AC Ellis Blog 2: Maria Lavallee of AC Ellis Photography

Kelsie + John

2008-05-04T23:58:00.000-05:00

When Kelsie asked me to photograph her wedding, I could not have said yes any faster! My excitement not only stems from us being friends, but also that the wedding takes place in our hometown area. It will be a joy to be amongst so many people I know while celebrating such a grand occasion!
For their engagment session we headed back to the place we grew up, and had such a great time! Coming from a small town, all eyes were on us as we walked the streets and stopped here and there to capture some images. How exciting to be the talk of the town! Thanks you two for such a great (b)day!!
Maria

Huron

2008-05-04T22:50:00.002-05:00

While we were in Huron before Easter, (apparently we are there A LOT!) I had an opportunity to pull out the camera and create some awesome images. It was a beautiful day out with lots of bright warm sunshine!

The lovely Melissa

Margarita (aka Kris' grandmother) looking young as ever!

Of course no trip is finished without me taking images of my wonderful husband! Here's Kris' GQ photo. By the way, I'm absolutely loving this light! Who says we can't have California sun in South Dakota??

Lastly, this is what happens when you ask your husband to pose tough...although he does look like he's wearing a small form of brass knuckles, even if it IS only his wedding ring!
Maria

Becky + Brandon

2008-05-04T22:00:00.000-05:00

Becky and Brandon met me for their engagement shoot on one of the colder days before this spring. You would never have guessed it by the smiles on their faces! *sigh* Aren't engaged couples so cute?!
Maria

Brooke + Jason

2008-04-28T21:54:00.001-05:00

I think I should start a contest to see who travels the farthest for their engagement shoot with me! Of course Brooke and Jason would win thus far, as they came en route from Florida! Their wedding is in Sioux Falls this summer, and what fun it will be! The entire time we spent together I watched them laugh and giggle with each other... quite contagious really! I can't wait to see the two of you again soon!
Maria

Caution! Falling blog posts!!!!!

2008-04-28T21:53:00.001-05:00

Be prepared for a bombardment of images! I'm attempting to catch up on sessions that I did for our creative license month.....

This little cutie was so serious, but so adorable! We had a lot of fun, seeing as though she's such a busy-body! I think big "brother" Riley is jealous of the attention she gets!
Maria

Look at those baby blues!!

H family

2008-04-28T21:43:00.001-05:00

Rachel and I became good friends after working together for a short time at my other job. I met up with her and the two "kids" for some family portraits. After a little getting used to the camera they were as cool as cucumbers and even followed me outside to be blown away in the wind!
Maria

Libby and Derrick

2008-04-07T23:16:00.001-05:00

Libby and Derrick traveled down here to do their engagement session with me a few weekends ago. We had a great time, as we got to shoot in one of my favorite locations, the Washington Pavilion. Maybe I'm just biased because I spent a lot of time performing on the Great Hall while at college, but this venue kicks butt! There are so many creative opportunities and wide open spaces! Libby and Derrick were great about letting me lead them throughout the building and into nooks and crannies!
After I got my workout pushing furniture around at the Pavilion, we drove to the location where Derrick proposed. We froze our butts off, but it was well worth it! Plus, it's always fun to watch your photographer walk through the snow in just her socks! (And here I thought that was the norm...)

Thanks to the two of you for a great afternoon!
Maria

Becky + Justin: 01.05.08

2008-04-07T22:56:00.001-05:00

Becky and Justin were one of Cory Ann's weddings for January. As I said before, I love that people take a chance and do something different in our winter months! Now, if there was only a wedding the weekend we had the big snowstorm in March....
Before Becky and Justin's wedding, I was instructed to visit the men as they prepared for the day at a house in Brookings. Now, I had the address, and I had directions, but no one told me there were two houses with the same street number AND the same house number!! Needless to say I picked the incorrect house, knocking on the door of a very nice older gentleman, who was obviously NOT the groom! After explaining my situation, he was very helpful and pointed me and my camera just up the street to the correct location. I'm glad that I wasn't the only one that got a kick out of my mistake!

Thank you to the namers of the streets of the city of Brookings, for keeping my life full of surprises!
Maria

Carrie and Jason

2008-04-02T12:13:00.002-05:00

I traveled up to Brookings in one of the cruddy little snow storms we recently had to shoot Carrie and Jason's engagement session. We had a great time and lots of laughs! Thanks for keeping the dreary day bright!!
Maria

Carrie makes me wish I had blue eyes.....

And yes, so does Jason!!

