A Beautiful Beginning

New Location

2009-01-19T13:17:00.000-05:00

In case you missed it....we are now blogging here!

ANNOUNCEMENT!

2009-01-01T21:18:00.005-05:00

No mom, we're not having a baby *wink*.

As promised...we are posting our Free Wedding Contest today!! But...the best part is...it's on our NEW BLOG! That's right kiddos....we will no longer call this website 'home'.

So go here to check out our new 'kicks' (In case the 'old click-a-roo isn't working like it should.. here's our new location: www.thebeautifulmess.com/blog/

YAY! It's a wonderful day in the neighborhood. 2009 is going to rock our faces off! (Yeah, I'm a little excited, how could you tell?)

See you soon!
Candice & Daniel

2008-12-30T11:19:00.002-05:00

I twitter. Want to follow me? Click here!

Don't forget...we will officially announce on New Years our wedding give away!

December 26th was the birthday of one of my dearest friends, Lisa. We haven't caught up with each other since then...but I hope it's the best birthday ever. Let's visit, okay?

December 28th was my mom's birthday...a special write up is coming soon!

I've been advertising on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and on twitter about selling my Nikon d80. Interested? Click here for pictures and details!

If you didn't get a chance...you should check out our post below of the lovely and talented Misses Whitney!

Whitney: Just Because

2008-12-29T19:06:00.003-05:00

There are a million and one AMAZING things I could share about Whitney. I've known her a long time....her entire life. Crazy right? She's 21. Now before you go thinking I'm old...I was 7 when she was born.

Whitney is just as beautiful inside as she is on the outside. She would be quite the catch for ANY guy...though you'd have to get past her daddy for that one! She likes sports, outdoors, music, and more. She's really the total package...and if that's not enough....SHE'S STUNNING! NO joke! I could have photographed her all day!

Her sweet momma, Ms. Vicki, came along! It was so fun to be around them...I laughed the day away! I can't wait to do this again!

People should not be allowed to be this pretty!

Killer eyes!
I love the brightness of the sun in this one. Her hair and face look so golden!

Driving Award

2008-12-27T08:46:00.000-05:00

It's not everyday that you get the opportunity to win a GOLD medal! Well, not to pat myself on the back or anything, but I won a gold medal. On our drive this past weekend to Toledo for Dave & Clarissa's wedding...is where this medal was acquired! I have scanned it in for you as proof.

It's proof that Daniel thinks I'm the BEST driver he knows (and I'll save this image in case he forgets! :)

Christmas love....

2008-12-25T22:30:00.005-05:00

Oli was really wanting to showcase his Christmas outfit (courtesy of Geoff and Cheyenne) for the blog world. Not only does he love *wink wink* being in his outfit, but as you can see, he loves to pose for the camera (I think we only took like 178 pictures of him to get these shots below...he doesn't like to stay still very long....still working on that command).

But, from the whole Lanning family, we hope it's been an AWESOME Christmas today and that the love, generosity, and compassion you've given and experienced that are part of the Christmas season will extend the whole year round.

Enjoy!

**oh, yeah, our little man has some SERIOUS chest hair** :)

Merry Christmas!

Sneak Peek and a birth announcement!

2008-12-24T11:10:00.005-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve! I am sitting here at my parent's place in Augusta with my sweet Oli in my lap! I drove down yesterday with Daniel with coming today! I had a shoot yesterday with the beautiful Whitney Tomberlin...more about her soon....but here's a sweet sneak peak of her...

Also...CONGRATS to our friends and small group homies John & Diane....on the birth of their sweet baby girl, Gracen. I got to see her when we dropped off a meal! Take a look at her...(I had to sneak some pictures of her....)

Julie & Jay

2008-12-23T08:24:00.003-05:00

Bentley's on 27th= amazing atmosphere, amazing food and an amazing reception for a phenomenal couple, Julie & Jay (all you grammatical fanatics out there, I realize that's a fragment and not a sentence...let it go).

Julie and Jay have to be the most thoughtful, generous and fun couple we've ever shot. Most of the night Julie and her family were checking on us...to see if we'd eaten or needed anything. Now how many brides do you know like that?!? Their constant thoughtfulness was so real and so genuine. I felt like her friend from years before by the end of the night! They were gracious hosts and knew how to throw a party!

So here's to Julie & Jay. You deserve all of the happiness in the world. I wish you the very very best of love and happiness....YOU DESERVE IT!

Excitement Comes In Waiting

2008-12-19T13:38:00.003-05:00

I remember when I was little on Christmas Eve. I could HARDLY wait till the next morning to go and run to look what was on the fireplace, in our stockings and under the tree. I just KNEW that Santa would come. No doubts in my mind. Before I could race to tear open with utter delight the gifts he had left....I had to go tell my parents he had come. After that...I was then sent to wake up my brother (I wasn't allowed to open any gifts until he and my parents had arrived.)

Not only was I excited on Christmas Eve...but I was excited the WHOLE month of December. I'd ask mom & dad all month, "Is it tomorrow? Is it tomorrow?" My mom would smile and tell me it wasn't. I was slightly disappointed, but I didn't DARE lose hope that Santa would come...and when he did..I KNEW HE WOULD DELIVER.

Crazy isn't it. Sometimes I'm the same way about life and God...just minus the excitement that comes with waiting.

Let's go through the comparison.
You know that God has given you a promise deep down (ex. Save a member of your family, financial help, a husband or wife, a car, next step in ministry, etc). You have no doubts. You KNOW that God is true to his word and never breaks his promises...in fact...if he did, he wouldn't be God (Let me say real quick..your promises do not equal God's promises...if he doesn't do something YOU want him to do..then you might want to step back and make sure that it's HIS will and not your own..I have to do this ALL of the time :)

Well...you ask him day after day..."Is it today? Is it tomorrow?" The answer is not right now. -----Now here's the part where we should be like the story above.... by not losing hope and still being EXCITED because you KNOW it's coming. However the turn in our story is that we begin to doubt that God will deliver, that God even hears us. We lose all excitement we had and begin to doubt.

Don't lose heart my friend. God will make GOOD on his word. Like when I was little and had to go look, then wake my parents, the wake my brother and wait on them to come with me....sometimes God asks you to do things before 'opening your gifts.' Be quick to listen and tune your ears to God's word. He will not disappoint, he never disappoints.

The Massey Family

2008-12-18T09:03:00.004-05:00

Full of life. Leaping. Jumping. Perpetual Motion. Sweet. Gentle. Fun. Smart. Articulate.

All of these things describe Jaylen, Jesiah, Jordan & Joshua. These 4 incredibly well-mannered children are amazing. It was a cold and dreary North Carolina day when we shot this family...and the kids were such troopers! Their personalities bubble over and are contagious! They are a wonderful representation of the awesome parenting they receive from Jamil & Dawn.

Seriously (let me see if I get the ages right....) 2 months, 3, 6 and 8 years old?!?! I'm amazed!

Ladies and Gentleman...I give you the incredible Massey family!

...and the slideshow....song chosen by family....

Happy Birthday Brother!

2008-12-15T21:16:00.002-05:00

IMG_3784
Originally uploaded by [haley] L

(picture courtesy of Haley Lamb)

Today is my little brother's 26th birthday! He was married this September...and we LOVE Katie to death.

I don't often do this...so here's my chance to tell you all of the amazing thing about Matthew that make me smile!
**He's the most generous person I know. If you are his friend or his family he's going to bend over backwards to help you. Don't even try to go out to eat with him and expect to pay! (He'll leave the whole price of the meal as a tip if you do. STUBBORN!)
**He freely gives of his talent and time. He's helped me move (pre-Daniel) countless times. He laid our wood floors FOR FREE. He's just a solid guy. Committed to the finish. He'd die for what he believes in.
**He's a natural comic. When we were little. I'd try and make people laugh...but I just wasn't funny. Matthew, however would just say something...and laughs all around would come for him.
**He likes fast cars. Enough said.
**We sing together to oldies songs in restaurants and public areas. We look at each other and just laugh. I love it!

There are many many more reasons why he's the best brother...but these are just a few! Matthew...thanks for being the best brother there is. You make me want to work harder and be a better human being. I love you! I can't wait for you and Katie to have a baby first !!! *wink wink*

Welcome Robert Brown!

2008-12-14T13:02:00.001-05:00

_RobertBrownHildebrand_0024
Originally uploaded by Whitley

Our sweet nephew Robert Brown Hildebrand was born yesterday. I kid you not. He's the cutest newborn EVER!

Congrats Liz & Jason!!! You're going to make great parents! We documented there first day...and a slideshow will come in the weeks ahead.

Storm, rainbow, storm

2008-12-11T16:33:00.002-05:00

Rainbow 3
Originally uploaded by Whitley

It's been raining all day and for the past few days. Gray skies and gloom. I have to be honest...after a while...it starts to get to you.

Then just moments ago, Daniel called from work saying, "Hey...go outside a minute. There's a rainbow outside." So Oli and I head outside and I don't see it.

Daniel: We can see the whole rainbow from here. Back up some and look towards the south.

Me: Umm..Don't see it.

Daniel: Keep looking.

Me: OH....I see it. Pretty. I didn't even realize it had stopped raining and that the sun had come out.

Daniel: Yup. Well, I had better get back to work, love you.

Me: Love you.

Oli and I gazed at it for a moment and as the wind blew, the dark clouds came over and it began to sprinkle again. However, as I was walking inside...there was still a smile left lingering on my face.

Almost instantly this parallel came to mind:
Sometimes we can be going through our darkest times. Day after day after day it's dark, gloomy and rainy!

While living in the gloomy...God gives you a glimpse of a rainbow and the skies clear. Sometimes you don't even notice that the rainbow is outside and that the skies have taken a breath. Often, God has to say:

"(enter your name here) take a look outside...the rain has stopped and a rainbow has been sent for you to gaze upon."

You say: Where, I don't see it.

God: Just take a couple steps back. You are way too close...you need a fresh perspective.

You say: I still don't see it. Oh...wait...now I see it. Wow...that's really amazing.

Sometimes the clear skies and rainbows last for a while and sometimes for only a moment. But as you walk by you've seen the rainbows and clear skies. You know that the gray skies won't last forever. You go back inside...and a smile lingers.

Isn't God good? He uses the ordinary things to speak to us. I'm so thankful..he speaks to us on a regular basis....but are we listening. (Check out Pastor Steven's message from this past Sunday at Elevation Church's website. Click here.)

