ashley brokop photography

new blog.....LIVE!!!

2009-03-29T08:27:00.003-04:00

So you can come back here to reminisce if you really want too, but a new an improved
blog is waiting for you at www.ashleybrokop.com/blog. I hope you enjoy this and like it as much as I do.
Bye bye blogspot, you've sure been good to me!
Thanks to ITDR and Anthony. He led me on a "spiritual journey" of branding to help me find myself. The team there is super and if they can put up with "I want that just a little bigger, no, I don't know how many pixels...just a little bit" then you know they are patient and well just...rockstars.

Rebecca & Lucas: esesh tease

2009-03-24T10:54:00.003-04:00

Just one from our esesh in Texas, hello gorgeous!!
More on the way!!

Carrie & Malav

2009-03-24T07:45:00.005-04:00

Guess who's getting married this weekend?? Carrie and Malav are!!!
This is one of the most exciting weddings of the year for me. They are having a Hindu ceremony and a Christian ceremony, and you know I love some culture!!! This week is so exciting I could die. I got to meet the Maharaj (priest) and will be photographing Carrie's mehndi celebration later this week. I can't think of a cooler couple, with more unique backgrounds that will be uniting this weekend. I am crazy about Carrie and Malav is pretty amazing too ;)

Michelle & Ted

2009-03-23T11:30:00.003-04:00

I met Ted and Michelle through a bride from 07- Erin James (Wilson)- I don't know for sure if she hyphenates. Erin is Ted's sister, and had contacted me about shooting this wedding, but I was booked already. I was totally flattered and excited to shoot their engagement session for them. I really love these two. They really play well off of each other and were really just an easy couple to spend time with. After the session I was sad to know I won't get to see them married!!! They have been dating for some time and Ted finally popped the question and totally took Michelle by surprise. When guys pull that off, I am totally amazed! I wish them the best of luck in May!!

Hollie: bsesh

2009-03-18T16:03:00.005-04:00

I am soooo behind in blogging!!
Before she gets left behind I had to blog beautiful Hollie's bridal images.
I am trying to catch up today, so Hollie is up first!! I wanted to share something ladies...reason # 2 million why you should do a bridal session. Hollie totally changed the way she did her hair for the wedding. She decided she wanted more hair down after seeing her bridal images. Both ways beautiful, but she had time to see it and make another decision.
Here she is...

my favorite image of the day!!!

hollie + eddie

2009-03-12T22:53:00.002-04:00

My dear friend and former hair stylist Nicci (Stella Nova, Summerville) referred this awesome bride, Hollie to me. Nicci does Hollie's hair and did my and Billy's hair, until we moved away. Hollie and Eddie were married on Valentines Day and despite the semi-crummy weather, had a fabulous wedding and reception.

yahooooooooo

2009-03-04T15:21:00.002-05:00

Okay..with a new site comes new problems.
My contact page was set up with my email address which included too many "o's".
So anyone that emailed me in the last few days emailed a yahoooo address.
If you tried to contact me since the website went live, please email me again!
I apologize and will respond immediately to any missed emails.

Stacy

2009-02-26T15:02:00.002-05:00

I am so excited that Stacy had the chance to be on Oprah recently.
Now if you follow any of my personal photos, Stacy is the photographer that takes almost all of my family's photos. She has been so gracious to second shoot for me for weddings and asked me recently to teach a class at the Charleston Center for Photography. I love Stacy and her kind heart and endearing personality. She is gracious, humble and gorgeous...not to mention the best photo poser I have ever met. She is America's Next Combat Photographer Model ;) She is my hero and I can't wait to see her on Oprah today.
I love you Stacy and am so glad you got this opportunity. I can't imagine what I would have done in the situations you have been taken through, but God had his arms around you and brought you home with some amazing and inspiring imagery for us to enjoy and learn from.
Here are a few links to check out the story, her photos, and the Oprah trailer.

Krissy & Trae

2009-02-20T10:54:00.003-05:00

Krissy, Trae, and I met in Charleston for what turned out to be a crazy weather day. Is this just my luck...do I bring the clouds and rain? I try to work it out no matter what the weather does...but poor Krissy had some goosebumps (and we got wet) during the shoot...but you would never know if I didn't tell you.
I am so blessed to work with such awesome couples, and they are no exception. This wedding is going to be awesome...and there is a bonus. Krissy and Trae have chosen to do another engagement session!!! I am also super excited to shoot Krissy's bridal session. I can't say it enough how important these both can be. Everyone gets to know each other, we get to laugh, you get to feel sexy together and we get to have a little date of sorts together. For the bridal sessions it is a trial run for hair and make-up and just a fun day for anyone that comes. By the time the wedding comes around everyone is like "oh that's just Ashley"...and that is the way that I love it!
Krissy and Trae were the hardest interviewers yet (when they hired me), and I love that! They did their homework and knew what they wanted in a photographer. Pictures are very important to them and I can't wait to spend another Saturday with them!! You guys make me love this job even more, I just want to squeeze you guys!!!

Erina & Steve

2009-02-16T20:48:00.002-05:00

Erina and Steve flew in from Indianapolis for a mellow-after-Christmas-vacation with family...some of them all the way from Japan!!! Erina is a super savvy bride-to-be and found me while searching on the internet. I am sooooo glad she did! I had a great time shooting this engagement session for them. I hope they decide to fly back for their upcoming wedding so we can hang out again! On that note...You can totally fly me up north for the big day ;)

New Website LIVE!!!

2009-02-13T07:41:00.002-05:00

My new website is live and boasts bigger pictures and a cleaner, more modern look.
I hope you enjoy it. There are still some kinks to work out, but I got sick of saying it was "almost" done. I would love your feedback. Let me have it, the good, the bad and the ugly ;)
My new blog is almost done too...it is going to rock...that is one thing I know fa shizzle;)

www.ashleybrokop.com

Sabrina + Bill: wedding

2009-02-12T16:56:00.004-05:00

Sabrina and Bill met in the Navy. They both really great careers and are balancing love and life...not an easy job. They decided to come back to Bill's hometown of Mayesville, SC to tie the knot. Kristin shot some of the shots you will see...including the aisle shot with me in it- yikes ;)
She is my awesome assistant whom I just love ;)

the haps with the bros

2009-02-10T18:47:00.004-05:00

So here is what has been going on.
I don't always put everything personal on here because I don't want it to affect my client's opinion of how I may or may not handle their sessions. I know that sounds funny, but I don't want people to know I have a back injury or that I am pregnant unless they just know or we talk about it. I am a fighter and a very passionate photographer. My personal stuff is just that...personal. I will get through this back junk and I have been pregnant twice before and shot up to the time they were born and 2 weeks after. Not to say I am unhealthy or work too hard (hee hee)...I know what I can handle and am lucky enough to not have a busy July and August...and have a suuuuuuuper husband that carries his weight and some of mine at times. He is awesome and without him this ship would sink, for sure.
So that being said. I had an epidural injection in my lower spine Monday. Although painful I am confident that this will help make things more comfortable for the next few months. Dr. Warrick and his staff were awesome.
~I am now in my 2nd trimester!!!! I was hoping I would wake up and I would feel like I did 13 weeks ago. ha! This is not a magic day, just a passing of the first 3 months that were less than perfect this go around.
hmmmmm what else is new.
~We sold our truck yesterday!!!! It had "sold" on ebay to a fake bidder and we had some trouble selling, but we were blessed with a buyer from Columbia yesterday who got a great truck at a great deal. Hello cheaper insurance and one less car payment!!
~I shot an awesome esesh yesterday for Michelle and Ted. We had beautiful weather and conversation. I wish I could shoot their wedding, but am already booked. I really adore them.
~Take your last look at my current website!! The new one is coming very soon!!!!
~Me and Billy's celebrated our 5th anniversary Friday. We had a scrumptious dinner at Solstice in Columbia. It was too fabulous for words actually. Too bad we have to drive an hour to get such an awesome meal. Look me up on facebook and you can watch a video I made for Billy...to recap the last 6 years. It is about 9 min long so if you have that kind of time and you don't mind knowing the ins and outs of my family, you might enjoy this. Here are some family pics for ya cause a post without pics is worthless ;)

stephanie + jessie: wedding

2009-02-06T10:45:00.002-05:00

Stephanie is finally- legally- Jessie's girl. That song runs through my head whenever I see them. I don't know why, but it seems to fit. I love it. Stephanie is like me- she has 2 dads. I love when a family gets together with ex's and step's and everyone gets along, it is really beautiful. This family was just that. Both dad's were extremely proud of Stephanie and I loved seeing them both walk her down the aisle. The party was awesome and I know they were torn whether to go home and rest for the honeymoon or to go out with friends long into the night.
I am so happy to know these two and can't see them get better and stronger and more awesome as a new married couple. Life really starts now!!! Love you Steph!!!
You might also notice beautiful Demetra and John...Demetra just got married in October you can see her if you look at the October archive.

