Marie Grace Photography: Blog

Senior Spotlight: Miss Haylee; Montezuma Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 21:34:37 GMT

MGP Album Stamp

It's that time of year again: Senior Spotlight Season and we are rolling right into our next MGP Senior!

Every year we recognize MGP Seniors and their accomplishments over their last year of high school while also enjoying looking at some of their images from their session(s).

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This week's spotlight is on Miss. Haylee from Montezuma High School in Montezuma, Iowa!

Haylee has also been around for a few years, too. She joined the Underclassmen Project Team and moved on up to the Senior Model team for this year! Setting all of this up and looking back, it's incredible to watch her grow. I remember the first time I met her; she was SO nervous but she took the plunge and decided to join on to the program(s)!

Haylee has been kind, compassionate and understanding around me. I will always have a soft spot in my heart for her and her family and I always knew there would be a good laugh or two when they were all around! I could definitely see (and feel) her personality shine during her senior sessions, too, especially having her family near! I have enjoyed getting to know her more these last few years than she will ever know!

Here are Haylee's responses to the spotlight questionnaire:

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What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?:

"Stepping out of my comfort zone and auditioning for the school musical. I also joined speech and drama, I did choral reading and radio broadcasting. Choral reading received a non-performing all state recognition."

I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?:

"I am looking forward to the Coe College Honor Band in April!"

Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them:

"I played softball my freshman and sophomore years. I’ve been in band all through high school. Also Musical, Speech and Drama."

What's your plan for this summer?:

"I plan on working and saving up money, and also making time for myself and my family and friends."

What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have):

"I’m going to be attending William Penn University and I am doing the online program majoring in Elementary Education."

Do you have any advice for your underclassmen?:

"It goes by faster than you think, be confident and try new things!"

What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?:

"All of them 😍 especially the Hunter (the horse) and I."

Is there anything else you would like shared?:

"I am so glad I applied for the Underclassman project. It was the absolute best decision, really got me out of my comfort zone!! Thank you Alley!!"

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Let's look over the last few years!

Her first shoot was the Underclassmen Project Team sign up in 2021!

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Then we had a little fun on a rooftop!

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We finished up the year with a little Christmas shoot!

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Rolling into 2022, we had our first shoot together as her Senior Model sign up!

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Next up was her BFF session (which was ADORABLE!)

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And then we had two sessions for her!

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Then we had her second session closer to home!

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Thank you SO much to Haylee (and your fam) for hanging around MGP for the last few years! It was truly a pleasure to have you around!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2024 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alexandra Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss Jordan; Marengo Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 03:23:05 GMT

MGP Album Stamp

It's that time of year again: Senior Spotlight Season and we are rolling right into our next MGP Senior!

Every year we recognize MGP Seniors and their accomplishments over their last year of high school while also enjoying looking at some of their images from their session(s).

Our next center of attention is Miss. Jordan from Iowa Valley High School in Marengo, Iowa.

Jordan has been around for a few years now; starting on the Underclassmen Project Team and then bumping up to the Senior Model Team. So far, we've had 7 shoots together (both big and small) and still have one more to finish out the year! I love Jordan's go-with-the-flow and laid-back personality. While she may be pretty chill, she always shows up knowing what she wants and how to get it! I think my favorite shoot with her was her senior session but I also REALLY loved the energy she just brought to our last styled shoot (hopefully I can sneak a few of those in here at the end)!

Enough of my chatting though, let's see what Jordan has going on as she finishes up the last few weeks of high school!

What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?: "I believe I have had many things to be proud of throughout my senior year. Some of those things include; making hoco court, earning my Microsoft certification, having the highest score in the state of Iowa on my Microsoft Word certification test, and earning my Iowa Degree for FFA!"

I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?: "I would say that I'm looking forward to senior skip day and pulling our senior prank but since we already did those I'd have to say that I'm looking forward to attending my final State FFA Convention."

Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them: "Oh yes I was involved in a bunch of them! Volleyball, Basketball, Golf, Softball, FFA, Speech, Year Book and Student Council"

What's your plan for this summer?: "This summer I plan on having a bunch of fun with my friends before we all go our separate ways!"

What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have): "In the fall I will be attending Iowa State to major in Animal Science!"

Do you have any advice for your underclassmen?: "My advice to underclassmen is to always have fun no matter what you're doing or where you're at! With the right mindset you can make the best out of any situation!"

What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?: "My favorite images from my senior session are the ones where I'm wearing the navy blue dress. All of those pictures are amazing."

Is there anything else you would like shared?: "Mother nature can be crazy so make sure you have a back up date (or 3) in mind when choosing your senior session date!"

^^ She's not wrong there! We were definitely on the struggle bus when it came time to actually have her session and coordinating around the weather!

Shall we look at the last few years, then?

Her very first shoot, the Underclassmen Sign Up shoot:

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That year we did a fun roof-top session that she was a part of, too!

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We definitely had a great (ang BIG) group that year!

The next time I saw Jordan for a shoot was at her Senior Model sign up shoot!

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And then we went out to a random field for some cutesy images!

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Then we were supposed to have her session. And it got rescheduled. And then it got rescheduled again..

But it FINALLY happened! And it was great! Never mind the flat tire I got while shooting..

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Of course we had to start with the FFA jacket!

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Remember those shoes? :)

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I LOVED the pink dress backgrounds! The colors (and Jordan) are all perfect together!

Off to the golf course we went!

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And then to the school..

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And that was just a preview of the images from her session. There were so many good ones!

We also had a quick cozy sweater photo shoot:
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Aaaaannnd here's one small sneak into our shoot from just the other day at West End Architectural Salvage in Des Moines!

Dress from: Dream Dress in Cedar Rapids!

Thank you SO much to Jordan for hanging around MGP for the last few years! It was a pleasure to have you around!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2024 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alexandra Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss Amelia; New Sharon Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 19:12:19 GMT

MGP Album Stamp

It's that time of year again: Senior Spotlight Season and it's time to kick the year off!

Every year we recognize MGP Seniors and their accomplishments over their last year of high school!

Our first up is the very beautiful and talented Miss. Amelia from North Mahaska High School in New Sharon, Iowa!

Amelia has been a part of MGP's Senior Model program and I have enjoyed having her fun and take-charge spirit on the team! This girl definitely knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go after it! We had a few different shoots together and each of them were just as fun as the others. I am super excited for you to look through the last year with her!

