Deidre Lynn Photography

Home - Peoria wedding photographer

2011-02-27T13:21:00.001-08:00

Check out the latest page I just posted using Showit: Home - Peoria wedding photographer

"New" Blog!

2009-02-23T07:32:00.001-08:00

Please bookmark www.deidrelynn.com as this is our new blog-site. Thanks much!!

2008 Favorites - Engagements

2009-02-16T20:18:00.000-08:00

So to continue my "favorites of 2008" post (mentioned here) Here are some of my very most favorite images from 2008.
p.s. - there was no way I could only pick 5 from each category, so here's to more pictures!
I realize I tend to gravitate towards the same types of images as my favorites - romantic and soft, or laughing. And always with some fun light!
To all of the above couples - THANK YOU. I would not have these amazing images to make me smile without you and your smiles. I hope they brought you joy in some small way.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T09:28:00.000-08:00

I love Valentine's day...it's always been my favorite "holiday" (I of course love Christmas for it's meaning, but not so much anymore for the commercialism it is now surrounded by) I love it because it's almost the end of winter, it's my day of birth, and the colors are such fun. I still remember so well sitting down in my basement "art corner" and cutting out doily hearts and construction paper cards to make "Agape Day" cards for everyone in my 1st grade class. Most kids gave Michael Jordan cards...and 101 dalmations were popular that year as well for the girls. I told my husband about this the other night and he admitted to being one of the Jordan card givers. Of course. He and I are quite opposite in most things - and yet I love him soooooo very much :) He is perfectionist, numbers, sports and rational and I am whatever the opposite of all those things is (except when it comes to photography - I am the definition of perfectionist to the point of annoyance when it comes to that...)
Anyway, these are some pictures miss Lindy Lou took of us last spring. Yeah, spring, remember that? It's not just a coiled piece of metal - it's a season I hear! I love these 3 images - mostly because I greatly dislike "smiling for the camera" It's just not me. Hence I don't make couples do it too often either. I love just interacting and being lovey-dovey and seeing how those images turn out. Yes. Lovey-dovey :)

So Happy Valentine's day to all!

One more bridal of Christy

2009-02-13T08:15:00.000-08:00

One more of Christy - I seriously LOVE this one. First of all, this is at the Radisson in Peoria which used to be the old Jumers and is decorated in completely amazing old world charm. This awesome architectural detail was one of my favorite things about this room...and Christy climbed in it - in a wedding dress. My type of bride! But she knows that of course, being my best friend, wedding assistant and all around favorite person :)

Christy's "Bridal Shots"

2009-02-11T10:53:00.000-08:00

Only pictures for now - I'll write some stunningly touching and beautiful commentary on one of Christy and Allen's later wedding posts :)

One Cute Cat

2009-02-10T20:23:00.000-08:00

This is Fred. My cat since I was 8 or so, maybe younger. This is Fred now and although cats don't age as we do with wrinkles and hairloss and prune eating, this kitty is an old goat. He lives at my parent's house and I have 3 kitties of my own at my house, but Fred will always be my very favorite cat of all. He's a bit of a grump if you are not "his family" (which excludes my husband unfortunately) but his crusty exterior only makes his soft interior all the more special. I feel like I'm writing a eulogy while he's very much still running around but this picture is just so sweet and so Fred (this is what he does when prompted "Show me, Fred!"

Anyway - this is not at all wedding related - but every once in awhile I like to through a small part of my everyday world onto this here blog of mine.

Enjoy the cuteness!

Drew and Rachel - Wedding

2009-02-05T09:27:00.001-08:00

Okay I can't post the 2008 favorites yet because I still have 2 more weddings to finish blogging! So here is the rest of Rachel and Drew's FABULOUS wedding...

2008 Favorites

2009-02-04T18:09:00.001-08:00

I've been meaning to post my favorite of 2008 images - but that is quite some CHALLENGE to come up with a set number of favorites! I finally decided on 5 engagement images and 5 wedding images. And if you could see my folder of saved "favorites" you would understand what a huge problem this is for me to choose!! I had SO many fantastic couples this year. Everyone was truly wonderful - I honestly just had the absolute best brides and grooms I could have asked for this past year, and 2009 is shaping up to be just as great!!!

So this whole picking 5 favorite images....it's kind of like trying to only plant 5 trees in my yard. And if you know anything about me and my trees - well let's just say I live on .000009th of an acre in the city and have 13 trees.

First though, LOST is on right now so this post will be up after I get a good dose of confusion from my favorite ABC show ;)

Drew and Rachel - Reception at Embassy Suites East Peoria

2009-02-03T11:45:00.000-08:00

So many more images to post - I just wanted to put some up here from Drew and Rachel's fabulous New Year's Eve reception at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria - LOVED this wedding and this couple!! The Embassy truly has some gorgeous photography opportunities.

Steve and Jenny - Peoria Wedding

2009-01-28T08:22:00.000-08:00

Steve and Jenny had a beautiful fall wedding......

Fall? With ice and snow and no leaves?

Yep - because December 20 is technicallystill autumn. Jenny said she always wanted a fall wedding ;) This wedding was one day prior to my iced tree post - so these two really lucked out by missing the -10 degrees by one day! I really loved this wedding - it was warm and cozy and all about the love of this fantastic couple. Jenny was even super brave and went outside TWICE to get some great images. I have such fantastic brides.

Congratulations Steve and Jenny - I wish you all the best!

Oh and yes, that is Jenny's grandmother catching the bouquet...she was taken already so there was a do-over throw after this ;)

The Ice Before Christmas

2009-01-27T07:30:00.000-08:00

This is from the beautiful ice storm that knocked our power out for a day and a half (try waking up to a 40 degree room...) but once power was back up and running, the beautifulness of the trees was calling my camera. Not that it REALLY wanted to go outside when it was -5 degrees with a -25 wind chill, but it's owner did. So out we went to a local golf course to get these images. And that snow? It was SLIPPERY! I only fell once though - holding the camera off the ground of course (I'm not about to let my 5D II experience the joys of the Canon repair shop just yet!)

So was it worth it? Not really. I came home and looked up "frozen lungs" to see if that was a possibility (it's not.) These pictures won't be hanging in my office anytime soon to remind me of all that is Illinois, but it was an experience nonetheless.