stephanie: bsesh

2009-02-02T11:26:00.003-05:00

Stephanie is married and her wedding sneak peek is next, but I wanted to share these first. Stephanie is such a great poser...not in 80's terminology, but this girl can really work it. She also has another nickname, which I think is so incredibly funny- Mrs. Roboto. Yes, this girl does the robot, and quite well ;)
I love her taste in music and her sense of humor and I love that I shot her best friend Demetra's wedding and now got to shoot hers!!!! She has a saying for me...but is so much better with hand gestures. I am her "photographer for life" and happy to be!! Love you Steph!!!

aubrey & jason: wedding

2009-01-14T11:28:00.002-05:00

Aubrey and Jason were married just 2 days after Christmas. I was so blessed to meet them when I did and to be asked to shoot this wedding for them. Aubrey is such an awesome friend and bride. She was a treat to be around, get texts from, and to talk on the phone with.
Christmasy weddings are awesome. Everyone feels festive and loving and everything is still decorated for the holidays, and the new year is right around the corner. It was just a magical day/night. Aubrey and I have decided there just can't be gorgeous South Carolina weather when we plan a session together. Her bridal session was the gloomiest, and cloudiest day ever...she didn't let me down...we made the best of it. The esesh was the cloudiest, windiest day...same thing...they rocked it. Then the wedding was overcast, and there was this weird misty, foggy, haze that just covered everything. It added to the excitement and to what we had known of our sessions together. You give me lemons, I will make lemonade..or a lemon drop, or sweet tea with lemon...whatever you need ;) Aubrey and Jason, you guys are so awesome...I am soooo glad we met. BTW, Jason sang to her during their first dance...he had their song recorded in the studio and surprised her....love it! Then he did a karaoke song to her...I need to post her reaction, that just reminded me...well enjoy!!!

sunday, sunday

2009-01-12T21:49:00.004-05:00

The bridal show seemed to be a huge success...great weather, huge crowd, gorgeous smiling faces and quite a few guys showed too...always a huge fan of that!
Here is a pic of the booth...and a shot of me gabbing it up with the awesome and beautiful Laurin. She and Carrie came and shot the breeze with me and Jules and it was so nice to see them! Carrie was shocked and surprised to see a wedding package named after her! You never know what kind of legacy you will leave with me ladies;)

ps. yes that is Juliet hiding from the camera. She doesn't like to be on the other end of the camera, even though she is a total stunner ;) Thanks for coming out and chatting with the masses with me. Your charisma and friendship is priceless, I am so glad we are friends!

Come see me at the bridal fair!!!

2009-01-07T16:10:00.004-05:00

SUNDAY be there, or be well....at church ;) Come after church. Coastal Breeze, my favorite party band will be there too, along with hundreds of other vendors. Just $5. From 12-5. Juliet and I will be there talking it up and meeting all you soon to be "Mrs." of 2009.
Here is just a few images from 2008. Thank you to all my Gorgeous, Awesome, Funny, Smart, Sexy, Fashionable, and Wonderful brides of 2008. Thank you Jill, Cristina, Lizzy, Sara Beth, Corey, Lynn, Sarah, Rhonda, Jessica, Kate, Heather, Jessie, Jennifer, Ashley, Candice, Micah, Ellide, Lee, Telissa, Dana, Demetra, Sara, Ginny, Meghan, and Aubrey! You ladies helped make this a fabulous and blessed year. I love this job, and hopefully helped make a few brides feel gorgeous last year. Here's to fabulous, glamorous, but super fun 2009!!!!

meghan + ranse: wedding

2009-01-07T15:56:00.004-05:00

This wedding had to include tons of great reception shots. They had one of the craziest, dancingest...not a word..but they were like dance fighting...girls vs guys. My face hurt from smiling and laughing all night. Meghan and Ranse hired one of the BEST BANDS I have heard in ages, maybe ever. They were great...and I wasn't buzzed. Been to many weddings, then you know what I mean. Meghan and Ranse are the friends everyone wants to have...the couple you want to double with. I had no idea from our phone calls and emails..and her bridal sesh...this girl loves to dance and I am so glad she found me...GO BRIDAL FAIR!!

If you wondered...some of the pics were sorority traditions...and there was a "kung fu" theme going all day...so the kick picture...well if you were there you might know. You might have been there and still thinking what the....

meghan: bsesh

2009-01-05T07:11:00.003-05:00

Meghan was such a pleasure to shoot. She is an avid ANTM watcher, which always helps.
I am posting her wedding sneak peek right after this post, so you can see the many faces of Meghan. She is so gracious and beautiful, yet fun and boisterous. She is a sorority girl with a group of super tight knit friends and I think that is so awesome. I never did that, but always wanted too. I didn't get my act together in time to go "off" to college. Hey, Air Force dorms offer that spirit, that unity. ha! Back to Meghan...here she is!

BTW, I did something different for a watermark, after the fact, I don't know if I like it as much, but these pictures are web ready, so they are goin up;)

aubrey: bsesh

2008-12-28T21:26:00.000-05:00

So they are married. My last couple of 2008. Aubrey and Jason got married yesterday and it was magical. I don't know if it was the foggy, mystical chill in the air, or because Christmas was just days before. This wedding was awesome in so many ways. It ended my year on such a high note. When a bride hugs you and tells you "I love you", you know you are doing what you are meant to do! Aubrey you know I love you too!! I feel honored and blessed that you chose me and that I can call you a friend. Here are her bridal portraits. She is a bombshell, not to mention creative, inventive, stylish, funny, modern...the girl you want to know and be...

Surprise!!

2008-12-26T21:18:00.001-05:00

So if you are a friend of mine on facebook then you know that we were totally surprised this week. First I must tell you that Billy was going to get a vasectomy in October. He was "rescheduled" due to stuff happening on the base. Sooooo he got a referral downtown and was going in January. If you can't guess where I am going with this...I felt like poo for a few days and checked the ole calendar. Sure enough...missed that "appointment" by 5 days or so. We "were done", we were happy, we were downsizing to a smaller, greener car. What we want and what God wants are not always the same thing. I love kids, love big families...
I believe that I will be due in August- maybe the end of July. Lucky me, no weddings in either month so far. Gotta be God!!!
So pray for me, I feel pooish still.
oh yeah- I saw a surgeon this week and if I wasn't pregnant I think I would be surgery bound. I really loved this surgeon...he was really positive, young, and gave me some hope.
I am couch bound tonight. It is the day after Christmas and I have to rest up for Aubrey and Jason's wedding tomorrow. You can see their e-sesh last post. I can't wait to post Aubrey's fab b-sesh. She is so smokin, classic perfection, and I mean that!!!