Give. Give. Give.

2008-12-11T08:58:00.002-05:00

Giving to others is the best gift you can give yourself. It's the truth. Check out the video below if you need inspiration.

Check it.

Our 2 for 1 posts yesterday. If you didn't see it...you should. EXCITING news!

2 for 1

2008-12-10T14:17:00.003-05:00

So you get TWO blog posts in ONE day today! Your day can be complete! *wink*...

I'm excited. So excited. Why? I have a fresh perspective and goodness is coming your way. Here's what you can expect....

* A new blog look and location. This means bigger pictures and a VERY professional look. Coming January 09 (maybe sooner if we're lucky!)

* ADVERTISING. Yes, ladies and gentleman...Daniel and I are going to be advertising with a very reputable website. I can't wait to share with you the site. In about 48 hours...I'll share it!

*Albums, Albums & Albums! We are designing a ton of sample wedding albums, family albums, guest sign-in albums and more for all brides and families to touch-see-feel. All of that goodness will be available January '09. We use Couture Book as our vendor. Their hand-bound yummy-ness should be held by all.

*Our new office REVEAL! Daniel, my brother and I have worked tirelessly and have completed putting NEW hardwood floors down in our house. We've completely redecorated and relocated our office! Why? So we can meet with YOU...our favorite clients to go over album designs and more! Mi casa es su casa! Coming soon!

* A new website....in 09. Kids. Hold onto your seat belts...cause it's going to be one wild ride!

*The best news. . . . . .we are going to donate our time to ONE bride and groom to photograph their special day!! This will go to a VERY deserving couple that would not necessarily be able to afford all the bells and whistles. Be thinking of your friends for this one girls and guys...and tell them about this OR you can tell their story for them! All details are coming soon. . .

*If you are interested in booking your special day with us...it's not TOO late! We still have limited availability for the 2009 wedding season! We are available for travel...and can't wait to hear from you! E-mail at candice.lanning@gmail.com.

Don't forget to check out the post below...you wouldn't want to miss Jeremiah's sweet face!

Jeremiah...

2008-12-10T10:58:00.003-05:00

At Elevation...we have been able to meet some of the most wonderful families. One of those families are the Haper's. Ray and Shauntona are amazing parents to the cutest little boy (next to my nephews, of course) named Jeremiah. He's got the sweetest face and disposition! While shooting the service at Elevation, we snapped a couple of shots of Jeremiah. He gave us a 5 second window of time...

I must make note that his mom tells us often that it's going to be soon for us to have a little Lanning running around. Not so sure about that one! We have plenty of nephews and a niece to keep us content for now!

Enjoy these snapshots of a cute little man!

He's so tough in this one (below)!
Time for chapstick!
...alas...on the run again!

The Carr Family

2008-12-07T09:41:00.006-05:00

Amy & Ken are amazing parents! Their 3 sweet babies along with Amy & Ken came out on a COLD November morning to Frances Beaty Park to get some long awaited family shots of their sweet family. Will, Meredith & Mallory were so cute and such troopers! Here are a couple of our favorite shots....for you to view.

Mallory....
Mallory...close up...look at that BEAUTIFUL FACE!
I loved Mallory in her ballerina outfit!
Amy & Meredith...these girls are just so sweet!
Amy and Meredith...these girls adore their mommy!
Meredith in her tutu! Don't you just love the contrast and reflection on Meredith's face. This one is a fave from the day.
I could just melt in those eyes. They are such dark pools of love!

Will's ride....was stylin'!
The little man himself, WILL!
I love Amy and Will in this one. Why? Well, it's indicative of the protective love of a mother. I was in awe of it..and had to keep it!
Ladies and gentleman...I give you WILL!
Amy's family had come for the holidays....and of course, we snapped a shot of them too! Here's a picture of her niece!

Haven't had enough of this amazing family? Go see their slideshow here.

WORKING ON:
2 weddings
family shoot
Sunday Elevation Pictures
Shoot tomorrow Riley Watkins!!

“Everything’s amazing. Nobody’s happy.” - Louis CK

2008-12-05T08:07:00.002-05:00

Let me first say. I totally ripped this video and my title off of the ultra talented graphic designer, Ryan Hollingsworth's, site.

This guy is SO true...watch it....and watch it until the end....

My Own Worst Critic.

2008-12-03T11:15:00.002-05:00

Ugh. Can I be honest for a second?

^^I can't get the Couture Book Lightroom PlugIn to work on my computer and I must get an album printed PRONTO.^^

^^I purchased the ProPhoto Template to update my blog...but can't get it running...it's like I'm technologically brain dead.^^

^^I can't make everyone happy...^^

Boo hoo hoo. Oh woe is me. Here I am frustrated and feeling sorry for myself and I have no right. Why? I have a roof over my head, my bills are paid, my family is happy and healthy and I have food to eat. I have more than over 90% of the Earth's population.

Perspective. Sometimes I just need to get it. God's perspective.

Rachelle & Tim

2008-12-01T18:28:00.003-05:00

Daniel Island is an amazing area of Charleston. The water is filled with dolphins, there's an amazing bridge and huge oak trees with beautiful Spanish moss cascading in the wind. There's no lovelier place....

Rachelle and Tim tied the knot in November and got their 'First Look' on Daniel Island. It couldn't have been a more beautiful day...and their love for one another was so beautiful and so true...every morsel of time captured in video and pictures. Here's a glimpse of that special day.

Congrats again Rachelle & Tim!

Her bouquet was exquisite! We took TWO shots of it! Which do you like best the first or the second?
The bridesmaids flowers were stunning as well (below).

The bride's niece was the flower girl. Such a sweetheart! She was great with the camera...we caught her mid-spin here.
Rachelle & Tim had a First Look before the wedding. That's the way to go if are a bride and want to make time to have great pictures together on your wedding day. Rachelle and Tim were able to plan a special First Look and they wanted to pray together before the wedding as well. It was really sweet.
Again. The Bouquet. I could not resist!
During their 'prayer' before the wedding.
He cried so sweetly when they first saw each other.
Communion taken during the wedding had a Jewish Tradition involved.
This is taken of Tim just watching is lovely bride.

I love this picture of the groomsmen. I feel like the blur happened in all the right places....

Enough Said.

Better Late Than Never.

2008-11-30T09:47:00.005-05:00

We mentioned Nicole DeAnne back when we had our photoshoot in California...but I need to blog her again. Why, you may ask? Well...she rocked my hair and makeup when we got our photo-shoot with Jasmine Star back in October and she gave some blog love. Here's her blog love!

She was so fun and personable...and was creative and attentive when helping me select my style for the shoot. Check her out...and if your in Cali getting married or just getting a shoot with the fabulous Jasmine Star...well then, give Nicole DeAnne some LOVE!

Give Thanks.

2008-11-28T17:42:00.005-05:00

Daniel and I are thankful for so many things. As the two of us sit here at my parent's house in Augusta...we are overwhelmed with how blessed we are. We are not naive enough to think we have so much because we have worked hard for it, or because we deserve it or...even because we are so so talented. No, we know that our blessings come from above. The Lord provides for us in all ways. In love, in grace, in forgiveness...and our finances.

Just wanted to take time to say thanks.

And we'll leave you with a picture of our little man from his first Thanksgiving...enjoy!

Danielle: Bridal...

2008-11-24T13:42:00.007-05:00

My friend Jessi...e-mailed me and told me of her friend that was getting married. She mentioned all the wonderful things about her....and referred her my way. Well..that friend, Danielle, was perusing through Jessi's blog (it's a must read click here) and saw my link on her page.

Well...as fate would have it..Danielle gave me a call and we begin planning her engagement, bridal and wedding shoots. She was an absolute DREAM to photograph. Beautiful inside and out! I have been itching to post her bridals here for you....and today is that day!

Danielle and Joshua were married on Saturday. Their wedding pictures are soon to come. But first...let me share with you Danielle's bridal. Danielle & Joshua have a wonderful 2 year old daughter named Gracie. Now, what bridal shoot would be complete without her? Enjoy her pictures & slideshow!

She 'says' she's not photogenic. Pictures don't lie...and this girl....is STUNNING!

This shot below just feels like it should be in some Jane Austen film...I have another with her looking at the camera...check it out in the slideshow.

Gracie is just such a ball of energy. It was so fun when we could sneak pictures of her cuddling with mommy.

Leo & Beth: Married!

2008-11-20T16:25:00.003-05:00

Beth moved to Taiwan 7 years ago to teach English at ORTV. Leo worked as a cameraman there. Their paths were destined by God to cross...and when they did...the two were inseparable! They were first married in Taiwan. Then...to America for a traditional American Wedding. You couldn't meet two nicer people.

Congrats Leo & Beth! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your special day! Hold on tight...because I have a ton of pictures...and a slideshow too! Enjoy!

The flower girl was the niece of the bride. She was such a sweet and well-mannered little girl.

The sanctuary was gorgeous!!

Beth got these shoes at the night market in Taipei. The night market is every American girl's dream. When Daniel and I went there a year ago...I was in heaven (click here for a picture from our trip...that relates)
Love her wedding band...(it has the chinese characters on it)
So..I could not help but post 2 more ring shots!

Happy Birthday Daniel!!!!!!

2008-11-20T09:54:00.004-05:00

0049
Originally uploaded by Whitley

It's not everyday that a man like Daniel comes along. He's the kind of guy that all girls dream of..but one very LUCKY girl got!

You've heard me on several occasions speak about him...but it never gets old. He's truly the best man I know. I love and respect him...and would happily give my life for his anyday.

I almost always post about things that he does that I love...so I'll switch it up and share things that he does that makes me laugh.

^^He raps at lightening speed with a special voice. I can tell he feels so cool when he knows all the words to an especially complicated rap song.^^

^^His little dance he does with his arms up by his side and knees slightly bent..twisting side to side when he feels good.^^

^^ He'll run and slide on his socks in the kitchen and do an oldies twist shout or a Michael Jackson scream^^

^^He's great with kids. All kids love to be around him. He's so attentive and they just gravitate towards him. He'll even act like one...to get a laugh out of them. Wish we lived closer to our niece and nephews! They would want Uncle Dan all the time. ^^

^^Car Dancing. Daniel is SHAMELESS it's just too funny.^^

I love this man...and HAPPY BIRTHDAY! To see some cute pictures of Daniel when he was little...check out his mom's blog here!

