The Menchen Fam.
Abigail and Samantha. Simply the cutest! (And look how big that yellow leaf is?!)
I mean, SERIOUSLY!
Session fave, right herrrrrrrreeeeeeeee.
I can’t believe it’s been 6 years since your wedding! Whoa, how things have changed. I adore you all SO very much! XOXOXO!
The Oyer Fam.
THREE charming little boys and one proud Daddy and Momma!
Oh, I love this so.
Vivi. 9 Months Big.
Doesn’t she look like red riding hood here?
Her Daddy knew all about this abstract art. It symbolizes the Santa Maria, Pinta, and Nina and was a display when AmeriFlora was at Franklin Park Conservatory. Hmm. You learn something new every day, right?!
I can’t stop laughing…
You are such a sweetheart, baby girl. I adore you!
The Harville Fam.
These images make me soooooo very proud. I just love the body language and happiness these portray!
Blake (on the right), I think he’s a future break dancer. You crack me up, buddy!
Session fave. Love the light and the leaves and of course those real smiles!
Here area some fun facts about this family…
Tell us a little about your family dynamic. How you met your husband, how long you’ve been married, names and ages of the children.….
Mitch and I were introduced by a dear friend, Ami that he knew since grade school. We’ve been married for almost 9 years. Blake is 8 and Maddox is 5.
Do you have any hidden talents or something unique to you?
Mitch is a talented violin player.
If you could be any person for one day, who would it be?
Person for a day, Maddox would be a skeleton and Blake would be Ezekiel Elliott.
If you had a $100 bill in your back pocket to spend on whatever you’d like, you’d buy…
If we had a $100, Blake would buy Pokemon Cards, Maddox would buy super heroes, Mitch would get a massage, and Jen would buy some cute shoes!
Describe the perfect weekend.
Our perfect weekend consists of a family adventure road trip (the beach if possible), preferably on a long weekend :)!
What did your family like best about your experience with Crystal Jo?
We LOVE Crystal Jo! We most enjoyed playing in the leaves and laughing!
The Stemm Fam.
DAWWWWWWW!
This is what 27 years of a happy marriage look like…
Newlyweds. I photographed Cail and Jordan’s wedding recently. If you’d like to reminisce, it’s HERE. 
And Cail’s fun brother and adorable SIL.
I’ve never done this pose with all adults. What do you guys think? I’m loving it!
Here are a few fun facts about this family…
Tell us a little about your family dynamic. How you met your husband and how long you’ve been married?
Our family is super close! My brother and I both married our high school sweethearts, so it has felt like a family of six for over 10 years now. My husband, Jordan, and I have been married for almost 6 months, and my brother, Corey, and his wife, Amanda, have been married since 2013. My amazing parents are in their 27thyear of marriage, and continue to show us kids an incredible example of what a marriage should look like!
If you could be any person for one day, who would it be?
I would probably be a Kardashian (my husband is going to disown me for saying that haha). I’d just love to see what a real day in their life looks like. Sounds glamourous… and who wouldn’t want to be that high maintenance for a day?? Someone to do my hair and makeup so I don’t have to… sounds like heaven.
What’s one thing you want to learn to do?
I’d love to learn how to reupholster furniture. Pinterest has given me the desire to learn how to refinish/repurpose things, I think of all the cool home projects I could do if only I was a little more crafty… it’s on the bucket list for sure!
If you had a $100 bill in your back pocket to spend on whatever you’d like, you’d buy…
Ooooo $100…. Right now I’ve got Christmas on the brain, so I’d probably go get a bunch of cute decorations for my first Christmas in my own house! These furry stockings from Restoration Hardware are one of my newest obsessions!!
Describe the perfect weekend..
My perfect weekend would probably be a weekend at our family cabin. Bonfires, s’mores, relaxing in the hot tub, and lots of laughs are all in store, and it’s definitely a nostalgic place for me as an adult since we spent so much time there during my childhood.
What did your family like best about your experience with Crystal Jo?
We loved how fun our photo session was! Crystal Jo did my engagement and wedding photos, and although this was a little bit different of an experience, it was equally AWESOME! We had a lot of fun and laughs during these family pictures. Crystal is easy to work with, pays close attention to the little things (which I love) and has helped us capture some pretty incredible memories. Can’t wait to see the photos she takes for our family in the years to come!
The Driesbach Fam.
Sarah, I love your trendy glasses and your long earrings. Digging your entire look, girl!
Meet baby Emelia. Little Emmy. Don’t you think she deserves an Emmy?! YES!
She loves to fly!
Session fave on the left. Swoooooooon.
Here area some fun facts about this family…
Tell us about that first moment when you saw your baby.
