Darice Michelle Blog www.daricemichelle.com

My New Blog!!

2008-07-22T20:26:00.006-04:00

YAY! I finally did it! I have a whole new exciting blog. Now you can stalk me in style!!! LOL.

From now on, you can find all my latest weddings, engagement sessions and more at my new blog:

http://www.daricemichelle.net

For some odd reason, blogger is not working so I can't give you a direct link. Or just click on the post title: My New Blog!! and it'll fly you there in no time!

: )

I'll Always Have My Heels!

2008-07-17T17:40:00.007-04:00

Growing up I never was found of high heels, I mean why would women soar up their feet with blisters, potentially risk embarrassing themselves if they were ever to..dare I say... FALL, and to experience the inevitable, uncomfortability that heels bring! Then I met a dear friend of mine, Lena, who every time I saw her, she was wearing heels! I couldn't understand how she was able to walk around in heels ALL DAY - EVERY DAY!

Having to look nice for work, I started wearing heels and to my amazement I was able to go 8 hours with them on! Perplexed that I didn't have blisters or my feet were not about to fall off I tried to figure out why and how I was able to get away with this! Was it due to having expensive heels rather than the Payless sort or was I just getting use to them?

I realized it was because of all my running (mainly backwards running) that enabled me to live in my heels! Strong legs and sturdy feet arches quickly became my best friend!

I wore heels all the time that I became known as the "chick in heels". My daughter's friend even told her mother once, "Mom if you were just to wear heels with those shorts, you'd look like Darice!" How cute!

Well as most of you know, sadly I was informed by a doctor that I can no longer wear heels! What's worse, is that I can no longer run! After 4 months of enduring pain in my right foot, I finally had several MRI's done and a couple doctor visits, the result?

Arthritis!

WHAT?@?!?!@?@!? I'm too young for that!

Apparently NOT!

Yesterday to cheer me up, I bought these cute heel pictures from Bed Bath & Beyond and hung them up on my walls. I am not giving up on my heels!!! LOL

To those of you that have been so empathetic, I wanted to thank you all for your support, especially to Emily who sent me a virtual heels gift!

You guys are the best!

So now I can go to sleep every night and wake up every morning smiling at my heels!

P.S. I will confess, that I know I will at times sneak in my heels, I was made to wear heels! I mean come on, they can't just sit in my closet all lonely! That would be a crime!

My Morning Greeter!

2008-07-15T22:59:00.004-04:00

The answer was: THE DUCK!

Can you believe that a duck was actually at my living room door!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Talk about a shocker!

Hmmm, what to make of this!

It was so much fun reading everyone's goofy answers!!!!

I wondered if it was hungry wanting food so I tried to feed it bread but it just left not interested in my charities! Geez you'd think it would have been grateful for my jesture! : )

Are You Really Reading?

2008-07-14T13:39:00.002-04:00

Ok so I wanted to test you all by seeing who is actually really snooping around my blog! I am surprised by all the emails I get with your "comments" about my blog but no one seems brave enough to actually speak their mind on the blog! Hmm, scary cats! HA HA.

So I thought I'd wake you all up by seeing what you all think about what I found this morning!

I was up late last night (as usual) returning emails and working and yes Adrialyn I do eventually get some sleep!!!! But when I woke up this morning and walked out of my room into the living room I was pleasantly surprised by what was greeting me! I wasn't sure if I was just dreaming it from a lack of sleep, but sure enough it was no dream!

Can you guess what greeted me in the morning?

I will give you some clues... but you have to guess (yes this means you MUST show yourself by leaving an answer under "comments" at the end of this post. Who will be right????

Was it...

1. My son

2. A lizard

3. My daughter

4. Keanu Reeves

5. A new pair of shoes

6. Flowers all over my living room!!!!

7. My good friend, Ellen, from California

8. A duck

9. Paintings my kids did that they left on the floor

10. A surprise package

11. An apple

12. Airplane tickets to London

13. A bunch of stuffed animals propped up against each other sitting in a big circle holding hands

14. Breakfast made and placed on the living table

15. Michelle Pfeiffer

What was it????

Do you know?????

Bea and Brent

2008-07-07T00:17:00.025-04:00

On May 2nd, 2008 Bea and Brent Acs were married on this beautiful private beach in Anastasia Island in St. Augustine. Ok, so I have to tell you all that this was one of the first weddings where I could more than just a salad. Bea and Brent had a RAW FOOD wedding thanks to Almond Blossom Cafe who catered it!!! Can you believe it! Not only were there all fresh raw drinks, but they also had a RAW WEDDING CAKE! And yes, it was incredibly delicious. Even those who have been past critics of the raw foods said they couldn't get enough of this yummy cake!

I had so much fun at this wedding... I am so lucky that I get to so many neat people that sometimes I become great friends with the brides! Bea has become a great friend of mine in no time! Bea, shhh don't tell anyone of our recent dinner adventures at Carrabas and what I ate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ; )

The waiter swore to me that he would never tell anyone what I ate that night! Hmm, if my secret gets out, I'll know who to hunt down! (lol)

Bea and Brent, congratulations you guys! Can't wait to do your baby photos... are there kids in the plan any time soon???

Bea with her mom!