--picture courtesy of the ever lovely and talented Jasmine Star.

A Quiet Spell...

2008-11-19T18:40:00.006-05:00

Hi there! It's been a crazy couple of days! I can't wait to tell you about it.... 1, 2, 3,....GO!

**I was sick this weekend and had wedding to shoot. I got through it...I have to honestly say...the Good Lord got me through it. It was a GORGEOUS wedding at Myers Park Methodist Church and Bentley's on 27th.
**Daniel and Matthew (my bro) are putting down my new floors right now! It is looking amazing...but everything's a wreck....and honestly....I can't edit when my brother's up for a visit!
**Tomorrow is Daniel's BIRTHDAY! My sweet husband is going to be 27!! (I know I know...a year and a half younger than me! More to come tomorrow...
**Is it wrong that I am loving 'Single' by NKOTB?
*Oli's had some setbacks. Seriously....just when you think you've got your sweet faced Maltese pup potty-trained...he poops, pees and pukes in your house. Thankfully all before the carpet came up....
*Editing...here's what I've been up to:
-Wei-Bowyer wedding (just finished--post coming soon)
-Taylor-Bollinger wedding
-Woody-Liles wedding
*Shoots coming up (so excited about these!) :
-Fisher-Watkins wedding
-Carr Family
-Milan Ford family and book shoot
-Massey family

Now that you've gotten my little list of what's going on...I'm sure you'll sleep better tonight...HA! I leave you with some personal pictures...

I've lost 11 lbs since this picture (above) taken in May. Awesomness. This comes from some pictures it's taken me forever to get to. We shot a Baltimore wedding. To see more random pictures from us just being silly...click here.
Here's a trip outside to our back yard (that backs up to a beautiful Jewish cemetary) for Oli to "potty." Yeah right.
Another shot from our downtown Baltimore experience. 'Misses Officer' anyone?
Done playing and ready to go back inside. He's so cute!
My sweet Daniel off to work!!! I love that man! More pictures from our fall lazy days here.

The Perfectionist In Me.

2008-11-17T09:56:00.002-05:00

The past couple of days I've had this kind of yearning....you know what I mean? The kind of yearning that inspires CHANGE! Let me go even further...and for my readers...let me be transparent .... I want to be the BEST at all I do. Know the feeling?

**I want to be the best wife** I have the best man, ever. Hands down. I want to be the best I can for him, for me...making our lives the most fulfilled they can be.

**I LONG to create photographs that will inspire, touch, and move those that gaze upon them.** I have been soaking up new concepts,new ideas, researching, and marveling at great photographers near and far . I'm longing for a great blog & website...I just want to be there NOW.

Yearning has been something I've been doing for a couple of weeks now...but I was even more encouraged at Elevation yesterday. Our Pastor spoke on an amazing topic of living inside the box rather than being frustrated by living outside it. When you live inside the box...you make your box larger! It's fabulous stuff...and it's sparked more and more thought about all of this yearning going on in the inside...you must check his sermon out here....go ahead..it's only 30 minutes or so...!

Sigmon Family

2008-11-12T17:02:00.004-05:00

When I worked at Elevation Church, I was the Guest Services Director. One of the areas that I oversaw was the Parking Team. The Parking team is the FIRST point of contact for someone coming to Elevation Church at our Providence & Butler Campus. It's no easy task...they smile, welcome, direct..and help get about 2500-3000 people in and out of 4 services in a timely and loving manner (at the Providence Campus).

I learned so much about myself during my time serving on staff there (we are still dedicated members). One of our parking team leaders was Doug. He's the kind of guy that shares what's wrong...but he eats problems for breakfast and would be quick to come with solutions to make parking systems BETTER. He was quick to volunteer even when it wasn't his Sunday on. Even after surgery on his ankle...he still came out to lead and support his team. That's someone catching onto a vision and answering a calling.

Not only does he lead a parking team...but his amazing wife, Laurina, has since joined the parking team! Dedication!

This well-educated, loving, dedicated and gifted couple have 2 of the cutest boys: Jeremy & Daniel. When I received and e-mail from Doug & Laurina about getting family photos I couldn't have been more honored and thrilled! We met on the Saturday after Halloween. It was an early morning and SOOOOOOOOOO cold. I felt so bad...but they were all troopers and just WORKED the camera with their love, smiles and admiration for one another. Thank you so much Sigmon family for allowing us to be a part of capturing some memories for y'all!

Here are a 'few' photos and a slideshow for you....Ladies and Gentlemen...I give you...The Sigmon's!

This Hottie...below held their baby...(his name was Daniel too) as we took some pictures of just Doug & Laurina! He's so cute!

Tabler Family

2008-11-10T17:05:00.005-05:00

This is the most fun and loving family to be around. Kara & Nate were in our small group when they lived here in Charlotte and we had the absolute honor of knowing them before they had their little miracle, Aiden. Well.....Kara and Nate came down from their new home of Nashville, TN, for a family shoot (and Kara's parents joined in for a couple of shots as well)...and we had a great time!

P.S. Daniel and I are shoe people...and these two do not disappoint!
P.P.S. (I posted twice today...if you make it to the end of this post...there is one more from today.)

Ladies and Gentlemen..I give you...the Tabler's. (If you are at work..well..there are about 20 pictures and a slideshow in this post...don't say I didn't warn you..*wink*)

Happy Endings...

2008-11-10T16:41:00.004-05:00

I love Happy Endings. Seriously. I do. But I have to be honest...I'm not a fan of the process it takes to get there (to the Happy Ending, that is.). We all have stories in our lives of how we met Mr. Right or how we got the job of our dreams. We have stories of the children in our lives and more. Those are all Happy Endings.

The key is, what did it take take to get there? Some may have had to go through a ton of heartbreak before Mr. Right was sent into your life. Some may have had to be in jobs they really hated to get the experience or networking needed to get into the job of your dreams. Then there are many that have had heartbreaking journeys with infertility and loss when trying to conceive.

Sometimes when we look at someone...we can only see their happy ending, and often forget to think of the high price that was paid for that happy ending. One more example, my Pastor is an amazing communicator and leader and pastors the 2nd fastest growing church in the nation. Do you think that 'happy ending' (it's never really an ending..but I'm using that phrase to drive home my point...work with me) came without a price? We'd be foolish to think so. All good things require a process.

The process IS the point.

I say all of that for this....it's easy for us to assume that someone has it all together. You can look at the material things they have, the way they look or the happiness they seem to possess...but you don't know the process. So when out driving, standing in line or just assuming that life is easy for everyone but you...remember...the process IS the point. Stick with it. Check out this passage in Galatians 6

Graydon & Heather: One Year Strong

2008-11-07T16:11:00.007-05:00

"Everyone says that the first year of marriage is supposed to be hard, but that's just not true," said Heather as they were getting our 'Year Strong' Photoshoot at the Biltmore for her's and Graydon's ONE YEAR anniversary.

The story begins here....I got an e-mail a few weeks ago from Heather's husband Graydon, that went like this:

Daniel and Candice,
"This is Graydon Tomlinson from ..... I was hoping that I could book a session as a gift to my wife for our 1 year anniversary. My wife found out about your blog and photography and has been following you there. She is a huge fan of yours, and I think she would absolutely love the chance to have you capture the end of our first year as a married couple! Our anniversary is .... and we will be going to the Biltmore Estate Inn to celebrate. Thanks for your time and I look forward to hearing from you!"

SO SWEET! As we swapped e-mails, we planned to meet at the Biltmore Estate at the South Terrace and surprise Heather there at 4:30 sharp just in time for sunset. I had never met either of them before...so I just sat under the vineyard next to the house chatting with my hubby on the phone (so wishing he could have joined me on the most GORGEOUS fall day). I texted Graydon to let him know I was in 'pocket' waiting to surprise her.

They walk around the corner from the house and he walked right up to me and introduced himself. Heather stood there with such confusion, surprise and just held her mouth open for a good minute.

Now ladies...you know you've got a good man when you say this, "I only mentioned it one time...and you remembered...I can't believe you remembered!" Great job Graydon! I pray that all of your years to come will continue to be as special as this one!

Patience.

2008-11-05T10:50:00.002-05:00

Ugh. So I tried to move my hosting from Bludomain to GoDaddy. Here's a little secret....your website won't move with you. Thus....now I have to go back and switch my nameserver back from GoDaddy to BluDomain for my website to show.

So...my website will be down until tonight....I'm thinking of going with these guys....

Check out this article....

Beth & Leo Wedding: Sneak Peek

2008-11-04T11:10:00.002-05:00

Beth & Leo have a beautiful love story that takes place on the GORGEOUS country of Taiwan! I can't wait to share it with you...but till then...I leave you with this sneak peek of their American Wedding.....

....
Also I wanted to give you some quick personal updates.
#1- our car got broken into last week during the night at our house. Someone stole our iPod (160 GB) and adapter. We had not left it in plain sight...in fact it was hidden in our console under tanning lotion, napkins, sunglasses and a bunch of other stuff. Boo. I filed a police report...but nothing else can be done. Ugh. Nothing worse than a thief (an a liar).
#2- My parents came for a visit this weekend and helped us with a little house shuffle. We moved my office into the bigger of our two extra rooms. We bought some great office furniture...and I just love it! My brother will be installing wood floors into our house in the next couple of weeks. It will be hot. I might even record a tap dance for you (or I could be kind to your eyes and spare you ;)
#3 We have been so blessed by the business that we have been able to book...and more is coming our way! Thanks to all of you who have spoken into our lives and given us advice, spiritual wisdom and more! We can't express our gratitude enough!

Much...much...more to come!

Brett & Jess: One Year Strong!

2008-10-30T19:04:00.003-04:00

Brett & Jes are amazing individuals. Not only are they nice, but they're smart, creative and a ton of fun to be around. Last year we had the privilege of photographing Brett & Jes' wedding here in North Carolina. So naturally, when we got a call from them a year later asking to get a 'year strong' photoshoot...we said 'YES'!!

Not only did they get photographed, but they brought along the newest addition to their family, Cali. Cali is a labrador-giant poodle mix...aka: Labra-Doodle.

Take a look at their pictures...you can't help but feel the sweet and innocent love ooze from their faces.

Daniel captured this one above. I love it!

I love how natural it feels. It was as if the overcast skies kissed their faces and said..."I'm going to give you great lighting today!"

