Almost five years ago I met the coolest family – while assisting Heather Funk at Warren & Maria’s wedding here in Grand Rapids, Michigan (the family is from Pennsylvania/Texas/DC). It was one of my first experiences photographing a wedding, and I fell in love with it.

Two years later, I was asked to photograph their daughter Sadie’s christening, a photoshoot with the babies on the beach, and the family adopted me as their own. There was even a joke name for me – Lynell Mandozanitzberry. Anyway, numerous friendships have grown, I’ve traveled to visit a few of them, and been at the beach enjoying every 4th of July with them. I am truly blessed to be able to think of them as family.

And as that family has grown, I’ve been a part of some special times. Birthday parties, funerals, christenings, engagements. Last summer I had the joy of celebrating with Gina & John by doing their engagement photos on the beach here in Michigan. This year, I got to do that with Lisa & David.

About Lisa & David – they are probably some of the nicest, sweetest, most genuine people you will ever meet. It’s no wonder they are perfect for each other. Their love is pure, sweet, and together they make an awesome team.

So Friday night we braved the 100 degree weather for a quick shoot – anything longer than that and we would have all melted.

I feel so fortunate to call them friends, and to have shared in this special time with them is something I’ll always treasure.

Lisa & David – enjoy this time! Love you!