Bea and I

Kelly and Kyle

2008-07-04T22:50:00.022-04:00

Kelly and Kyle were married on May 3rd at the Amelia Island Plantation Chapel in none other than the gorgeous Amelia Island, FL. Their beautiful reception was held at the Walkers Landing Restaurant.

Their wedding was just incredibly beautiful! But the thing I remember the most is Kelly's sweet and gentle spirit. Oh yeah, I probably should mention her patient and forgiving nature too since after all, her new husband accidentally spilled champagne all over her wedding gown at the beach! Kelly didn't even care, she was just so glad to be married to the man she fell in love with!

They were such a joy to capture!

Funtime at the St. Johns Town Center

2008-07-02T21:56:00.045-04:00

Today I spent my whole day at the St. John's Town Center. For starters, I began my visit at 9am at the apple store. I hit my all time record by staying there for 2.5 hours! I know, what the heck was I doing there for 2.5 hours. Thanks to Richard, a very friendly and patient Apple Genius, I was able to take care of some computer problems and jazz up my G5 and laptop by making them a more powerful mean machine. My computer under went some serious surgery today and I am ecstatic to say that this baby is all geared up to rock the business world of photography!

After my educational day at the apple store, I was fortunate to meet with my dear fellow photographer friend, the one, the only fabulous Scarlett Lillian! We dined at the delicious Panera Bread Cafe talking about our parents, kids, our futures and of course PHOTOGRAPHY! We both agreed that we need to find someone who will do all our dirty business work so that we can do what we love most, SHOOTING! Any takers??? Until we reach that dreamy fantasy, we both are determined to remain rock out women who own and run their own businesses! How's that for woman power!

To make our visit a little more interesting, we had some fun doing our own little mini quick photo session. Since my poor friend was burned badly by the sun the other day, she had to opt out for being in the photos (don't worry folks, I won't let her off the hook the next time we do lunch!), but she did take some fun photos of me. You can check out more of my silly photos on her blog. If anything, I think it's great practice for me to know what it's like to be on the other end of the camera!

Thanks Scarlett, it was so great catching up with you today!!!!

Happy 3rd Year Anniversary Ben and Jen

2008-06-30T18:36:00.009-04:00

Is this not a great photo or what! How adorable.

Ben and Jen were married three years ago today, can you believe it! It seems like they just got married. They tied the knot secretively at the breath taking five-star resort Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos. After the vows, Garner—who went barefoot in a Vera Wang gown with a green sash—jumped into Affleck's arms, and they waded into the surf for an impromptu dip... how fun!

Look at how georgous Parrot Cay Island is!

And look at how cute Violet, their daughter, is!

Congratulations Ben and Jen!

Swimming Time...Or is it???

2008-06-29T15:17:00.001-04:00

So I just recently moved and in my last home we had one of those above the ground pools that the kids enjoyed swimming in...well I wasn't about to move that big ol' thing to my new house which meant we were left with no pool! When kids want to swim, they will always find a way!

So it started pouring pretty hard while we were out in the backyard, ... I just love the rain! Well the kids had to end their "swimming" time so we went inside for chocolate chip cookies and milk!

Color Palette

2008-06-27T23:47:00.000-04:00

Just about every time I ask a bride what her color theme is I get the deer in head lights look... "Ummm I have no idea yet. Not sure." In the past, couples chose their colors based on which season their wedding day would fall under, maybe some still do this, but times have changed. Brides don't care as much about the "rules", in fact more and more brides are breaking the rules doing whatever they see fit for their personal exciting wedding day!

I just love colors! Colors have such a powerful effect on changing our moods. Reds ignite, Blues soothe, Greens energize, Browns calm us down, Yellows brighten our spirits and White purifies. Of course there are many more colors of all shades that bring on different moods, it's quite fun to see how a color will alter your state of being.

Below are some great collages from Snippert and Ink depicting different colors and themes that can give you some fantastic ideas for your wedding.

My favorite one is the Turquoise, black and white theme (collage above)!

Mood: opulent, modern

Check out their blog to see more collages and themes!

Survey Says...

2008-06-23T23:17:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I always get these emails from friends or family where you're suppose to answer and read the questions about who you are or who your friends are. I decided to post one of these here just for fun!

1. What is your favorite color?
blue (blue is vibrant, alive and a happy color)

2. What is your favorite place?
Wherever my kids are

3. What makes you happy when you are down?
My kids (they always cheer me up - they are so special to me)

4. What makes you tick?
Nothing! Ha Ha, just kidding. I hate holding on the phone when you call a company for a long time then to be hung up on by accident, then have to call back again!

5. What did you last eat today?
Auh oh, I have to confess I ate Kettle Corn Popcorn with my kids while watching Beverly Hills Cop II tonight. I love sweet popcorn!

6. What was your largest purchase this year?
Hmmm, gosh, not sure. I guess my new apple macpro lap top. I love it. I take it with me everywhere now. Like even now, I can get work done while watching a movie.

7. How many siblings do you have?
I have 5. My oldest sister, Jennifer, my youngest sister, Marissa, my brother, Jason and my two sisters that are my age, Jamie and Sara. I love all my sisters and brother! We are all so different from each other which makes my family fun and exciting. I just wish they were closer to home.