Cali may look all grown up...but she's still a playful pup with lots of energy and a love for her fellow canine friends!

Doesn't this one make you feel all warm and fuzzy? I took a series of these up close face shots...and their wasn't a bad one in the bunch!

We love photos without faces as much as we love them with faces. Brett has been following our photography since it's conception and specifically asked for those kind of shots! The one above is a fave--

What did I tell you? Oozing love, right?

As you can see, he just couldn't take his eyes off of her! So sweet!

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Crisp family! Making lives better for those that know them! See their slideshow below...

30 Years Strong!

2008-10-29T10:31:00.007-04:00

Proverbs: 22:6 (NLT) Direct your children onto the right path,
and when they are older, they will not leave it.

I love that scripture and how true it is....whether good or bad directing....children often emulate those that they grow up with and around. It's amazing to me (even though I'm only a mother to a puppy) how impressionable those we raise can be. What an awesome, yet overwhelming responsibility. It really causes one to think and reflect on your actions to make sure that we are doing the very best for our children....

...speaking of the very best for our children...my parent's did an amazing job raising my brother and me. They weren't perfect (though my mother would argue that she is... ;) but they taught us the meaning of love, sacrifice, responsibility, and seeking after the Lord's will. I couldn't be more proud to have them as my parents.

Back in May of this year we did a shoot with mom & dad in Augusta. I feel like we've developed, as photographers, so much more since that shoot. I hate that it took us that long to edit them too..but my parents reassure us that...they didn't mind...they just want another photoshoot! Ha!

*begin preface**I hate when people preface something...but I am going to preface--not sure why these colors are distorted...but they look really unrealistic...perhaps with the update of my blog/hosting this won't happen. **preface over**

Take a look at the best people I know. (song was my mom's choice....it's a goodie!)

My mom is the prettiest lady. Ever.Dad is hilarious! He was flexing for our cameras.

30 years of love.

I love to watch dad...sometimes he just wants to be near mom. It makes me smile!

This is one of my favorites from the day. It's killer in black & white too! I wish you could have seen the picture we snapped just before it...dad's face was priceless.

He taught me what a real man was supposed to be like. He taught me how a husband treats his wife....and boy did I catch a good one!

I'm going to get in trouble for posting this one. But I couldn't help myself...I like it!

This is my other favorite from the day. Love like theirs is a rare thing.

Extreme Blog Makeover....

2008-10-28T12:12:00.004-04:00

It's time folks. We need an overhaul of our blog..and we need it fast! Some of the best advice we've received about our business is to do things right the first time. Put the money into it now--to do it right. Our business will reap dividends from it. We believe that people have been strategically placed in our lives--and when wise advice is given...WE TAKE IT!

For us, this means, going ahead and buying the 1.2 over the 1.8, getting our blog customized, making our website cutting edge to stand out, and shooting every wedding like it's the wedding of the century (even though your 'landscape' may not feel that it matches that).

So let's kick this off and put our money where our mouth is! It may be a couple of weeks...but we are starting by customizing our blog! If you are a new photographer....jump in and set yourself apart from all the rest and do things right! Keep looking for it!

***

Speaking of Makeovers....

We were asked to photograph 25 or so models for Modern Salon and Spa here in Charlotte (p.s. they were named #1 Salon in NC by Elle Magazine). Their marketing director wanted headshots to capture their hair and make-up. The models were getting ready there for the 'Dangerous' modeling show for Jordano's Boutique at SUITE.

We got 2 walls for background and very little lighting. That made for an awesome challenge (especially since we are photojournalistic in nature and crave natural lighting). Here are just 5 of many many shots taken. Watch out...you may see these up (or many others we didn't post) at their salons around Charlotte!

Goodbye Cali-Fon-I-A

2008-10-27T11:40:00.002-04:00

CA_LA_Day3_-9
Originally uploaded by Whitley

All of our Cali Pictures are Up...be sure to take a look at them. Let me warn you ...if you don't like blue skies and beaches...chances are..you're not going to like our vacation pictures ;)

The majority were taken with our fisheye lens...we wanted to capture 180 degrees of everything. There's very little post-processing...and you will notice that there's misty stuff in some of our beach shots...we couldn't control the wind :)

Click here to see them all.

p.s.a double whammy...we blogged twice today..see below.

A Heart Check.

2008-10-27T09:01:00.005-04:00

All my life I knew these things about myself..
*I must have a creative outlet to exist at my ultimate best.
*I love music and it has to be a part of my life in some shape, form or fashion.
*I would have to travel the globe....
*Social Justice is how I function. I want people to be loved and treated equally.
*Jesus is my rock and there is nothing else that can sway my heart beyond pleasing him.
*The most recent is that after Jesus...nothing trumps Daniel.
*Friends to laugh with and do life with are an essential.
*Serving in my church and community.
*My family to share life with...

I am so blessed. I have so much. These things at the core make up what shows on the outside. These things help to shape Candice Ann Lanning.

I can't help but think that God should have given this wonderful life to someone more deserving, but friends, he gave this life to me. So because he entrusted me with this life...it's my job to share, invest and pour my life into others. I wanted to write about all the things I have instead of all of the insecurities and inadequacies that haunt me on a daily basis.
Click here to read the verses that really struck me .. Jeremiah 10:23-24

Also..yesterday and today..this song has come to mind...we used to sing it at the church I grew up in....Order My Steps...Click here for lyrics...

A sneak peek coming this afternoon!

Back to life...back to reality...

2008-10-21T21:33:00.005-04:00

So...I know all of you read that title and immediatley were taken back to En Vogue back in the day. Daniel and I have been so blessed. Today we went out with our compadres Geoff & Cheyenne Schultz to do a little self-promoting. It was good times. Geoff was a hero tonight folks--ask him about it!

In more news...we brought Oli home last night (our maltese puppy). He's adjusting very quickly and is so friendly and chill. He's had a couple 'accidents' in the house...but that will all change with time. We received great advice about taking him out every 20 minutes in the beginning...and we're sticking to it!

To end this marvelous fall day...below is a sneak peek from our photoshoot we had this past weekend. Brett & Jes were two of my students when I worked at SWU. We shot their wedding a year ago...and we did an anniversary session with them (and they brought their labra-doodle along for a few shots as well...). I couldn't decide between color or b/w so...I posted both. The rest will get up shortly! Have a great night!

Are You Kidding Me?

2008-10-20T12:47:00.002-04:00

I'm speechless. Overwhelmed. Giddy. Thrilled. Pleased. Wanting to do jumps....Calling my parents. Loving it, loving it, loving it!

Today is the day folks! Jasmine Star posted our photoshoot on her blog...and friends... she did not disappoint! Go here to see them...but before you do...read this...

Jasmine Star is exactly what she appears to be on her blog. She's kind, thoughtful, creative and funny. If the world had a million more of her...the world would truly be a better place (and prettier too!). She and JD are as genuine, kind and generous as they seem and we count ourselves lucky to be considered friends. Jasmine....we learned a ton from just being around you...and I can't wait for our paths to cross!

This one goes down for the books!

2008-10-18T00:06:00.003-04:00

Our favorite photographer that we visited out in California this week, Jasmine Star, and her hubby JD did a great photoshoot for us...and has posted a teaser picture on her blog...go here to see it!

I want to tell you all about this shoot....but...I'm going to let her blog it first...(watch for it this coming week)....and then I'll gush over how wonderful she is.

More to come soon. We fly home in the morning...pray for safe travels for us :)

In San Diego...

2008-10-16T19:48:00.002-04:00

Daniel & Candice on Mission Beach, San Diego
Originally uploaded by Whitley

Hey there...we're chillin' in San Diego with JTizzle & Gil....and their homies! We had an AMAZING time with Jasmine & JD and we can't wait to share with you our pictures....but you're going to have to wait for them...check her blog here....and she'll post them soon.

Well...we've posted a 'few' of the many pictures (without editing...don't judge us ;) taken from our trip... Click here to see... Many more to come...awesome.

P.S. Have you signed up for this below? Because...you should...still some openings available!

California Love

2008-10-13T22:19:00.004-04:00

So we've made it to California, and it is absolutely not disappointing....we are stoked to finally be here.

A few fun facts about California we've learned so far:
*The San Francisco Airport has no signs telling you how to get anywhere and has very few employees that are wiling to take a minute to help...
*We met a guy named Wesley on the flight from SFO to LAX who is leading a cub scouts group of 16 boys...we are so not envious.
*There are stop lights on many of the on-ramps for the highways where only 2 cars are allowed thru in each late at one time....
*Gas is cheaper here than in Charlotte....but not food! :)
*Hotels like to charge parking fees...and then tax on top of those fees...and our hotel had us wait in line at 2:55 with about 6 other customers until the clock said 3:00 and then they checked us in...
*We drove thru Inglewood after getting our rental car from LAX and didn't see any up-and-coming rappers on the streets...may have to go back thru this evening.
*The LA Convention Center is huge...and green...never seen anything quite like that...

We're headed to Fred62...a diner down the street from where we are staying in Hollywood that has gotten solid reviews and has been frequented by many of the Hollywood crowd.

...feels like we should add the twittering aspect to our blog.....

Lauren & Matt Engaged!

2008-10-12T21:37:00.005-04:00

...thank you to all who are excited about our "Oli". We get him when we return from Cali! That's right kiddos...we are off to Cali bright and early tomorrow morning. We'll be blogging our adventures right here on this blog with you... (I know...you can hardly bear much more excitment!)

Daniel and I had a FABULOUS weekend. We did a fitness (Body for Life) shoot with a friend from college. Her pictures are amazing...but...well...those won't be shared with the world...they are for her :) We also had a photoshoot with two of my favorite SWU people: Brett & Jes. They were both RAs in my building that I was RLC (Residence Life Coordinator) for. For those of you who haven't followed me for long...my Master's is in Student Affairs Administration for Higher Education (Cheyenne...you may be the only one who knows what that is...since you have the same degree ;). So I digress....Brett and Jes are amazing people..we shot their wedding...and now...one year later they came to visit and got some great shots...with their labra-doodle, Cali. Those will be coming when we return from C-A-L-I-F-O-R-N-I-A!!

...back to the post at hand..Lauren & Matt. She's funny and bubbly..he's gentle and kind...the two together make love look easy...and are in for the ride of a lifetime: marriage! Check out a few of the MANY favorites we took on that day...or go here to see them on flickr...and if you haven't had enough...go to the end of this post...and watch the slideshow of pictures set to music!!

