red carpet for Monica & her girls to walk down to the platform they constructed under the huge old willow tree. It was glorious! They also had the largest tent I've ever seen! Not to mention the amount of fun.

I arrived at the groom's family's house as all the boys were getting ready. I grabbed a few shots of them and then went two streets over to the bride's family's house to get them in action!

Monica helped everyone out with the final touches on their makeup after she artfully did her own. Such GORGEOUS girls!

Monica's plan had been to be promptly 'fashionably late' to the ceremony, she wanted to make sure that everyone had the chance to show up!

Well, mother nature thought she do one better - just as we were getting the dress to climb in the limo and head to the ceremony site, the skies opened up. Sheeeeeeeeeeets of rain - SHEETS! But it passed and cleared and the guys set about clearing up ceremony site to proceed as planned, if only a little later.

The limo pulled right up to the end of the 'red carpet' and let the everyone off - it was SOO Cool.

The guys had been ribbing Rob about shedding tears, but we were all more than moved when we saw Rob see Monica for the first time -

After formals it was time to party! I love the black & red - its SHARP!

Ok, Ok, I know - this is a whole montage dedicated to the cake - but it was SUCH a cake. A moose, a raft, a fishing bride - I could have taken more pictures than this I tell you!

This was my first true smashing wedding - I love the reactions of the couple in the background.

Did they ever dance the night away! But at one point there seemed to be a lull on the dance floor.. I went out to investigate, and what did I find, but a keg toss in action! I relize the picture of the bride isn't the crispest, but the form, the poise, the style! (and the last of my flash batteries and staying far away from the incoming keg)

OMG I absolutely love all the pictures! You did an awesome job!!! Thanks again for everything, I couldnt have asked for better!! PS: One of the girls that was in the wedding party wants to have you as her photographer for her wedding when she gets married!! ~Monica

This is Monica's Dad. Wow you did a fantastic job on the wedding photo's, thanks for everything Melissa, job well done ~Joe

Thanks to you all for your warmth and hospitality -- I had such a great time!

Kris & Jerrod's Engagement Session

2008-08-28T21:31:00.001-04:00

Oh what can I say about Kris & Jerrod?!
Fun loving - Adventurous - Up for anything - Hilarious.. I could go on.

Kris emailed me about her Friday night wedding on the beach - - she's from NH, he's from Baltimore where they now live. They wanted engagement pictures but weren't going to be in town until the week of the wedding.

No Problem!!

p.s. Kris - you're GORGEOUS. And kudos to you for the flowers, they're a great touch :)

We met up Monday night before their wedding and rocked it. I had so much fun meeting them and their friends and family. By the time we parted ways I was so excited for Friday I could barely wait for the week to be over! And with just cause too, their intimate wedding dinner party was a blast - coming soon to a post near you!

Kris & Jerrod are still on their honeymoon, but I got a fun note from Kris' mom after I sent the photos - -
Hi Melissa, This is Kris' mom.... She is on the phone with me and I'm looking through the pictures. She doesn't have internet access at the moment, as she is on cape cod. However, she is saying how much she loves these pics! Wonderful job. What talent you have! Kris is delighted with them. She had a good feeling about your enthusiasm and talent right from the beginning, and is just thrilled! Take care. Kris will contact you when she gets back to civilization. Thanks for all! ~Donna

Upon their return, I got this:
Melissa,
We LOVE the photos! Thanks so much - we had a blast! I can't wait to see the wedding photos - I knew you were going to be awesome. And thanks for stepping up and taking charge on the beach right after the wedding - I was somewhat confused and not getting very much accomplished.
We really appreciated how enthusiastic and flexible you were. Once I booked you, I didn't have to give a second thought to the photography b/c I knew it was handled. For a bride planning a wedding in just 62 days, that was VERY important!
We will definitely recommend you to anyone who will listen to us!
Thanks a million!
Kris & Jerrod

Thank you for your wonderful words!

Melissa & Jack 07.27.2008

2008-08-28T21:26:00.001-04:00

Melissa & Jack had their wedding at Castle in the Clouds - a place I visited as a child and fantasized of having my wedding there - so I was more than thrilled when they asked me to be their photographer.

A bridal suite in a castle!

Melissa - you looked STUNNING!

After a week of tumultuous weather, including a tornado right here in NH, Saturday looked like it might come through unscathed, unfortunately as we neared 'show time' the rain came down and Melissa decided to move the ceremony inside for safety's sake. The misty overcastness very much added to the "in the clouds" part of the moniker!

The rain had let up during the ceremony, but after they all lined up, it too was ready to be received. I helped out by holding an umbrella over Melissa & Jack so they could still hug their guests, I even got a few hugs too!

They are such fun loving people - with the formals moved into the library we had to make the best of it but they never once let it get them down, in fact, I think it made them laugh even harder!

Fickle Fickle as we sent the last of the family back down on the trolley the skies parted and back outside we went!

I love details. They're like a glimpse inside the couples mind.

The special dances were ripe with love and emotion - Jack picked up his mom and swung her around the dance floor it was so unexpected and joyous!

SUCH a wonderful day - nothing could get these two down and their friends and family worked that dance floor ALL night long.

Congratulations you two - thanks for having me along to experience a castle wedding!

Benjamin's First Day of School

2008-08-28T19:33:00.000-04:00

Yesterday my boy started 3rd grade -

"Third Grade; Just Do It"

I can't figure out how time passes so quickly - it feels like just yesterday was his first day of kindergarten:

But at the same time, he's only 8 - life is so oddly juxtaposed sometimes.

And these were in a potted display on our walk to school - I loved them.

What I want to be when I grow up; by melissakoren

2008-08-27T16:53:00.000-04:00

It wasn't until recently as I approached my 30th year, that I knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. I've been amazingly blessed in the past year and I may well be full speed on the road to those hopes and dreams.

What I'll add to the mix though, is to have a group of colleagues that equal, or better yet, include the amazingness that is this:

Never stop dreaming friends - Never!

The Mac Family Shoot 08.18.2008

2008-08-22T09:59:00.003-04:00

Allison wanted to get some family portraits of her, her husband & her brother done for their mom's birthday. Her husbands sister just happened to be up for the weekend and came along for the 'ride' - we met at the beach and knocked these out before sunset.

When I was a freshman in high school I knew senior Allison MacKenzie from chorus and her younger brother Cameron was in my grade - but we never exchanged anything more than pleasantries. Tim MacAulay was a football player in Allison's class - I only knew his name, and she only knew him mostly from homeroom.

Fast forward some-odd years later Tim & Allison meet and fall in love and get married. Then Cameron becomes the bartender at our local watering hole, and Tim & Allison come round visiting him. With in 3 or so months time we all become fast true friends and the rest is history.
Tim & Allison were the attendants in our wedding, Cam a guest. Tim's baby sister Vanessa (who just turned 21 last week) was in Italy studying abroad or she would have been there too -

They are the "Mac" family and we adore them more than words!

Cider Hill 08.17.2008

2008-08-22T09:59:00.001-04:00

Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury, MA is one of our favorite places. It's where we 'officially' got engaged, and we go down at least 3 or 4 times a year for veggies or apple picking, and ALWAYS donuts!

I only brought my camera with my new 50mm 1.4 prime lens just for some fun practice with it. Sadly, we were only there for a few minutes, as I had to get back and edit edit edit, but we visited with the goats and chickens and got some good stuffs to eat - only I ate the donuts before I remember to take a picture of them. Hehe.