But first, let's learn a little about Amelia!

What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of: "I’m very proud of all the relationships I’ve made with underclassmen at my school and that I’ve been able to help grow the next group of leaders at NM!"

Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them: "Basketball, football athletic training, FFA (chapter officer), all-school musical, choir and the school newspaper."

What's your plan for this summer?: "I’m going to work an internship to better develop my career skills before college starts."

What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have): "I’m going to attend Iowa State to major in Agricultural Education and I plan to be a high school Ag Ed teacher after college."

Do you have any advice for your underclassmen?: "Just treasure your time during high school. You don’t have to fill all of it with activities to be successful. Remember to take time for yourself too! :)"

What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?: "The ones where I’m drinking coffee are definitely some of my favorite! Also any of the green top and jeans outfit pictures!"

Let's look back at all of the sessions she's been involved in!

Up first: Her MGP Senior Model Sign Up Shoot

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Then, we had her BFF Session!

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Then we had a fun sunset shoot with the group! This session was shot right out at Belva Deer (in Keokuk County)!

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And now, let's look at some images from her senior session! We started her session right in Pella!

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(Of course we had to stop into Smokey Row for a mid-session coffee!)

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Amelia wanted to get some nature images, so off to Lake Red Rock we went!

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And finally we finished up her session back in her school to showcase her love for basketball!

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Thank you so very much to Amelia and her family for letting MGP capture these moments throughout this special year!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2024 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alexandra Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss Abby; Oskaloosa Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 19:15:02 GMT

MGP Album Stamp

It's that time of year again: Senior Spotlight Season!

Every year we recognize MGP Seniors and their accomplishments over their last year of high school!

Next up is another new face around here, Miss. Abby from Oskaloosa High School in Osakloosa, Iowa!

Abby also elected to have two separate sessions, one that focused on her love for flying in the summer and the second was more of a relaxed fall session.

Let me tell you.. as soon as I booked Abby I was PUMPED. I don't even care if it's not cool to say pumped anymore. I was! Her mom stressed how important flying was to her and that we would definitely be focusing on that for her session. Also let me tell you.. I had NO idea how darn windy it is at the Oskaloosa Airport! We fought that wind pretty hard, had to move a little here and there but in the end we came up with some amazing shots!

Now, I don't know about all of you that know this girl well, but Abby was probably the most "know what she wants but go-with-the-flow" student I've ever worked with. You'll have to let me know if that description is true! I loved the ideas she had for her different locations and that she was also willing to go along with my different ideas. I also was a fan how we did a good part of both of her sessions around her family land and properties! You really can't beat the personal touch that will last forever in her portraits!

I really did have a lot of fun following Abby and her mom around at both of her sessions. It was truly great to get to know her throughout our time together and to admire her determination at such a young age! It really is inspiring! From her love and dedication to 4H, her sweet corn field to her love of being in the air; I am blown away by her eagerness to chase after what she wants.

Anyways, I could go on and on about this girl, but that's not why you all are here! Before we see her portraits from her sessions, let's learn a little more about Abby from her questionnaire!

What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of: "High game and high series in bowling. It will also be getting my pilots license, but that hasn’t happened yet." -- PS I'll be expecting an update on that!

I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?: "Getting my private pilots license and building flight time before I go to college."

Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them: "Bowling, Tennis, concert band, jazz band, and marching band."

What's your plan for this summer?: "Fly, fish, and sell sweet corn."

What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have): "I plan to attend the University of Dubuque to study Aviation Operations and Minor in Aviation Management. After college, I plan to become a corporate pilot."

Do you have any advice for your underclassmen?: "Do what you want and don’t worry about other people."

What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?: "The airplane ones, any of the black/white ones, the fishing ones."

Let's look back at her sessions!

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We did take some nice (aka none-airplane)portraits during her first session, too.

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I literally can't with this girl's personality!

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And then from her second session..

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Please tell me you're laughing here too!

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We'll call this one, "A stump; the progression.."

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Hopefully you got to experience a little bit of Abby's personality in these images!

Thank you so very much, Abby (and Kara) for letting us be a part of Abby's senior year! Wishing you the very best as you fly off (see what I did there?!) to school next year! I know you will be nothing short of amazing!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2023 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss Alivia; Belle Plaine Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 16:23:19 GMT

MGP Album Stamp

It's that time of year again: Senior Spotlight Season!

Every year we recognize MGP Seniors and their accomplishments over their last year of high school!

Next up is another new face around here, Miss. Alivia from Belle Plaine High School in Belle Plaine, Iowa!

Alivia decided she wanted to have two separate sessions; one in the summer and one in the fall! She wanted to go somewhere a little different than "around home" for her session so we took her to the sprawling town of What Cheer. Little did I know that the Iowa DOT decided that that day they were going to do some work along the highway in town. So Alivia got to learn how to pose with me over wonderful noises jackhammering and big trucks. Lucky girl!

Her second session ended up being a little more quiet and peaceful (and super fun - just wait until you see that adorable little car)! We were also able to show off who Alivia really is with her spots around her hometown and with her sports sets!

Overall, getting to know Alivia and her family over the last year has been nothing short of a blessing and it has been a blast!

Before we take a look at the images from her session, let's learn a little bit about Alivia and her last year in high school!

What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of: "I am most proud of being on the high honor roll all throughout high school. I am also most proud of being the football and basketball cheerleading captain."

I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?: "I am most looking forward to finding a roommate for college next year. I am also looking forward to my senior prom!!"

Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them: "I have been in softball and basketball cheerleading all 4 years of high school. I was captain of the basketball cheer team my junior and senior year. I have also been involved in football cheerleading since my sophomore year, I was captain my senior year."

What's your plan for this summer?: "This summer I plan to finish off my senior year by playing softball and working at the Ice House in Belle Plaine."

What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have): "In the fall I will be attending the University of Northern Iowa. I plan to major in Pre-Physical Therpay."

Do you have any advice for your underclassmen?: "Enjoy high school while you can, time really does fly. You don’t have to be involved in everything your school offers but being involved is important. Don’t bite off more then you can chew!"

What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?: "Oh boy it’s hard to choose just one. I absolutely love all of the ones in the car and the ones after that at the grass park area with the same outfit. I am also in love with a lot of my softball pictures!"

Now, let's look back at some of our favorite portraits from her session!

First up: Her summer session!

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And then her fall session:

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This next set cracks me up every time!