8. Who is your favorite person to be with?
I'd have to say my children for sure! They are my blood! I love them so much. I have so many precious memories of them. When my son, Jaden, was 3 years old he use to say to me, "I kind of like you and I kind of don't" He also would say, "I love you a little and I love you a lot." Is that not funny or what! He also once yelled at me once when I put him in time out for not listening, he said, "You're FIRED!" Gosh, the things they say! I hope to never forget moments like that. Then just today, when I was walking into Target and Best Buy, my daughter kept reaching out for my hand. It was so important to her that I held her hand. When I asked her why she kept wanting to hold my hand she replied, "It makes me feel close to you." I loved that she wanted to be so close to me. I loved holding her little hand in the parking lot! I wish moments like that would never end.

9. What's the funniest thing you've done?
Gosh, I have no idea! Anyone know??? lol I can say the most stupid thing I did recently! I'll be humble enough to admit that when I tried to mow my lawn for the first time, I couldn't figure out why it wouldn't start. It had oil in it and I was pulling the string right and all. Finally I called my ex and found out that I needed gasoline! DAH! I felt like a complete idiot! Maybe that's a funny thing. If you saw that, you'd laugh at me!!! : )

10. What do you do for a living?
Well I think this one is obvious... I am a wedding photographer. I love making brides and grooms cry when they look at their wedding photos! Yep, that's my goal, to make people cry (ha ha). I enjoy being at weddings because it symbolizes a new beginning in life. And I love seeing people truly in love with each other.

11. If money was not a stumbling block, what would be your biggest thing to do or achieve?
See Italy and doing things I have never done before.

12. What would be your second career of choice?
Acting! I would love to be in acting. I loved doing it in high school but regret that I never did more with it. I know you can't really live on this career being that you have to be so good and famous and all, but I would enjoy doing it.

13. What is your favorite child hood memory?
Gosh, that's a hard one. I have a lot of great memories. I loved going to Rainbow Falls Swimming Pool in Elk Grove Village, IL with my siblings. We use to walk miles to get to and from the pool. We didn't care though, we loved the water slides there and swimming! I also love the memory of when my dad taught me how to play tennis, catch a ball, canoe and fish. Going to the flea markets in Wisconsin with my mom, step-dad and sisters is another favorite memory of mine. I remember I couldn't wait to buy heavy medal cassette tapes! I also loved playing with my neighbors after school. We did everything from play kick ball, dodge ball, serious tag, and more! We were all so tight back in the day!

14. Who makes you laugh the most?
My kids and a real funny movie! Like watching Eddie Murphy in Beverly Hills Cop!

15. What do you notice first when you meet a person?
What they are wearing, their age and their body language.

16. Last person you danced with?
My friend Eileen and her sister, Michelle. We went to the Conch-House in St. Augustine on Sunday. They play live Reggae music. It's a neat place but the crowd is so so. A lot of young people there. It's a great college life crowd if you're into that sort of thing. It is very unique though, so if you haven't been there before, you have to check it out. It's across the "Bridges of Lions".

17. Which is easier to talk to, boys or girls?
girls are so much more fun to talk with.

18. Have you been in love before?
Of course.

19. Have you had someone you loved die?
Yes. Bill Schraft, my old band director and good friend just past away. He was there for me all through high school and even in my adult years. He was an incredible man! I miss him dearly!

20. What are you most afraid of?
Anything happening to my children.

21. What do you prefer, sunrise or sunset?
Sunset!

22. What is your favorite recent memory?
Playing tennis with my kids.

23. Who is the last person you talked to on the phone?
My sister, Marissa. I hope you enjoy Theresa's birthday party!

24. What time is it now?
1:03am. I need to get to bed, once I am done with this survey, I will get ready for bed.

25. Any big plans for the near future?
Yes, I am flying on a private jet to New York this weekend and will be staying in a penthouse in Manhattan touring the best restaurants and shows in town! Ha Ha..... NOT! Either I will be with my kids or will be in Atlanta. We'll see. No private jet, just my two feet and minivan! ; )

26. Are you real or fake?
Ha ha, is this a physical or emotional question? I do not have anything fake on me if that's what you're implying. If this is referred to who we are as people, I'd have to say I am very real. Those that I let into my life know that I don't pull any punches. I am honest when it comes to my heart, thoughts and feelings. If I know you well, then you will know me well.

27. What's your least likely thing to do?
Mow the lawn...especially when the grass goes downhill towards water!!!! I think it's time for me to hire someone else to do it! Any takers?

28. What takes up most of your time?
Work. But I love what I do, so it's okay.

29. If there is anything you could repeat and do all over again, what would it be?
Hmm, too deep of a question for me to figure out, HA HA

30. Do you make fun of people?
Actually, I hate this. I really don't like it when others make fun of people in front of me. Maybe to them they think it's just fun to do, but to me, it's disrespectful and hurtful to the one being made fun of. The only time I'll make fun of someone is if they are a close friend of mine and they know I love them and they are laughing at themselves too! But I don't like to make fun of a stranger or something like that. Maybe I'm too serious and need to relax, but I just care too much about hurting other people's feelings.

31. Do you consider yourself the life of the party?
Only if I want to be. I don't need to be the center of attention, I am secure in myself not to be.

32. Have you moved?
Actually, yes. Just moved 24 days ago.

33. What's the weather like now?
Don't know. I am inside. I bet it's cool outside now.

34. Things you think about while falling asleep.
Will I sleep...how long till morning....should I get back up and work some more?