Experimenting

2008-03-30T17:51:00.000-05:00

Recently I've been working a lot on some new techniques, and what better way to do it than with the flowers my husband brings me! Yes, I am still spoiled rotten....
Maria

Textures

2008-03-28T19:50:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday I headed up to Brookings for an engagement session. Since Kris was working at his internship, Cory Ann gave me reason to stick around pretty much the entire day! Her idea was for a photo safari of textures. We had so much fun battling the cold to get some awesome images!
Maria

Thanksgiving

2008-03-27T22:20:00.000-05:00

This past Thanksgiving, as some of you may already know, Kris and I traveled to Huron to be with his family. Having spent last year around my family, it was my first experience of the Gross traditions.
On Thanksgiving, the entire family gets together to eat turkey, potatoes, stuffing, etc. After stuffing their bellies full from the meal, they bring out pounds of candy and pre-made structures for making gingerbread houses! It's such a unique idea, because most people create them closer to Christmas. I had a blast watching the kids dig into the scrumptious candies and lick their fingers covered in icing!

Here are a couple portraits from the day

Thanksgiving night, after we all had time to let our stomachs settle, we had the 10th Annual Gross Thanksgiving Soup Cook-Off. Taste testing started with a large bowl filled to the brim , but didn't last long before we demanded half-cup sizes! (None of us wanted to try stuffing nearly 16 cups of soup into our stomachs - just for a cook-off!!!) Each family member kept track of their favorite soups, and, after tasting all 8 recipes, we tallied up the scores to determine the winner. You'll never guess who the winner came out to be! (No sillies, not me. I suck at cooking.) My husband!
Maria

Here is Chef Kris preparing his pasta e fagiole before the contest

Huron 2

2008-03-27T22:12:00.002-05:00

One more image from our adventure over the trellis at Thanksgiving
Maria

Halloween

2008-03-22T23:49:00.001-05:00

I know that it's past the deadline for a New Year's resolution, but I've been trying to back-date my postings to cover some of the things I did last year. For all of you that have been patiently waiting, thank you! I promised I would get them up soon!

Every Halloween, after I insist that Kris dress up as Captain Jack Sparrow, (because he could be Johnny Depp's twin) we carve pumpkins. This past October we were lucky enough to have Kris' cousin Alex join us in our creative tradition. Even though we had seeds and pumpkin strings strewn all over the kitchen counters, it was all worth the mess after seeing our final creations.
P.S.
Just because you have a pattern that shows EXACTLY where to make your cuts for the image on a pumpkin DOES NOT mean it will be equally as easy...
Maria

Here's mine

Kris' (funny it's the Pirate's of the Caribbean)

Alex's

Our pretty pumpkin lights we strung along the front walk-way

Ashley + Jonathan: 01.12.08

2008-03-11T20:17:00.000-05:00

Even though there was freezing temperatures and snow on the ground, Ashley and Jonathan's wedding was packed full of fun and warmth.
I was very excited that these two were not afraid to schedule their day during one of our coldest and snow-packed months; it made for some unique images (not ALL people get the opportunity to see snow in their lifetime) and who doesn't just want to cuddle with the one they love when the wind's blowing? Needless to say, it didn't take much to see the love between Ashley and Jonathan while shivering during some portraits.
After the ceremony, we traveled about 30 miles to where the reception took place in Marshall, MN. Eveything was decorated with beautiful snowflakes and lights, along with the scrumptious looking cake and a full candy "bar". I had such a fabulous time, and enjoyed the energy and fun that Ashley and Jonathan's friends and family brought to their day. Thanks you two!
Maria

Before the ceremony, I had a chance to steal Ashley's shoes and capture this.

Some alone time right before heading down the isle.

What spunk Ashley had the entire night!!

Vintage Hollywood

2008-03-07T23:52:00.002-06:00

As I was attempting to find a way to photograph my new do last night, I decided not to take just any image. I grabbed my hubby and went to work on playing with some new techniques. I hope you like them!
Maria

This makes me think of an actress head shot for an old horror film.

Mr. Potato Head

2008-03-06T12:36:00.000-06:00

While I was at my parents for Christmas, I kept busy entertaining my niece. She'll be 2 in April, and she's loads of fun! As it was getting late one night, I took her downstairs to look for some toys to keep her occupied. Coincidentally, my parents have kept every last board game, Barbie, tractor, and record that we ever had as kids. I started handing KD Barbies, and I happened upon our Mr. Potatoe Heads! Once I reached for it, KD got really excited and couldn't put the thing down. Apparently this has to be cheapest and most entertaining toy anyone could have come up with! It kept her busy for hours, as I knew it would.

