Shannon & Tom {married!}

Let me first start by saying that I did not mean to be away from the blog this long! Seriously, where has summer gone? We've been keeping busy this summer with weddings and portrait sessions and once in awhile trying to find time to enjoy summer as well! We've also started booking 2010 weddings like crazy the past few weeks, so if you're getting married next year now is the time to book your photographer! ;)

It's hard to believe it's been almost seven weeks since we photographed Shannon & Tom's wedding in Spooner, WI. They got married on June 6, 2009 on the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad wedding train--what a unique and wonderful wedding it was! They are a very special couple to us not only because they were referred by friends of ours, but because they were the first couple to set their wedding date according to when we were available! That was so flattering to us and I'm happy to say they've now become our friends.

We drove up the night before so we'd be ready to start bright and early the next morning. We met Shannon at the hair salon at 8 a.m., much earlier than we typically start, that's for sure!


While she was finishing getting ready at her mom's cabin, I took her shoes outside for a few quick shots.


Then we headed over to the train to meet up with Tom. We were supposed to photograph their first look when we got there, but by the time we got out of the car Shannon had already jumped out and hugged him. If you look closely, you can see she Shannon still has her keys on her hand.



We had lots of time for their portrait session, and the railyard had wonderful backdrops. I know I've mentioned this before but we love when couples allow plenty of time for portraits!



Here's Geneo's take.



And my view of the same moment.









While I was taking the portrait above, Gene'o got this cool shot with the Spooner sign.



We did some goofy stuff.



And some romantic stuff.






And of course, some traditional stuff as well.



They had the most adorable flower girls and ring bearer!



I like this one of Tom.



And this one with his soon-to-be mother-in-law



The guests started arriving and we all boarded the train car for the ceremony. It was really close quarters and was one of the most challenging weddings we've photographed. This photo gives a sense on how crowded we were. This was taken as Shannon was walking down the isle. I wanted to get the look on Tom's face but I also got a million guests and their point and shoot cameras, including the one the ring bearer, in the shot as well! LOL



The train stopped for about 15 minutes for the ceremony. It was filled with prayer and love.



Then the train started back up and the guests enjoyed drinks and snacks on the dining car. Here's a shot before everyone filtered on to the car. We loved the green ceilings!



People enjoying the reception.



When we got off the train it was raining a bit so everyone pulled out umbrellas. I like this one Gene'o caught of an unposed kiss between the bride & groom. Yes, that's me on the right.



Shannon & Tom traveled in style to our next destination--Bistro 63 in Barronette, WI. It's the place where they met AND it had the BEST pasta I've EVER had at a wedding. I mean the BEST! Being a vegetarian I often get icky food at weddings but not at this place. If you're ever in the area you have to stop by!






Sharing a laugh with their officiant before dinner.



Cutting the cake.



And our final photo of the day, taken by Shannon! Thanks, Shannon! You may notice we look tired but better than we did in our last portrait--Gene'o has lost over 30 pounds and I've lost 12!




Now I'm back into blogging mode and I have loootttss of wedding to share and a HUGE exciting new project that I can't wait to unveil!