Curt and Hannah - Morton/Washington Wedding

2009-01-26T11:25:00.000-08:00

Who is behind on blogging?? Yeah...December was crazy with 5 weddings, one the 1st week of January and I'm just now getting down to blogging these fantastic events! Curt and Hannah were married on a cold, but not as cold as it could have been, December day - and yes they still went outside to capture some beautiful golden images right before the sun set (which always surprises me with its winter earliness!) Hannah is one of 7 girls in her family, so all those bridesmaids above are her sisters! After a beautiful nighttime wedding, everyone headed over to Five Points in Washington to enjoy the rest of the evening.

Congrats Curt and Hannah!

Attention October Brides

2009-01-21T12:06:00.000-08:00

If you're planning your wedding for either the 3rd or the 10th of October, please send me a message about possible date re-availability.

Thanks much!

Frank and Lisa - Wedding

2009-01-06T12:06:00.001-08:00

Lisa and Frank (and yes, the first thing I thought of when I heard their names was the Lisa Frank brand school supplies that were so popular in elementary) are one of those couples that just radiate happiness. I think the first thing Frank said upon seeing his beautiful bride was "Is all this for me?" Yes men, we do spend a whole year picking out our dress, hair style, makeup, flowers and shoes just for you so that you'll still think it's worth it to be stuck with us for the next 70 years ;)
We only had about 40 minutes before the ceremony, and I believe the wind chill was hovering around 9 degrees but we toughed it out (or should I say they did. I had a coat) and got some great imges outside anyway. I think I would try to take a couple outside during a hurricane if the light was pretty. The ceremony proceeded without a hitch and we were off to the Waterhouse in downtown Peoria for their cozy winter reception.
Congratulations Frank and Lisa!

Christmas and Smoothies

2008-12-24T14:13:00.000-08:00

Can it be that Christmas is almost upon us?? Of course this would be the time that my throat decides it would be fabulously funny to steal away my voice with the beginnings of a cold (a cold that I'm not going to let survive!) With Christmas, a wedding Saturday and Wednesday, throwing a shower for the best friend on the 1st, rehearsal on the 2nd and wedding of my 2 favorite folks on the 3rd - it goes without saying that I CANNOT be sick right now. Or ever.

So here's how I combat it. I do this everyday actually, so we'll see how it shortens this illness...
THE INSANELY HEALTHY WOW HOW CAN YOU DRINK THAT SMOOTHIE
3 tbs flaxseed oil without lignans
3 tbs ground flaxseed
1/2 cup of either organic cottage cheese or organic yogurt
1 cup spinach
6-10 baby carrots
1/2 cup no sugar added fruit juice (and none of that splenda/fake sugar stuff either)
1/2 cup soy milk
1 vitamin C capsule
10-12 large strawberries
handful of blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, depending on what I have
1 small orange
1 banana

All that's pretty approximate. I just throw stuff in, really.

And to be perfectly honest, I can't even taste the spinach or carrots - I could be used to it, but I just taste fruit. I'm not big on sugar, but if you want it a littler sweeter, try adding Agave syrup (natural sweetener that won't spike blood sugar)

So if anyone is brave and wants to give this a whirl - let me know what you think of it!

Kevin and Dorrina - Wedding

2008-12-21T15:39:00.001-08:00

Kevin and Dorrina had a lovely late November day to tie the knot. Actually, 20 degrees would be a "lovely" day compared to today...but that's a different story (-30 wind chill anyone?) They were married at Grace Presbyterian in Peoria by Kevin's uncle, and chose to see each other prior to the ceremony due to it's being dark after (always a FANTASTIC idea - and I'm told this is often a couple's favorite part of the day and best choice they make) Their reception was held at Eastport Banquet facility in East Peoria.

Congratulations Kevin and Dorrina!

Dan and Rachael - Engagement

2008-12-18T09:30:00.000-08:00

So clearly this session was from another time and place - a time when the world was right and good. And colorful, warm and wonderful. These two are an absolutely blast to photograph and more fun than a barrel of monkeys (do people still say that?) Can't wait for your wedding - because that means it will be warm again without threats of ice storms!

Tim and Nicole - Engagement

2008-12-17T14:49:00.000-08:00

So horribly behind on blogging engagement sessions! I need a magic button to blog things for me the second they're finished. Unfortunately it's about 30 magic buttons to get to this step. Ah well - worth it for this incredibly adorable couple!! These two are the type of couple that just make your day better by being around them. So thanks for spreading the joy you two!

Justin and Gina - Part III

2008-12-16T12:01:00.000-08:00

What's not to love here. Final installment tomorrow!

Justin and Gina - Part II

2008-12-14T14:51:00.000-08:00

Love this one! - so very excited to kiss his bride :)

I love all of the pure happiness of this photo - slight chaos and all.
Part two of four!

Justin and Gina's Wedding - Part I

2008-12-11T09:31:00.000-08:00

I love... so much about the things that this picture chooses to be.

...and this is what I get when I ask the couple to kiss. I'm fairly certain those two are both married though...to women...
Such a fun group! I love this wedding so much. And this is only part one of more posts to come. Where I will talk more about how much I loved this wedding.

It's the most wonderful time of the year

2008-12-11T08:39:00.001-08:00

Simply a post to let you know that many many more posts are coming!

Tim and Katie - Wedding

2008-12-01T10:06:00.000-08:00

Tim and Katie's wedding day was clearly beautiful - but as cameras and internet have yet to find a way to capture the temperature and portray it to the viewer, I will just have to tell you. It was COLD. Cold and windy. But look at these troopers outside braving the elements for great images. Now that's my kind of couple! These two chose to see eachother prior to their ceremony as they knew it would be dark afterwords and you just can't get the same quality of images when there's no daylight to play with :) There ceremony and reception were both held at the Kickapoo Creek Winery as guests kept warm with hot chocolate during the ceremony, and good food and dancing during the reception.

Congratulations Tim and Katie!