P.S.
Am I the only one that used to put the ears in my ears and the lips in my mouth, thinking they could really make me look like a Potatoe Head??? Oh, and the little hats on my head!
Maria

Here's a couple images of the 10 yr old Mr. Potatoe Head getting used...and possibly abused.

He looks a little exhausted.

Hangin' with Ayden

2008-03-06T12:34:00.000-06:00

This past fall, Kris and I headed up to Brookings while Cory Ann and Erin traveled to Iowa for a wedding.
Ayden kept us on our toes with all the activities he came up with! Lucky for me Kris has just as much energy as a 5 year old!!
Maria

Rockstar!

Here they are playing soccer. I think Ayden got his mad soccer skills from his mom - he might even be the next Beckham!

This is Ayden's pet turtle Martha. Isn't it great how fascinated they both seem to be by her?

I came into Ayden's room where he had all of these animals perfectly lined up. He informed me that they were having a battle with the cars on the other side..... is that even possible???? I wonder if they've ever tried it in real life.........hmmm...

Bling Bling

2008-02-25T01:51:00.000-06:00

As some of you may know, about a year ago Kris and I moved back to Sioux Falls after living in Huron, SD. During the process of packing, stuffing, cleaning, hauling, and storing in Huron, then traveling and unpacking in Sioux Falls all in the same day, my wedding ring was misplaced. I'm sure you're wondering how it could have been lost....after all, why hadn't it stayed on my finger?? The answer: Avoiding destruction from long hours of moving steel and shelving over the Christmas season at Wal-Mart. (A month prior, my ring had it's my monthly inspection where they informed me I had almost broke one of the prongs off and could have lost my diamond.) I just felt that the ring was safer at home on the bathroom shelf, waiting for the day I could love it again...

apparently I was wrong.

For the first 8 or 9 months I did not fret about not locating the ring- after all, it was my mother that had placed it in a safe holding and knew for certain that it hadn't been tossed out. But, after that 13 month mark, my mind started having crazy ideas of mean people pawning off my freshly found ring after searching through the garbage we left behind. Needless to say, I kind of panicked. Well, I didn't go crazy psycho on anybody - I just gave myself a high dosage of anxiety.

About a week in, the day before Valentine's Day, Kris was home and I was feeling lonely for my ring. As we were talking, I happened to notice a black crate in our apartment - about 5 feet away from where I was sitting- which was filled with bathroom supplies from the move. I figured it was worth a shot to look through what was inside. I came across a purple box that seemed pretty light as I picked it up. As I explored more deeply, I found 3 or 4 of my missing necklaces along with a white jewelry box. I took the white box out and opened it. Inside was another box -this time black and fuzzy! As I preyed open the final container, my wedding ring sprung out onto my bed -leaping with joy and sparkle as it landed!
Pretty sure I shed a tear or two... I love my wedding ring.
Hope you can all sleep well tonight - I know I will!

Maria

Bridal Gowns

2008-01-11T22:27:00.000-06:00

Being in the wedding industry, I try to keep up with the hottest bridal trends. The other night I came accross Monique Lhuillier's website. Monique is a bridal and evening gown designer who is considered an innovator in the fashion/bridal world. Her designs have been on "Sex in the City" and "Will and Grace", and worn by many celebrities.

You can purchase Monique's gowns at many locations throughout the world. The best news for you brides-to-be is that one of her two Signature Flagship Salons is located in Edina, MN -the first being in Beverly Hills, CA. The bonus this weekend is the bridal trunk show going on at the Edina location. So, if you're in the area, check it out! They are definately worth seeing!

I am in love with many of Monique's gowns and wish I could have another wedding to wear them to! Here are a few of my favorites. You can find them here on the website.
ML

I adore the texture on the gown - almost like little tags hanging from her body!

I love that it looks almost like paper!

Billy + Sheena: 11.10.07

2008-01-11T21:04:00.000-06:00

A few months before their wedding, Billy and Sheena came in for their engagement session. It was refreshing to have a couple with such spunk and laughter in their lives! They had such a sparkle for life and I knew right away that their wedding was going to be a blast! Thanks for such a great time you two!

For this wedding I had a special treat - Cory Ann got to be my tag along! (You would think that life would get stressful with your boss watching you work your magic...) It was actually a perk, because Cory Ann was able to spend some time with the guys while I checked in with the ladies.

