Nikki & Devon [Mt. Vernon, IA Engagement]

Nikki and Devon are getting married in September, and we had the most perfect spring day to take their photos yesterday afternoon. They had scouted out some spots in Palisades Park, so we traipsed along the trails and ended up with some beautiful photos!

Nikki and Devon went to the same high school, although Nikki didn't really know him at the time. Despite this fact, her friend took it upon herself (perhaps having a premonition of future events?) to tell Devon that Nikki had a crush on him. Fast forward to Nikki's 22nd birthday, Devon showed up and made sure to mention the fact that he knew she had a crush on him back in the day. And the rest, they say, is history...


I had met Nikki and Devon back in December, and getting together for their engagement photos was like meeting up with old friends. Anyone can see the love between these two - just look at the way they look at each other.






Above photo by Josh





Another thing I love and noticed right away is how easily Devon can make Nikki laugh. There's nothing more important (in my opinion) than having a sense of humor about life, and having a partner who knows just how to make you smile.







Above photo by Josh



Devon has a great smile too...








This was the first couple to bring their pets to an engagement shoot! I was so excited, because as you know, I love dogs. Meet Lola, and Blue (named due to her half blue eye).






Love how the pups were getting playful on the beach...

Above photo by Josh

Above photo by Josh

After the pups had their moment in the spotlight, we handed them off to Devon's mom (who brought Blue to the session) and Devon & Nikki took one last stroll on the sand.





Above photo by Josh

Nikki and Devon - Thanks for a great session! We can't wait to see you guys again in September! :)

To My Mother...

"Motherhood is not for the faint-hearted. Frogs, skinned knees, and the insults of teenage girls are not meant for the wimpy." - Danielle Steel


Hopefully my mom won't totally kill me for putting these on here! :)
When I was a little girl, I remember thinking my mom was the best. She was smart, funny, and I loved spending time with her. Once I got older, the teenage version of me didn't think my mom was so cool, and of COURSE I thought knew much more than she ever could. At some point in my early twenties, I wised up and realized that my mom was right, about almost everything. How could I ever have thought otherwise? I guess all teenage girls do at some point.

Now that I'm older and wiser, my mom is one of the greatest women I know. She's creative, opinionated, and always has great advice to dispense whenever I need her opinion. She's built her own business and is a huge inspiration (and support) to me. I can't imagine life without my mom - so I just wanted to take a minute to wish her a very happy Mother's Day. I love you Mom!



Last two photos are credited to the always fabulous Mindy Myers.

A-List

Every year KCRG.com has a contest where people can vote for their favorite area businesses. Of course, Jen Madigan Photography is listed (feel free to sign up and vote HERE - voting goes until May 14th!) but I wanted to take a minute and mention some of my personal favorites from some of the categories (mainly food, lol).

Best Hair Salon - Michael Tschantz Salon
This is hands down the best salon I've been to in the area - I love this place!

Best BBQ - The Pit Smokehouse
The Pit won this category last year and it's no surprise. They have the best pulled turkey sandwich, although their cheeseballs are my kryptonite.

Best New American - Lincoln Cafe in Mt. Vernon
I am obsessed with this place, I only wish it were closer!! I have had some of the best meals here and go every chance I get (I still haven't made it for brunch but their lunch is as good as their dinner).

Best Sandwich Shop - Her Soup Kitchen
If you haven't heard about this place, you better head out the door now. They have incredible sandwiches, yummy salads, and of course ...soup.

Florist - Heaven Scent in Coralville
We had our wedding flowers done here and they were so beautiful, I would definitely recommend them as a florist to check out.

I also wanted to take a minute to say thank you to all of you that have voted, and thanks to everyone for their continued support! And, because every post is better with a photo - here's one that makes me laugh every time I see it. Happy Friday - make sure and check back next week because I have two sessions this weekend and so far it looks like the weather is going to finally hold up (*knock on wood*)!