When the nurses put her on my chest, the first thing I noticed were her serious eyebrows! She was quiet and alert and I couldn’t believe how expressive she already was. It was love at first sight. I was also excited that she got to share her birthday with her daddy, June 18th. She was 8 lb 14 Oz, 20.5 inches
Is there a story behind your baby’s name?
Nope, we just liked the name Amelia but wanted to call her Emmy so we went with the alternate spelling of Emelia.
Give us the scoop. What has surprised you the most about parenthood? Are there any funny stories or firsts that you’d like to share?
We have been pleasantly surprised by how good she is! She doesn’t cry unless she needs something and she has slept through the night since 4 weeks. We have both been surprised by how much we love her. She feels like a part of me now. I am also surprised by how strong she is, she wants to be up and is already rolling all over the place.
What did you like best about your experience with Crystal Jo?
I liked that you got our little serious face to smile! And that you took the time to make sure everything looked OK before you took the shots.
The Vickroy Fam.
Just look how adorable these little OshKosh girls are!!!
Colton has his lip pierced. Bahahha. He’s teething and it’s Momma’s bracelet. I find this photo hilarious!
I photographed Chelsie and Mike’s beautiful winter wedding a few years ago. (Click HERE to see.) For some reason, this photo of them playing with Colton reminds me of the wedding photo of them throwing and playing in the snow. Does it you, Chelsie?
Grandpa brought his cool old Mustang for a photo. 
Session fave on the left. YESSSS!
Here are a few fun facts about this family…
Tell us a little about your family dynamic. How you met your husband, how long you’ve been married, names and ages
of the children.
Clayton and I ( Ana) met in High School, we were 16 years old. We have been married for 7 years, have two children: Addilynn Grace ( 2 ½) and Elliana Marie (almost 1 yr)
Michael and I (Chelsie) are childhood friends, with a little help/push from our mothers we got married in 2012. Our son Colton is 18 months old.
George & I (Tena) have been married 35 years. We started dating because the directors of our dorm thought we were a good match.
If you could be any person for one day, who would it be?
Ana- I would love to be Princess Kate! Feel like I could change the world for a day while browsing the crown jewels, pretty great combo!
Chelsie- Beyoncé
What’s one thing you want to learn to do?
Ana- Sewing. I would love to be able to sew more outfits/costumes for my kids!
Chelsie- My own taxes.
If you had a $100 bill in your back pocket to spend on whatever you’d like, you’d buy…
Ana- Probably something for my kids.
Chelsie- A massage.
Tena- I would want to find the owner and return it, George would fold in and put in his wallet, for save keeping.
Describe the perfect weekend.
Ana- Camping in the fall, hiking all day with the family while its cool out, then finishing the day by the fire eating s’mores.
Chelsie- Any weekend I get to spend time with my husband is fantastic!
Tena- Camping with the kids and grandkids at Hocking Hills on a sunny weekend.
Are you more like your mom or your dad?
Ana- I would say I am a unique one, not very much like either. But my husband is very much a perfect blend of his parents. He has the patience and consideration of his mom, while the workmanship and determination of his father.
Chelsie- It is said that I look like my mom but it is frightening how much I am like my dad.
What did your family like best about your experience with Crystal Jo?
Ana- How well she works with kids, and knew exactly how to make them smile. Which of course makes me smile, so it makes a genuine picture!
Chelsie- She is a fantastic person which makes her an outstanding photographer.
Tena- We enjoy our photo session with Crystal because she is a fun person to be around. She makes you laugh, you don’t even know she’s taking pictures.
Megan and Robbie. Engaged.
And look at this adorable family of three!
Robbie + Megan + Megan. That’s how you know he loves the name Megan. His two loves are both Megan.
Wow, isn’t she just a doll!?!
And then we have these two lovebirds…
Ohhhhhhhh, how I LOVEEEEEEE THIS PHOTO!
And this one! 
And this one two. Geeeeeeezzzzz, this session rocks my socks off!
Robbie is a farmer, if you were wondering. 
He does drives these big machines day in and out. And it’s harvest now so he’s quite busy. Megan had to beg for a night off for these photos. Robbie works side-by-side with his father who also took the evening off for this engagement session. Now that’s commitment!
Megan and Robbie, I adore you guys and I’m uber excited for your small town church wedding and farm reception. XO, friends!
Some fun facts about this amazing couple..
When and where is your wedding?
Our wedding is June 11, 2016 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ashville, Ohio. Our reception is at Robbie’s parents Rob and Penny’s farm.
How did you meet?