Galleries expiring

2008-12-17T09:41:00.000-05:00

I am cleaning house!
I have slacked off on keeping up with my online galleries, and my server is full.
I am sending out expiration emails today. If you want to place orders
please do so now! Older sessions/weddings expire close of business TODAY!!
Thank you!!

aubrey & jason: esesh

2008-12-15T21:23:00.000-05:00

Aubrey is another of my faves!! I could start a group on facebook and I would call it "BFF brides" ;) I can't wait to post her bridal portraits...2 weeks and I can!! This esesh was WINDY!! We had a few speed bumps trying to have this date of ours. Sushi isn't available until after 4 incidentally...it was super cloudy and windy...but give me lemons...I will make lemonade or a lemon drop...whatever you prefer. Jason even sang with a band, and danced. He is my "bff groom" for sure. I enjoy the poo at of these two and can't wait till the 27th.

2008-12-10T17:26:00.001-05:00

I am catching up on blogging I promise.
Thank you my loyal, wonderful, friends/viewers out there!!
I have an esesh to post later.
Happy Wednesday!! It's taco night!

sara + mark: wedding

2008-12-10T16:18:00.001-05:00

This is a wedding of some dear friends of mine, Sara and Mark. I shot Sara's sisters wedding last year- Alisha...who also married a Mark. Alisha graced my business cards last year. Now it is Sara's turn ;)
This was a gorgeous wedding, with a gorgeous bride. Sara is stunning with no make-up- as you can see from the first few shots. She is just one of those girls..lucky! This wedding was super fun for me. Sara booked me a room and Billy got to come with. He 2nd shot for me and I actually used quite a few of his shots on the blog. The kiss shot is his...sara and mark dancing with a tight crop...
The weather did it's own thing...but we made it work. The Marriott was kind enough to let us roam the halls and shoot wherever we wanted when our trip to the battery was rained out. Thanks Marriott of Charleston, you guys saved the day!
Enjoy ;)

demetra + john: wedding

2008-11-21T23:55:00.000-05:00

Demetra and John were the super sexy couple from a month or so ago.
I love Demetra...LOVE her!! I love her family and the dynamic that they have. Her parents are SOOOOO stinkin cute!! I want to spend a holiday with them so bad!! OPAH!! There were a bunch of things that made this wedding unique...the bouquets! Demetra made them herself!!!
And Demetra and John's first dance was amazing. It was a choreographed dance, but to music that was totally them. I can't for the life of me remember the name of the band...Stephanie or Demetra help me ;)
I think these two are PERFECT for eachother and I am sooooo glad I met them.
These two are the couple you want to double date with...cause the laughs just would never ever end.

the big day

2008-11-21T11:02:00.000-05:00

So here is a small look into a birthday with the brokops!!
Wanted to share a few more pics...I was downloading the card from Betsy's birthday and the pictures made me laugh out loud! Look at her crying before she got her cupcake....then the face as she blew out the candles. Of course she didn't wait for the birthday song to end...
I don't know who likes the kitchen and dishes more, her or Wesley. He's my little metrosexual. Oh and for all his grandmas that are reading, that is a good thing ;)

all about Betsy!!!

2008-11-20T10:06:00.000-05:00

As I am posting this my eyes are full of tears...happy tears.
My little baby girl is growing up so fast.
We just celebrated Betsy's 2nd birthday, so I wanted to do a little photo recap. I could have posted 100 more...but you get the point.
Happy Birthday Betsy. I thank God everyday for each day he lets me spend with you. I adore your company, your silly little sense of humor and personality.
I feel so blessed it hurts ;)

(This isn't to take away from how much I love my little Wesley. I will post some recent pics of him soon.)

holiday order update

2008-11-18T09:46:00.000-05:00

We are going to Illinois for Thanksgiving.
If you have an order you would like to place please do so ASAP!!
I will have my laptop with, finishing a few things but will not have every session and every wedding with me. We will be returning on the 7th. Orders received after the 22nd will be placed on the 8th of Dec.
Thank you!!!

emilie: maternity & after

2008-11-13T20:19:00.000-05:00

Emilie was referred to me by my dear friend Kristin. Emilie and I have become like bff lately;) We hang out...we chat on the phone...our daughters are 3 months apart...they go to the same dayschool...she has started coming to my small group...we trade clothes. I can't say enough about how much I enjoy our friendship. Now back to *Kristin. She is an amazing make-up artist (and amazing friend). She actually did Emilie's make up for the maternity portion of our sessions (the first few blog pics). I can't think of a better way to feel sexy during pregnancy than some sexy photos with sexy makeup with some girlfriends there to cheer you on. Kristin came with, and gripped for me and touched up as we went. It was almost too fun to be considered work;) Love you guys!!! Emilie you are gorgeous.

*ANYONE that needs make up for any reason...please call Kristin. We will travel together to your engagement session...bridal session...she travels...she rocks...Period!!

Southern Weddings

2008-11-11T12:05:00.001-05:00

Check HERE tomorrow.
Lizzy and Jonathan are making an appearance.
Their wedding exemplified all things uniquely Southern.
They are being featured on Southern Weddings' blog tomorrow.
If the post gets enough buzz going (comments ;), they could be featured in
Southern Weddings magazine...now who wouldn't want that!!

Show your support, if you don't mind and comment away ;)

WHERE IS THAT photo chick??

2008-11-11T11:21:00.000-05:00

An update on what's new.

1. Betsy turned 2 yesterday.
2. We had family pics taken Saturday by the gorgeous, gracious, talented, beautiful...okay okay...Miss Stacy P.
I will post some when I get another sec.
3. Been shooting a ton of bridal sessions, so no it is not the slow time of year...I just can't show any of these gorgeous ladies off yet. I am bad at keeping secrets, but this is a Southern tradition that I will not break;)
4. Working my butt off on albums. Trying to get these things wrapped up quickly, but thoroughly :)
5. Reading "the Shack"...eeeeekkk!!! What a great book. This book has opened my eyes and my relationship with you know- whoey!! I feel alive spiritually again. You know we all go through dry spells... In church last Sunday the pastor (Mack Lake) spoke about his first date being such a disaster...I think he even bumped teeth with his date ;)
Well at our small group this week we were talking about the message and I thought...we sometimes bump teeth with Jesus (metaphorically speaking of course).
hope you found that amusing and not scary...my husband just said "that's really weird" I might even go back and erase that part?!?
6. I am seeing a neurosurgeon this week...see what he says about the old back sitch. (situation)
7. We went on a date Sunday and saw "Little Shop of Horrors" at the Town Theater. Boy was that good. Bill and I are suckers for musical big time.

Tomorrow is a big day for me and Lizzy...I will post more later!

dana + jason

2008-10-31T17:50:00.000-04:00

Here are some of my favorites from the wedding of Dana and Jason. They were married at the Rutledge Chapel and the reception was at City Art, both in Columbia. I had the pleasure of shooting an engagement session and a bridal session for this couple and that is my favorite way to do things. I want to post some bridal shots next...

