Just about a year ago, I received an e-mail with the subject line “Big Fat Greek Wedding.” With an intro like that, I knew Anastasia and Steve’s wedding was going to be fun and memorable. I was right. They had an amazing wedding on Sunday at St. Haralambos in Canton. They looked absolutely stunning and the weather was perfect. After the ceremony, we visited the McKinley National Memorial for a few quick shots outdoors. Then it was back to the church for a lively reception.

The Greek Company Orchestra from Pittsburgh maintained an impressive pace throughout the evening. Mr. Poulos, Steve’s father, joined the band for a couple of very impressive numbers. DJ Billy Manos, cheered on by Anastasia, kept the festivities going in between sets. It was also great to work along side Scott  Stachiw (and his father) of Moonstruck Productions, one of my favorite videographers in the area.

Sincere thanks goes out to my good friends Kevin Chuey (my loyal and skilled second shooter) and Andrew Jordan (a very talented photographer) for shooting with me during this busy day. Andrew captured the images of Steve and the guys below. You can see additional shots from this wedding (and more great work from Andrew's recent wedding in Turkey) on Andy's blog.

Congratulations Anastasia and Steve. It was an absolute pleasure working with you and your wonderful families. I look forward to designing what is sure to be a wonderful album.

My weekend in Canton started with Michelle and Matt's Saturday evening wedding at St. Michael’s Catholic Church. I felt bad for Matt, who was feeling under the weather during the ceremony and formal session. A real trooper, he bounced back pretty well at the reception. Michelle and Matt kept up with BE Mann (AKA The Energy Man), friend of the couple and “international music entertainer." Seriously, this guy (seen jumping with the ladies below) is talented and knows how to make an event special. Great toasts, a hula-hoop contest and a dance-off between bridal party members (ladies won) highlighted a great night. Kimberly Lehman of Love, Laughter & Elegance: Wedding & Event Planning did an excellent job of coordinating the day.

It’s been a busy week with a baby Eva home from the hospital, a rush of new album orders and a few software updates to enhance my workflow. It was nice to be shooting again on Saturday. Erin and Jack were married at The Cathedral of St. John The Evangelist in downtown Cleveland, a gorgeous church. After the ceremony, we headed to the east Ninth Street Pier and waterfront area (which seems to be a very popular request this season) for some fun and relaxed images. Then it was off to Windows on the River for a great reception. Congratulations Erin and Jack. It was an honor being part of your wedding day!

Ethan and Eleanor broke away from an overnight visit with their cousins to meet Eva this afternoon. Ethan was a little concerned about our name selection but promised that he wouldn't hold it against his new baby sister. Despite being very tired and hungry, Eleanor lit up the room with her excitement over another girl in the family. Both older siblings gave the new recruit a good inspection. All toes and fingers were counted twice. Ethan was feeling very protective of mom. He promised Kyra that he is "giving up Sponge Bob to help her 20 times a day with the baby." That's a serious sacrifice. We'll see how he does. So far, so good. Kyra and Eva continue to do very well and are expected to come home tomorrow. What a wonderful Mother's Day it will be!

It's been a busy 24 hours for Team Forrest. Kyra went to into labor yesterday (Friday) afternoon and was admitted to Akron General Medical Center. At 9:45 p.m. Eva Katherine Forrest (7 pounds, 11 ounces) was born. She is absolutely precious! Both Kyra and Eva are doing extremely well. I will be taking Ethan and Eleanor to the hospital this afternoon to meet their baby sister. They are very excited to say the least. More photos to come. Time to grab a big mug of coffee before heading out.

I had the sincere pleasure of spending Friday evening and all of Saturday with Princess, Tyrone and their wonderful families and friends. I really felt like I got to know this awesome couple during the past year. We had some great meetings and a fun engagement session back in October. All of their planning efforts really came together has they had a touching ceremony at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Shaker Heights and a festive reception at 200 Public Square (formerly the BP Building) in downtown Cleveland. Guests were treated to a surprise performance by an African dance troupe, and Princess was serenaded by Tyrone and his Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity brothers – very impressive.