Sponsor a Child - Compassion

2008-11-24T07:57:00.001-08:00

I realize I've been a pretty bad "blogger" here lately but as Christmas speedily creeps up on us here (who else is really extra super excited for Thanksgiving??...I can safely say I am!) I wanted to post about a wonderful organization and opportunity to show love, support and kindness to children who may not experience these things on a daily basis. Perhaps this is a Christmas gift you might consider giving to a child you have never met, but who's needs are beyond what we can understand living in a land of abundance (even in our little economic downfall)

Visit the site here>>Compassion

And because all posts need an image...
Happy Thanksgiving!

Daniel and Katie - Wedding

2008-11-14T11:47:00.000-08:00

Just leaving for a meeting...I'll be posting a few more later this evening but wanted to get these online!

JD and Meagan - Wedding

2008-11-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

JD and Meagan had an absolutely beautiful day for their beautiful wedding! I really really like this couple. I know that sentence was at about 3rd grade level - but that's all there is to it. They are just fantastic and a joy to be around - and they are so clearly very much in love and both have such great families and friends there to support them and celebrate with them on their most special of days. And I just have to give huge props (yeah....I've never used that word in a sentence before now but this deserves it...) to the adorable little lady in the last image - I'm fairly certain she was around 90 years old but that didn't keep her off the dance floor!

Congratulations JD and Meagan!

Tyler and Dana - Engagement

2008-11-09T15:03:00.000-08:00

I don't have much to say about these two - they're decent looking, somewhat nice, and after just meeting them for the first time at their session - I think that's good enough.

....Of course COMPLETELY joking. This is Dana and Tyler. Dana whom I have known since the 5th grade when we were in Mrs. Bomer's class and colored during reading time and thought we were sooo similar because we had the same middle name and the same Starbusrt pen and went to camp and sleepovers and all those things girls do growing up. Dana who was one of my beauuuutiful bridesmaids and a most wonderful friend to me through the years.

And Tyler who was on my husband's world class amazing basketball team in high school (yep - we're all high school sweethearts...well not all of us together, separately of course, in our respective couples...)and who always had the must fun music and hair and sayings like something about grits...

And suddenly I can't remember all of my favorite stories about either of them. But let me just say how incredibly excited I am for these two! It's been a long time coming and I couldn't be happier for their engagement!! If you were married this year already, you may have met my assistant Lindy who is Dana's sister (and a fantastically wonderful assistant!)

I had so many more favorites, but this post is long enough.

Congrats Dana and Tyler!! Much love from the Carlson household :)

Remember to Vote!

2008-11-04T09:28:00.001-08:00

This image is from our trip to Savannah earlier this spring, but it seems somewhat "symbolic" of our duty to vote. I believe red is representative of Republicans while blue is of Democrats. Each door leads to a different outcome and while we in Illinois somewhat have our presidential choice already decided, it's still important to vote for your local representatives as those races are often much closer.

The lines may be long - but it's a nice day, so get out there and vote! :)

Kevin and Amanda - Wedding

2008-11-02T05:40:00.003-08:00

I told Frank (groomsman on the right sitting on bridesmaids lap) that he would get credit for this image because he completely set it up and was quite proud of his accomplishment....so thank you Frank.

Kevin and Amanda had a beautiful wedding - complete with a very fun wedding party. Just from these images, you can see how much Kevin adores Amanda - the way he looked at her during the ceremony and pretty much the entire day was just so sweet.
Congratulations Kevin and Amanda!

Peter and Erica - Wedding

2008-10-30T10:23:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful wedding. Peter and Erica were married at the Mackinaw Valley Vineyard which was just the most gorgeous location - everything was absolutely perfect there and as Lindy said, reminded her of Stars Hollow. (for those of you familiar with Gilmore Girls) We had the pleasure of several hours of time prior to the nighttime ceremony for pictures of the couple, family and bridal party. The tented reception was also just perfect and closed out what was a truly wonderful wedding day.

Congratulations Peter and Erica!

Keith and Abbie

2008-10-28T19:02:00.001-07:00

Oh how I love these photos...I think this is the most quintessentially "autumn" shoot I've done to date. Everything about these images just says it's a cozy apple cider kind of day. But clearly what makes these images is this couple! I loved that they had ideas of images they would like to capture - images that represent their personalities. Another reason this shoot was special was because these places all meant something to them. Riverplex, where they met, and this gorgeous little lake where they had their first date. '
Congratulations Keith and Abbie - thanks for being amazing!!

Jimmy and Autumn - wedding part II

2008-10-23T07:01:00.001-07:00

Congrats to Jimmy and Autumn - a beautiful couple, and a beautiful day at Ravina on the Lakes. And is Autumn not just the most beautiful bride ever? I think I told her she looks like just about every famous movie star in the books. Just such a classic beauty - and such a sweet personality as well, it's no wonder Jimmy took a liking to her ;)
I'm so glad we got to be a part of your wedding - best wishes during all of your coming years together!

Sneak Peak - 2 engagement sessions

2008-10-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

Running out the door to a wedding - but just had to put these up for Katie and Daniel and Katie and Jeff - thanks guys for being so patient!!! Who ever said June was wedding season obviously has not looked at my calendar recently....

This is the best time of year after all - kudos to all who are lucky enough to have autumn weddings!

Jimmy and Autumn - Wedding part I

2008-10-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

So behind on blogging!! If there were a button I could push that would magically put all images on the page for me, sized correctly and in the right order, I think I would be far more inclined to be speedy blog lady :) More to come later from this beautiful wedding!

Cort and Samantha - Engagement

2008-10-09T17:54:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of spending my evening with this fantastic couple and their most precious of puppies (a poodle/terrier mix if you want to go get one right now like I do) These two are so easy to talk to/get along with and made my job more fun than it has any right to be. These two are just so full of personality and fun...I can't wait for their wedding day to arrive!

Thank you to "Adam and Eve" for a great session! Best of luck with those wedding plans.

Rob and Stephanie - Wedding

2008-10-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

What a great wedding. This was one of those days where I came home, completely exhausted, but knowing that we had gotten some AMAZING images thanks to this incredible couple and their bridal party. Stephanie has such a bubbly, friendly personality - it's impossible not to get great images of her! And of course Rob was looking snazzy in his tux (yeah I know, who says snazzy...) After the ceremony, Stephanie had some great locations picked out for us to head to and plenty of time to spend on some fun pictures. The reception at The Parke hotel in Bloomington was gorgeous - thanks in part to Sound and Light Creations who did a fantastic job on both the lighting and the DJ-ing :)
Congratulations to Rob and Stephanie - thank you for having us as a part of your day!