This was a huge party with lots of dancing and laughing and fun. Brides can only dream and cross their fingers for a full dance floor...and Dana got it.
Happy Halloween everyone!!
Costumed children are calling me ;)
(sorry my name is so big on the corners of some of these...I had to do this quick tonight)

emily & rob

2008-10-24T16:27:00.000-04:00

Emily is a super excited, gorgeous, down for anything bride that does her homework and knows what she wants.
She wanted to do her esesh at the fair. We had talked about doing it at the Sumter fair...but God bless it...that didn't work and boy am I glad...another story for another post maybe;)
So Emily was a first for me this year...(okay Lizzy and I talked dresses too;)
But....Emily let me help choose HER WEDDING DRESS. I could cry or laugh or scream. I was so dang excited to be a part of the planning and vision of this wedding.
I might be more excited about this wedding than Emily? Okay a close 2nd :)
Rob was a doll to put up with our silliness and excitement. Not to mention my silly law/lawyer jokes. He passed the bar this summer and we are so proud of him!!! I am going to keep him on speed dial if things get sticky with the feds...jk!!
Emily is so cute I could kiss her...by the way..I finished that corn dog she was eating, and it was a little slice of deep fried heaven ;)
oh yeah...the dog she won (she really won first try!!)well Wesley sleeps with that dog every night, rain or shine...so in closing, my children thank you!!

becca : senior

2008-10-22T09:33:00.000-04:00

I don't do a lot of seniors...but I love them!! If only my senior pictures were this cute (if I do say so myself ;). I will scan one of mine just to show...they are terrible. For anyone out there wondering- I do not use styrofoam numbers - ie '09. I don't use lattice, or anything else that should not be available for purchase ANYMORE!!!
I want the pictures I take to show what you were like in 12th grade...whether funny, serious, sassy, sporty, smart whatever. You get the point. I want you to look back and think "darn I sure was..._______."

Here is Becca, a senior. These are only a few...I know there are a few similar shots...but darn this girl is cute!!
Back to sweet Becca. She is shy, but not shy...but sassy all at once. I just want to squeeze her. This is just a peek of a few of my favorites as I was editing.

telissa + chris

2008-10-20T00:28:00.001-04:00

I promised Telissa a blog post by Sunday night. I realize it is 27 min after midnight...but I have not slept yet, so it is still Sunday night ;)
I will post more...but for now here are a few.
The house is quiet...just me and Jill Scott. She and I have been getting reacquainted tonight. I have missed her here lately;)

Telissa, there are tons more coming. These are just a few of my favorites.
You are so beautiful, but I don't have to tell you that...happy Sabbath, happy Sunday ;)

laurin & tripper

2008-10-16T20:44:00.001-04:00

Double feature esesh day!! Laurin and Tripper are super fun and funny. Tripper took us on a super crazy golf cart ride ;) Laurin has really bad allergies and was ready to do whatever it takes to get some gorgeous photos. My kinda gal!!
Everywhere we looked were allergens...but she worked it out- inhaler in hand ;) Thanks Laurin, I think it was worth it!

This is one of my favorites!!!

deitra & tim

2008-10-16T15:19:00.000-04:00

Here are some of my favorites from Deitra and Tim's e-sesh. The weather was perfect. They are a beautiful couple. I worked with Deitra on a wedding last year (she was coordinating) and I just love her. She could model...don't you think??? by the way...I am not loving this watermark...trying to work out something...that is obvious right!! Sorry!

lee + daniel

2008-10-10T12:44:00.001-04:00

Lee, Lee, Lee....what a beautiful, funny, thoughtful, and just plain fabulous person. I feel totally HONORED to have been chosen to photograph her wedding, engagement and bridal sesh. I have looked forward to every meeting with her...and you understand why if you have even just spoken with Lee. Daniel is awesome too. He is going to be a wonderful husband I can just tell. You know when you meet people and they are just like home...well these two are home for eachother. I went crazy with blog picks...this wedding was so awesome, so I just picked some of my favorites. Ladies- please don't be mad about some of the reaction photos...this is what I love aboutcha!! You get to see the lovely Mary Dolan too;) She was the author of the infamous Iris article!! Lee- our waitor at Angels (awesome mexican food) said in very broken English- "HEY you are Ashley B"! He ran back and grabbed the article and held the pic of me next to my face. I felt famous for a brief sec!! Thanks again Mary!!!

Friday

2008-10-10T12:34:00.000-04:00

Sorry for a late update. I did NOT get the epidural Monday. Maybe it was the prayers?? I don't know. My doc said they (injections) were mainly to relieve the pain/numbness in my left leg. That isn't the part that I am really even concerned with. It is annoying, but the back pain is my main priority. Anyway. I have to call back in 2 weeks and if no relief then I have to see a surgeon. I was prescribed an anti-inflammatory called Voltaren which caused me to have some really bad side effects. Tightness in my chest, bad headaches, light sensitivity, flu symptoms...so I stopped taking that today. I thought I was pregnant for a minute with the symptoms- eek ;)

Today Bill and I are heading to Charleston for the wedding of Sara and Mark. Staying the weekend there. I can't wait. We get to go the Summerville campus of Seacoast- our old church...and we might even "go out" Saturday night. What is going out? ha!! We haven't done that in so long...it seems like a lifetime ago.

So pray for our country and our economy. I don't/won't get political but the debates the other night...ugh. Where's Ross Perot when you need him;) -jk that was for my dad:)

I am about to post a wedding of some dear friends of mine.

Monday

2008-10-05T23:13:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is round two.
Epidural injection #2.
I should be "getting some sleep" but I am just too jittery about it.
I didn't get the valium. Not because I decided not too, but because I FORGOT!!
I know, can you believe it. I totally lost track of the week and then it was Saturday... office closed. So I am just going in there and doing it.
I just keep telling myself it is only going to be 5 minutes long...
What does Justin T. say...4 min to save the world!!
Ha! That one is for my beautiful and hilarious bridal party from yesterday.
You guys made my day. I hope I finished the formals in 7 min or less like you asked me too. Demetra and John...have fun in Jamaica you lucky, sexy newlyweds you!!!

micah + kyle

2008-10-04T11:55:00.000-04:00

Beautiful, outgoing & fun girl + laid back & charming Air Force guy= happy ever after!
Micah and Kyle have that perfect balance. Here are a few of my favorites from their wedding. I know they are late you guys, and I apologize. Hope it was worth the wait.

who me ???

2008-09-30T17:10:00.001-04:00

I was flattered and shocked and excited when Mary Dolan contacted me about featuring me in Iris, a local magazine for women. At first I was thinking "me...why"???
She and Chris Moore spend a morning with me talking love and passion and photo and how this crazy chaotic life of mine has brought me to where I am now.
Thank you Mary for being such a wildly talented and passionate writer. And thank you Chris for not making me look like a schmuck ;)
Here is the pdf (kinda big, but worth it) if you haven't seen the paper copy.

the link:
Iris

ashley c

2008-09-30T16:50:00.000-04:00

Ashley is now married so I can share some of her bridal portraits.
I can't say enough about Ashley and what she means to me. It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know her and being able to share this part of her life with her.
Enjoy!!

candice + larry

2008-09-29T11:05:00.000-04:00

Candice and Larry are too much fun. An awesome couple with an awesome family- and a fabulous future in store for them.
They were married in North, South Carolina. The first time I had been TO North. My only knowledge of North was flying (in a C-17) over it when I was stationed at Charleston AFB (1CTCS).
Candice and I have become friends through all the wedding planning and I must say she still calls/emails just to say hi and I love it!! I can't wait for a date night with you guys!!

hayden

2008-09-25T17:37:00.000-04:00

First, about Project Runway.
I have to say that Kenley acted just bad last night.
I totally lost respect for her and have switched my loyalty ;)

2nd, I saw Sex and the City FINALLY last night.
Had to take a break. Billy and I had to unwind with some old friends ;)
The language and sexual content on the show is kind of not my gig anymore, but it was sure great to see that movie finally.

3rd, here is Hayden!
A beautiful 6 month old, that was possibly my easiest 6-monther yet.

I love this one. The bubble looks like it is on the tip of her finger.

My favorite!

epidurals and PR

2008-09-23T14:13:00.000-04:00

"How's your back?"- on everyone's mind...

last week I had my first "treatment"...hmmm.
It felt like a movie/ or daydream. Something I couldn't really grasp at the time.