Joy...and happy sadness...

2008-10-10T08:12:00.004-04:00

This week has been a wild one. But let me start with this. CONGRATS to the amazing job my Pastor did at Catalyst yesterday. He spoke to over 12,000 church staff/leaders encouraging them and giving them hope with no holes barred. I was unable to be there (that's the sad part)...but I was so proud that he was there with over 150 our staff/church members. What a defining moment in his life and the life of our church. I can say from experience, Pastor Furtick is so humble and longs that God be honored and followed through His word in everything that Elevation does as a church...and yesterday was no exception. Thank you Pastor for freely giving the way you did! Daniel and I are honored to be a part of Elevation Church!
****
The joy...well...the joy comes from this angel below...I would like to introduce the newest member of our family. His name is Oliver Queen....but we'll call him 'Oli'. He's a maltese...5 months old...and is as gentle as a feather. We picked him out yesterday....he'll come home with us when we arrive back from California. Watch out..this kid has TONS of pictures coming our way :)

(Oli was named after 'The Green Arrow's' True Identity, Oliver Queen, from the series Smallville and the Justice League Comics. He's so sweet! Here's his first picture of many!)

Danielle & Josh Engaged!

2008-10-07T10:59:00.004-04:00

Danielle & Josh are sweet and laid back couple. They played up to the camera and have a wedding coming up in November (keep on the lookout for it) We took them outside on the most GORGEOUS early October day...and got these amazing personalities caputured! Check out a few of their pictures below...and their slideshow at the bottom of this post. Also....you can click here to view more!

Week 2

2008-10-06T08:58:00.005-04:00

It's the beginning of week 2 as a full-time business owner/photographer! We've have had 2 engagement shoots and many more planned. Thank you Lord for providing!

I think one of the first things a full-time photog should do is have goals. If not, you are treading water. I started with..reviewing a mind-blowing book, E-Myth, by Michael E. Gerber. Check it out. It will revolutionize your way of thinking about small business.

The second thing I feel like a full-time photog should do is....well....network. I need relationships with vendors and other photographers. Thankfully I got a headstart... my friend and fellow photographer Cheyenne Schultz and her hubby have been SO generous with their time, resources and networking. I hope I'm able to help others they way they've so generously helped us.

It's also important to blog regularly. I think it's important to share honestly about photography, life and more. I don't think anyone can really understand our photography and our style if you don't know the role it plays in our everyday lives. So in an attempt to help anyone thinking about starting their own business, whether photography or not, here we go!!!!! Click here to see our latest photos!

**
Speaking of what's going on in our life....our Pastor, BROUGHT IT, on Sunday. We are in a series about relationships. It was real and honest...sure...when you tell the truth it can feel a bit uncomfortable...but don't let that stop you in your tracks, let it propel you to be challenged to be better. That's what his sermon did this Sunday. Go here to listen to it (it's week 4).

Julie & Jay Engaged!

2008-10-02T10:20:00.004-04:00

Julie and Jay met one another playing in a skeet ball league. They had mutual friends there...but did not know one another. One of his friends asked Julie to set Jay up with one of her friends. She met Jay and decided..."wait a minute...I want to set him up with me!" The rest is history! Hold on...because this couple will be saying, "I Do' on November 15!

Click here to see a few of my favorites from the day OR see below...and below these pictures...you'll find a quick slideshow! View these pictures in whichever way you please!

A series of thank yous......

2008-09-28T12:09:00.002-04:00

I was finally allowed to know my BIG birthday surprise this past Friday, as Candice revealed, via Jasmine Star's blog, that we will be taking a trip to California to have a photo shoot with the amazingly talented and gifted Jasmine.

Now, I had guessed this as a possible option (see a video post below), but Candice was very good at always saying no to anything I would guess and telling me I wasn't even close. Secretly, I was hoping deep down that this would be the reveal as we had been talking for quite some time about someday getting the opportunity to have a session with Jasmine--but I totally didn't anticipate it happening so soon....and finding out via Jasmine's blog. So if I seemed a bit caught off guard...it's because I was. It was one of those moments where you're like, Did that really have my name written there...and is this really going to happen?

Anyway, here comes a short list of thank yous to those who are making this possible and fulfilling a few dreams at once on this upcoming trip:

Candice...my wife, my love...thank you for being so thoughtful, creative, secretive, funny, and loving to do something like this for me...and us! Thank you, thank you, thank you...I love you!

Jasmine...thank you for being willing to have a photo shoot with us and for being so gracious to help with the reveal...we can't wait to meet you (and maybe JD, too!).

JT....sorry I didn't get you in on the video, but at that time I didn't know we'd be seeing you as well....thanks for the hookup when we're in San Diego...I look forward to meeting you and hearing some awesome stories about Candice.

To all those who participated in this adventure financially or with ideas....thank you for keeping a great secret and for partnering with us.

To all those who posted comments on ours or Jasmine's blog...thank you for your words of excitement and joy as we prepare for our first West Coast trip together!

We will most definitely keep you updated as we prepare for this exciting trip!

Since the music is now fading in, I will now step down from receiving my Grammy and begin packing. :)

Matt & Katie

2008-09-27T07:52:00.002-04:00

Our friend and photographer Haley Lamb in Augusta photographed my brother's wedding. She did an amazing job...and posted some pictures....YOU MUST see them!! Click here!

...and if you didn't read the post below...you should....

A BIG BIG Surprise FINALLY revealed!

2008-09-26T15:30:00.003-04:00

I'm world's worst when it comes to keeping surprises from my husband...but for over a month...I've kept his sweet birthday gift a secret.

This is what I told him-- We are going on a trip...I can't tell you where...but there's a huge event involved.

For weeks he has guessed Michael Jordan, Grand Canyon...and Jasmine Star...

Today he read her blog.....and with her sweet personality she so graciously put the reveal on her blog. He was reading it during his lunch...and once he got to the end of it...he realized he was in it.

The video is about 2 minutes... he reads her blog out loud...and at the end...it's so cute when he comprehends what has transpired.

So...we are going to LA for a photoshoot with Jasmine, to San Diego to see it's wonders and visit with my friend JT...and perhaps we can swing by Santa Barbara too!

p.s. Daniel's birthday is November 20--but we are celebrating early. Thanks to the family that contributed to Daniel's gift..it made it so special for him. Click here to read Jasmine's post!

A Bit of News

2008-09-26T06:44:00.004-04:00

Life is amazing. You can go through a series of good times, bad times, meaningful times and well...changes. At first...change can be difficult..but when you come out on the other side of it...you look at it and say, "You didn't scare me...bwahahaha!" Well, maybe not the 'bwahahahaha' part...but you can look at it and be amazed at the change and the process. The process is the most important part...because it's during the process that you are forever changed...it's the process that teaches you and that you learn from.

Where am I going with this? I'm glad you asked...Daniel and I made the jump (no...we are not having a baby...)! We decided that now is the time for us to have me go FULL-TIME into photography. It's a dream come true. I'm excited, scared and a tiny bit insecure....BUT--I am looking forward to the 'process' of it. I'm looking forward to meeting FABULOUS clients and their families, meeting vendors, finding great locations, becoming a smart businesswoman...and a better photographer.

What does this mean for you? Well..this means that you'll have a very regularly updated blog to read, photography sessions coming down the pipeline...and more! Thank you for your support on this!!

Looking forward to sharing this journey with you!

A Thousand Reasons Why I Love You.

2008-09-23T09:05:00.004-04:00

*Picture courtesy of Lanna Johnson..our engagement photos 12.06)

There are a thousand sets of a thousand reasons why I love you Daniel.

Let me start by saying there's no one like you. You are the most selfless man I know. You love me so much--so much in fact, that if you never said those words, I'd still know.

You encourage me to be my best self. You won't let me settle for second best. You push me to be the most I can be.

You are sensitive in a way that makes me have a conversation with God that goes a little bit like this, "God, I don't deserve this man....he could have had anyone...and chose me."

I love it when you are singing your favorite rap song (probably by Tupac, Trick Daddy or Twista)...and you curl up your upper lip to make yourself a little more gangsta'.

You are patient beyond patient. When I don't deserve it, when people that abuse your kindness don't deserve it...and for those in need of Jesus.

On multiple occasions you have sacrificed for others. I mean, what kind of person is willing to forfeit getting their own raise to make sure those that are getting paid hourly get an increase first?

I love that you line dance ...and you teach me how. It makes me laugh when you wear those crazy high cowboy boots (to church:).

...and that puppy dog look you give me when I pick on you or I'm super sarcastic...like it hurt you...and well...you know I can't take that sweet look.

You drive when we're both tired...but you let me sleep.

Thank you for encourage me to follow our calling and our dreams.

Daniel, there are a million more reason why I love you. You're the kind of guy that deserves a standing ovation for the man that you are. You forever have this heart.

Happy Birthday Brock!!!!!

2008-09-19T17:32:00.001-04:00

Congrats to Ben, Reba and big brother Brock on the birth of Evie Marie!

Also...HAPPY 2nd Birthday to our nephew Brock today!

I've lost...but I've gained more...

2008-09-18T13:36:00.004-04:00

I've lost 10 pounds! YAY! Thanks to the Daniel Fast...and to exercise and eating healthy eating. I was able to fit into a pair of jeans I haven't been able to wear in 2 years. I refused to get rid of them...because...well...I just couldn't.

I've gained a niece. Her name is Evie Marie (pronounced like levy without the 'l'). Reba is doing well...and so are baby, daddy & big brother! (picture taken my my sis-in-law..we'll take some more tonight when we see her face for the first time!)

I will be gaining a sister-in-law this weekend! My brother and only sibling, Matthew, will be marrying Katie this weekend! My friend Haley Lamb will be doing the photography for them! YAY! (Matt & Katie below...picture by my wedding photographer Me Wha)

The Renewed Mind is the key....

2008-09-15T09:15:00.005-04:00

Good Morning!

WOW! Last week as a blur!! I have had this post in draft mode for two days! I don't even know where to begin...but we'll do the quick rundown...
--Emergency Root Canal on Thursday- $1030
--Two engagement shoots on Friday & Saturday (Charlotte & Charleston)
--An amazing Sunday at Elevation with the beginning of our Visionary Love Dream Sex Series. Oh....you haven't heard about it? Click here.