Cute, Sad, Too Busy.

2008-10-08T13:03:00.000-07:00

Cute = this picture of my baby Charly when he was a brand new member of the Carlson clan.
Sad = he had his toes and other items out today. I know that's a horrible way to say it but ouccccchh, poor baby Charly.
Too busy = just life right now. I have 3000 sessions that I want to be editing but I do things like I eat dinner, one food group at a time.

Just One - Rob and Stephanie

2008-09-30T13:05:00.001-07:00

"Oh my goodness!! You are just so beautiful! Oh my. Oh I just LOVE you!!"
I just thought I'd let you two relive the words of this special person on your wedding day... ;)

I just had to put up this one for Stephanie - I do LOVE this image, and while I won't walk around the streets of Bloomington proclaiming my love for it, I will do it here.

More later!

Tim and Katie - Engagement

2008-09-29T17:27:00.001-07:00

Let me preface this by saying that I had never met these two before this session.

And with saying that...they were one of my favorite couples ever to spend time in front of my lens! Cute, comfortable (even when in Hobo Hank's stomping grounds...) and just wonderfully nice people.

See you in a few weeks!!

Rob and Stephanie - Engagement

2008-09-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

So - the day before Rob and Stephanie's big day, I decide to go back and look at their engagement blog post, just to refresh myself on their session to get ready for tomorrow.

And...

I never posted it!!

Stephanie - how did you ever let me get away with this!! To all future brides/grooms...you have my complete permission to call me and chew me out if I don't have your blog preview online.

So, I'll see you two tomorrow at what's sure to be an incredible wedding (we get to go to the zoo, how can that not be amazing?)

Image Color

2008-09-17T13:16:00.000-07:00

Just as a side note - if you're viewing this page in either Internet Explorer or Firefox - you're missing out! The colors will likely look desaturated and muted. Give Safari a try. I find it's just an all around better web broswer as it's the only one that can read all color profiles correctly.

Just my .02 for the day!

Tim and Jill - Wedding

2008-09-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

Tim and Jill had a fantasticly "them" wedding. Lindy and I met Jill in her room at the Pere Marquette for some quick getting ready shots before Jill went down to meet Tim for some picture time prior to the ceremony (loved this!). The ceremony itself was held on the Spirit of Peoria paddle boat as it cruised the river. After finding our sea legs (Lindy had hers hidden in her camera bag) we had a great time capturing the ceremony and guests enjoying a unique event. Next up was the reception at The Waterhouse where Tim and Jill arrived in style in horse-drawn carriages to be greeted by their amazing, custom cake (complete with their puppies and disc golf) and their band West MacQueen Street who did a fantastic job! It was truly an enjoyable event and we wish you all the best Tim and Jill!

Justin and Lee - Wedding

2008-09-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

Justin and Lee were another fantastic couple I had the pleasure of being with on their special day. Their wedding took place at the beautiful Sacred Heart Church of Peoria followed by a reception at the Eastport Marina. Lee was a truly beautiful bride...as we were doing a couple bridal shots, I kept thinking how "angelic" was a word that seemed to fit her on her wedding day. When we spent some time for images of the couple together - they had such a sweet connection and comfortableness to them. Truly a joy to be around! Lindy and I especially liked their reception table names - there is no way I can remember all of them...but I think we were at the "back loader" table wither other Cat machinery tables around us. Cute idea!

Congrats Justin and Lee - we loved being a part of your wedding!

Justin and Gina - Engagement

2008-09-14T15:12:00.000-07:00

After rescheduling once due to rain last week, we decided to risk it this time and hope for the best (and on Gina's birthday too!) We beat the rain...and while I can't say that for my Friday and Saturday couples...we got some awesome shots before all 397 inches fell. This is one seriously good looking couple - and just as nice as they are cute, so I'm quite excited for their wedding!

Congrats Justin and Gina - best wishes during these last few weeks of planning!

Brent and Sara - Wedding

2008-09-07T14:54:00.001-07:00

Brent and Sara had a beautiful day for their beautiful wedding. Their ceremony was everything a ceremony should be - personal, touching, unique to the couple, and even fun, thanks to Brent's "you may now kiss the bride" spotlight surprise :) The ceremony was held at the couple's new property, complete with perfect light and a tire swing. They were such a fun and easy-going couple, even ditching their shoes for the reception! (rare is the wedding shoe that is completely comfortable)

Congratulations Brent and Sara - we wish you all the best and had a wonderful time being a part of your day!

Just One - Sara and Brent's Wedding

2008-09-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Dan and Michelle - Wedding

2008-09-01T11:47:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful day! Dan and Michelle held both their ceremony and their reception at the historic Abbey Hotel in the Quad Cities, Iowa. It was such a wonderful location to shoot with everything about it being so stunningly photogenic (especially the couple...)
Michelle truly had every detail absolutely perfected. From the candy table to the most amazing floral arangements I've ever seen - it was a gorgeous day all around.

Congratulations Dan and Michelle!

Michelle

2008-08-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

The above image is quite possibly one of my favorite bride pictures ever.

Michelle - you are BEAUTIUFL!!! This girl doesn't have to do anything to take amazing picture - she just radiates prettiness :)
More to come on the rest of their stunning/gorgeous/incredible wedding later on!

Dan and Alexis - engagement

2008-08-28T07:06:00.001-07:00

A really fun/cute/amazing shoot overall, but I'd have to say my favorite part was our "behind the scenes" access to O'Brian Stadium. Now, I've never claimed to be the worlds biggest sports fan (as my husband will attest to my rolling eyes at any mention of anything sports) but I must admit it was pretty fun to get to be here with no one else around and get a few shots. Dan works for the Chiefs...thus our access.
Thanks you two - I'll see you soon for the big day!

Email.....Again...

2008-08-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

If you have emailed between July 15 and now, chances are that I have not receieved your email, so please do send it again because I really would love to hear from you!

Apologies and frustrations at technology,
Deidre

A few more from 888...

2008-08-26T07:45:00.000-07:00

As I was finishing these up, I found a few more that I loved!