35. What do you wish you were smart in?
Investments, Stock Market, and Politics! They go hand-in-hand anyway right!

Jolly Be Bakery Painted Cakes

2008-06-21T23:31:00.000-04:00

Looking for something unique and different for your wedding cake? Jolly Be Bakery PAINTS designs onto their wedding cakes. Any theme they can do, the sky's the limit! I think it's a neat idea for those couples that want something distinctly their own.

Lyndsay and Heath

2008-06-21T22:36:00.000-04:00

Congratulations Lyndsay and Heath!!! Heath was so moved when his bride walked down the aisle, there wasn't a dry eye there! I wish you both much love and true happiness in your future! Cherish each other and always make it special. You both love each other so much. Congratulations you two!!

Ken, my second shooter, snuck in a photo of me working...

BRIDES you can save on your gown!!!

2008-06-18T01:38:00.000-04:00

On average most brides are shelling out $4000 for a designer dress (yikes!). For those of you brides that are trying to keep your cash in your pockets, check out Pre-Owned Wedding Dresses a company that sells pre-owned designer wedding gowns! The prices are cut in half. Lets face it, you're only going to wear your dress once, so why spend $4K on something you'll only wear for 7 hours! Yes I know you want to look absolutely fabulous, but you still can look stunning for half the cost!

Lazaro Gowns

Pronovias Gowns

If you got married already, you can sell your dress at this site too!!! Sweet huh! Now you can earn some money back from your gown!!

Blended Motion

2008-06-18T01:20:00.000-04:00

This post is for all my fellow photographers throughout the world!

If you are looking to outsource your album design work, then you must check out my favorite album designing company Blended Motion. Not only do they do such great work, but their customer service is out of this world. They are VERY reliable, friendly and easy to work with.

I design my own albums; however, I did use their services once and absolutely LOVED them. So if you are looking for a fantastic company to creatively design top notch albums, then I would seriously check these guys out!

You can see the album of Todd & Michelle that they designed for me if you click on their link above.

Cortnee and Tim Hogans

2008-06-18T00:45:00.001-04:00

There are two words that immediately come to my mind when I think about Tim and Cortnee's wedding: LOVE & PARTAAAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

These two are so much fun. They are crazy about one another and are not shy to get their groove on! We always love a good reception party and let me tell you, we were entertained by their guests and family. Boy does this crowd know how to dance! You can see ALL their photos by clicking on their names above. Access to their site you'll need password 9168.

My Boy!

2008-06-17T23:35:00.000-04:00

So the seminar I went to in Celebrations, FL., really drilled it in me the importance of blogging regularly. I have to confess, blogging has not been my area of expertise so I have not blogged much, but I promise I will repent! : )

I will be blogging some of my recent weddings soon and a bunch of other fun stuff will be coming your way so stay tuned!

In the meantime, I had to share my pride and joy with you all. Jaden, my fantastic 5 year old son just had his first biking lesson last week and we caught it on film...or should I say digital negative files! He was so excited that he was biking on his own for a second or two that he had to call my family afterward to tell them all about it. He is so sweet. I just love these moments where you are helping your child to do something for his/her first time ever! The great thing about it all, is that there are still so many first times still to come since he has his whole life ahead of him. Hmm, first day of Kindergarden, first school play, first school test, first time reading a book, first real girlfriend (oh boy), first real kiss (oh really boy!), first love, first hurt and so much more. Life is truly beautiful and precious, cease every moment and always cherish your loved ones! Time truly passes us by quickly.

LOOK! He's doing it on his own ... even if it only lasted for a second, HE DID IT! : )

WIPE OUT! Good thing we were on the grass... but then again mommy's are always there to catch their children if they ever fall!

Auh oh, another wipe out! He always got right back on his bike though!

I will always remember this special memory with Jaden! And now he too can remember it when he sees these photos in the future.

Engage 08! Seminar

2008-06-11T04:07:00.001-04:00

So I just had the privilege of attending the incredible Engage 08! seminar hosted by Engaging Concepts in the adorable and quaint Celebrations Hotel in Celebration, FL.

There's so much to say about this seminar, but first I think it's only fair to introduce the two owners of Engaging Concepts who not only put together a phenomenal seminar but personally brought on a big turning point in my business. Owner, Rebecca Grinnals , has been in the wedding industry for over 25 years and is known for her incredible success in bringing unprecedented success when she co-founded Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons and now only continues to flourish in her expertise in her company Engaging Concepts. Her experience & success in the wedding industry is just out of this world! Her bio is a must read... whatever I'd say here would not do justice to her amazing talents and knowledge, so you much check her out! Her success and personal genuine heart for everyone she speaks to just inspires the tar out of me!

Kathryn Arce ,
(scroll down when you click on the link to read her bio), Managing Director, of Engaging Concepts, too is an amazingly talented and well versed woman in the world of weddings and events. Before I had the joy of meeting this real and sweet woman, we became pretty good friends as we would exchange emails often in the middle of the night.

I soon discovered that I was not the only work obsessed woman in the country staying up all hours of the night working! I'll never forget how shocked I was to get an email from her at 2am or so. I don't know if I loved meeting someone else with as much passion for weddings as me or if I was so so glad to not be so lonely at 2am! LOL. What started out as a business relationship quickly turned into a sincere friendship. Both Rebecca and Kathryn are two uniquely special woman with so much heart that I truly feel lucky to know them!