First my friend Stacy has had steroid epidurals in her neck for spinal cord injuries she got while in Iraq...so she is my go to girl for all things scary and needly. ;)
She insisted that I get sedated (take a prescribed Valium an hour before) and that would make the whole thing much better/easier.
So... I went in for my first visit....what I thought was a consultation.
So he says "wanna get a treatment today??". I was like wow...this is totally different than how Stacy described it. No valium needed...yippee right!!

Anywho, went from a quiet little exam room with a great view to what was like an operating room with a bunch of medical professionals (ie- I have no idea who everyone was).
They had me lay down on a table (with my flats still on mind you)...and 5 min later it was done.
It wasn't THAT bad, but it wasn't good either.
They have scope guided needles so they can see exactly where the bad disc is to hit with the steroid epidural.
The worst part was when told I was done, I got up and my whole upper body tingled. Not in a good way. Like from the tip of my nose to my finger tips. My pulse dropped from 100 to 50...Who knows why..but I felt like a real weenie at the time.
Would I do it again...no.
Ha!! Have another appointment in a week and 1/2.
Am I getting the valium?? I don't know yet.
What would YOU do??
My appointment is early, so i would be druggy most of the day..and i have 2 toddlers that would run circles around me.

Valium or not?? Comments please!! Would love to hear anyones opinions...stories if you have had this treatment done...Did it work??

OH and tonight...PROJECT RUNWAY! I love Kenley, Korto, and Jerell!!
And mostly, I love you Tim Gunn, you make my Wednesdays marvelous!!

my dad....my mom (and juliet)

2008-09-23T11:43:00.000-04:00

So my dad seems to be totally recovered from his eye injury.
He still cannot read, but he is back to 20/80 and that is nothing short of a MIRACLE.
Maybe he will see it as a miracle...I don't. I just wanted to say thank you for your prayers...he appreciates them, as do I!!

My mom..
so yesterday was 14 years since her mastectomy.
Wow does time fly. I remember getting the call...remember the heartache.
My heart goes out to Juliet, a dear friend of mine whose Mom is dealing with a horrible
bout with cancer right now. It has spread through her body and has attacked her brain.
Please pray for her, her mom and her dad. I will lift them up constantly.
Love you Juliet!!

Love you Mom- your MY survivor- my inspiration!!
Love you Dad- I pray for you, you silly, wonderful, stubborn man, you!!!

demetra & john

2008-09-22T11:13:00.001-04:00

I have to add...I have a certain respect for the high heel women of the world.
I have secretly always wished I was one. I am not. I have long skinny feet and end up with blisters from most shoes in the end, sexy- high one for sure!! You know the funny thing is my husband would do flips if I wore heels all the time...but I have gotten used to the fact I am not a heels girl...love em, but they don't love me.
Okay the pictures already...
Demetra is many wonderful things...beautiful, funny, strong, Greek.
I met her through a crazy chain of events...Tim Cebulski and I met at the Bridal Fair in Columbia...he told an engaged associate about me (Stephanie...her e-sesh pics were just a few sessions ago)...her best friend is Demetra...
Demetra and John were hilarious, crazy, sexy. I could have shot them all night long. John you're a lucky man!! Love this woman;)

ashley + tim

2008-09-17T14:54:00.000-04:00

My job is so awesome because it allows me to meet tons of different types of people every year. I keep in contact with many of my clients and that is something I really enjoy. This year I had the pleasure of meeting Ashley C.
She and I were fast friends....super fast. I don't know if it is because we are Ashley's or blondes or because we are married to analytical men and are silly goofs ourselves?? Who knows....who cares really. I just know that I love her to pieces and can't wait to see her again. Ashley is the girl I would stay up all night laughing with at a slumber party- the girl I would get detention for "being chatty"...you get the point. Here are a few of my favorites from her beeeeeuuuuutiful wedding.
By the way Crabtree Fam....me and Billy are signing up for some shag lessons!!
Maybe we will have a dance off at the beach next year ;)

Ashley warding off the "paps" (paparazzi)

Ashley is left alone...looking for her dad.

here he comes....

Mr. C might just Kill me for this one...but I love it...right before they walked into the church.

This has to be the image that makes me laugh every time I see it.

jennifer

2008-09-17T14:11:00.000-04:00

Here are a few from Jennifer's bsesh.
It was over 100 degrees the day we shot these. We had fun despite the weather.
Jennifer is easy going and is a girl I love to laugh with.

Now that she is married I will share a few....

jennifer + johnny

2008-09-16T00:17:00.001-04:00

The preacher told me this woman was 99 YEARS OLD!!! Give me some of her vitamins!!

I had to get these up tonight...I promised Jennifer I would.
I will write more in the AM..my eyes are burning and dry ;)

baby bryce

2008-09-15T10:23:00.000-04:00

Melody and Chris first called me when they were pregnant and wanting some portraits of their little bun in the oven. Well, the bun happens to be a gorgeous, caramel-colored skin, dark eye, dark hair, dimpled beauty named Bryce. And yes I said beauty- because this little boy is beautiful. He is a mix of his mom and dad, but he gives me that little eyebrow and I see his daddy almost identically!!! He is so expressive for a 6 month old. I have loved watching him get this big and can't wait to chase him around with my camera when he is a toddler!! Watch out Melody!! Two words, heart breaker ;)

jessie + brian

2008-09-03T21:55:00.000-04:00

Here is another example of a bride I met on her wedding day.
I think it turned out wonderfully...but I might be a little biased ;)
I felt like Jessie and I hit it off instantly and I really just love her to pieces.
This was a ceremony that I just fell apart...but secretly (of course) behind my camera.
I watched these two kneel before God and pray for their marriage and I just love that.
A strong foundation is what it is all about!!
This wedding was in Myrtle Beach and was beautiful, emotional, memorable and fun.

heather + brian

2008-08-23T10:30:00.000-04:00

Heather and Brian were married at beautiful Methodist church outside of Sumter. Heather was so relaxed it was uncanny. Her laugh is contagious and so is her spirit! Her bridesmaids were so much fun...lots of nurses in the bunch- including Heather!! This was the one day I thought if we have an emergency, we are in good hands ;) There were a bunch I wanted to blog...I love the shots of heather waiting to walk down the aisle-seeing her dad. It kept sprinkling but no one cared. I cannot tell you how much birdseed went down my shirt...it was in my scalp and shoes...everywhere. I can't imagine how much Brian and Heather went away with!!

tuesday, some pics & news

2008-08-19T14:51:00.002-04:00

Some news...first the bad.

My aunt Sherry had a terrible accident on Saturday and was thrown off a horse while riding on a mini-vacation in Kentucky. She and my uncle Dan were trying to get away from it all and were spending the day horse back riding. She was thrown from her horse and broke 5 ribs, one punctured her lung, a broken clavicle and broken shoulder blade. I think that is it...could it be much worse? She is a teacher and starts school very soon and is in intensive care in Kentucky. My mom drove to see her today. Please send her your thought and prayers for a speedy recovery. She is in a lot of pain. My family and I really, really appreciate it!!

My dad...he is doing so much better!!! He saw the retina specialist and his retina is NOT TORN OR DETACHED!! No more surgery as of right now. His vision is at 20/50. He said it is really fuzzy, but fuzzy is something right!!!
I told him people were praying for him. He said, oh really like who. I said you wouldn't believe all the people that had emailed and stopped me different places. He was astonished. I told him that people really do care and church is different these days. He seemed more open to it...unusually open to what i was saying... thank you so much! I am so grateful/thankful to know so many caring/giving generous people!!

My computer is still on vacation down in Charleston. So I guess the video card was bad and is being swapped out..whenever that arrives. fingers crossed.