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Thank you SO very much for letting us be a part of your senior year, Alivia! Wishing you the very best as you finish out this year and head off on your new journey after high school!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2023 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Mr Ian; East High School, Iowa

(Marie Grace Photography) — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 02:17:05 GMT

MGP Album Stamp

It's that time of year again: Senior Spotlight Season!

Every year we recognize MGP Seniors and their accomplishments over their last year of high school!

First up is a new face around here, Mr. Ian from East High School in Waterloo, Iowa!

Ian was actually my very last senior I worked with before winter hit this busy season and boy did we end the year on a bang! I typically do not work with many students from the Waterloo area, but if they're anything like this young fella (and his momma & aunt), bring them on! This last fall's busy season hung on for the longest in my photography career because of the nice weather. So shooting Ian's session late-November really was a breeze!

We started our day up in his neck of the woods (ok, city) and then ended back in the studio for some specialized lighting work. He even got in the "rain" set when it was 30*. What a CHAMP! Ian was more than willing to try anything I had asked him to, which from what I understand, has been pretty common for him growing up in front of his mom's and aunt's camera! And BONUS, he sang for us not once, but TWICE! The guy just gave the whole day his everything!

It really is fun meeting clients on their home turf and letting them show us around. There are so many hidden gems in the Waterloo area and thanks to their local insight, I have a few ideas going forward!

Every year I send a questionnaire to graduating seniors for them to fill out. Before we get going too far into his images, let's get to know Ian just a little more:

What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of: "I was on homecoming court and finished three fall sports seasons."

I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?: "I will be running track in the spring, hoping to qualify for the state track meet and Drake Relays. I will also be playing baseball this summer."

Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them: "I ran track and cross country, played football, baseball, and travel volleyball."

What's your plan for this summer?: "Play baseball and do as many trips and fun things with friends as possible."

What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have): "I’m planning on going to an undecided college to run track and get my undergrad in kinesiology before I eventually become a chiropractor."

Do you have any advice for your underclassmen?: "Have as much fun during high school as you can. Hang with friends, go to school events and dances, and try some different sports or clubs!"

What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?: "I really, really loved how the photos under the rain with the blue and purple lighting turned out! I also thought the pictures on the track turned out really cool too!"

Now, let's look back at some of our favorite portraits from his session!

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I can't thank you all (Peggy, Stacey and Ian) enough for trusting this small-town photographer with your vision and having a blast together! You guys were a dream to work with and the perfect ending for my Class of 2022 senior season!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2023 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss Dylan; Montezuma Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 16:13:41 GMT

MGP Album Stamp

It's that time of year again: Senior Spotlight Season!

Every year we recognize MGP Seniors and their accomplishments over their last year of high school!

First up is none other than Miss. Dylan from Montezuma High School!

I first met Dylan when she tagged along with Katie (an MGP Senior Model) for a BFF shoot! I am sure our confusion on the correct date for this shoot really set the tone and made Dylan instantly fall in love with the business! The shoot went off without a hitch though and it really was a lot of fun! I'll throw in a few images from that shoot so you can enjoy them, too!

Dylan's senior session was way back in August of 2020; right before school opened back up. The colors were vibrant, the air was warm (ok really it was hot) and Dylan was a champ through it all! We had a great mix of country/urban and sports for her session, and I really love how some of her personality really shows in these!

But before we get to her images, let's read a little more about Dylan from her questionnaire!

Me: "What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?"

Dylan: "The year is only a little over half way over and there are still so many great things that have happened. Some major accomplishments for me this year have been being on homecoming court and crowned queen, being runner up conference champions in volleyball and conference champions in basketball. Over all I’m super proud of how my school and friends have adapted to make this year seem more normal even through all the hard times."

Me: "I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?"

Dylan: "I don’t have any major plans to finish out the year. I’m just hoping that we get to have the rest of basketball season, prom and graduation and normal as possible."

Me: "Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below."

Dylan: "I have been involved in volleyball, basketball, track, student council, FFA, and National Honor Society."

Me: "What's your plan for this summer?"

Dylan: "This summer I plan to work and earn money for college in the fall. I also plan on spending time with my friends and family."

Me: "What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below."

Dylan: "Next year I plan on going to Simpson College and to play basketball. I’m not sure in my major and will most likely be going in undecided."

Me: "Do you have any advice for your underclassmen?"

Dylan: "My advice for the underclassmen would be to be thankful for every moment. High school really does go faster than you think and after all it is only 4 years of your life. High school can bring some of the best moments and you never know what can be taken away from you. Never talk anything for granted and live life to the fullest."

Me: "What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?"

Dylan: "I absolutely loved all of my pictures but some of my favorites would have to be in my jeans with the black see-though cardigan."

And now let's see some of all of our favorite images:

A sprinkle of BFF images:

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And then from Dylan's senior session:

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Thank you, Dylan, for choosing Marie Grace Photography to document your senior portraits! You were so fun to work with and it was great to get to know you! Enjoy the final months of your senior year and I wish you all of the best as you head off to Simpson next year!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2022 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss. Jenna; Oskaloosa Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 18:57:59 GMT

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Last but not at all the least, there's Jenna.

Where do I even start?

Jenna's soul is deep. I knew it from the moment I first worked with her. I didn't know why, but I saw it.

I learned why over time.

When we first worked together Jenna was very quiet. She was an observer. She watched and took it all in. But as the year progressed, she grew and bloomed. Her guard has dropped little by little every time I've seen her, and I will treasure the opportunity I've had to earn her trust and to get to know her.

The very first time I got to work with Jenna was waaaaaay back in the winter months of early 2019. She was one of the models for the Bridal Dreams prom dress styled shoot in the snow. It was COLD. Very, very cold! But all three girls, including Jenna took it in stride!

From there Jenna decided she wanted to be a part of the Class of 2020 MGP Senior Model team and it made my heart so happy that she wanted to be apart of it! From there we had multiple shoots together from styled shoots to group shoots with the rest of the team.

For now, let's learn a little bit more about Jenna from her questionnaire!