Corey and Jennifer - Wedding

2008-08-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

Corey and Jennifer were married on the much sought after date of 8-8-08. I had never met either of the couple before their big day, but that proved to be no problem at all as both of them are so easy to get along with. The weather was absolutely PEREFECT (definitely lucky for an August date) and everything looked perfect as well - especially the beautiful bride!

Best wishes Corey and Jennifer!

JD and Meagan - Engagement

2008-08-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

Meagan and JD were so much fun to be around! I must say I'm quite excited for their wedding because these two are just adorable together and so much fun to chat with.
Happy planning!

Email

2008-08-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

I just found out that if you've emailed me at info@deidrelynnphotography.com, I likely haven't received it - so I'm not a complete email delinquent I had just been sitting and staring at an empty inbox for a few weeks - but all's well now so fire away :)

Thanks for understanding and I do apologize for this issue!

Paul and Lizz - Part II

2008-08-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

Paul and Lizz have the very special honor of being this blog's 100th post! (Okay, not such a special honor...but fun nonetheless) These two were absolutely perfect models of a perfect couple. They were up for anything (really anything, she would have hiked down to the muddy waterfall if it hadn't been SO muddy that even hikers were avoiding it) Laying in grass, on fences...amazing! These are the fun kind of images that I just looooooooove. And I think what made my day completely complete was Sanchez (sp?) the fantastically tuxedo-ed bulldog. He was the most precious little man ever and so perfectly posed for all of his pictures.
Congratulations Paul and Lizz - I wish you all the best!

Paul and Lizz - Wedding Part I

2008-08-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

Part one of another two part wedding post. I really really REALLY loved the images captured at this wedding. As in if I made a practice of putting other people's pictures on my walls - these would be there. I would post them all in one big mass, but I've got to rush off to my 8-8-8 wedding...and a little anticipation is more fun anyway, right?

Lizz's "Bridals"

2008-08-06T09:53:00.003-07:00

Okay. With a dress like this and a bride this GORGEOUS, how could I not spend some time on some unofficial bridals? Lizz designed this dress herself - I know - amazing!! And her aunt created it for her. Quite possibly one of my all time favorite dresses. More about their wedding tomorrow!

Dan and Michelle - Engagement

2008-08-05T13:49:00.000-07:00

Dan and Michelle came down from Iowa for their Peoria session - I'm so glad they did because they turned out GREAT! Perfect color choices (and I believe Michelle's wedding colors as well...) made for some bright and vibrant images. Their wedding is in just about a week at the gorgeous Abbey Hotel in Bettendorf Iowa - I'm must say I'm quite excited for it.
See you soon!

Tommy and Erin - Engagement

2008-08-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

Such an adorable couple - clearly they're very much in love (they are getting married after all...) but the way the looked at eachother just made it all the more evident. Erin will be gone in Turkey teaching English (amazing!) right up until the wedding, so this girl has got things planned. I'm not sure I could do that, but I must say she's quite organized!
Best wishes!!

Joel and Kortnie - Wedding

2008-07-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

Wow - I'd say it's about time I got around to posting this wedding! You may remember Joel and Kortnie's engagement session from here where I went into a little detail about how we know eachother but the quick rundown is I've known Kortnie since kindergarden when I was the kid in early 90's style 101 Dalmations sweaters with stirrup pants and Kortnie was the cute little girl in fluffy dresses. We then moved on to bigger and better things in the early high school years such as writing notes about all the cute "older" boys in study hall...well it looks like we each got one of those "cute boys" after all! ;)

This wedding was so much fun for me - not only because I knew pretty much everyone in the bridal party and in attendence as a guest, but because Kortnie was the most amazing, laid back, BEAUTIFUL bride ever. (Joel wasn't half bad either...) The ceremony was lit with more candles than I'd like to imagine having to light, and the reception was beautiful in every way, decked out in flowers by Beth Maxwell of Save the Date in Peoria and held at the Cornerstone Building.

Congratulations Joel and Kortnie - I wish you all the best in your many many many years together..And I hope you have many good times in your fabulous "London Coach" room - because only the most stylish couples chose colors such as this :)

Betsy - Part II

2008-07-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

See? Best for last :)Betsy just returned from what sounded like an AMAZING 2 month trip to Europe. I'm so glad she had this opportunity to travel and she's a braver woman than me doing it by herself. (I would need constant hand holding to get me from one place to another...) We met up at our regular watering hole - One World - for smoothies and coffee and hummus and good conversation as always. Somehow we got talking about fashion/pictures and being the impulsive two that we are, decided a shoot the next day would be just about the most fun thing in the world. So we "coutureified" Betsy (as if she needs it, gorgeous that she is no matter what...) and headed out for some fun on the streets of Peoria. I must say I'm quite proud of her modeling skills (pretty much no input from me!) and if anyone from America's Next Top Model is reading this...here's your next winner ;)

Love you Bets!!!

Betsy Part I

2008-07-17T14:11:00.001-07:00

More to post tomorrow - and I saved the best for last. But I do have to say, do I not have the most beautiful friend in the entire universe?!?

Brad and Lyndsay - Wedding

2008-07-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Christy and I walked into the "getting ready room" at the Gateway Building in downtown Peoria and both looked at eachother with our patented "wow this dress/bride is gorgeous!" look. The ceremony was also held in the gateway and was just lovely as the sunlight shown in and landed right on the glowing bride. Such an in love couple made for such an enjoyable day for us.
Congratulations Brad and Lyndsay!

Dave and Chelli Part II

2008-07-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Part Two. Dave and Chelli are clearly a gorgeous couple - but they're also so genuinely nice as well! We began the day with the ladies getting ready in one of the most "vibrant" rooms I've ever seen - but definitely great for pictures - at Riverside Community Church. After a beautiful ceremony (they exited to The Office theme - that right there makes them amazing in my eyes) we had TWO HOURS for pictures of these two and their fun bridal party. Now I know everyone can't allow for that kind of time - but just look at the kinds of images we can get if you do! (hint hint...) We did run into a bit of rain, or rather a torrential downpour coming sideways through an allyway and Chelli got stuck out in it, but Dave, her sister and my hubby stayed to keep her dry while the rest of us ran for a cover. The groomsmen made sure that my camera was okay after the dash through the rain, before proceeding to tell me that had I been shooting NIKON, water would never be a problem ;) I think I'll stay true to my Canon roots - but thanks for the concern!