Betsy was stung by a wasp on her head today...my poor baby.
So we had a swim party to get her mind off of it!!
...and yes in the Brokop house clothing is optional for swimming..if you are 3 and under that is ;)

stephanie & jesse

2008-08-18T09:34:00.000-04:00

Stephanie, Jesse and I had a little date on one of the hottest afternoons of the summer...but it doesn't really convey in their photos. Stephanie is smokin' and all I hear is the song "Jessie's Girl"...playing over and over...maybe even tormenting me..you know how those 80's songs can do that.
We stopped at an outdoor pub, and after that Jesse and I were BFF I think ;)
Thanks for staying gorgeous, even in the heat guys!!!

an apple a day....

2008-08-14T08:10:00.001-04:00

Here is an update in what's going on in my crazy life.

1. Computer is down...down figuratively and down literally in Charleston.
I don't know what is wrong now...graphics card is bad- that was my mini- prognosis from my "genius" Joe last night. I have purchased an apple...lemon really.
My harddrive and power supply were bad and had to be replaced in May...bought it in Jan.
Who needs lower gas prices Columbia!!!! We need an APPLE STORE!
I had driven TWICE to Charlotte to pick it up...now to Charleston to have it serviced. Thank heavens for the new King Street store!!

2. Dad is doing better. He sees a retina specialist on Friday. What he can see through his "bad" eye he can see a string or something and they (docs) told him that is either a tear in his retina or his retina is detached. So if so... more eye surgery.
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. I can't express how much I appreciate it. Not to get on a soapbox..but my dad isn't saved...and I was hoping this experience would help him "see" if you know what I mean. Okay...keep praying for that!

3. Wesley- 3year old is completely potty trained. Last night on the way to Charleston he started yelling that he had to "go" so I did what any mom would do...let him go in the shoulder on 26;) An SCDOT guy pulled up and thought we had a flat...that was semi-embarrassing!!

4. Only one bag of trash today. Still recycling our butts off.

5. quick question..would love some opinions ;)
should we retire in Columbia or Charleston. I would love to hear where and why.

Posts with pics coming soon!!

kate + j.w.

2008-08-06T20:55:00.000-04:00

Kate and JW were married in Cheraw, SC. This was my first trip to Cheraw and it was a nice surprise to say the least. What a gorgeous and historic little town...pure Americana.
Kate and her sister Melanie are so much fun. I am so glad to have been chosen to shoot this wedding. When Melanie is involved..the wedding is bound to be fun!! She was a bridesmaid in a wedding I shot in November. She had me at hello;)
Right about the time that I tried to grab Kate and JW for some romantic time alone...it started to storm. And boy did it storm. A bolt of lighting sounded like it hit the church and the power went out. This was a first for me. I think we "worked it out" regardless of the weather. You guys were so much fun!!

my dad's accident...

2008-08-04T09:15:00.001-04:00

So here is the story...
Last week my dad was helping my grandpa put siding on his house. They live in Missouri. My dad said he was nailing on the siding and suddenly a nail somehow bounced off the siding and ended up in his eye. I won't go into details because anything eye related..if you are like me...makes my hands numb just thinking about it.
It ended up right next to where the color of your iris begins.
So in an attempt for my grandpa not to see it...my dad quickly removed the nail.
To make a long story short- he ended up in a really great eye hospital in Columbia and had surgery that night. His eye was taken out- if you can believe that...and was stitched back up and put back in.
Now all we can do is wait. If it heals with no infection he can keep his eye.

Please say a prayer for him...He cannot see at this point. He said yesterday that everything is super cloudy/fuzzy. To lose sight after seeing all your life...that is just terrible. The fact that he still will have one eye is the positive side. I believe his good eye is strained from overworking the last few days. My dad is suuuuper bullheaded and I know trying to watch television or read the paper...
pray that he heals!! I want him to see 20/20 again, in BOTH eyes!!!
Thank you, this means everything to me!!

candice & larry

2008-07-30T15:20:00.000-04:00

there was what I think was a "revival" going on. This was the preacher checkin them out. I thought it was funny?!? Maybe a hard read, I don't know.

Candice and I have become fast friends over the last few months. We talk like once a week, and she has become a part of my life I guess you could say :)
Larry is such a wonderful man...he is going to be an awesome husband and father. I love being in the presence of people in love with their whole life before them. It is such a neat time, I am sooo glad to be a part of it. Just you wait till this girl is married..her bridal portraits ROCK!!

jessie...just 1!!!

2008-07-24T16:18:00.000-04:00

This is from my wedding last Saturday in Myrtle Beach.
As I was downloading my cards I saw this one and couldn't resist.
This was one of those moments that I "saw" the photo and got just the picture I wanted...
Is Jessie not Gorgeous with a capitol G!!!!

jessica + zachery

2008-07-23T22:55:00.000-04:00

One of the flower girls found this in the parking lot...reminded me of the "Carrie necklace" from Sex and the City:) Don't you just love the ink on her fingertips ;)

What every father needs before he walks his baby down the aisle ;)

Jessica and Zach are another easy going couple. Jessica really wanted to get married in an old, historic church and she found one. She is one of my favorites- easy going- a classic beauty, funny, and laughs easy. I will post a few from her bridal session next. I had a great time getting to know these two over the last year!

more album love!!

2008-07-23T18:06:00.001-04:00

I know a bunch of ladies out there have been waiting patiently to see my new engagement album.
As promised, this album has thicker matte pages (perfect for signing), and lays flat when open. The cover is my favorite part. It has a matte finish that is to die for. I can't say enough about this album. And yes, if I was to get married (again;) I would have an e-sesh of me & my and beautiful Billy laid out in one of these!!

another love affair!! kissing....

2008-07-23T11:27:00.001-04:00

I just got a sample album of the new modern albums I am offering.
I kept thinking...what would I want if I was a bride (again;)
I would want a beautiful leather,simple, all-about-the-pictures album.
I would want great colors to choose from and something with sturdy, thick pages, that would lay flat when I am looking at it.
I custom design each album, and I prefer super clean layouts that are all about your pictures.

...hope you love it as much as I do. This is the Kiss Album that I just adore.

This pic above looks glare-y..it doesn't in person- just took some quick studio shots:)

rhonda + howie

2008-07-22T22:09:00.000-04:00

Here is a picture from the night that I met Howie and Rhonda. Yep, that is Howie front row with the blue hat. And that was a no-alcohol reception. Howie can get us white folks to dance without any "confidence boosters" ;) Howie is the best dj I have ever heard/seen. If I was getting married...he would be there, for sure!

Now for his day...

Rhonda and Howie know how to have fun and how to throw a really great party.
These two don't take anything too seriously...ie police car...cake feeding...dancing...I am really thrilled they chose me to photograph their wedding. They make lovin' fun!!!

rhonda

2008-07-21T12:07:00.000-04:00

As I was posting these all I could hear playing in my head was "Isn't She Lovely", by Stevie Wonder ;)
I met Rhonda and Howie at a wedding I was shooting last year. Howie is a dj...a fabulous, fun, crowd movin', entertainer...but this is all about Rhonda;)
Rhonda is fit, witty, and wise. I really enjoy her easy going attitude and her sense of humor. I really love her dress- It's great when girls pick out something that is really "them".
Her wedding Sneak Peek is coming up next...

micah & kyle

2008-07-20T00:04:00.000-04:00

I told Micah if she EVER got engaged, she had BETTER call me.
Well, she called ;)
Kyle is from Illinois...as am I, and we wanted to do a little country/city esesh.
There are more "city" shots that I will post...I just wanted to get some on here for her, before my wedding today. The rest will be done today :)
I really love this session. I am cornfed...what can I say!!
BTW- ...does Micah not have the most BEAUTIFUL smile?? She lights up my life with that smile!!!

telissa & chris

2008-07-16T10:25:00.000-04:00

Chris was a tough one to crack.....but as you see he eventually even jumped some rope;) Telissa is like my sister from another mother!! (sounds better with "brother from another....", but you get the point)
I love talking to her and laughing with her!
These two are good for each other!

