Abby + JP

I had the pleasure of working with Abby and JP for couples’ portraits at Samantha Joy Studio in Grand Rapids, MI for their floral installation by Joy and Bloom Design Co. Abby and I had worked together at Hobby Lobby back in my retail days. She is such a sweetheart and a true joy to be around. Never a dull moment and always full of giggles. These smiles just came naturally for these two.

Abby and JP met a few years ago in Spanish class at the local community college. I guess JP was running late for class and the only seat left was next to Abby. Seated in the back of the classroom, JP felt comfortable enough to tease Abby all the time. And, at first, she didn’t like him because of it. In time, a child-like, playful romance blossomed between them. Becoming friends on social media, Abby would post stories “with the sole intent of trying to get his attention without actually straight up texting him.” Her words. Like many women, we don’t wanna be the first one to make a move. As they got to know each other better, they would go on long drives together. Specifically South Haven to watch the sunset. How romantic?! She says the first time they got together outside of class was to play Mario Kart at JP’s apartment, the one Abby would eventually move into.

In 2022, Abby and JP decided to get their photos taken together at Al Sabo Land Preserve here in Kalamazoo, MI. Al Sabo Land Preserve is an area of northeastern Texas Township of Kalamazoo County. It comprises 741 acres of marsh, forest, streams, and rolling hills. Numerous trails provide recreational opportunities throughout the Preserve. It’s a beautiful location to hike and quite popular among the area photographers to take their couples and families for pictures. Little did Abby know, JP had plans to propose and surprised her with a ring!

This past February, Abby and JP were married at the courthouse. Not wanting anything too big or expensive, they opted for an intimate, stress-free ceremony accompanied by their closest friends and loved ones. This is what Abby had to say, “It was an absolutely perfect day. The ceremony was short and sweet, it was just us and our guests and the judge. We took some pictures and shared a wonderful meal with my family, and his, and that was that!” Now they share a humble, cozy apartment filled with love and three beautiful, fuzzy cats.

Many opt for the more intimate setting of a marriage ceremony at the courthouse. Fun fact, my own marriage began at the Kalamazoo County Courthouse while I was eight months pregnant in the middle of winter. I’ll share more about that later. However, I absolutely loved having Abby and JP in the studio and gifting them beautiful photographs to cherish for years to come.

If you are thinking about having an intimate ceremony surrounded by just the ones closest to you and your partner, I would be honored to capture that for you. And, even if you’re planning on having a banger of a wedding with 200 of your favorite people, sometimes a little time in the studio, with a beautiful floral installation, and an evening with your spouse is exactly what you need. Taking portraits another day, aside from and in addition to the photos you take during your wedding may leave you with a little peace and the ability to enjoy your people and take more candid photos the day of. I never want your wedding to feel like one big photoshoot. Now, enjoy the rest of Abby and JP’s gallery.