Megan- Our meeting is interesting. I guess I have always known Robbie. Growing up we were both in 4-H and lived just a few miles from each other. He is 4 years younger than me so he always seemed like a little kid to me. About 5 years ago he asked me out, I said no. He asked again, I said no. He asked me to go out with him in July of 2013. I finally thought, why not. We went to Boston’s and a Columbus Clippers game. On the way home he told me that was the last time he was going to ask me out. I am glad I finally said yes!
Robbie- Met through Facebook.
Tell us about your proposal!
Megan- The proposal… Robbie and I went to Hyde Park (one of our favorite restaurants) for our 2nd “dating” anniversary. All of a sudden after we were served our drinks he got up, got on one knee next to me and asked if I would marry him. I was in shock and didn’t say yes right away. Not because I didn’t want to, but because I was so surprised I couldn’t believe he actually proposed! He sat back down and said “did you say yes” I was still in shock and staring at the ring. I eventually said yes. Robbie said he was very nervous, I didn’t pick up on this. Robbie had called my mom and dad for their “permission” before taking me to dinner. Robbie also told many of our friends and family he was going to propose. They all met us at Station House 81 in Commercial Point to celebrate! It was such an unexpected magical evening!
Robbie- Proposal romantic dinner got up from my one knee and had to ask if she said yes. She asked if I was sick since I was getting up from the table.
What’s your favorite thing about your significant other?
Megan- My favorite thing about Robbie is he is always doing something to make me laugh. We are opposites- I can stay up late and sleep in. He likes to go to bed earlier and wake up early. He usually has me cracking up in the morning-this is big because I can be pretty grumpy in the morning. I also love that he can cook and likes to cook. We have a deal. If he cooks I clean up. I think this is the perfect arrangement!
Robbie- Favorite thing about Megan- her caring personality.
What makes you guys unique?
Robbie- Unique- I call her my cougar since she is so much older than me
How did you find Crystal Jo?
We found the fabulous Crystal Jo through Paige the bartender at Foxfire Golf Course! After golfing Robbie was talking to a friend about needing a wedding photographer. Paige suggested Crystal.
Sean and Luisa. Married.
Now that’s what I’m talking about!
Every girl needs a pair of Jimmy Choo’s.
Gorgeous hair by the magnificent Blow-dry Cafe.
Luisa, I adore you so very much. Your smile is contagious and your heart, it’s even bigger. I’m sooooooo very proud of all of your accomplishments and I’m super excited for your beautiful life and marriage. XO, sweet stuff!
Sean gifted Luisa this before she walked down the aisle!
The bridesmaids shoes. SWooOOOnnnn!
And special bags for all eleven ladies. Luisa, you have wonderful taste!
The getaway ride! It even had a working bartender with loud jams and lots of lights.
The rings were in this box…
“Don’t worry ladies, I’m still single.”
And just took at this dapper groom! 
It’s tradition in the Hawaiian culture to gift leis as a sign of love and admiration.
On the bus on the way to a bar for a shot.
Wooooot! Lemon drops at Marshalls.
The HUGE bridal party. ELEVEN ON EACH SIDE!
WHOA. Now that’s a GORGEOUS woman!
An all time fave….
The reception was at Via Vecchia downtown Columbus. There were vintage cameras everywhere. YES!
Every little detail was on point.
A Hawaiian dance from family to wish the Bride and Groom happiness and love.
Jess, I love you, girl! You are always the life of the party!
A little behind the scenes with Crystal Jo Foto. Where all the fun happens. Of course.
Tasha, you always rock my socks, girl. XO FOR LIFE!
Because all the cool people wear cool shoes….
My college gymnastics girls all in one spot RIGHT HEEEERRRRRREEEE!
To view the awesome wedding slideshow, click HERE.
Their Creative team…
Ceremony Site: East Broad Street Presbyterian Church
Reception: Via Vecchia Winery
Video: Showcase Video Productions
Caterer: Catering by Scott
Cake: Catering by Scott
Flowers: Madison House Designs
DJ/Band: Jeff Hunter Mobile DJ Service
Ceremony Music:
Piano: Jim Hildreth
Flute: Valorie Adams-Hildreth
Violin: Erin Gilliland
Hair: Blow Dry Cafe
Make up: Pearls and a Black Dress
Wedding Planner: My mother and me!
Invitations: On Paper, local vendor in the Short North
Jewelry:
Pearl Earrings: Custom design and handmade by my MOH’s friend in Bermuda, Eleanor Patton, Owner of Bermuda Rocks Jewelry
Diamond Earrings: Diamond Cellar. One diamond is from Sean’s great grandmother’s engagement ring.