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Jenna: "I am most proud of receiving a huge scholarship that I dreamed of. I’m also proud of getting to work with a local interior designer so I get an inside look of what it will look like for me."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Jenna: "Well I was really looking forward to prom this year and I’m crossing my fingers it will still happen."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Jenna: "I was involved in dance my freshmen year and I managed the girls swim team my junior and senior year. I also decided to play tennis this year but that has been put on hold for now."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Jenna: "I plan on working a lot to save up money for college but I am holding to have an amazing summer with my friends before we all go off to college."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Jenna: "I plan on going to Iowa State University for Interior Design."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Jenna: "I love all of the picture but some of my favorite have to be worth my niece and the ones in the sunflowers."

Me: Is there anything else you would like shared?

Jenna: "It has been so fun to be a senior model for MGP and I would encourage everyone to do so if they have the chance."

And now let's look back at the very best year (and a half) ...

At the beginning there was the Bridal Dreams Snow Session.

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Following this was the Lighted Styled Session.

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And then there was her MGP Senior Model Announcement.

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Next there was the floral Styled Session.

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The Americana Styled Session came next.

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Her BFF Session followed.

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Her next session was her Sunflower Session (which was also one of my favorites).

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And then the other half of her session..

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The following shoot was the Christmas Pajama Pizza Party Session.

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Next up was the Print Competition Session

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And then there was the Bridal Dreams Prom Dress Session at The Studio in Des Moines!

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Jenna; I cannot thank you enough for giving me the chance to get to know you. You are incredibly strong and smart. You are a light, whether you see it or not. I believe so much that you were put in my life for a very big reason. You, my dear, are meant for big things.

I wish you all of the very best luck as you head off to Iowa State this fall!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss. Jazmine; Montezuma Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 15:37:37 GMT

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Today's Senior Spotlight is focused on none other than the fabulous Miss. Jazmine who has now graduated from Montezuma High School!

Remembering back to Jazmine's session and what I remember most was how chilly it was but how well she handled the cooler temperature! We started out at her place near the water (with the cutest little doggo ever) since she is such a lake girl and then traveled around Diamond Lake for some images and then ended up on the ball diamond to finish up the session!

I love Jazmine's personality so much! I love that she knows what she wants and she's not afraid to go after it. She is so strong, even if she doesn't feel it. She is quick to hand out a compliment and to make everyone feel better and I absolutely adore that about her too.

I loved her outfit choices, she even brought her own awesome hat (and we all know how much I love hats)! She had everything on hand from cozy trendy to edgy and fun! Just wait until you see them all!

For now, let's learn a little more about Jazmine!

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Jazmine: "I am most proud of how our class is handling this Covid-19 and not being able to be together. We aren’t together but we stick together."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Jazmine: "I’m just hoping we get to graduate! I’m honestly looking forward to walking across the stage with my 2020 class."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Jazmine: "Softball, Track, Cross country , Basketball, Vocal, Speech and drama, Band."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Jazmine: "To have fun with family and friends. Be ready for college."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Jazmine: "I will be attending DMACC fall of 2020 to become a dental hygienist!"

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Jazmine: "My favorite photos were the ones where I was in the yellow shirt in the tall grass."

Me: Is there anything else you would like shared?

Jazmine: "Stay strong class of 2020."

And now let's look back on the images from her session!

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Look at their matching hats!

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One of my favorites! ;)

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Even though it was chilly, it was still an amazing session. I am so happy that I had the opportunity to meet and work with Jazmine and her mom for her senior session. Jazmine is truly a blessing and will do GREAT things.

Best wishes as you head off to DMACC this fall Jazmine!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss. Brianna; Montezuma Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Wed, 27 May 2020 12:55:40 GMT

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The Senior Spotlight today is for the one and only Miss. Brianna!

And the one and only she really is.

Brianna is another one of the Class of 2020 MGP Senior Models and she has been a BLAST to have around this year. I knew from our very first meeting that she would be absolutely perfect for the team. Her showing up in her little hippie style made my photographer heart just melt. And her sarcasm and quick wit always has me rolling, too!

Every session I know B will be at will be a good one. She is a leader when needed and isn't afraid to try whatever I ask her to. Her style is always on point. ALWAYS. It makes me so sad to think that our time together has run its course, but I know that Brianna is on to such big things!

Brianna is a graduate of Montezuma High School and here is a little bit more about her..

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Brianna: "I never got my senior sport season but working out with my track coach after school is something I was proud of. Seeing the results of the hard work paid off."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Brianna: "Track was what I was most looking forward to all year but I am holding on to some hope that we’ll get a bit of a season."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Brianna: "I have been involved in Track & Field all throughout high school."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Brianna: My plans this summer is to make some memories with my friends and all those I grew up with before leaving to meet all new people."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Brianna: This fall I’ll be attending University of Iowa to major in Speech and Hearing Sciences with a minor in American Sign Language."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Brianna: "Some of my favorite pictures are in my grandmas dress in the awesome sunset, the pictures I got to honor my dad, and my pictures out on the track."

Me: Is there anything else you would like shared?

Brianna: "Alley, you are the BEST! Thank you for being so awesome and making this whole experience something I looked forward to!"

Ok excuse me while I go get a tissue to dry my eyes real quick...

From the beginning..

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To the LuRoo & Co Styled Shoot..

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Then her BFF session (with her little nieces)..

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To the Americana Styled Shoot..

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Her Senior Session..

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To the Rock N Roll Styled Shoot..

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Then there was the Christmas Pajama Pizza Party Session..

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And then finally, the Bridal Dreams Prom Shoot at The Studio in Des Moines!

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Thank you so very stinking much for being a part of this team Brianna. You make my heart happy and it has been a blessing to get to know you and your momma.

Much love to you as you go on and take on this big big world. You got this.

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss. Julia; California to Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Thu, 21 May 2020 17:27:40 GMT

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The Senior Spotlight for today is focused on Miss. Julia! Julia has graduated from San Ramon Valley High School in Danville, California!

I was fortunate enough to work with Julia and her family while they were back in Iowa visiting last summer! A California girl getting senior portraits done in Iowa is a change of pace and I had a really great time getting to know this family a little bit!

Julia was definitely quiet, but her smile really lit up any space we were in! I adored her outfit choices and even though she was on the shy side, she definitely owned each set she was photographed in.

We started her session in the morning in Montezuma at a fellow photographer's space to use her piano (thanks Jo!) From there we picked a few spots in the Montezuma area to photograph at! It was a wonderful session even though a storm was threatening near the end!

Here is a little more to learn about Julia:

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Julia: "Although my senior year did have a rough start with my mom’s accident, it really has brought us together more. I am proud of myself and my family for overcoming all of these obstacles and growing closer over these past months."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Julia: "I’m looking forward to deciding what college I will be attending next year; I have yet to hear back from 11 colleges."