chicks-n-salsa :the band

2008-07-11T23:20:00.000-04:00

I recently shot some photos of the girls from a band called "Chicks and Salsa". I love that name..love these girls...and love hearing them play. Tons and tons of talent wrapped up in these little packages;) They are playing this Thursday, if you are interested in hearing them, email me and I will give you the info :)

for the love of......recycling

2008-07-10T07:34:00.000-04:00

So you know a little about my obsession with running.
I have another obsession. Recycling.
Yes, it is true.
I live in a neighborhood where NO ONE recycles.
We have SIX bins and TWO paper separation bags.
I separate by slick and matte paper.
We have glass, (2) aluminum- tin and soda cans, plastic (which overflows into more paper bags from the grocery store-that we also recycle), paper, and cardboard.
My one downfall is diapers. I use regular old Target diapers.
That is my huge landfill contribution and I am sorry.
Now today I had a small victory. It is trash day.....ONLY ONE BAG OF TRASH!!
It was all diapers really...and the silver/papery outside of gum wrappers....can't figure out where those go...and popsicle sticks...where the heck do those go?
I have a pile of those on the counter.
So I live past the city limits so we have to bag/bin all of our recycling and drive
it to the recycling center. I am trying to figure out a way to get my neighbors on board to get a program set up. Pray for me;) I think more people would recycle if (like in California and most states) they provide some "regulation" bins and send a truck through to pick the stuff up. Right now it is just easier for everyone to just pitch it in the trash. I don't want my tax dollars going toward any more landfills...
I don't know about you.

lizzie + jonathan: the album

2008-07-08T10:52:00.000-04:00

CLICK HERE:

http://www.ashleybrokop.com/slideshow1

I have a new album company!!!
These modern albums are digitally designed coffee table style albums.
The pages are thick, flush mounted, and they lay flat when open.
These are modern, chic, and available in 6 sassy leather colors.
The album comes with 20, 2-page spreads.
Here is the sample I just ordered...in a green apple leather to match
Lizzie's swanky wedding colors.
Leave a comment if you like it (pretty please...with splenda on top;)

sara + barrett

2008-07-05T22:59:00.000-04:00

Sara and Barrett are awesome in many ways (funny, energetic, passionate).
They are just fun, fun, fun- the wedding party, family, everybody involved.
They got married at the Botanical Gardens at Clemson, and it was a beautiful day, with beautiful weather!
This was one of my favorite "document signing" pictures ever!! They put a new spin on some of the traditional stuff.
Side note- at receptions I secretly cross my fingers and pray like crazy that they smash that cake on each others' faces!! If I renew my vows...Billy WATCH OUT!! (somebody out there is scoffing at me...sorry!! I really do love it)
Also, their reception had choreographed dances...boys vs. girls;)

You can see their e-sesh if you search the archive from last month.

ashley & tim

2008-07-01T14:58:00.000-04:00

Yes, that is slow-mo running...but don'tcha love it ;)

Ashley and I bonded right away....she makes me laugh (okay if you haven't noticed I love funny people, and clowning around and just laughing in general). Ashley is fun and young and sweet and I just feel like we are kindred spirits and I will cry when her dad gives her away.
Tim...he is also very funny...but super dry funny. I was asking him who he looked like...he said during school portraits one year the photographer said "hey Tom Cruise, look this way".....so there you have it. If you see the resemblance leave a comment. (Ha Ha Tim!!)

corey + devin

2008-06-27T10:42:00.000-04:00

Corey and Devin were married in Litchfield Beach.
They flew in from L.A. to be married in a location that would be unique and memorable for their wedding.
Corey is one of my first brides, in a long time, that I met the morning of the wedding.
I usually don't prefer it...but thanks to myspace and email....I felt like we had been friends forever.
She is beautiful with such a quick wit....I felt like I had known her "since we were kids".
Devin is super sweet and talented to boot. He has his own cartoon that he and one of his groomsmen created, do the voices for...etc.

my love affair....

2008-06-26T14:07:00.000-04:00

So if you don't know me, you won't know that I had/have a sort of love affair with running. It might have even been borderline overboard at times. But that is how love is.
I ran when I was stressed, happy, sad, overwhelmed, needed time to pray..it was time for me, and I loved it.
...the love affair has taken a hiatus.
In April I hurt my lower back..trying to pick Betsy up..without bending- you know, the way gym teachers/health providers always warn about.
So doc said it was ligament....waited 6 weeks...still ran a little...went back to the doc...got an MRI...found out I have herniated discs.
So the last time I ran was last week...don't tell ;) and it was really painful...

I see these New Balance commercials and they make me want to cry...
the "so I broke up with running" ones .

More background. My husband and I were not fit when we met...neither of us.
We didn't work out....we weighed a bunch more...wore much bigger clothes, etc.
So Bill got a new job where he was in charge of his squadron's PT (work out) program. He HAD to run....started seeing changes...ran more..pushed other people...etc.

I got accepted to Combat Camera...HAD to run...saw changes....ran more etc.

So we run together...I was super pregnant...but I would run behind him...pushing Wesley in the running stroller sometimes..
Bill runs the Chicago marathon. One of the hardest, proudest moments of his life!!

Point...I love running...WE love running.
I was asked today at physical therapy ..."do you like yoga?"

My running days are not over....

to be continued......

leave a comment if ya feel me!!!

sara & mark

2008-06-25T16:45:00.000-04:00

Sara & Mark live in Charleston and wanted to have their e-sesh taken where they met, fell in love, dated etc.
They got engaged at the beach...so that was our last stop.
Things started getting steamy- then we all got wet!!!
Canon is a lot of great things for me....waterproof is not one of them;)

beach :family

2008-06-23T16:48:00.000-04:00

my little pirate!

the making of a birthday cake.

This is my handsome and hilarious brother Tyler, and my sassy little sister, Emily.

Here is Betsy...she could care less about Wes' presents...

My beautiful little birthday boy and my handsome one and only, Billy!!

That is a "go Diego go" cake. Requested about 2 zillion times by Wes.

(l to r) Sister Emily, us, Mom and Dad, (mom holding Betsy..yes she is blinking;) then my brother Tyler and his beautiful wife, Jenna.

So, I hear that some of my blog readers really do enjoy reading about my life and seeing pics of my babies...so here you go...Hopefully this will help you guys get to know me better, if you're sure you really want to;) We have a crazy, cooky life...sometimes we have no pants on, sometimes we have bed heads...sometimes we lick the beaters...we dress like pirates and fall and bump our noses (betsy :). This is a look at our vacation...mostly inside stuff. Wesley turned 3 this trip...I think he enjoyed his birthday. We brought a pinata and I think he would sleep with it, if I would let him...he LOOOVES it!

triple trashing!!!