Check out my photos below to see what we all were up to at the seminar! I have to admit, I was being a little lazy at this seminar, I didn't go crazy taking photos, I was so giddy about taking in all the information from Rebecca, Kathryn, Preston Bailey , Simon T. Bailey , Marcy Blum , Christine Boulton and more that I barely hit the shutter...I know SHAME SHAME DARICE!!!!

THANK YOU REBECCA AND KATHRYN for such a fantastic seminar, I learned so much and can't wait to rock the wedding industry world with you chic and savvy selves! : )

I have three of these fun crystal balls that sit under my flat screen - scroll down to see my Engaging Concepts Crystal Balls, I just love them!

The building to the left is Celebrations Hotel where we stayed at and attending the seminar.

I couldn't help but quickly walk around the adorable Celebrations city to capture a few quick shots. When I say quick, I mean QUICK because it started drizzling when I began taking photos. Just as I ended my little picture taking time, it started pouring! Sorry I couldn't take additional photos to show you more of Celebrations FL. It truly is a cute little town! I felt taken back in time as I was just waiting for white carriages to come down the brick roads with women wearing their fanned out fancy dresses holding onto umbrellas! Ha ha.

The night before the seminar some of us got to meet one another over some yummy appetizers and drinks! There were wedding planners, videographers, photographers, florists visiting from the Cayman Islands, DC, Seattle, Hawaii, Texas and more. What a great mix of people to meet!

This is Erin Poticny, Events Manager, for the fabulous Casa Monica Hotel, in St. Augustine FL. I was pleasantly surprised to see her at the seminar! Erin is getting married on February 20th at her number one choice for weddings, none other than of course the classy Casa Monica Hotel!

On the left is Anayda, Director of Catering with Sundyhouse and on the right is Nicole, Director of Catering with Celebration Hotel

This is Christine Tremoulet a great photographer based out of Houston Texas. Christine and I sat next to each other and under Simon Bailey's command, she is my new accountability business partner! How wonderfully fortunate for me since she is immensely gifted at photography!!!!

Check out our stylish bags that we all got to take home with us.

We all went home with so many goodies...just to mention a few: a jar of deliciously sinfully cookies (yes, I caved in and ate half the jar in only a matter of two hours!), we also received fun journals with a sparkly journal pen, magazines, books written by some of our speakers, a wine decorative crystal corkscrew stopper...L O V E I T !!!!!

So here's the culprit for the day. These little guys just knew how to call out "Darice, darice, oh Darice! You know you want us!" I had no problem devouring these little suckers...so yummy!

Our fun green journals!

Meet Maureen & David with VHVideo. They specialize in creating Blue Ray Wedding DVD's! Pretty cool huh!!!

If you're desiring to book a wedding in the Cayman Islands, then you need to meet these ladies with Celebrations!! In their website click on "ALBUMS" at the bottom of their site to see real couples wedding album photos.

The cute woman on the left is Laura, Vice President of Marketing, for Adorn Brides. BRIDES PAY ATTENTION TO THIS, if you have ever wanted to be adorned with REAL diamonds without spending tens of thousands for one, you HAVE to check out their site! Finally, you can borrow/rent real diamond & pearl jewelry to complete your gowns. So many brides spend a lot on their gowns but then go cheap on fashion jewelry, and as a photographer I know from experience that real jewelry truly changes the entire look of the bride! It not only enhances her gown, but it photographs MUCH better than fashion jewelry and lets face it ladies, it also makes you feel extra special to wear radiantly sparkling jewelry!

Rebecca with Preston Bailey. Rebecca, I can only imagine that you must have collaspsed when you returned home not having to worry about planning for the seminar anymore. You really out did yourself with Engage 08! I can't wait to see what you come up with next year! You are doing another one right!!!!!! : )

This is my new office, I just moved (before you all have a heart attack on me, don't worry folks, I am still in Jacksonville! Actually I just moved 3 miles down the road!) So check out my new office! Hmm I think the Engaging Concepts Crystal Theme is wearing off on me, looks like I need to replace that chandelier lamp with a stunning crystal one!!!

This is Preston Bailey's "Inspirations" Book of breath taking wedding room transformations! This book is full of elegantly, beautifully displayed extravagant weddings, that if you want to get your hands on it, I guess that means you'll have to set up a consultation appointment with me! : )

Me with Preston Bailey. Every guest at the seminar had to have their photo taken with Preston Bailey that what started as me taking one photo for a fellow photographer turned into a mini photo shoot of me somehow becoming the official photographer to take everyone's photo with him! LOL. It was fun watching everyone in line waiting to to have their books signed by Preston! For all my fellow photographers, videographers, event coordinators, caterers, florists and more, feel free to email me at DARICE@DARICEMICHELLE.COM if you want a copy of your photo with Preston Bailey! : )

I even have the Engaging Concepts Crystal Balls under my flat screen to remind me of the great things that lay ahead for the Darice Michelle Team! : )

Again thank you Rebecca and Kathryn for putting together such an informative, inspiring, and kick us in the ass seminar! I have a lot of homework to do after leaving your seminar. I cannot wait to bring to birth all my new wedding ideas!

