Terri Gillis Photography

Baby, it’s cold outside!!  I’ve lived in Michigan my whole life and still these frigid temps come as a shock to my system whenever they roll around!  I believe I could (quickly) grow accustomed to living in a more tropical climate but I just wonder if there is a tiny spot in my soul that would miss the things I love about winter….my sherpa fleece Merrill clogs, peppermint tea, shuffling around in my slippers,  cuddling under blankets with my kids and husband when we watch movies, looking outside to our world that some days resembles a giant snow globe &  the way that the icy roads require us to slow our pace or even just stay put.  I’m doing my best to savor these days, to enjoy the sun when it makes an appearance and the sight of the snow when it falls knowing the next season is just around the corner….

I’m thrilled to shoot Brandi and Tim’s wedding next spring.  They met me downtown Grand Rapids last Tuesday when it was still a balmy 33 degrees (the day before the arctic air blast moved in).  It was so fun to hang out with them and listen to their story of how they met  (thank you facebook!)  and the plans they have in place to tie the knot  & a tropical honeymoon.  The temperature outside may have been chilly but they warmed my heart with their company (positively cozy!!!).

It’s so hard to keep up with my blog and everything else I have to do day to day but I am go to blog a few of my latest sessions.  I met Andrea and Paul downtown Grand Rapids and we had a great time doing their engagement session.  Andrea is extra special to me since she’s my husband’s cousin.  The first time I met her was at her 3rd birthday party which I can remember so vividly because she was so absolutely adorable….and she still is as you can see.  It was great to spend a little time with them and get to know Paul a little.  He’s a gem, loves MSU as much as Andrea and we’re all so excited to welcome him into our family.

Congrats on your engagement! I can’t wait until your big day!

I had a FAB session with Troy and Kali last week downtown Rockford.   As I type this I can see leaves flying past my window on this blustery day in Michigan.  The sad part is that this happens every fall.  Just a day or two of high winds in October and it’s so long to our beautiful autumn leaves.   The season offered us one last hoorah last friday with warm temps, sunshine and blue skies. The golden leaves were absolutely radiant and made the perfect backdrop for their engagement session.

This session aged me a little.  I’ve known Troy since he was …maybe 7? I did his senior photos just …umm…9 years ago (YIKES!).  It took everything in me to keep from saying “Wow Troy, You’re all grown up, aren’t ya?”  ….Actually, I might have said that (sorry, Troy).  I’ve had a few brides where I’ve done their senior photos & then their weddings but Troy is the first guy!!!  (I’m just a little excited about that). He tolerated family photos when he was a kid, cooperated perfectly during his senior photos and he was amazing during the engagement session…and the wedding is just around the corner!

Anyway, they were a blast to work with and as with all of my couples I just loved the chance to spend time walking and talking, stopping for photos here and there.  Watching them settle in together, hold hands, laughing and seeing the sweet smile that Kali puts on Troy’s face made my job of photographing this beautiful couple that much easier.

Troy & Kali – I can’t wait for your wedding! 🙂