My GQ couple is back at it again! I’ve been waiting for the perf opportunity to use the air mattress idea, and this was it. I’m so thankful Brenna + Chase are down for anything when it comes to photoshoots! We picked a random night at sunset and made some steamy magic on the water.
My spicy virgo bestie. To watch her grow into herself has been a blessing. To have the opportunity to photograph her through her self love journey, and ultimately land here, is absolutely incredible. She did this session to empower herself. To feel at home in her vessel. To express love and admiration - for herself. She is proud of her. As she should be.
Shaena’s instagram highlights her personal experiences through her spiritual journey. I call her my guru, and watching her share her thoughts and emotions with the world is mind-blowing. Follow along here
@heavyonzen
Her tattoos were self-designed (and incredible). She explains them in an Instagram video here
She also has videos dedicated to shadow work, confidence, and transforming anxiety (plus plenty more). Eyeopening and inspiring, if I do say so myself.
p.s. this black mesh body suit is available to wear from my client closet :)
I met Shayla at my first restaurant job about seven years ago. By that point, her and Tyler had been together for about a year (if I remember correctly) and we all knew, way back then, that they were a Forever Couple. They met their 8th grade year, and started dating their junior year of high school.
When I first started to pursue my photography career around 2018, Shayla + Tyler were one of my very fist sessions. I remember being new to posing couples and so so nervous that it would go badly - I was so wrong! They were so in love with each other, they barely even noticed me or what I was worried about. We had a blast running around town together, and I will forever be so grateful for their trust and support in me as a new photographer. I still have prints from their first session in my work space!
A couple years later, they welcomed a handsome baby boy into their lives. Baby Liam made their love even stronger, and I was through the roof when I got the opportunity to photograph them AGAIN. This time, with their little plus one. Watching their family grow over time has been incredible, and so heartwarming.
Our next stop is their Big (little) Day. Shayla and I went back and forth for a while, tossing around ideas for a small private ceremony for the two of them. When they got word that Tyler will be stationed in Poland, they kicked it into gear and created THE most beautiful intimate day I’ve ever seen. They rented an airbnb in La Crosse, put everything together themselves in SECRET, and invited only me (their photog), and their very close family friend and officiant, Steve + his wife. Steve’s wife was unable to make the flight from Arizona, but she sent with him the beautiful wall art sign you see above to commemorate their Love Day.
Hair and Makeup services done by: Lydia at Tease Salon and Barbershop
These little shoes were gifted to Shayla from her dad. They were his when he was a toddler. I loved the small ways in which Tyler + Shayla incorporated their families while keeping their day so private.
Before their ceremony, Steve prayed with Shayla + Tyler. This was so emotional and so perfect. They shared their first look afterwards.
One of my favorite parts of the day was seeing Tyler drown in awe of his bride. So many photos of him staring in admiration, or just seeing him watch her play with Liam and exist as a goddess. It gives me goosebumps to think about even now.
Their ceremony was short, sweet, and emotional. I doubled as photographer, child safety watcher, sobbing guest, and excited friend. Steve spoke from his heart, and gave advice that truly spoke to their relationship and their past together. Shayla + Tyler wrote out their vows and read them aloud to each other. We all cried the entire time.
The moment between the rings and the “I now pronounce you husband and wife.”
Congratulations, Mr. + Mrs. Lueth!
Shayla said she’s dreamed about Steve officiating her wedding since she was a little girl. He’s been in their lives since the beginning. This was her happily ever after - it could not have been more perfect.
They ended their wedding night with pizza by the water. I don’t think it could get any cuter.
“Hayley Perry is the BOMB. If you are looking to feel confident in a totally accepting and creative space, she is your girl! She is open to any ideas and will even taking it a step farther with her creative talent. I have never ever been let down my a photo session with her. If you’re thinking about booking, do it! I promise you won’t regret it.”
