It all started with a cupcake.  Yep, back in 2008 one of my *very first* brides and I were out and about on a trash the dress shoot.  We needed a cupcake and I knew just where to go.  I’d heard of this little bakery that sold nothing but cupcakes and had yet to check it out.  So Crystal and I went off to The Cupcake Cottage.  Yep, me and a bride in a big white dress.  Looking out the window Juaquin (one of the owners) says, “um… were we supposed to have cupcakes for a wedding today? because there’s a bride coming!”  LOL  And that’s how I first met the Bradshaws.

I can’t help but feel nostalgic and a little teary eyed when I think about Jana getting married.  Since meeting our friends at The Cupcake Cottage we’ve been there to hear how Jana was doing at the academy, when she had “a boyfriend” you know – the one you think is the one… to when Stephen popped the question and Jana said yes!  It was such an exciting time and I can’t believe we’ve known each other for 4 years!  And when that time came Jana just *knew* Bella Pop would be their photographer.  We were so honored to be part of the excitement and we just fell in love with Stephen when we met him in Colorado.  He was perfect for our Jana.  :)

And now, to announce the big secret that has been under wraps for a few months… oh, wow I had no idea I’d be so nervous typing this!!  Pitter patter goes my heart!!

The following picture is very very special to me, because (deep breath) this is my last photo with my amazing brides and grooms on their wedding day.  Yes, after 4 years of shooting weddings I  have officially “retired” (excited grin.)   I can’t think of a better way to end my wedding photography career than shooting a wedding of such dear friends.  It has truly been an amazing adventure!  (sniff sniff.)

WHAT??!  Trust me, I’ve heard that a lot.  Up until now, I’ve confessed only to my BFFs and close family.  I’ve heard everything from “but you’re the best!!! NOOOO!”  (I’m so flattered!) and “but who will take my pictures??”  And of course, the biggest question is “WHY?!?!?”

Truth be told, weddings are hard work.  They are physically exhausting to shoot, not to mention you must give up your weekends.  Also, weddings are WAY more than just shooting on the big day.  There’s also a CRAZY amount of work that goes with being a wedding photographer “behind the scenes” including editing, promotion, and meeting new couples.  Did I mention you give up your weekends?  Yeah.

Since Brandon had the opportunity to work at TCU *and* finish his degree there, things changed at Bella Pop.  I finally started to teach online classes and shooting weddings without my husband just wasn’t the same.  I also missed spending time with family and friends on the weekend and after 4 years of being a full time wedding photographer, I was ready for a change.  Not to mention my online classes and blogging are both full time jobs.  Something had to give.  Now my main focus will be my online photography classes, blogging *and*  shooting for creativity and myself again!  I’m excited to have a life back and enjoy the little things.  Ever since launching Bella Pop with wedding photography as my goal, I have worked like a crazy girl 24-7.  I have had *so much* fun shooting weddings and love all the people I’ve had the honor of shooting.  You are all amazing, my Bella Pop brides and grooms!!

Speaking of my Bella Pop brides and grooms… we’ve met so many cool people and a handful of BEST FRIENDS came from these weddings.  I have to give a special shout out to the following friends who we love dearly (and met as their wedding photographers)… Becky and Chris, Andrea and Matt, Kyndal and Levi, Liz and Mike, Mylynka and Lupe oh guys mean so much to us!  I can’t imagine not knowing you!  Of course, that’s just a tip of the cool people ice berg.  You all know who you are.  You guys are great!!

And of course, I have to share a few sneaks from Jana and Stephen’s wedding.  I’m editing my last wedding today (eeeeeek!) and J&S, you’ll see your pics very soon!

Well peeps, the secret is out!  I’m excited for this new adventure and can’t wait to start blogging more.  I will be shooting portraits in fall for a handful of couples who still have portraits to shoot with me.  After that, I’ll be shooting portraits for just very close friends and family on occasion.  I’m a full time photography teacher and blogger now.  Eeeeeee!!  And yay for cupcakes!!!  xoxo B