thea volk
A North Shore getaway in October is usually best for those that enjoy hiking, brisk weather, and outdoor bonfires. That is my husband. That is not me. But, I've found a retreat along the cold Lake Superior shoreline that suits us both. The Seagull House. The breath taking views and this time of year are perfect for North Shore weddings.
I LOVE this weather. Bring the weekend on! For a fun share today, I will send you over to The American Edit. This blog is written by local girl Rita Mehta. It has quickly become the go to for finding quality, stylish American made fashions. For a short time, you can see some of my work on her homepage. I shot Baldwin's Kansas City store for TAE earlier this summer. So, if you are looking for some good Fall denim, check this story out!
This was an elegant occasion. So happy to share these photos from the bridal shower I photographed a few weeks ago. From the food to the flowers... gorgeous.
I recently photographed some work for a gallery in Chicago, Volume Gallery. They curate shows from the work of contemporary furniture designers. Their works really ride that line between art and function. I'll be in Chicago again at the end of the month to work on their next catalog, but here are some photos of their last projects that I photographed in January.
Last weekend a private residence in just west of Minneapolis was filled with pink linens, catered hors d'oeuvres, peonies, dahlias, ladies, and many, many purses. Full post coming soon!
Interiors photography has been a love of mine for some time now. I recently photographed this amazing and light-filled residence for a client, who is an art advisor in Chicago. Stunning art. Stunning decor.
As promised, here are highlights from Kelly and Scott's engagement shoot last week. We began at the scene of Scott's proposal, the Aster Cafe. After walking more about the riverfront, we hit the sinfully-delicious Izzy's Ice Cream for sustenance. It was a nice evening to get to know these two and I am pumped for their St. Paul wedding this Fall.
I wanted to share my favorite image from a recent family portrait session. When I am fortunate to catch a moment like this, I remember how much I love my job.
Today, I want to feature one of my favorite restaurants in Minneapolis, The Grand Cafe. Annika and I braved the cold weather late this morning for Eggs en Cocotte, Carmel Apple French Toast, and fresh orange juice. As always, the table setting was irresistibly quaint and the atmosphere comfortable. And, in case you didn't know, they host weddings. I can only imagine an intimate and cool reception here. Hope you enjoy these pictures that I managed between bites.
Indulge those you love this week. Have a wonderful and happy Valentine's Day everyone!
From a warm vacation in Arizona to waking up at 4am on the coldest day of the year for a working trip to Chicago, it has been a busy few weeks. To top it off, amongst the lunches, playdates, and client meetings, my daughter, Annika has become a complete, conversational, little person. Time goes by...
Leah and Brian have a truly amazing story. When I first met them, I also met their daughter Samantha, a playful and wise little girl. Through a touching series of events, Leah adopted Samantha after growing close to Brian, Samantha's father, some years back. The three have an impenetrable bond but they keep their family and friends close as well. Though their wedding day was epically cold, they threw a delightful party at the McNamara Alumni Center. It included 40 children who were treated to a special reception all their own, complete with movies, activities, and glow sticks. This inclusiveness plus the faith and culture of a traditional Jewish wedding made the day one of a kind.
Lately, I've photographed many families for their annual holiday portrait. Last week, after a shoot with a little boy in the studio, I managed to get Annika in her holiday dress and her hair brushed so that I could snap a few portraits. As with most toddlers, we had just under 5 minutes before things unravelled. Here is Annika, not quite 2 years old. Hope you all have a wonderful holiday, especially the newlyweds and newly-engaged!
Narrowing this post down to a set of images was not an easy task. There were just too many awesome moments to choose from. Jennie and Tom's wedding was an old-fashioned meets modern affair in St. Paul early this Fall. There were gold and glittery details, wispy and monochromatic bridesmaids dress... DIY touches in every corner, then a sky-high reception at the carousel on the 22nd floor of downtown St. Paul's Crown Plaza. I would do this day again. It was just that fun. Congratulations to Jennie and Tom!
Jason and Rodney are two very handsome guys. But they are taken. August 16th, 2013 may have been their "official" wedding day, but these two have been married for 10 years. In fact, 10 years ago on August 16th, they wed in Vermont, where same-sex marriage was legal at the time. Their wedding at the Guthrie was a great mix of family, friends, cocktails, and dancing. Lots of dancing! Style Architects planned the day and did a fabulous job bringing their two visions together. Congratulations Jason and Rodney!
xo, thea
Adria and Jon had an intimate, family-focused wedding in Stillwater aboard the Anastasia. We started the day at the historic Lowell Inn and ended with sunsets along the St. Croix. They really did everything right and I was lucky to be a part of it.
xo, thea
It happened on a hot Friday in July. Tom and Kristen are married. I am so pleased to have been a part of the day and I am happy to finally share their photos. The ceremony took place at the Guardian Angels Catholic Church in Chaska with a lovely reception following in Shakopee, Minnesota at the Stonebrooke Golf Club.