(Designed by the talented Graphics Designer at Elevation Church.
--An amazing Sunday Night at the "Meet Pastor...Join a Community Group...Get on a Volunteer Team ..."
--My friend and volunteer extordinare, Brandi Jones, had a sweet baby girl, named Marley Paige.
--Reba, Daniel's sister is having a baby girl today (they've yet to reveal her name).
--My brother gets MARRIED this weekend.

God is so good! He has provided crazy strength for us..and we are excited about the weeks to come. Keep waiting for 4 weddings to be posted within the next week or so.

Below is a video sent from Geoff, our motion graphics staffer at Elevation. It's way funny...and yes....it's for real.

A Celebration!

2008-09-02T08:36:00.003-04:00

Congrats to my WONDERFUL parents! Today they are celebrating 30 years of marriage!! I am so proud that my parents have loved each other, respected each other and stuck to it all of these years. My mother has taught me how to love a man...while my father has taught me how to be treated and loved. They have shown me what a loving relationship looks like. They've taught me what depending on Jesus looks like during the best of times and some of the darkest of times. I couldn't be more proud of my parents. I love them more than myself. **Pictures of them to come tonight**

Also...Daniel and I are so looking forward to going to the Free To Succeed photographers conference with David Jay tonight. Our new friend and talented photographer Cheyenne Schultz will be coming along as well. We can't wait to learn, soak it in and meet the people we admire in the photography realm. We are sad that we won't get to hear Jasmine* ...but it still is proving to be a fantastic asset for our photography!

One last thing...as we, at Elevation, are going through the Daniel fast...we are reading a chapter of John each day. We are on day 16...thus on John 16. There are a couple of things that stood out to me, that I would be amiss if I did not share. The first...I think its crazy that John 16:21-22 talk about giving birth to a child and how it's painful during, but you can get past that because of the joy of the child being born. Why is that crazy, because our Connections Pastor, Larry Brey, and his lovely wife Janet are having their baby girl, Daelyn today!!

On a serious note... John 16:33 it reads, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

A Great Family

2008-08-29T14:47:00.002-04:00

Alli 04bw
Originally uploaded by Whitley

Daniel and I had a wonderful time photographing the Perruquet family! Their two daughters Avery & Alli were sweet, talkative and full of spunk! At the end of the shoot, they (the two girls) invited us to go to dinner. Such a fun time!!

Go here to see a few more of our shoot.

Cool

2008-08-26T17:08:00.001-04:00

How cool is this?

A Bride...

2008-08-25T19:42:00.004-04:00

Lindsay is a laid back, quiet woman. She loves her family and friends...and was excited about doing a bridal shoot. She invited us down to Columbia at some great locations for her shoot (Riverwalk, State House & Firehouse)....here are a few of our favorites. Click here to see more.

Flip Flop

2008-08-25T19:13:00.003-04:00

I have had these black pair of Rainbow Flip Flops for the past 8 years. I have worn them...walked many miles in them...been through great times and some really bad times in them too. These flip flops have been with me everywhere. They have been a comfortable friend for me. Sadly, over time these flip flops have worn thin and the leather is cracking. They look dirty and dusty. Even worse..they are hurting my feet when I walk longer distances. I need a new pair. It hurts me to leave the old pair...and I know that I need new ones...as the old pair just won't last that much longer.

Just the other day...Daniel surprised me and ordered a new pair of the same flip flops for me. When they arrived at our front door, I was excited that they had arrived. I took them out...and they looked great. One problem--they weren't comfortable. They were stiff. They hurt me as I walked on. I remembered when I had bought my first pair--they hurt the same way. It took time for them to get broken into.

I couldn't help but think that's the way our walk with the Lord can be. We've been in a certain season or level with the Lord...operating at a place where we are comfortable without need to move forward. We can stay in that place a really long time. But...there comes a time when we need to move to another level. It's hard to move past what we've known and what has been comfortable and moving forward is the only option. If we stay where we're at...our old place will be like those old sandals...and they won't last much longer to accommodate where we need to go to.

Moving into a new season can be exciting and look great when we receive a glimpse of the season of where we are going. But once on that journey of going to that place...it can feel 'stiff' or 'uncomfortable'...

Just a thought.

A REAL Daniel Fast.

2008-08-20T07:31:00.002-04:00

Starting on Sunday we at Elevation Church (staff, volunteer leaders, and others) were given the challenge by Pastor to begin a Daniel Fast for 21 Days. Honestly, I have never been more excited than I am now about being part of something so much bigger than myself. We are praying for MANY lives to be changed during our Gospel Series that begins this Sunday. I can't think of a better way to pray and give than by doing this. There are people in my life that I want to have 'Come and See' and I can't wait to watch God work in so many lives....

....not only are we fasting foods....but I am fasting my husband. (Not literally) Daniel is in Conway getting licensed in something for his job....and I didn't get to see him. So...I guess I am doing a Daniel fast in the true sense of the word!

**Keep your eye open for some bridal portraits today or tomorrow.**

day off.

2008-08-15T09:17:00.002-04:00

Daniel and I have been working steady for the past several months. We love the amazing things that we get to be a part of...and feel so honored to be a part of it.

But...it's so nice to get a day off.

Thank you Lord for days like today to get things done around the house...get finished in photography....and caught up with friends that I've not had the chance to talk to in a long while.

I have a blessed life.

get yours now!

2008-08-13T09:19:00.006-04:00

At long last the Elevation Worship Cd, "We Are Alive" is now available on iTunes. Go get yours now and feel free to show some love for it by writing a review about it....

You can search for it on iTunes by the following keywords, "elevation worship we are alive" .

Speaking of Elevation Worship...continue to pray for our worship leader Wade Joye and his wife Ferris' twin girls. They have overcome insurmountable odds through the prayers of so many of you...We are believing for complete and total healing for them. Please visit here (Ferris' Blog) for detailed prayer requests and/or here (Wade's blog). They are both sharing very candidly this area of their life...and I believe that so many people will be inspired and changed by it.

If You Can't Laugh At Yourself, Who Will?

2008-08-12T09:29:00.004-04:00

While in Hilton Head Island over July 4 with my family...Daniel and I had caricatures of us done. It was funny to see a cartoonist's rendering of what we would be in animated form. I think it's a pretty close one too!

When I look at this it reminds me to laugh a little more....because if I can't laugh at myself occasionally, who will?

God is teaching me so much about me. I've found myself asking myself things like, "why did I react like that?" or "why do I feel threatened by this or this person?" or "why am I not living in confidence of who God has called me to be?" I have found that a lot of my answers are the same...because I am trying to do it on my own, without the help of the one who's called me. That's a hard pill to swallow...but day-by-day I am leaning more and more on Him.

My encouragement to you is to take your faith a day at a time...and I assure you, He will not let you down.

Amazing Awakenings

2008-08-11T07:15:00.004-04:00

Yesterday at Elevation Church we baptized over 400 people. In the last two weeks God has answered our prayers and baptized 1044 people! That's 1044 lives that God has forever changed. He did it. He receives all the glory.

Thank you Lord for caring about the numbers...because the numbers = people...and people matter. Thank you Lord for the movement that you are starting for this fall and for what's to come beyond. More pictures here (taken by Daniel)

Our bands did an amazing job this Sunday....and I felt when they did Healer, it was especially powerful. Click here to see it done by Hillsongs Live.

Sunday...lives were forever changed. That's what we were created to facilitiate....life-change opportunities. We don't do the life-changing, God does...and thank goodness for that...

Here are a few beautiful moments from our Providence Campus yesterday.

A Friday Affair...

2008-08-09T13:50:00.004-04:00

On Friday afternoon Daniel and I headed off to Lexington, NC, to photograph a wedding of a couple that we know, Sarah & Jeremy. They were married at Childress Vineyards (gorgeous location). The wedding couldn't have had better weather and it was right at sunset. GORGEOUS.

Well...that's the teaser...those pictures are to come....but here are a few (and by a few I mean 15 or so) bridal portraits of Sarah. Click here to view the complete set.

Sunday.

2008-08-04T09:40:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was one of the most amazing Sunday's I have EVER been a part of at Elevation Church! Pastor Furtick unapologetically shared his message about why we should be baptized. He eliminated every possible excuse, reason and obstacle to keep someone that needed to be baptized from getting baptized.

God decided to just blow our socks out of the water...we baptized over 600 people. Yes, you heard me right 600 people! That's 600 lives He's (God) has forever changed that he can use. God did it. I'm amazed, in awe and so thankful that I get to witness what He's doing with my very own eyes.

Both Daniel & Sean Lyon photographed each and every person that got baptized. That way, we can send them the picture and they can remember it. Daniel still has his picuture up in our kitchen (where we spend the majority of our time:) and it reminds us of all that God is doing.

Here are some pictures Sean Lyon took at Butler and some that Daniel took at Providence. God rocks! He gets all of the glory...and His name will be made famous in all the earth.

Dear Mr. WD

2008-08-01T15:35:00.004-04:00

Dear Mr WD,

Last night Daniel and I were editing pictures and dropping some pictures into your hard drive. Then..my phone rang and I had a lap full of work stuff..so Daniel jumped up to answer the phone. When he did, he didn't see you sitting on the floor and tripped over your cord. You then fell the short distance from upright to your side. We then realized...you no longer showed your icon on our desktop.

You wouldn't work at all. We were crazy-sick about all the work we had on you. Today...we called and asked for help. They suggested we stick you in the freezer for 20 minutes and then plug you back in, but, you wouldn't have it. You still don't work.

Our last resort...we called a hard drive disk repair company. They said they would do a diagnostic on you for free...BUT...to repair you would be $350-800 dollars..and if they had to replace parts on you...well then...it could cost $900-$2500 dollars. Now Mr WD, you were only $100 to begin with, why are you so expensive to fix?

They asked how valuable your information was...and we answered VERY. But...we can't afford to fix you until we are multi-millionaires. So until we can...we have to say goodbye and sit you on the shelf.

Should you decide to make an appearance without being fixed...we'll welcome you with open arms!

With disappointment and sadness,
Candice & Daniel

Extreme Makover: Home Edition, Charlotte

2008-07-31T13:26:00.002-04:00

Going tonight to see the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition house that's being built near our house in Charlotte. Did you know that Elevation is a partner in this? Click here to see the website.
More pictures to come. Awesomeness.

An Assortment of Goodness...