HUGS AND KISSES to you both!

Darice Michelle

KIDS PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER CAMP!!

2008-05-12T00:34:00.001-04:00

I am very excited to announce that I am offering something very special this summer...our VERY FIRST Kids Photography Summer Camp located in the Fruit Cove area of Jacksonville, FL!!!

I have had several parents throughout the year express their desire that they wished they could take their child somewhere to learn photography. Well worry no more because I am granting your wish!! This July and August I will be teaching a 2-week Monday, Wednesday, and Friday session for children ages 7-12. Classes begin at 10am and end at 2:00pm.

In order for me to give each child as much attention as possible, there are only 6 spots available for each session so hurry to reserve your spot before it's too late!!

Campers Enrolled Will Learn:
The History of Photography
How To Use a Digital Camera
The Famous Ansel Adams (video)
Apetures, Speeds, ISO's, Focal Length's and More
Pinhole Photography
Adobe Photoshop
Natural Lighting Techniques
How To Take Great Photos
On Field Photo Taking Opportunities
Visiting a Jacksonville Professional Photographic Lab
Photo Contests
and More!!!

If your child does not have a digital camera, you can go with our Polaroid Campers Fee and your child will receive their very own digital camera to keep!

Polaroid 5.1 MP 4x Zoom Digital Camera
This compact digital camera will have you snapping pictures like a pro
Polaroid a500 camera has 5.1 mega pixel image
Digital still camera has 1.7-inch bright color TFT LCD and 4x digital zoom
16 MB internal memory you can start taking pictures right away
Add memory with SD memory card
Takes AVI video clips with audio Still image compression in JPEG, EXIF 2.2
PictBridge compatible
Off/auto/red-eye reduction/fill flash
Automatic and manual exposure
Electronic 10-second self timer
Working range: 1.0m ~ infinity
Still Resolution: 2592 x 1944
PC and Mac compatible
Battery type: two (2) AA batteries (not included)
USB interface
Includes: User guide, USB cable, hand strap, camera pouch, driver and software
2.48 inches x 3.78 inches x .9 inches

For more information on our Kids Photography Summer Camp please visit our website at Darice Michelle and click on "Summer Camp".

Erin and Billy So In Love!!!

2008-05-11T11:54:00.000-04:00

Last night I fell in love! I fell in love with this awesome couple, Erin & Billy. The entire time I photographed them it was so OBVIOUS how much in love Billy is with Erin. I just love it when I see passion, appreciation and love between two people. Billy met Erin and immediately said, "I HAD TO HAVE HER!". After they departed from the first time they met and without having a way to contact her, he went on an VERY determined journey to find her again. He went to the mall three weekends in a row hoping to run into her again (he had seen her at the mall before) and with no success he was not easily ready to give up his mission; therefore, his friend suggested he try to find her on Facebook. To his JOY he found her within 5 minutes! Billy spent a long time drafting his friend letter to send her on Facebook. Wanting it to be just perfect he waited till the right moment to send it. His patience and perseverance paid off because now they are to wed on October 11, 2008!

Meghan and David

2008-05-08T09:11:00.000-04:00

Meghan and David's wedding was just absolutely STUNNING! Their colors were my favorite wedding colors: hot pink and hot green. The palette was so amazing that even my camera shouted "WOW!". The details in their wedding were special, fun and unique. Every where we went we found special things they put together. Everyone kept talking about what a a gorgeous wedding this was, I think you will see why!

Meghan and David's wedding was held in Amelia Island at the fabulous Ribault Club with Meghan's bridal preparations held at the very classy Hoyt Bed and Breakfast House

Between Lorna Meehan, their very talented wedding coordinator, who did a phenominal job and the rockin' band who blew everyone away with their music, Blue Stone Circle, I'd say this is one of those weddings people will be talking about for a long time!

Faith and Kris Sims

2008-04-24T11:22:00.000-04:00

Two days ago I got to walk down memory lane with Kris and Faith Sims. In 2004 I moved here to Jacksonville from Long Beach, CA. Once we settled into our new home and city, I began to market my company focused on wedding photography. One of my sweetest memories in these early stages of establishing myself in Jacksonville, was when I got to meet with Faith and Kris for their consultation meeting. They were my first couple that booked with me when I relocated my business to Jacksonville. Since I have worked with them, I have had several couples come to me because of their referrals. Then I heard knews some time later that they had a baby boy!

I finally got to meet this cute guy when I did their family photos in their home. Greyson is almost 18 months old and full of life! He truly made an impact on me when I dumped his lego toys on the floor so he'd play with them, well to my surprise he didn't play with them, but instead CLEANED THEM UP right away! Faith told me that whenever he sees something on the floor like that, he will clean it up immediately! WOW! How the heck did you guys train him so well!

The Sims Family:

Bonnie and Wes

2008-04-21T23:41:00.001-04:00

Ok so like if there were ever the cutest couple in the world, it would be Bonnie and Wes! They both are so sweet to each other. I knew I was a very lucky photographer when I met these two. Their love is so precious, sincere and patient. Bonnie and Wes were married on March 29th, 2008 at the Club Continental in Orange Park, FL.