Knowing what the gentlemen are doing is something I think every bride wishes to capture on that day. It is always a completely different atmosphere than it is in the bride's room. On my wedding day Kris and the groomsmen had a grand breakfast and hung by the pool, while I was running to the hair salon, applying makeup, and stressing on the thought that I had forgotten to buy a garter! It brought such laughter to know how laid back they had all been!

Here's some images from the day.
ML

Tiffany + Eric: 10.27.07

2008-01-08T16:05:00.000-06:00

The afternoon of their wedding day, I was asked to travel to the hotel Tiffany and her family were staying in, to and spent time with Tiffany while she prepared for her big day. It was refreshing to see how calm they all were, even though there were many activities going on.
The wedding took place at a lovely church on the West side of town. It was a fun experience for me because I have never really ventured out in that area of Sioux Falls. (I will admit that I got a little lost trying to find the church...) Before the ceremony we had a chance to steal Tiffany away for some kick butt portrait time - as always, a great way for a for a bride to relax!
The reception was beautiful, and of course very emotional. But, nothing gets a crowd moving quite like the song "Thriller" and Eric's outstanding ability to pull off looking like Michael Jackson in a cowboy hat!
That's how we do it here in South Dakota!
ML

Moon Over Huron

2007-12-26T16:06:00.001-06:00

For Thanksgiving, Kris and I traveled to Huron to be with his family. It was a special treat because Kris' cousins came from out east; we hadn't seen some of them since our wedding almost 2 years ago!

My in-laws had asked me to photograph their new house for an invitation they were making. Of course I gladly accepted, and decided that the pitch black of night would be an opportune time. So, one night before supper, the boys and I decided to venture out into the wilderness to get the perfect shot.

Let me tell you that it's not a very good idea to stumble down a hill, try to avoid the swamp of the river, then up another hill, and over a barbed wire fence, only to face the train tressel and it's foot wide gaps over the river... all at night... with a flashlight that doesn't work... with cousins and a husband that know you're a little afraid of the dark... WHILE HOLDING ON FOR DEAR LIFE TO YOUR CAMERA AND TRIPOD!!! Needless to say, I was scared out of my mind but determined to get the images!

After taking 30 minutes to walk across the train tressel with all my gear, I managed to catch up to the boys and set up for some stellar shots. I was still scared for my life, but it was very much worth all the anxiety!
ML

Nick, one of Kris' cousins, is a photographer out east and inspired me on this image.

Corinne + Blake: 10.06.07

2007-12-26T16:05:00.001-06:00

I had been waiting a long time for this day to come! You see, Kelly, Corinne's mom, works with my mother-in-law. For months we had been talking back and forth about all the excitement and planning that was being put into this amazing wedding! I am so happy that I was able to share this day with all of you!

The wedding was beautiful, with every detail taken into account. The array of October colors set the tone, and reflected the atmosphere surrounding the entire day.

Following the ceremony, we rode around town to find a couple interesting places to take some more portraits. -Corinne, I still admire you for getting up on the edge of that bridge in your gown! Surely something not every bride is willing to do!

Thanks again for letting me share your day!
Congrats to the both of you!

ML

During their first meeting prior to the ceremony, I happened to notice dozens of peering eyes watching us through a neighboring window. It seems that everyone had gotten the memo about the first meeting and didn't want to miss out! But who would want to miss this?

Aren't they beautiful?!

Shane + Stephanie: 10.05.07

2007-12-26T16:04:00.005-06:00

From the moment that I met Shane and Stephanie, I could see how much in love the two of them were. They have this aura around them that surrounds each other and their children! Their wedding reflected this love with a small, intimate ceremony of friends and family.

The ceremony took place at a quaint church near Augustana, which brought back memories of my time spent there. The reception was in the Great Hall of the Washington Pavilion and had an array of food and tables beautifully placed for an intimate gathering.

On a side note, Cory Ann has been teaching me to drive her manual car. Apparently I'm still not that great at it. Upon leaving Shane and Stephanie's ceremony to head to the reception in Cory Ann's car, I attempted to leave the parking lot with the emergency break on. Not such a good idea. Needless to say, I held up the guests that were trying to reach their cars as I sat in the lot trying to figure out what was wrong... you know how you go about 1 foot and then it dies? I eventually figured it out -after one gentleman kindly pointed it out to me- but my excuse is that I drive an automatic and always have! This is all still new to me!

ML

Getting ready

The ceremony

Hors d'oeuvres