Bracelet: Gift from my Mama. Gave the same bracelet to my bridesmaids. Designer: Beaucoup Designs
Engagement ring and wedding bands: Diamond Cellar
Rehearsal dinner: Schmidt’s Sausage Haus
Wedding gown designer: Jasmine Bridal
Their songs….
processional: “Ave Maria” by Bach/Gounod
recessional: “Wedding March” by Mendelssohn
grand entrance: “Slow Ride” by Foghat
first dance: “Cruisin” by Smokey Robinson
cake cutting: “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole
father/daughter: “When You Need Me” by Bruce Springsteen
mother/son: “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts
last dance: We don’t remember!
Some fun facts about this beautiful couple..
What was the most memorable moment of your day?
Luisa: When Erin, one of my MOH’s, brought me a gift from Sean. He wrote his vows on paper and framed it. I didn’t even prompt him to do this! I cried before I even finished unwrapping it. Such a meaningful memory to keep for always. Major props to my hubby 🙂 And oh! He also gave me a pair of RayBan sunglasses because “our future is so bright”!
Sean: I know it sounds corny, but waiting for Luisa to walk down the isle was my most memorable moment. They do a really good job blocking her until she is at the very end and I was trying so hard to sneak a peak…no luck. But when she was at the end of the isle all the jitters went away and all I could think about was how lucky I am.
What was your favorite detail?
Luisa: The shoes. Mine and my bridesmaids. I’m OBSESSED.
Sean: All the guys’ custom cufflinks. All the boys looking fly.
Any advice for future bride/grooms?
Luisa: Take a moment to take everything in. The day goes by SO fast. I’m so thankful we had a fantastic photographer and videographer so we can relive the day at a slower pace. And don’t forget to eat and drink plenty of water!
Sean: It’s totally possible to drink all day and not eat a single thing at dinner and be completely fine. You’re essentially running on adrenaline and high fives.
If you could do it all over, would you change anything?
Luisa: More dancing at the end of the night!
Sean: Agreed, more time for dancing. DJ was killing it…
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Secrets Playa Mujeres, Cancun, Mexico
How was your experience with Crystal Jo Foto? If you have a favorite memory with her, please share it.
Luisa: Our experience was AWESOME. Crystal Jo is great. She is efficient and fun! My kind of girl! We had a giant bridal party and Crystal Jo was able to keep them in line all day. She may be small, but she is fierce!
Sean: A+, if she can deal with 22 drunk people and get amazing pictures then you should highly consider her company for your wedding!
Jackson. Birth and Newborn.
Elise, Dennis and I have planned for months and months about me being present for the birth of their son. Plans changed a bit when little guy wanted to make his appearance rather abruptly. Elise woke up at 6AM with slight contractions so she got into the shower. Shortly after, she was feeling the contractions full force. They hoped in the car and in rush hour traffic, Elise was having severe contractions. Poor thing, she was vomiting in a plastic trashcan in the front seat of their new car and just hopeful she was going to make it to the hospital. Dennis quickly wheeled Elise up to labor and delivery, and after a quick check-in, the nurses determined Elise was complete and ready to start pushing. Dennis sent me a text message – Elise is 8cm. At Riverside. I rushed the kids off to the sitter and arrived at the hospital to this..
He was born at 8:54AM and although I missed the quick birth, we were able to capture some beautiful first moments.
Daddy giving him his first bath.
Jackson’s Uncle Ryan laughing about a pamphlet that says, “Baby’s cry a lot.” He doesn’t have children.
And the day they left the hospital, they stopped by the studio for Jackson’s newborn session. I joked to this BRAND NEW Mommy saying, WOW, YOU ARE SUPERWOMAN! I remember being SO exhausted leaving the hospital. The first thing I wanted was a hot shower, my couch and a cold beer!
Meet this Jack-O-Lantern!!!
I’d say we have a built-in-Buckeye!
Congratulations, Jackson, Elise and Dennis. A gazillions hugs and love from me. I just adore your entire family! XO!
Some fun facts about our new parents and baby Jackson…
Tell us about that first moment when you saw your baby.
It was amazing. After such a stressful delivery it was such a relief that he was healthy. Holding him was such a great feeling- it was finally all real!
What was your baby’s birth weight and length?
He was 7lbs 14oz, 20 inches
Is there a story behind your baby’s name?
Jackson was just a name that we liked. James is both of our dad’s middle name, so that was an easy choice. We kept the name a secret from everyone until he was born so that made it exciting!
Give us the scoop. What has surprised you the most about parenthood? Are there any funny stories or firsts that you’d like to share?
It amazes me how much we have already grown in our role as new parents. I had no idea how much we could love this little guy!
What did you like best about your experience with Crystal Jo?
Crystal was amazing! She wasn’t able to make it for the birth (we almost didn’t make it!) but she stayed after and caught so many amazing moments from his first few hours. Those pictures are moments that we will always treasure!