2008-06-21T23:29:00.000-04:00

you know what is crazy...I didn't shoot ANY of these girl's weddings!!
I shot 2 of their bridal sessions last year though. By the time we met, they had booked a photog already.
3 girls (great friends) laughs, a waterfall...algae..some weird looking bugs!!
Okay I know that there is a theme going on here...the laundry mat...but it just worked- two totally different towns;)

lee & daniel

2008-06-19T11:09:00.000-04:00

I am heading out the door....but wanted to get some images up first.
I am back from vacation...editing...peeling(oops)...re-energized.
Here are some from Lee & Daniel's e-sesh.

vacation

2008-06-11T14:08:00.000-04:00

I am on a vacation with my family....at the beach.....
We are celebrating Wesley's 3rd birthday today too!!
I will post some pictures when I get home, I am posting from a pc
with no firewire to download pics from. :(

sara beth + garrison

2008-06-05T22:24:00.000-04:00

she is going to KILL me for this one ;)

Sara Beth and Garrison were married at Sans Souci Farm and Plantation in Sumter.
It was a beautiful ceremony!! You really can't beat an outdoor ceremony. There is always that 50/50 chance of rain.....but we were blessed with gorgeous weather!
Wonderful location, wonderful couple, wonderful weather....enjoy!!!

kim & maya

2008-06-03T17:08:00.000-04:00

I love the mother/daughter relationship. This one is special to me because Kim has become a good friend of mine, and for that I am really thankful! I like to surround myself with beautiful people ;)
Kim works at 3:16 (my favorite Salon and Day Spa) and will sometimes be seen giving Betsy a trim. She is patient and kind and loves to laugh. I looooooove shooting her/hanging with her/ just chatting with her.
When I found out how old her daughter was I was shocked because Maya looks like she could be Kim's little sister.

cristina + jason

2008-05-28T19:06:00.000-04:00

Here are a few from the wedding of Cristina and Jason.
You can see her bridal portraits and their engagement portraits on the blog too.
I love a wedding with a soul train line!!!!
Cristina is just stunning...Jason..well he is pretty stunning too ;)
Let's just say I can't wait to see the babies these two make!!

lizzie + jonathan

2008-05-21T22:25:00.000-04:00

Lizzie and Jonathan were married in Fort Mill at the Dairy Barn. Sometimes you get those clients that just get you..you seem to get them...it is like a union- all around. I love when that happens.
I came across a website that had Lizzie's name written all over it!!
So she got the veil and I shot one of my all time favorite bridal sessions....rain, yellow boots, and all!!
Her and Jonathan harmonize on all levels. I can't describe how much I loved this wedding.

american idol

2008-05-21T18:15:00.000-04:00

I don't know what makes me more sad....that Syesha went home or that the season is almost over. Sad as that may sound...I don't really care ;)
So is it David or David???

Or bigger who are you going to see Sex and the City with??? GUSH!!!!
Another of my guilty pleasures...a little crass, but fascinating all the same.
Going to turn that into a date night this weekend I think. My hubby is many things to and for me.....shopping buddy, confidant, flirt, masseuse, chef and he watched every episode with me.
The dvds got me through the hot nights and hotter days in Iraq..... When I wanted to forget I was sweating my butt off with the the "guys" in Najaf.....SJP would come to my rescue!!!

I am adding a few pics I took while in Najaf. Posts are pointless (and boring) without pics, huh!!

jill + kevin

2008-05-20T16:40:00.000-04:00

Jill & Kevin were married in April...I am a little behind on sneak peeks...
my computer is in Charlotte....the "LOCAL" apple store. It is new...and broken..and heartbreaking. And their customer service makes me cry in front of strangers....
Okay on to Jill and Kevin.
They are hilarious. This wedding had it all...a straight jacket, ball & chain and had my face hurting from laughing. The reception was outside and the weather was beautiful!!! A fun couple, period! Those that laugh together, stay together.

elliott

2008-05-15T21:22:00.000-04:00

This is Elliott. A senior, a friend, an awesome young adult.
When I asked him his interests he said guitar, long boarding, and.......Betty :)
This is such a fun and crazy age, I am loving seniors!!!
For all who know me...I have been coined as having "Ashley-isms" so here is one I told Elliott.
"the people that have it 'all figured out' right away, usually end up having a mid-life-crisis....for the rest of us, 18 is our crisis"
get it out of the way now!!!!

sara & barrett

2008-05-06T22:20:00.000-04:00

Here are some of my favorites from my "date" with Sara & Barrett :)
I thank my lucky stars I met these two. I really love spending time with them.
They are progressive, fun, and educated....and they can laugh at me....and themselves.
Hope you like!

lizzie

2008-05-05T12:56:00.000-04:00

Here are a few from Lizzie's bridal session.
I just got home from her wedding last night!!
Let me start by saying that it rained all the way to Fort Mill..where I met her for this shoot. Buuuut low and behold Lizzie remained super chic and unaffected by the weather!!
I called on the way and asked if she had any rain boots and sure enough she did....

sara beth

2008-05-05T12:46:00.000-04:00

Here are a few from Sara Beth's bridal session. Her wedding was Saturday and was really beautiful. I will be posting from that wedding in a week or two. I am backed up a bit.

may

2008-05-03T10:46:00.000-04:00

So I wanted to post a picture that I took last night from the beautiful Pack family.
This says summer to me....the girls were singing "Ashley, Ashley we all fall down".. I told them my cousins would sing that jokingly when we played "ring around" when I was little.

I also wanted to post about what I have been up to.
I have been shooting tons of bridal sessions, which I can't post yet. I will post images as everyone gets married off. It is so crazy....watching girls that I have formed quick friendships with, get married. Every weekend is a happy ending!!!

Other than that....my car was broken into...in my driveway. They stole my kid's dvd player. You know...you can steal from me...but you just don't steal from my kids!!! There was a Baby Einstein dvd in there for goodness sake...not to mention a CARSEAT behind each screen. I think that is just rude.

I have 2 weddings this weekend. I am really excited. Both are outdoorsy type weddings. The weather has been gorgeous here lately too!
The first wedding is in Sumter at San Souci Farms and the second is in Fort Mill at the Dairy Barn. (yes Dairy barn...with a silo...and fields...does it get any better????)

As soon as this weekend is over I will post my favorites from these bridal sessions.

cristina

2008-04-29T12:31:00.001-04:00

20's...they were good to me

2008-04-23T20:16:00.001-04:00

So tomorrow is the big day....or was my mom's big day.
She was in labor with me for 12 hours. I can't image how horrible that was, and that was before epidurals. yikes!
Hope I am still sassy tomorrow...HA HA!
30....here I come;)

chasity

2008-04-14T21:23:00.000-04:00

Chasity and her family are expecting a baby pretty soon. She found me in the phone book of all places!!! Granted, I am one of the first names.....the only thing the phone book gets me lately is calls about "can I fix cameras etc..."
I almost just canceled my listing too! Chasity has brought sexy back...for sure!! I love her and her family and loved this session....her and her husband are so cool I feel like we are old friends!
side note- i figured out FINALLY how to make pictures bigger on this blog...now they are super huge...so until I can tame them a little...here you go..
Chasity and all her glamorous gorgeousness!!!!

WPJA

2008-04-10T11:13:00.000-04:00

I have been accepted as a member of the Wedding Photojournalist Association!!!

www.wpja.com

The talent in the wpja is just ridiculous (and inspiring)!!!
I am so excited!
I think this will help brides find me that are looking for the style of photography that I
am so passionate about.
Look out world.......I'm IN;)

southeastern laser & aesthetics center

2008-03-30T21:05:00.000-04:00

Here are just a few from my session with Courtney from the Southeastern Laser & Aesthetics Center on Wilson Hall Road. Courtney is a super talented makeup artist who wanted to get some prints for their beautiful new space. More to come!

here is their address & phone:
1250 Wilson Hall Road
469-skin

caleb

2008-03-28T08:40:00.001-04:00

This is Caleb. I first shot him as a newborn...he is the first baby in the gallery on my website.
I just love him!!! Here are a few from his 6 mos session. I love me some nekkid babies!!!

jill

2008-03-26T21:53:00.000-04:00

Jill oh Jill.
What a day we had.
The day of our session, tornadoes swept through the Pee Dee and left me driving home from McBee soaking wet and being pelted with hail. Her family owns some gorgeous land that we barely got to take advantage of while lighting struck all around us. I thought " I will be darned if I get a bride struck by lightening!!!"
She is fun to say the least!! A day we won't soon forget!
I added the pic below for laughs...This is Erin...a bride (Oct), a friend, and sometimes an assistant. She came along on this shoot- she is an aspiring photographer and just a really great person to have/be around:) She and Jill were about to get soaked in this pic. I wish I could have captured the lighting, bummer!