(She ended up choosing Santa Clara University!)

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Julia: "Dance and Youth & Government"

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Julia: "This summer I am excited to visit Iowa to see my dad’s side of the family and spend more time in our newly renovated house there. Additionally, I look forward to my family’s annual trip to our cabin in the Sierra Nevada’s built by my great grandfather."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Julia: "I applied to 14 colleges this fall and am still waiting for all of my admission decisions to come back. Because of my love for math and sciences I have decided to pursue an mechanical engineering degree."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Julia: "I had one set where I was wearing a blue checkered shirt and standing in a field of flowers that I really loved."

And let's take a look back at her session now, too!

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Thank you so very much for letting me work with you and your family, Julia! It was absolutely wonderful getting to know you and your family during your session! I wish you all the best as you head off to Santa Clara (HOPEFULLY Covid-19 allows) this fall!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss. Alyssa; Mount Pleasant Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Thu, 14 May 2020 12:53:28 GMT

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Today's Senior Spotlight shines on Miss. Alyssa who will be graduating from Mount Pleasant High School in Mount Pleasant, Iowa!

Alyssa is another member of the MGP Class of 2020 Senior Model team and it has been so incredible to have her be a part of it all! It has been a lot fun to watch her take part in all of the different shoots and to see her personality come through! Alyssa is a little reserved and shy at first, but when she gets comfortable she is a lot of fun to be around!

Alyssa has been a lot of fun to spend time with during photo shoots; she is quick with the sarcasm and she goes along with all of my crazy ideas and pretends she doesn't think they are crazy! :)

We've had quite a few different photo shoots together and I think my favorite one with her was probably her individual senior session. Traipsing through the mud to get to a Missouri Crossing always sounds good in theory, until you have to do it. And then the current is a little strong and almost takes you out. But those are memories, right, Alyssa?

She's a beast in the discus ring and I am incredibly bummed for her to miss out on her senior track season. But this girl still has big things coming!

Alyssa did fill out her questionnaire pre-pandemic and some of her answers reflect that.

Alyssa's Spotlight:

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Alyssa: "This year I am proud of myself for trying new things. I auditioned for a school play and got a part. I have also been broadening my horizons and learning more about my community as I volunteer at the Henry County Heritage Trust Museum every week."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Alyssa: "I am looking forward to competing in the 2020 track and softball seasons. I have also gotten a part in the upcoming school musical. During my high school years I have learned that I love performing. I can’t wait to portray my character on stage!"

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Alyssa: "Yes, this year I participated in school activities such as a football manager, fall play, spring musical, show choir, track, and softball. I have also spent time this year volunteering at the local museum."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Alyssa: "This summer I plan to take a trip to Washington D.C and New York City with the music department from my high school. I plan to finish my high school career by playing softball. I also want to spend my summer with my family and friends before I start my life’s new adventures."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Alyssa: "I plan to attend Hawkeye Community College to participate in their track program and begin my educational path to become an elementary teacher."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Alyssa: "My two favorite sets from my senior session were the pictures that were taken behind What Cheer tavern and the images that were taken at my great great grandparents farm. I loved the rustic backdrop of both sites and including a piece of my family's history at the farm."

And now let's look back at the last year..

From her announcement session..

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To her BFF session..

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To the Americana session..

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Then there was the Rock N Roll shoot..

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Next up was her Senior Session..

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After that, the next session was the Pizza Pajama Party..

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The next session together was the prom shoot at The Studio in Des Moines..

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Thank you so much, Alyssa (and Jennifer) for letting me work with you for the last year and a half! It has been so fun getting to know you better and I know that you are going to conquer many things in the coming years! I am excited to watch and cheer you on from the sidelines!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Mr. Jace; Cedar Rapids Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Wed, 06 May 2020 20:38:10 GMT

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Today's Senior Spotlight is shining on Mr. Jace, who will be graduating from Prairie High School in the Cedar Rapids area! Jace will be attending Kirkwood this fall!

Jace had the privilege of having two different sessions; the first focused on his favorite hobbies (firefighting for Fairfax FD & bowling) and during his second session we worked on his nicer outfits! It was so fun both times we worked with Jace (and his entire family)! Jace has quite the village of love and support surrounding him, he's a lucky kid!

His first session was definitely toasty, especially for him! Can you imagine getting in full firefighter gear on in upper 80* weather and then trying to look nice for pictures? Of course Jace handled it like a champ and ALWAYS had a smile on his face! His second session we were definitely blessed with better weather! He is SUCH a gentleman too, always offering to help at every turn! Just thinking of him makes me smile!

Let's learn a little more about Jace from his Senior Spotlight, shall we?

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Jace: "I am proud of the good grades I worked hard to achieve in school. I'm also proud of our bowling team's 4th consecutive trip to State in February, along with my season average of 206, bowling anchor for most of our meets and tournaments."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Jace: "I hope I can finish out my Firefighter I certification. Classes at Kirkwood twice per week started in early November and were to finish in April."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Jace: "Yes, the Prairie High School Bowling team. Go Hawks!
I'm also a volunteer firefighter for our town. FFD Proud!"

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Jace: "I plan to work and continue to save money for college. I'd like to get some fishing in as well as a few games of bowling."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Jace: "I plan to attend Kirkwood in the fall, enrolled in their Advanced Welding Technologies. I will also continue my involvement with the fire department."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Jace: "I like my firefighter pics the best, of course. 😉 My mom says I look the happiest and most satisfied in them."

And now let's look back at Jace's Senior Sessions!

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This kid pulls off a black & white really well!

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SEE! :)

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Can't you tell he's just so in his element here?

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A BIG, HUGE THANK YOU to the Merta Family for making the last year (almost two years??) so fun! It has been such a blessing to get to know all of you! And I can't wait until it's Teagan's turn to see what we come up for his session!

Good luck to you Jace, as you continue on past high school. There are so many possibilities out there and I know you will chase them!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Mr. Brayden; Sigourney Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Thu, 23 Apr 2020 15:39:43 GMT

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Today's Senior Spotlight is for Mr. Brayden!

Brayden will will graduate from Tri-County Community School next month!