After the little black storm cloud cleared up, we ventured back out for a few more images before the beautiful reception at the Waterhouse

Congratulations Dave and Chelli - Brandon and I had a wonderful time capturing your day!

So Here's The Deal...

2008-07-09T19:53:00.001-07:00

To all of my recent couples, future couples, and anyone who has any interest at all in what's going on right now..

My current computing machine is at the end of it's days (yes, at the ripe old age of ONE) and all of my programs/files are being tranfered to a new, beautiful, insanely fast version.

What this means is that while I'm still working on all of your beautiful images, machine number one is not happy with me for ditching it and is putting up quite a fuss and digging in it's heals at all the wrong times. So for those waiting for your images to be put online - they will be shortly.

Also - some happier news that isn't causing me huge amounts of undue stress...the new website is live!! http://www.deidrelynnphotography.com There are still some obvious kinks and changes that will be happening, but it's done and it's up and I'm happy with that for right now.

So thank you to all of you for your patience and support during this technologically trying time of my life! ;)

Dave and Chelli Part I

2008-07-09T14:24:00.000-07:00

A two part post for a truly beautiful wedding. (aka I had waaayy too many for just one...)

Coming soon to a screen near you

2008-07-02T21:57:00.000-07:00

Labor of love...loss of hair...same difference? I've been working on a brand spanking new website for about 5 weeks and besides being a little to close to losing my mind that I would like to be, I'm oh so very excited about it finally being ready! I've had the same website company since day one, and while it's been fantastic, I'd wanted to step outside the box a bit and try my hand at web design. While not "fun" per say (okay, not fun at all really) I'm loving the results! I believe it's very important to have a web "personality" that reflects the owner. So hopefully mine reflects fun, classic vintage (not 70's vintage...I'm talking 17-1800's here) artistic in the sense of how a well-crafted painting makes you feel... and of course easy to navigate.

Wow - maybe I should write all of my posts at 12am since I'm sure all enjoy my long-windedness :)

Anyway, all that to say...new website. soon. look out.

Really I'm probably the only one that's excited about this.

Matt and Erin's Wedding

2008-06-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

I think perhaps a little image overload was due for this wedding. I could have posted about 50 more that I LOVED, but I think some internet browsers would protest such massive amounts of data...Matt and Erin were so much fun to be around - and quite "easy on the eyes" so to speak - I mean can these two make an amazing picture or what? Their wedding and reception were both held at the Cornerstone building in downtown Peoria - truly one of the most beautiful buildings around in my humble opinion. During the reception while guests were being served their dinners, Brandon and I found a seat with an awesome group of friends. We sat down to grab some water and were delighted to have a salad placed in front of us. The next thing we knew we were being "coerced" by our tablemates to take one of the place cards from 2 guests who didn't show up so their meals wouldn't go to waste. Without looking, I took two available names and returned to the table - much to the delight of all around, I got to be "Jamar" and B was "Christopher" (I saved the tags...) Apparently I was supposed to pronounce my name "Yamar" so as to add a fancy and female flair to it...

Either way, Matt and Erin were an absolute joy to be around, as were all of their family and friends. These two made pictures that speak for themselves and I feel truly honored to have been a part of their wedding day!

Congratulations Matt and Erin :)

Erin's "Bridals"

2008-06-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

BEAUUUUTIFUL!! When Erin walked out of her dressing room looking so perfectly "bride", we just had to take some extra time for some unofficial bridals. I'm so glad we did! I normally don't get a chance to do this due to time constraints but I seriously have so much fun with pictures like these. Thanks Erin for being a FABULOUS model!!

The rest of their amazing wedding images will be up shortly.

Us - Getting Dressed Up Again

2008-06-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

Connor 3.5 months

2008-06-17T09:26:00.001-07:00

Getting so big and so cute at almost 4 months now!

Tim and Jill - Engagement

2008-06-16T08:36:00.000-07:00

Tim and Jill met me at Tower Park in Peoria Heights with their adorable "puppy" Brody. He was quite thrilled to get to be a part of their engagement session, though couldn't follow us when we went up in the tower itself. I had never been up there so it was quite an experience for me! It's not the St. Louis arch or anything, but it's still interesting to see your city from such a height. It was WINDY up there, but these two didn't seem to mind - they are so comfortable with eachother and that really shows in the beautiful images they made. Tim surprised me with his natural "posing" ability and made my job quite easy! (Of course Jill knew how as well - we women are naturals at this type of thing...)

Thanks Tim and Jill for a fun evening in a new location!

Shawn & Megan - Wedding

2008-06-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

6-7-08. Likely the day when more couples chose to say their vows than any other day this year (now none of those guys have ANY excuse to forget their anniversary date...) Shawn and Megan also chose this day to say their vows at St. Philomena in Peoria. The ceremony was beautiful as the very stylishly dressed bridal party and family and friends looked on. The clouds chose to drop all their rain during the hour of the ceremony, leaving the sky dry, but air about as humid as can be. That didn't stop these two from going outdoors anyway and making some beautiful images. Though by the end we were all "glistening" and ready for some much needed A/C. The storms stayed to the north as we traveled to the Ashland House in Morton for the reception. Could that cake have been any more fun!? It definitely wins the "most creative" award in my book of wedding cakes! The reception was truly beautiful with a wonderful pianist followed by an evening filled with dancing, friends and family.

Congratulations Shawn and Megan!

Chris & Sammie - Engagement

2008-06-12T08:52:00.000-07:00

Chris and Sammie are just precious. I'm sorry Chris if that isn't a very "macho" word, but it just describes these two!! We walked around downtown (thankfully Sammie had good shoes on!) and found some fun new locations. Locations that involved climbing and concrete sitting (thanks guys!) Sammie's fun, bubbly personality is so evident in these pictures...she will make an absolutely fantastic bride :)

Dave and Chelli - Engagement

2008-06-04T17:04:00.000-07:00

So right about this time you must be asking yourself, "Does this girl hire models and just claim them as engagement couples?" Nope - my couples are all actaully this gorgeous, adorable, and just plain good lookin'! Although Chelli really is a model (she denies this claim)... apparently Dave is aspiring to reach model heights as well per that last blog image (sorry guys...had to...) But in all seriousness...Dave is a photographer as well and does some incredible landscape photography http://www.photographybyyeti.com/ so check it out! Lindy and I had a great time at this shoot (props to ms. Lindy for the 2nd and 4th shot!) and I'm most definitely looking forward to the wedding of these two.
See you guys in TWO WEEKS for the big day!