2008-07-29T08:44:00.006-04:00

Congrats to Clemson! They are number 1 for having the happiest students in college in the United States. Of course, this is no surprise to me. Click here to see why and to see the rest.
***
If you didn't get a chance, check out Susan & Scott's pictures in the post below from yesterday...
***
Go check out Jeremy Cowart's new website here. It's awesome.
***

I thought I'd share another one of the music videos that I stumbled upon. I think I like this one better than...'All the homies up in da church". Listen to it below.

Susan & Scott

2008-07-28T17:53:00.003-04:00

Daniel & I had the amazing privalege of photographing Susan & Scott's Wedding in Baltimore last month! They had so much fun...and they were the LAST to leave their fun reception! Here's to many years of happiness. Love you! The last 2 pictures have been cut off by the blog layout. To view them in their completeness...click on the image....or go here.

All My Homies Up in Da Church...

2008-07-25T15:56:00.005-04:00

(this is a remake of "Lean like a Cholo". Prepare to laugh.)

My sweet friend/homie Demi posted this today...and I haven't laughed this hard in a while.

Throwbacks.

2008-07-23T08:37:00.003-04:00

I love music. It's at the top of my list of things I love being a part of. I love the way a song can totally move you, whisk you away and take you to another place. I have had some of my best and worst moments AND most all of my favorite memories can be accompanied with a song that takes me there, somehow.

So...I've decided to make it my goal to dig down and find all of my old favorites and have a day of throwbacks each week...possibly intermingled with some of my new faves...

Throwbacks
Like This & Like That --Monica off of her Miss Thang album (listen to this and you'll be bobbing your head in no time....download...you know you want to!)
Before You Walk Out of My Life--also Monica off of her Miss Thang album
Why I Love You So Much--last one off of Monica's Miss Thang album
U.N.I.T.Y- Queen Latifah off of her Black Reign album
Paradise- LL Cool J & Amerie off of his 10 album
All I Have- J. Lo ftg. LL Cool (this one was downloaded by accident...but it was a beautiful mistake)

Weak--SWV for anyone that grew up in the 90s...this was a Walkman Essential. Love it.
I'm So Into You--SWV (you'll have your windows down and the speakers bumpin with this one)

Have a Happy Wednesday...lots of pictures are about to be posted....this week....wait for it...

Thirty something...

2008-07-22T14:25:00.004-04:00

Today is my (Daniel) sister Elizabeth's birthday....and she turns the young age of 30! Since Candice and I are both nearing that nice round looking number, it doesn't seem as bad as it used to. I remember when I was younger seeing a lady in our church wear a "Thirty something" shirt and thinking that I'll probably never get that old....at least not for like 50 more years! But, alas, the years post-college continually get larger than the years in-college.

This is my sister's first birthday in the South and today the heat index is supposed to reach about 105 degrees....hope it's a sweet and not-too-sweaty birthday today, Liz. Enjoy!

Love ya.

(we've come a long way, ain't we, liz?)

Chicken's Up!

2008-07-14T15:54:00.004-04:00

Yeah...I love that phrase. My friends from undergrad would say it often...and well, it kind of stuck!

As promised..we have pictures from the 'Night at McGlohon'...Daniel gets the credit for taking these amazing pictures...I was the second shooter on this one....Nice work love!

Go here to see...

Also...from CD release Sunday...check out pictures from Providence (by Daniel) or Butler (by Sean Lyon)..they are great! Thanks guys for your time volunteering to do these pictures and cranking them out so quickly!!

Sun Stand Still.

2008-07-09T14:47:00.003-04:00

Joshua 10 talks about a Sun Stand Still moment...a miracle that God performed for Joshua. You can check out our series of that here. One of the most monumental services our church has ever been a part of..

I have two life stories I want to share with you....but if you read these...I ask that you let them inspire you, encourage you to pray for them and feel free to keep up with them...

Wade & Ferris
I have the awesome privalege of working with Wade Joye. He is our Worship Pastor here at Elevation Church. He wrote the song that goes with the series mentioned in our first paragraph, Sun Stand Still (click here to read lyrics of song). Ferris, his wife was the talented graphic designer that created our logos for our photography business, The Beautiful Mess.

They recently found out that they were pregnant...then found out that they were pregnant with twin girls! Soon thereafter...they found out that their girls had some health problems...and through an unprecendented series of events...had an emergency C-Section...and had their baby girls Adleigh and Liana at 27 weeks. This all happened 3 weeks ago this Thursday.

Little did Wade realize that when God put the words to that song on their hearts that truly he and Ferris we're going to have to lean on them.
The girls are having a roller coaster day each day...but Wade and Ferris are convinced (as am I) that God is going to heal their babies and have them brought home earlier than anyone could have ever thought. God is using them in so many ways....check out Wade's blog here and Ferris' blog here...to get caught up...click on their archives....

Daniel and I have the awesome opportunity of photographing their sweet girls soon...we'll have those for you down the road...till then...here are a few shots taken by Ferris & Wade...

(Adleigh pictured above, Liana pictured below)

Ashley & Brian
I went to college with Ashley. She's a fun and energizing friend. We haven't seen one another since we graduated,but have kept up with one another on our blogs and e-mails. Ashley found out not too long ago that her husband has Lou Gehrig's Disease. Their local tv channel just did a piece about Brian. Click here to see that video. Please keep Brian and Ashley in your prayers.

God is Good!

2008-07-07T14:20:00.003-04:00

Last night was incredible. We had our cd release at our a.m. services...and then had a full-blown release at, A Night at McGlohon Theater, with all of our volunteers, givers and small group leaders. There are not words to describe how fulfilling this night was. I felt so honored to be a part of the event. I have the best job in the world as Guest Services Director. Our AMAZING volunteers showed out in style....in fact...so much, that the police stopped by and asked if they had a permit to be out. Gail, one of our Greeter Leaders, had her team out welcoming, smiling and cheering on all of our guests outside as they were coming into the theater. They covered an ENTIRE city block. Gail responded by saying, "officer, is there something wrong"

The policeman said, "Man, we've had a couple of complaints that your people have been cheering to loudly, and it's causing a disturbance."

"Oh, I'm sorry officer, we are welcoming people, we aren't protesting." Gail said.

"Ma'am, with the amount of people you have out here, you are going to need a permit."

Gail responds kindly, "but we are welcoming people to our church."

"But you are organized..." says the policeman.

She smiles and responds, "You are right officer, we are organized. The next time we are out here, we'll be sure to have a permit." As he turns to leave, she says, "would you like to come inside and be a part of our service tonight?"

Of course, at this time, all of our staff, including me, that have heard the police were there...made there way to make sure that we had done all that we could do to comply. I can't tell you how rewarding it is for me as the Guest Services Director to have SO many willing volunteers that we need a permit to move forward! I was so proud of how great all of our volunteers worked to make the Night at McGlohon Theater such a special event!!!

Pictures from the night will be posted within the week...we (Daniel and I) are furiosly editing them! Great job to our creative/production department and Pastor Furtick for planning so well...and making the night SO special.

To download the cd go here. To download the chord charts...go here.

Please see post below too....

We Are Alive

2008-07-05T21:17:00.003-04:00

Daniel and I are currently driving back from our mini-vacation in Hilton Head Island. We’re on 95 to be exact. We are listening to our church’s brand new cd (that will be released tomorrow) ‘We Are Alive.’ Pastor Furtick has said that these songs are our stones. Stones from what you may ask? When Israel crossed over the Jordan river, God instructed them to set up 12 stones as a continual remembrance of his miraculous power. Pastor Furtick couldn’t be more right.

As I listen to each song, I think of all that GOD has done for Elevation Church and I’m so thankful that he has allowed us to be a part of this movement. We are HIS humble servants and God, and God alone, receives all the glory for all we do and for ALL the lives that He is bringing to himself.

Lord, you are worthy. I am incapable of having the words to use to describe all that you are and All that you are worthy of and of all that you deserve.

Daniel and I would like to give Ryan Hollingsworth a big shout-out for the top-rate AMAZINGLY divine artwork for this album. When I get famous and sing ‘Legacy’, will you design my album work?

Wade, Mack & Chris….God has rocked our socks off with this album and the songs in it. God couldn’t have chosen 3 more inspiring musicians!

Pastor Furtick’s song that he co-wrote with Carl Cartee, ‘Here in this Place,’ has me in tears every time I hear it. The lyrics couldn’t be more appropriate for what our church exists for. All of you that are reading this blog…you MUST get a hold of this album. Whether you attend Elevation or not….this music is right on.

Here In This Place
Lyrics & Music by Pastor Steven Furtick & Carl Cartee

This is a place for the broken
This is the hope of the world
Jesus, friend of sinners
Jesus, Savior
Here in this place mercy is flowing
Here in this place is the glory of God
All things are new in the presence of Jesus
Father we stand amazed
Here in this place

UNO, anyone?

2008-07-02T22:16:00.002-04:00

So we got hooked up by some friends of Candice's parents with a sweet condo 2 blocks from the Atlantic Ocean in beautiful Hilton Head, SC! It's my (Daniel's) first time to see Hilton Head, and from what I've seen...I could stay here a lot longer than 4 days.

The four of us are already having a fabulous time...eating out at Steamers, taking a leisure walk down the beach around sunset, hanging out at the pool, UNO competition (Debbie rules the table)...it's been a while since Candice and I have taken a real vacation, so we left the picture editing at home and are trying to decompress these brains and backs (though the work laptop came along for internet access!).

We'll keep it real the next few days with pictures to come... :)

Meredith & Jack...

2008-07-01T16:46:00.003-04:00

They dated off and on for 7 years....lots of good history as they grew up together...and this past Saturday we photographed Meredith & Jack's wedding. It was so fun....and the reception was in her parents large backyard. Equipped with gazebos, a large white tent, mesh set ups and in the pool a large 'W' with flowers and candles floating in the water. It was just beautiful. Just like Steel Magnolias, but without the 'bleeding armadillo.' We are working on editing their wedding pictures...but below is the bridal portrait she printed for the wedding. To see a few more (though not all) click here . (post continues below picture...)

At Elevation, our band preformed Robbie Seay Band's song, "Rise"....it was accompanied by an amazing video shot by our interns in Charlotte. It's powerful to say the least. I watched it 3 times and couldn't get enough of it. It's on our Producer's website.....Wes. Click here to go see it. It's amazing, really. (the video does not include Elevation Band's performance, but it's set to Robbie Seay Band doing it).