I had the privilege of meeting Brayden last year when he tagged along for a friend's session and then he had his session the next day! I loved his personality and he was willing to go along with almost all of my ideas! Although I feel like his choices in socks were a little questionable, I still enjoyed hanging out with him during his session! He definitely has some of my favorite guy sport images, too! Also, I need to note that he had THE BEST outtakes of any dude senior session I have ever taken. Just wait until you see!

We stayed around the Keokuk County area for his session, using small town buildings for a lot of our backdrops. I love how we have that option in our small communities!

Brayden had filled out his questionnaire pre-pandemic, so some of his answers may reflect that!

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Brayden: "I’m very happy about how my football season went. I am also very happy about my grades and being accepted to ISU."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Brayden: "I plan to go out for track and baseball hopefully we end the year strong in those. I’m looking forward to the senior class trip that is going to Tennessee."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Brayden: "Yes. Football, Basketball, Track, Baseball, National Honor Society, and Speech and Drama."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Brayden: "I plan to play baseball and get ready to move to college. Spend some time with my friends before I leave."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Brayden: "I am going to ISU to major in Animal Ecology. I want to work at a national park."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Brayden: "My basketball ones for sure and also the ones by the lake."

Me: Is there anything else you would like shared?

Brayden: "I loved getting my pictures taken it was a wonderful time!!"

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I ask almost every guy to do the neck scratch and almost every single reaction is looking at me like I'm crazy. But I love how GQ it turns out to be!

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All of his outtakes were during his transition from smiling to serious face. They CRACK ME UP!

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Thank you so much, Brayden, for choosing MGP for your senior portraits!

Best wishes as you head off to ISU this fall! Enjoy your summer as much as you can!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss Hannah; Marengo Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 13:57:36 GMT

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Today's Senior Spotlight is for Miss. Hannah!

Hannah will be a graduate of Iowa Valley High School in Marengo, Iowa this spring! She is also one of the Class of 2020 MGP Senior Models! She has been a thrill to have on the team; I love her style and her personality so much! Hannah isn't afraid to be herself and she has a take-charge mentality, which is so refreshing in this day-and-age (Do I sound old when I say that? I feel like I sound old when I say that).

I could always count on Hannah having fun during photo shoots and she was always one to strike up conversation with the others, too! Hannah is SO very smart and I am beyond excited to see what she does in the coming year(s)!

Let's learn a little bit more about Hannah from her Senior Spotlight!

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Hannah: "This year I had the honor of portraying Mother Superior in the musical Sister Act. I have also been invited to Allstate as a non-performer for large group speech. My group entered our short film Daisy. I am excited that I have been excepted to the University of Iowa."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Hannah: "This year I am looking forward to my senior year of high school soccer and individual speech. This year I am entered in the categories of story telling and acting."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Hannah: "Over my four years in high school I have been involved with soccer, choir, drama, small group and large group speech, student government, Speech Leadership Advisory Panel, FFA, FCS club, and silver cord."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Hannah: "This summer I plan to work in order to save for college. I would also like to do some traveling to different states with friends."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Hannah: "This fall I will be attending the University of Iowa. I plan on majoring in Business and Theater. I would also like a minor in Spanish. I am not entirely sure what I will use my majors for, but I do know that I enjoy helping others and working with children."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Hannah: "I love the pictures from my main shoot. I would also love to see the pictures from the prom photo shoot."

Me: Is there anything else you would like shared?

Hannah: "I plan on studying abroad while in college, and I can’t wait to experience new things in college."

Ok, now I'm ready to look back at the last year with Miss. Hannah!

First up is from our very first shoot together!

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Here our some images with her BFF, Mady, who is also a 2020 MGP Senior!

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She was also part of our Americana shoot!

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And then there was her senior session, downtown Iowa City!

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And this is when we were trying to get Hannah to be a rep for Nike.

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Then we did one of my favorite group shoots, the Rock N Roll Session!

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We also had our Christmas Pajama Pizza Party!

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And then our final shoot together, for now, has been the Prom Photo Shoot at The Studio in Des Moines!

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I have had SO much fun getting to know Hannah (and her mom) over the last year. She is truly a blessing!

Hannah: I know you are going to do big things in your life! Follow your dreams with determination and grace! I will be here cheering you on!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Mr. Adam; Cedar Rapids Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 19:23:33 GMT

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Today's Senior Spotlight is focusing on Mr. Adam from Swisher, Iowa! Adam will be a graduate of Prairie High School in the Cedar Rapids area this May!

Adam and his mom found me through another MGP senior (and his mom) and I am SO glad we had the opportunity to work with each other! I LOVE Adam's personality and how he wasn't afraid to have some fun with his session! Like, for example, when I was just joking and asked him to go down a slide! Those images became some of our favorites!

It did end up being pretty chilly for Adam's session. In fact, I remember seeing some snow on the ground in spots here and there around the farm where they lived! They had such a cool spot for images, we decided it would be best to start at the farm and then we ended in Cedar Rapids. By the end of the evening I think I can fairly say that we were all FROZEN, but we were having so much fun! I think some of my favorite images were also at the ball field in Swisher. You could tell that was Adam's comfort zone for sure! He did make me work a little to get a few smiles out of him, but it was totally worth it!

Enough of my chatting though. Let's learn a little about Adam from his spotlight!

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Adam: "I recently was inducted into GNHS (German National Honor Society). I committed to Iowa State for the fall of 2020. I also took the ACT and received a 32 which has assisted me in scholarship preparation."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Adam: "I'm just looking forward to preparing for the next chapter of my life and all the little unknowns that accompany it."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Adam: "Just Wiffleball. The 2020 season looks to be the biggest in my league’s history."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Adam: "Run the Wiffleball League. Work to build up savings for college."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Adam: "I intend to be a civil engineer at Iowa State, with a minor in German and maybe environmental studies."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Adam: "My favorites probably would be the truck, the Blitzball photos, and anything black and white."

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Which one do you like better? Color or black and white?

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Now these images are pretty special to this family. Adam's pickup belonged to his grandfather and he definitely takes good care of it!

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I LOVED this tree!

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Remember the slide I mentioned in the beginning?

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This was only mildly terrifying.

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I think if you ask Adam and his mom, this is probably one of their favorites!

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And again, color or black and white? I love them both!

A big THANK YOU to Adam and his family for letting us into your lives and for showing us around your favorite places! It was a perfect (even cold) session!