Kyle & Katie - Wedding

2008-06-03T07:20:00.000-07:00

Christy and I met Kyle and Katie at the beautiful Jubilee College (the park being my all-time favorite place to walk) for their wedding ceremony. Katie could not have looked any more beautiful in her simply elegant gown. The day began with heavy rains and chilly air, but by the time we ventured outdoors for some "couple time" (they opted to see eachother before the ceremony - GREAT idea) the rain was gone and a soft veil of clouds created some beautiful light. It was still a bit chilly, but these two didn't seem to mind...that's what happens when you're in looove!
The ceremony was absolutely amazing - simple, beautiful, touching...as their closest family and friends looked on from the 170-year old chapel lit only by candles and light from the original windows.
Congratulations Katie and Kyle - your day was one of our favorites to capture and we wish you all the best in the years to come!

Blake & Hera - Engagement

2008-06-02T08:05:00.001-07:00

Hera contacted me several months back to do her engagement shoot, and without ever meeting her I knew these two would be a fantastic couple. These two really knew how to "work it" making my job pretty effortless - STUNNING seems an appropriate word for these two...They will be having a destination wedding in Jamaica...I sure wish I could be there to capture that!

Oh - and if you're a friend of Hera, don't ever ever ever let her cut her gorgeous long dark locks. She talked about cutting it after the wedding and Blake heartily rejected that idea - I agree! Too beautiful to cut :)

Thanks Blake and Hera for letting me capture a small part of your love story - I wish you all the best in joy and happiness for your upcoming wedding!

Drew and Rachel - Engagement

2008-05-30T08:03:00.001-07:00

I was counting on this being an extra-fun shoot after having met Rachel, and they did not disappoint :) Rachel stated that they were a fun couple and had a hard time taking serious pictures (I hear ya...) so what did I do but ask them for serious faces. Mostly because I got a kick out of watching them (aka Rachel...) try to keep a strait face! Drew however had a fantastic serious face. Drew even got injured for the sake of good lighting (the area of town wasn't the most savory and the weeds here apparently grow huuuge nasty spikey things that do damage to hands) Luckily Rachel is a nurse and can take care of all such injuries. Thanks for being such good sports guys - most definitely looking forward to your new year's eve wedding!

Jeff and Maggie - Engagement

2008-05-28T09:13:00.001-07:00

What a cute pair! Maggie braved a decent amount of walking in not-so-walk-worthy shoes and I think it was worth it! The evening was perfect and these two made for some good looking pictures...thanks guys!! Best of luck during these last 3 months of wedding planning :)

Brad and Lyndsay - Engagement

2008-05-22T12:16:00.000-07:00

I just love this one for some reason

Last image by Christy - specialiazer in cute closeups and all around awesome shots.

Alright...how cute are these two?! First of all I absolutely loved their colorful outfits - so perfect and color wheel friendly. And they of course had awesome "colorful" personalities to go with it! Clearly Lyndsay is gorgeous, and all smiles which made my job pretty easy, and Brad was pretty great as well. These two are getting married in about a month and we're definitely looking forward to their wedding!

Steve and Marie

2008-05-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

Steve and Marie made a special trip "just for me" or rather just for their pictures which happen to include me :) We spent a good part of the time running from noon sun and the dreaded blochies as we were at the botanical gardens filled with beautiful foliage and not so beautiful shadows. I'd say we succeeded! See you in about a month for the big day Steve and Marie!

Kelsey - Senior Session

2008-05-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

After many failed attempts (thanks to the spring craziness that is Illinois weather...) I finally got to meet up with Kelsey and her mom for her senior pictures. She's graduating in about a week, so thankfully the weather held out for us this time! The lighting (and of course the subject!) were absolutely beautiful.
Thanks for being an excellent model Kelsey and congrats on graduation!

Greg and Sonya's Wedding

2008-05-12T11:21:00.000-07:00

This day was lots of fun for Stacy and I - we began in the most colorful dressing room to date (yellow, red, green, blue..it was a kindergarden room) for some time with the girls before heading up to the ceremony which went without a hitch - according to my memory cards at least (both Stacy and I missed the minor groomsman passing out mishap) The cold and windy morning turned into a perfectly overcast afternoon - perfect for some pictures of the newlyweds and their furry black lab child who made an appearance as well! At the reception we enjoyed a delicious boofay (thank you annonymous DJ for adding enjoyment to our evening with your fanciful pronunciations of words...) and some dancing to follow. I'm pretty sure every single person in attendance danced with the couple at some point during the evening, making for a wonderful evening for everyone.
Congrats Sonya and Greg!

Baby Landyn

2008-05-07T10:55:00.000-07:00

Little baby Landyn was an absolute joy to be around! Right from the start he was all smiles and rocked all of his little outfits (except I'm not sure how thrilled he was about his hat...) Landyns mom (seems so strange calling her that when I remember playing at recess when we were 8 or 9) also looked fabulous for my favorite pictures of them together (I always love mommy baby shots...) He also knew how to make the most appropriate "tough" faces when we were doing his camo outfits with his dad's boots - so precious!

Facebook

2008-04-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

Okay so we all (or almost all) know that Facebook has become somewhat popular in the last few years. I know that I really enjoy using it to keep up with pretty much every person I've ever known. If you have it as well, feel free to add me (Deidre Carlson) or become a fan of Deidre Lynn Photography http://www.facebook.com/pages/Peoria-IL/Deidre-Lynn-Photography/10568738012
If we're "friends" on facebook, I'll have a favorites gallery of your engagement/wedding/senior pictures on there and "tag" you in those images. Trust me...it's fun :)

Moving

2008-04-25T08:02:00.001-07:00

We will be moving this weekend and likely won't have any internet access until Monday the 28th. Thank you for your patience as my mind is 1,000,000 places....paint chips, trees, dining room chairs, more paint chips (I think I have around 150) more trees (starting a collection.......) and so on.