Bella happily walked down the aisle spreading her love with red and pink rose pedals. When she emptied her basket she was so BUMMED. Not to worry folks, this pro knew what to do right away! She grabbed the ones in the aisle and just refilled her basket back up! It was too adorable!!!!!!!!!!!!!

During the ceremony, Wes Bella with a beautiful necklace from him to her. It was really sweet!

Ok I couldn't bypass this photo, I had to share it with you all! This is Jaden, my 5 year old ROMANTIC of-a-son! Jaden was a gentlemen to Bella, Bonnie's cute daughter, during and after the wedding. Even when he was wiped out from dancing with Bella, he would still dance because she wanted him to. And when he became thirsty from all that groovin', he not only tried to order a drink BY HIMSELF, but remembered to order TWO drinks for Bella too! I just happened to be crossing over from the bar into the dancing room when I caught my son attempting to get two drinks from the bar! I just about died when I saw this. Jaden is too AWESOME! I am so proud of him!

I could never do the job without my team! Thanks Michelle and Ken for all your hard work. You both truly make weddings fun and memorable! All the stories we've got up our sleeves might be worth writing a book about all we do and see! Shh, don't worry brides, we won't tell... or at least we won't mention any specific names : )

Adrialyn and Eric

2008-04-06T23:06:00.000-04:00

Adrialyn and Eric got married in the beautiful historic St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra cities of Florida. The wedding started out at a BEAUTIFUL castle - how sweet to marry in a castle huh!!!?? I loved watching Adrialyn's daughter during the ceremony. Her daughter kept giving the thumbs up showing all the guests of her approval of Eric! It was so darling! We took this in love couple to the historic area of St. Augustine for their photos after the ceremony. My favorite part was when all the tourists clapped with joy when they saw the in love couple! Congratulations Adrialyn and Eric!!!!!

Adrialyn got ready at the GEORGOUS Casa Monica Hotel so of course I couldn't leave without taking photos of them outside and INSIDE of this beautiful resort!

Tony Chu Photography

2008-03-24T15:13:00.000-04:00

Photo by Tony Chu

So my new friend, Oubon Phommavong at Miss Phom Photography, just started coming to weddings with me as she embarks on new adventures as a photographer. Oubon just introduced me to her favorite fashion photographer, Tony Chu, and I must say this guy is so creative and very talented! It's refreshing and fun to see NEW stuff that is so colorful, unique, exciting and interesting!

Here is one of his photos. What a statement this photo makes huh!!!!!!!! As a young girls, we all longed to look exactly like Barbie! Scary how many women have spent thousands of dollars to look like her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Where are we as women headed?

Check out Tony Chu Photography for more of his work.

Sarah Silverman

2008-03-15T22:45:00.000-04:00

Ok so like I have been approached several times by people in publix, blockbuster and other public places telling me that I look like Sarah Silverman. Ok, so I had NO IDEA who this woman was other than a celebrity who is auh, how should I say, um "a comedian with a mouth and amongst other things".

Wasn't sure how to take that! So, yet again, after being told by two men today that I looked like Sarah Silverman, I went on line to finally check out this chic!

There are some similarities with our looks but our personalities are quite different...I think! Although I was cracking up at her you tube videos that I won't post here for obvious reasons.

So I pulled up some old and recent photos to compare the both of us together. What do you all think? Do we look alike?

I bet if my hair were straightened here, I'd probably look even more like her!

I supposed if I straightened my hair like hers and posed in the same way wearing the same clothes, maybe it would look even more the same, but who has the time for all that!!! : )

SLEEP?!@# What's that?

2008-03-09T06:09:00.001-04:00

So, it's 6:27am right now on Sunday morning and I have been up ALL NIGHT preparing for my taxes! I can't believe I organized all my receipts! You should have seen the mess of papers & envelopes all over the floor!!! Right now I'm feeling on top of the world for having done so much. While I did my taxes (still have more to go!), I backed up my computer, cleaned it out from the over 70,000 files on it! Burned a ton of DVD's, returned all my emails and even organized my emails using folders! I was so on the roll that I even cleaned out my drawers from junk and my desk has NOTHING on it! I'm all update with my mail and my trash is emptied! Wow! I am feeling like I just lost 100 pounds!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What an awesome feeling this is to have accomplished so much. It's incredible how much you can get done when no one is screaming for you needing your attention.

The only bummer news tonight was that I lost my boxes that had my two new 8 Gig cards in it to use for a rebate offer! I went through old garbage hoping to find it, but no luck! Darn those rebate things!

My awesome assistant, Michelle, will be over this week to help me finish my taxes (THANKS GIRL!). What will I do with myself when my taxes are done - such freedom and extra time. YOGA here I come! St. John's Town Center, MASSAGE here I come! Miranda and Jaden, you will have a mommy again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So, lets see will I make it through today with no sleep?! I have yoga teacher training class too! Yikes!

Ok, now that I have bored you all with my excitement on my accomplishments, I promise to post something pretty soon! Friday we have an e-session with a fun couple in St. Augustine historic area and then Vilano Beach, more exciting photos to come soon!

The Nava Wedding Album

2008-03-04T15:32:00.001-05:00

You Suck at Photoshop #7

2008-03-04T13:05:00.001-05:00

This is hysterical! Boy this was not what I expected when I started watching this!

Pull out your sense of humor before you watch this!