I wish the very best to you as you head off to Iowa State this fall! Enjoy your extra time off as much as you can right now!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Miss. Claire; Knoxville Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 14:52:51 GMT

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Where do I even start with Claire?!

Miss. Claire is one of the class of 2020 Marie Grace Photography Senior Models and each and every one of these girls has a very special place in my heart, especially Claire. I have had the privilege of getting to know Claire pretty well over the last year as we have had multiple portrait sessions together. Her personality and sense of humor SHINES. I know for sure whenever Claire is around, there will be laughing. I appreciate a whole lot that she laughs at my jokes and then she will hand some right back to me!

It will be hard to watch these girls go off at the end of this year. My heart hurts for them and I wish so much they could be enjoying a few more of their lasts being seniors in high school, but I know they are taking this in stride and they are making the best of this situation!

This is definitely going to be a longer blog as we will look back at the entire year of Claire being with MGP. It is SO bittersweet to look back on these memories, but they definitely make me smile!

Before we get to the images though, let's get to know Claire just a little bit more..

Claire will be a graduate of Knoxville High School!

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Claire: "My major accomplishments my senior year was being captain of my dance team society! Also maintaining my grade point average and being nominated and winning homecoming queen. I am most proud of being captain of the dance team and the cross country team because I felt I have learned about myself and how to be a leader through it!"

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Claire: "I am looking forward to my spring beak vacation to Cabo, Mexico!!"
^^I bet she didn't think she would get such an extended Spring Break!

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Claire: "I was involved in the Knoxville Dance Team, cross country team, musical, national honors society, camera club, and student senate."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Claire: "My plans for the summer is to work and hang out with my friends and family before I leave for college!"

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Claire: "I am going to the University of Iowa this next fall! I’m going to major undecided but with interest in psychology, pre child-life, and speech pathology!"

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Claire: "I loved my very first shoot with all of the flowers and my solo senior session!! I loved going to the flower place in Winterset then going and getting ice cream!!"

Me: Is there anything else you would like shared?

Claire: "I love Alley so much!!"

Let's start at the very beginning..

Starting with this class, I decided to do a photo shoot if they chose to sign up as a model team member right after their consultation! This is something super fun for the kids and it warms them up a little bit to being in front of the camera! This was Claire's first time in front of my camera!

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Our next session was a spur of the moment floral shoot!

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The next session we did together was her BFF shoot!

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We met early summer for an Americana shoot, too!

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Aaaand then I believe the next session was Claire's actual senior session!

We started her session downtown Des Moines and then we ended the session in Winterset!

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It sprinkled just a little bit during her session.. this is the Claire that we all know and love!

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Can't you just hear her laugh?!

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And our most recent shoot together, the Bridal Dreams collaboration shoot at The Studio!

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Ok, I think I am going to cry a few tears now. Just watching how much this girl has grown in the last year makes my heart so happy.

Thank you so much to Claire and your family for letting me be a part of your last year of high school. It was such an honor to get to know all of you and I will miss our little meet-ups at the Walmart in Oskaloosa! :)

Wishing you nothing but the absolute best Claire. You deserve nothing less.

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight: Mr. Holden; Sigourney Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Tue, 07 Apr 2020 16:15:57 GMT

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Today's Senior Spotlight is focusing on none other than Mr. Holden from Sigourney High School!

Holden was actually really lucky last year and ended up with one of the few decent weather days for his session! I love how his images turned out and I think that his personality definitely shines in these! Holden has one of those 100 mega-watt smiles, and I loved how he would just go with the flow but he also had a lot of his own ideas, too!

Holden filled out his questionnaire before COVID-19 hit, and some of his answers reflect his plans before we knew the world would be put on pause! I still think they are great answers though, and I am DEFINITELY curious as to what his plans were for one of his answers!

So, let's learn a little about Holden!

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Holden: "I’ve came out of my shell a lot and put myself out there this year and make it a blast."

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Holden: "Prom I plan on doing something interesting but everyone will just have to see what it is if I do it."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Holden: "I bowl through the high school and I recently got my Eagle Scout."

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Holden: "I’m headed to Las Vegas for a week to bowl and get everything sorted for college."

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Holden: "I’m going to bow in college not one hundred percent sure where I’m going to college yet, but I want to major in business."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Holden: "I personally enjoyed the nature ones more than anything."

See what I was saying about that prom answer... I'm all curious!

But let's check out some of the images from his session!

We started his session at Keokuk County Bowl!

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And then we traveled over to the alley right next to the studio; one of my favorite spots! And these turned out to be some of my favorite images of Holden!

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If you can tell, he actually brought TWO bikes!

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We actually ALL had to get him to NOT climb this tree! We didn't want him to fall into the water.. yet..

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The dude can REALLY pull of pink!

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I love the big smiles!

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Ask him if his rear ended up getting wet for these!

He actually took a dare after this and ran into the water when we took the last image! I love how fun he was!

I had a blast with Holden and his mom during his session!

Thank you Holden (and Rhonda) for choosing Marie Grace Photography for your senior portraits!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

Senior Spotlight; Miss. Paige; Marengo Iowa Photography

(Marie Grace Photography) — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 15:27:53 GMT

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It's that time of year again: the time for Marie Grace Photography Senior Spotlights!

I am a little behind where I would like to be with these, but I have a goal to get spotlight's out there for each of the seniors over the next few weeks!

First up: Miss. Paige from Iowa Valley High School in Marengo, Iowa!

We chose an October day for Paige thinking it would be perfect. The weather should be not to warm, not too cold and the coloring from fall foliage should still be pretty decent.

NOPE!

Poor Paige froze her tail off during her session. We opted for a sunrise session to get golden hour images and it was about 30* when we started, and windy! But Paige worked through it all and we got some amazing images of her!

We started her session in Keokuk County and then we ended her session over in her hometown! Even though the conditions were not what we had hoped, we still had an amazing time with Paige and her family!

So here is Paige's Senior Spotlight!

Me: What are your major accomplishments your senior year? What are you most proud of?

Paige: "A few major accomplishments I have obtained my senior year are being a Hills Bank Scholarship Recipient, getting elected as Marengo FFA President, getting elected to be President of my 4-H club, playing the role of Sister Mary Robert in Sister Act The Musical, and getting a division 1 at District Speech for Group Improvisation!"

Me: I know the year isn't quite over just yet; do you have any big plans to finish out the year? Is there something you are looking forward to before graduation?