Jerrod and Laura's Wedding

2008-04-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

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The first wedding of the season and we started things off right with Jerrod and Laura! We scared off the rain and had an absolutely gorgeous day on Saturday with this lovely couple. Stacy came along with me and did a fantastic job - she's so much fun to have along as well :) We had deep conversations about river currents during dinner...(as the reception was at the Gateway Building downtown Peoria) Such a fun couple, wedding party, and day in general - congratulations Jerrod and Laura!!

Savannah/Tybee Island

2008-04-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

More images from our vacation - the Savannah area was so much more beautiful than I could have imagined - everything seemed to be in a perpetual state of summer (even if we were there for record low temperatures...) with live oaks and spanish moss and the flowery-est bushes I have ever seen. A short drive to Tybee Island provided pristine beaches that seemed almoust untouched by commercialism. Granted we were pretty much the only ones crazy enough to be on the beach when it was all of 45 degrees, but to us that was "warm".

Baby Landon

2008-04-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of taking cutie little Landon's pictures the other day...what a good baby!! He spent most of the time facinated by a window then was pretty much knocked out the rest of the time. Clearly a soccer fan already, he rocked his little Chelsea onesie and gave it the thumbs up in his sleep :)

More Vacation

2008-04-08T06:37:00.001-07:00

Tybee Island birdums and Christy and I in Chattanooooooooga

Jimmy and Autumn - Engagement

2008-04-07T08:12:00.000-07:00

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I should have put a "disclaimer" warning of too many pictures in this post. We found one of the nicest days we've had in what seems like 11 months of winter for Jimmy and Autumn's engagement session. First of all, I have a bad habit of comparing my clients (usually the ladies) to some famous person. I just have to do it - I do it with everyone really but my brides always remind me of someone famous. Well, Autumn IS the girl in Pearl Harbor. I have no idea what her real name is, but I'm fairly certain it was Autumn in this movie. I told her she was also Sanda Bullock.
Anyway, these two were so much fun! It's been over 4 months since my last engagement shoot due to the most horrible and long winter ever to exist and what a better way to break back into it than on this "handsome" couple (does anyone use that term anymore?) They brought along their rambuncious, smiling golden retreiver baby, Johnny Boy who was about as good as he could be for how excited he was and we did some "family" picutures with him.
I can not wait until their wedding - I'm thinking maybe there should be a golden/hairy ring bearer...

Where They Actually Have Flowers...

2008-04-04T11:17:00.000-07:00

Who else is beginning to truly believe with all their hearts that spring will never show it's pretty face in Illinois again? These lovelies were all in either Chattanooga or Savannah - where they have been graced with warmth and sunshine.

In other news - if I don't answer my phone right away for the next few weeks, it's likely because I'm covered in either dust, dirt or paint as we're working on our new house. Homeowner Gripe #1 - who knew there could be SO MANY shades of off white?!

Me and Hubs

2008-04-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

On the other side of the camera! Christy (who masterfully captured these images...) kept telling us how awkward/uncomfortable we looked. Um...because we were! I don't know what it is with pictures with my HUSBAND but I always feel like I have too many arms or something. I have literally over 10,000 picutres of me as a kid (thanks photographer mama) so it's not like I'm not used to it. This experience just makes me want to make everyone in front of MY camera that much more comfortable and relaxed. We have fun!

Allen and Christy - Chattanooga

2008-03-31T18:48:00.000-07:00

I really don't know what to write about these two other than I just love them. Christy, as you may remember from this post is my best friend from birth, or 6 years of age. Fellow rider of imaginary horses, recess escapee, lost pen finder, and scottish dancer. As well as being my maid of honor. Next year we get to trade roles! I, as "matron" of honor get to prepare a wonderful, flowery speech and hubby Brandon gets to don a tux and be a groomsman. We're very excited.

Anyway - I tend to ramble... Brandon and I visited Christy and Allen this past week in Lookout Mountain, GA/Chattanooga TN for some fun caving (amazingly fun/intensly scary at first) hiking and general sight-seeing. If you haven't been up this mountain you are seriously missing out. The most gorgeous houses/landscaping/views ever. We spent one day in Chattanooga walking for miles, taking boat trips and many pictures. I could have posted 20+ but I restrained myself.

If you're one of my brides this year - you'll likely see Christy at your wedding as ms. art major is also an assistant with me. She usually mans the "safari lens" also known as the white giant. Who would have thought wedding photographers needed biceps?!

Vacation!

2008-03-19T14:29:00.001-07:00

Hubby and I will be in Georgia for the next week without much email access, but if you need to get ahold of me, feel free to give me a call!

Final and Favorite

2008-03-11T14:49:00.001-07:00

Enough said.

So thus ends my pictoral tour through Banff. If you're getting married this year and you haven't had your engagement session yet - let's set it up because I'm itching to get outside and have some fun!

Winter special

2008-03-03T15:22:00.000-08:00

Attention all you brave ladies (and gentlemen) getting married in the blustery winter months of December January and February (2008-2009) In honor of spring being just around the corner (here's hoping for more of those 60 degree days!) we're running a special.

Canada Sixteen

2008-03-03T09:29:00.000-08:00

It was so hard chosing between my top two favorite images from this trip. Both will undoubtedly be making an appearance as gallery wrapped canvases in my house - it's just deciding which gets the coveted "over the mantle" location. I randomly chose this one as #2 because really they're equal in my eyes. Banff displayed such beautiful skies that week!!!

Wee Baby Connor

2008-02-29T11:12:00.000-08:00

My dear friend just had this brand new little blessing (one day before my birthday!) and of course his cute little face just demands photographing. I was SO excited to get to take his pictures as he was my first baby shoot ever! I know I always say that I only do weddings and senior portraits...but I may change my tune after this amazing session. (Seriously, if you're expecting - call me up!)
My personal favorite is my own doing - notice picture #6. Does a certain Austin Powers movie come to mind? (I've actually never seen the movie but have seen enough to know about this) Thank you Connor for your excellent modeling skills!