Spidy Jadey

2008-03-02T13:06:00.000-05:00

Girls grow up wanting to be princesses...or one of Charlie's Angels (ha ha) while boys grow up wanting to be the hero that rescues the pretty girl or saves the world from bad villans. While I was working on an album, Jaden, my handsome little guy, came flying through my office as his favorite hero, Spiderman. "Spiderman" was deligently fighting off the "not able to see" bad guys! It was so fun watching his full animated facial expressions as he whipped through the wind kicking the air with is mighty feet! I had to stop working for a brief moment to capture this on camera.

Lyndsay and Heath's Signature Album

2008-02-26T17:08:00.000-05:00

Heath and Lyndsay will be doing something different at their wedding...instead of the traditional white guest wedding album that everyone signs, they will be offering their guests some entertainment by flipping through a "Signature Album" of the two of them and their family. Guests can sign on the black, white and faded out photos. Can't get more fun & personal than this! Signature Albums are always a huge hit at a wedding!

The Grimes Wedding Album

2008-02-25T22:44:00.000-05:00

Ethan and Miraya Grimes Wedding Album

Bea and Brent

2008-02-24T22:50:00.001-05:00

Friday night I got to see two people full of spirit and fun behind the camera! Bea and Brent are just the perfect match. They are so sweet together and not afraid to show their affection in front of the camera. We shot their session in downtown St. Augustine area. After the e-session we drove to Flagler where we enjoyed some raw foods at a raw restaurant called Almond Blossom. Bea and Brent became raw foodists too and they are even having a RAW FOOD wedding! The cake will even be all raw, WOW, for the FIRST TIME EVER as a photographer at a wedding, I'll get to eat cake!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh my gosh, someone get a photo of this! I can't wait to eat at this wedding!

When I saw Bea in the beginning of the e-session I noticed her shoes and knew immediately she had to borrow mine. Since she was wearing denim pants and a white blouse I knew she had to wear my red heels! Ironically, we were the exact same shoe size so it worked out perfectly! It was funny when we switched shoes, I went from wearing my 4 inch heels to her flats! Funny how you'd think I'd be more comfortable in flats, but actually I was more at home in my heels! So ladies, you do get use to wearing heels when you were them often enough! Ha Ha.

Lyndsay and Heath

2008-02-21T00:13:00.001-05:00

Last night Melissa and I had the pleasure and FUN photographing Lyndsay and Heath's E-Session. We made this a family session for their three handsome boys were present. Such sports were they, never once was there a peep of complaint from these fellas.

I had so much fun for I was truly entertained by Heath's terrific sense of humor! It really is obvious how much he just adores Lyndsay and sees her as his queen! I always love seeing a couple really in love!

This family is just precious! I truly loved this crazy gang (ha ha). They are a blast. I can't wait to do their wedding on April 27th.

We centered their engagement session in Downtown Jacksonville then ended the fun at Friendship Fountain where Heath proposed to Lyndsay with her parents hiding behind trees! Lyndsay was really surprised!

Here are some highlights from their session tonight ..... to see all of their photos click on their names above and type in password: 9168

This is a look into the future... ha ha

My Favorite Item I Just Purchased!

2008-02-14T21:51:00.000-05:00

Today I visited a very FUN children's boutique called
Sweet Child of Mine. Since I was a big time Guns N Roses fan, ok still am, I had to check out this VERY SWEET boutique. As I walked in besides feeling like I had stepped into wonder land and my heart felt all giddy looking at the beautifully vibrant and exhilarating clothing, jewelry, furniture and more, something magical happened to me. Ok, well at least it felt magical to me. Something called me out and said I am for YOU! Even though there are just a ton of fun stuff to look at (and yes to buy - ha ha), something immediately caught my attention! I had to buy it, it was perfect for how I have been feeling lately. Perfect for being reminded of how important the self is!

Ever doubt yourself? Ever wonder if you are just flat out weird? Ever feel like you are not sure if what you are doing is right or if being YOU is good enough? I think just about every woman (um um, men too!) have felt this before, maybe multiple times.

I love this quote so much that I hung it on my desk to constantly be reminded of how important the "real me" is.

"Behind every successful woman is herself"

I hope this quote encourages you as much as it does me!

Love to you all!

Bowl of America

2008-02-10T15:43:00.000-05:00

My in-laws are in town...which means VACATION time for not only them but me too! One of the nice benefits to having visitors is that they make you stop, slow down, and take time for the more fun things in life like - BOWLING! I am not a bowler, but every time I bowl, I always want to play another game. It's fun making that ball swoop down the lane as fast as you can make it go!

So here is something really funny, when we were on our way there Jan, Noel's mother, was talking about how much time has changed things in the way we live and the kind of things we have nowadays. So after walking down memory lane for when our phones were attached to the walls with long cords and the big walkmans verses the tiny i-pods out there, something hilarious happened when we were bowling.

As we sat in Lane 16, the first thing that came out of Jan's mouth was her shock and confusion at the above computer screens tracking the players scores! She asked me in total surprise, "So, we don't write down our on scores? This computer does that for us?" Talk about time going by! I didn't say anything because I didn't know if she was for real at first. Then it occurred to me that it had been THAT long since she last bowled!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We were laughing so hard at this!

Forgive me for the poor quality of photos, I had to use my point-n-shoot this time! I know, someone slap me over the head.