Paige: "I mostly am just trying to complete as many scholarships as possible and to finish off the year strong. Even though I’m ready for school to be over, I am trying not to take anything for granted."

Me: Were you involved in any sports or extra curricular activities? If yes, please list them below.

Paige: "I was in involved in track, volleyball, FFA, speech, drama, 4-H, silver cord, National Honor Society, student council, Family Consumer Science Club, youth group, and choir."

Ya know, just a few things. ;)

Me: What's your plan for this summer?

Paige: "This summer I plan to not waste anytime because it is my last summer at home. Of course, I will continuously pack for college throughout the summer, but do lots of fun activities as well. I plan to go swimming, hang out with friends, and work on my fair projects!"

Me: What does the future have in store for you? Have you already picked your school? If so, what major? (Or explain whatever future plans you have below).

Paige: "I am planning to attend Iowa State University in the Fall of 2020. My major as of right now is Animal Science and I would also like to minor in Agriculture Business. After college, I would like to have an agricultural job of some sort."

Me: What are your absolute favorite images/sets from your senior session?

Paige: "Even though my session was very very cold, I really liked taking pictures on the path at Gateway Park in Marengo. I also liked the pictures of me wearing the Love Your Melon hat and blanket scarf."

Me: Is there anything else you would like shared?

Paige: "My senior session was so fun and I was very happy with my pictures. Alley is an amazing photographer!"

So.. let's take a walk down memory lane and see some of Paige's images!

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Thank you, Paige, for choosing Marie Grace Photography for your senior portraits! It has been so wonderful getting to know you and your family!

Wishing you all of the best as you finish this year and head off to Iowa State this fall!

Marie Grace Photography is now booking 2021 seniors! Click Here to get in touch with us!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney, Iowa's Professional Photographer

A Black Tie Affair; Des Moines Iowa Senior Styled Photo Shoot

(Marie Grace Photography) — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 17:06:16 GMT

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Winter for a photographer is typically slower than any other season. So why not take that time to learn, to try new things and to grow?

I'm not going to lie, this winter has not been slow for the business like a typical winter (which I am eternally grateful for), but I am still trying to sneak in time here and there to work in new projects.

Like this shoot, for example! The senior model team was able to choose their own theme for this shoot and they chose "A Black Tie Affair." Fancy prom dresses, guys in sharp suits.. What more could a girl want?

I rented this BEAUTIFUL space (The Studio at One Source Events) in Des Moines, Iowa! The studio is seriously fabulous! If you're ever in need of an indoor studio space in that area to rent, I would recommend here! We also teamed up with the gracious ladies over at Bridal Dreams in Oskaloosa, Iowa for gown rentals! Not all of the girls in the model team were able to make it over to pick out a gown, but 3 out of 5 were able to work it out and were modeling their gowns like stars!

In order to keep things fresh and to keep growing, I challenged myself to use a different lighting technique than I typically do. I did this lighting mostly at the end, when I was ready to push the limits a little bit! Instead of doing the soft beauty lighting off to the side, I lit my subjects from above which can lead to an edgier type of image!

So let's check out what we all came up with, shall we?

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5 out of the 6 lovely seniors on the team this year!

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I've always wanted to do this shot and Jenna's dress from Bridal Dreams was perfect for the shot!

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This gown that Claire is wearing is from Bridal Dreams!

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This gown that Jenna is wearing is from Bridal Dreams!

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This gown that Brianna is wearing is from Bridal Dreams!

The biggest of Thank You's to:

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The Studio at One Source Events

Alyssa, Hannah, Claire, Brianna, Jenna, Wyatt & Payton

Sloane; for beefing up those arms and holding my light stand

And all of the parents and everyone else who made this shoot possible! It was SO much fun and I cannot wait to continue these fun projects to see what we can come up with!

Much love,

Alley

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney Iowa Professional Photographer

The Bahlmanns; An Iowa Country Pinterest Worthy Wedding

(Marie Grace Photography) — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 15:16:34 GMT

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Ahem, does this thing still work?

It has been a real hot minute since this blog site has been used, and I am so excited to share this wedding as a welcome back!

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Where do we even start?

I absolutely adore how these two love each other. And how they're not afraid to share it with the world. Not in 'turn your head in the other direction,' kind of affection. But how they are just so stinking easy to get a ridiculous amount of good portraits because they live their love out loud and I don't even have to ask them to pose.

Their wedding day that they shared with their family and friends was nothing short of perfection. I am sure there was chaos and stress, but all I could see out of the two of them were pure joy and happiness. We were fortunate enough to get some amazing portraits of their day before the rain clouds came in (and even some amazing shots with the dark sky in the background) and everyone was nestled inside the reception area when the rain decided to start falling.

Their wedding ceremony was held here in Sigourney, Iowa at the wonderful Mr. & Mrs. Iosbaker's gorgeous property. I cannot say enough how beautifully everything was set up for the day. Everyone knocked the decorating out of the park and it felt like a little fairy tale right in the middle of town. Just wait until you see the pictures.. my whimsical words do not do the vision justice.

Let's just get into that, shall we?

Details:

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If you saw my Facebook post from the other day, you know how much I adore ring detail portraits. And these were some of my favorite!

The florals around their reception area were gorgeous. And don't get me started on the navy blue and rose gold tones. Makes my Pinterest loving heart so stinking happy!

Is this not the most gorgeous set you've ever seen?!

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All of the old chairs gave the space just the right amount of vintage!

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The ceremony site:

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The bride getting ready:

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Her dapper groom:

And the very first look:

I really adore this image!

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Ok well how stinking adorable is his reaction?!?

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Yeah these two definitely win the most adorable couple ever.

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You might just find me under a willow tree for the rest of my life.

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After the bride and groom portraits, we dove right into family and wedding party portraits!

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And then, it was time for the ceremony!

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Typically we try to sneak in golden hour/sunset portraits after the ceremony, but mother nature just wasn't having that. But how cool is that dark blue sky with those willows? I LOVE these so much!

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It was then time to tuck inside the tent as the rain started coming down!

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It was a beautiful day for the couple (even with the rain that just wouldn't quit). I hope they love these images and they cherish them for a lifetime.

Congratulations, Drew + Dani. You two are perfect for each other.

Just engaged and interested in wedding photography? Let's chat!

Alley Tish

Marie Grace Photography

Sigourney, Iowa

Sigourney, Iowa's Professional Photographer