Picture this – it’s your wedding day. You pull your wedding dress out of the bag. As you trace your fingers along the delicate lace and beading on the bag, you remember your late aunt. It was made out of her wedding dress. You slip into your mother’s wedding dress that has been perfectly altered to fit you. Your grandma watches – smiling as she sits silently in the corner. Today’s the day you get to marry the man of your dreams!

I am always honored when another photographer asks me to capture their own special life moments. And I’ve been so blessed to have captured Rachel from Rachel Simmons Photography and her wonderful husband Curtis a couple times now. The last time I worked with them, they told me they were expecting! I was SO excited when Rachel reached out to me about her maternity photos as well.

The music stopped. Everyone waited in anticipation. Then a familiar melody burst out of the speakers. The Star Spangled Banner began to play as Janna made her way towards her groom. Tears began to flow from Max’s eyes as he tried to contain his emotions. He placed his hand over his heart as the National Anthem continued to play and he saw his wife for the first time on their wedding day. Their wedding day was full of joy and laughter at the Wild Eagle Lodge in Eagle River, Wisconsin. This rustic Americana wedding is complete with American Flag suits and even a pontoon!

A little over a year ago I was capturing their baby announcement and now I’m capturing their first family photos with their beautiful baby girl. Thank you Smyth family for letting me capture these memories for you! I hope you enjoy a few of my favorite images from their gorgeous spring session. I can’t wait to continue witnessing your family grow up!

Are you torn between doing a first look or not on your wedding day? I completely support whatever decision is right for you and your future spouse. However, there are definitely some benefits to having a first look on your wedding day. Hopefully this helps you weigh the pros and cons of having a first look on your wedding day!