Raven...

2008-06-25T20:49:00.003-04:00

Our friends Bonnie and Robert brought their 6 month old sweet baby girl, Raven, over to our house...and I took hundreds of pictures. It was so much fun. There are a few that I would do 2 different looks to by using Totally Rad Actions (which we love, worth your money...seriously) So...I'm going to number the duplicates and would love to hear from you which action you like best.

Thanks in advance for participating!

Raven #1- bw

Raven #1- color

Raven #2- color

Raven #2-Old Skool Fast

Raven #3

Raven #4

cacophonic...

2008-06-24T22:19:00.005-04:00

It's a quiet night in the Lanning house...

So quiet I can hear the house creak.

Candice is away at a staff advance for 2 days so I'm home alone, lacking my best friend to have conversation with....need I say more?

I will.

This week our church is participating in a "kill the television" week. We're all keeping the tv off from Monday-Friday.

And if you still think it isn't quiet enough around the house...our loud and rowdy neighbors decided to take the night off and haven't made a sound...it could only happen when Candice is gone.

Yeah....I think I'll go find some chirping birds to invite into the house so I can have a little noise other than the occasional drip of the kitchen sink faucet (which I still need to fix)...or the ice maker in the fridge doing its thing every thirty minutes.

And while having the house so quiet can be strange and awkward at times (i'm too lazy to get my iPod out of the car), it's actually quite soothing. Living and working in the city can be so hectic and cacophonic (spell check doesn't like my adjustment to the english language...but I like the feel of the word) that days can go by before I really have an uninterrupted moment to just rest without any noise.

So here's to an awkwardly quiet night at home...hopefully I wake up to the alarm tomorrow without help from Candice.

No post should ever be without a picture....Enjoy.

I miss you, love.

Susan & Scott...

2008-06-20T06:47:00.003-04:00

I am so looking forward to the shoot that Daniel and I will be doing this weekend! We are driving up to Baltimore, MD, to see one of my best college gal pals, Susan. She's marrying a wonderful guy named Scott. In college, we had some great times laughing, pranking and singing.

We were so honored to have her sing for us in our wedding ....and now we'll be photographing hers! Here are a few old pix of us....MANY more to come from this weekend...

2002

Jan. 2007

2002

Herron's

2008-06-20T06:34:00.002-04:00

In our last post, we were talking about our visit to Six Mile, SC. It was wonderful to shoot one of my friend's family. Almost 2 years ago, when I first started getting serious about photography, Lori asked me to do a shoot for her family. They were wonderful and fun...and gave me lots of practice.

Well, she called us up and asked us to come back to do another. We couldn't wait to do it for her...and jumped at the opportunity. She even had her sweet nephew to join in some of the festivities. Below are a few fun pictures from the day.

Superstition + Clemson University. = Happiness

2008-06-19T09:32:00.003-04:00

"Very superstitous, writings on the wall...." the sounds of one of my all time favorite musicians, Stevie Wonder, are in the earbuds as we speak. That song wants to make me get up and walk the streets with a strut like John Travolta's in Saturday Night Fever or maybe even do some dance that the BeeGees would do. I'm amazed at how music moves me like an old friend visiting or a wonderful memory that pops back into your head and makes you smile.

Speaking of things that make me smile...

Daniel and I had a great opportunity about 3 weekends ago to go to Six Mile, SC, to photograph a family there. Since Six Mile is so close to Clemson (which is a town and a University...and where I went to grad school) we took a visit there. I showed Daniel some of my favorite spots there like, Mac's Drive In, Ancheaux's, Death Valley, Tillman Hall, and Canterbury Drive. Below are a few of our pictures from that day... There will be a link under each picture...if you click on it...it will take you to it's flickr site and give you a description of each area... (our fun facts are courtesy of ClemsonWiKi )Enjoy...

Pat at Mac's Drive In

Mac's Drive In History..

Howard's Rock History...

Tillman Hall History

Memorial Stadium History

A picture I didn't want to post on the blog here...*wink wink* .

Memorial Day...

2008-06-18T11:33:00.002-04:00

...Daniel and I are a little behind in posting pictures...but here are just a couple of snapshots from our Memorial Day of the sweet Miss Arden.. We had a great time hanging out with our friends, the Lyles. Pool, watermelon and a cookout= A classic and wonderful Memorial Day.

Feeling Like a Failure?

2008-06-17T10:40:00.002-04:00

I think there are times in our lives, more often than not, we are our own worst critic. I’m guilty of it. When I was part of the band at whatever place of life I was at, after every service, I’d listen to the playbacks…and instead of noticing the good parts…I focused on what was flawed.

We can put on an outfit that we feel great in. But notice that our stomach is muffin topping or that our hair is flat or something….It’s easy to pick out our flaws.

This past Sunday at Elevation (where I work) I was at the Providence campus. As Guest Services Director I’m over all campuses for the following areas: lobby, parking, ushers, First Impressions (bathrooms), and First Time Guests. That includes hundreds of peoples and leaders. When something goes wrong on Sunday…I have to make corrections and changes to it for the week coming up. Sometimes those mishaps happen before my very eyes, brought to me from another campus, or shown to me on the campus that I happen to be at.
A trap that I often fall into is that allow those mistakes own me. I had an epiphany on Sunday when someone was showing me something that was not running as it could have been….it was this, “Own every mistake, but don’t let every mistake own you.”
Freedom. Yes, that statement brings me freedom. It’s hard to not let our flaws, mistakes and mishaps own us. The solution: we should do all in our power to make things better, but don’t let them own you.

I pray that in your own life, you will own up to those things that you are responsible for in life…but don’t let them own you.

**Daniel and I had the privilege of being a part of the ‘Safe Journey’ Graduation. What an awesome time to be a part of what God is doing in the community. Click here to see a few of those pictures that we took.**

Double Dad Days....

2008-06-15T19:09:00.003-04:00

**Lots and lots of pictures coming this week. We had 3 photo-shoots alone on Friday...and have weddings, bridals and more to post Getting caught up...feels good, really good**

dad bob:

happy father's day! thank you for being such a great father and working so hard to provide for our family. i know you have sacrificed a lot over these many years for us children and it does not go unnoticed. thank you for teaching me to love all kinds of people. thank you for teaching me a good work ethic. thank you for encouraging me to find a vision beyond our home town. it is an honor to have both you and mom still alive to be a part of candice and my life together. i'm so thankful you were able to see me fall in love with candice and take part in our wedding...i know it is something your father would have loved to have seen for you. i hope there are many, many, many more years for you to live on this earth and that our relationship can continually grow stronger. know that you are loved unconditionally by the wife and me.

dad david (belonging to Candice)

I know that the only way you'll read this is if mom pulls it up for you and shows it to you...'cause I know that the internet world isn't really your thing. I love that about you...you are true to yourself...and you love flea markets on early Saturday mornings, looking at tools and electronics at stores and sports. I love how you love mom. I love how you go the extra mile for her. You showed me by living it out in front of Matthew and me. You pray hard for all things and have taught us, with mom, how to love and follow after the Lord.I love how hard you work and how much you care about people. I love that you make people feel like their somebody, no matter what walk of life they come from. You showed me what a husband was supposed to look like. I won't ever forget my conversations with you, "Dad....I hope I am able to find someone like you...because you're the best man I know..." Thanks to you ...I was able to know what that looked like--and I found him! Thanks for being my modern day Bill Cosby....but you were 100Xs better.

Thank you for loving Daniel just as much as you love me. You are the best dad I know....and I love coming home to visit you...because being around you is like a going to a warm memory in my mind. I always go back and think of it...We love you....a ton!

Happy Birthday MOM!

2008-06-14T08:17:00.002-04:00

A special Happy Birthday to my Mom (Daniel here...) today! In true Daniel Lanning fashion...here's a birthday poem for you!

It is so hard to celebrate
With you so far away
To show how much we love you
On this special day

There's been a few dozen birthdays
Over these past few years
But we hope they keep getting sweeter
And be void of any tears (unless they are happy tears)

So on this day be merry
And take some time for you
Know there is much love coming from the south
From this two-person Lanning Crew

**We love you Mom!

Just past two....

2008-06-11T13:55:00.003-04:00

It was just past two o'clock 445 days ago that Candice and I committed our lives to each other in marriage. It's amazing that only 810 days ago we made our first contact. I've been alive for roughly 9,700 days, so we're not even close to a tenth of my lifetime knowing each other. In so many ways, it's hard for me to remember life before Candice.....going thru college without knowing her, playing all those high school and college sports without her watching, owning and renovating my first house only knowing her near the end....sometimes I just assume that Candice received this little file in her brain when we got married that shows her my life story, but there isn't such a thing.

One of the most enjoyable times in my day is when Candice and I are just hanging out and I learn something new about her...whether it's recent or 15 years old...like that she's now using fluoride for her teeth or that she used to use a British accent when she would go on vacation with her family...

I look forward to the day when there are more memories of us together than memories made before we knew each other. I'm understanding how marriage can be special every single day and that it just gets better and better when both spouses put in to a relationship.

In the words of the country singer, James Otto, "I'm thankful for the weekend, But two days in heaven just ain't gonna do...Trust me when I tell you darlin, Girl I just got started lovin you."

It's a pleasure each and every day to be your husband, Candice.

(p.s. this picture is from the first time we met in Columbia, SC...we started it off right with southern bbq...how could i resist?)

Honeycutt or Honey'CUTE"

2008-06-09T12:09:00.001-04:00

Last weekend we had a great opportunity to photograph some of my friends I went to undergrad with. Brad and Kendall have been married 4 years...and have two cute kids (Chihuahuas named Nacho & Chimi). I am learning that animals are a bit unpredictable to shoot...but it couldnt' have been more fun! We had such great photos of them-and I think it's a result of their obvious GREAT love for one another.

Here are a few pictures of our friends...to see a few more go here. *Note...we didn't upload them all...but we could have..they were so great!

We eat problems...for breakfast.

2008-06-08T21:01:00.003-04:00

If you don't know that there is a problem...you can't fix it. Therefore, it lies rusting underneath the service to cause more issues in the future. It's painful to expose problems. No one likes to see them...and at times, they are downright unflattering (not sure if that's a real word...but go with me...)

I'm learning on a day-to-day basis that all problems are not bad--there are just areas that need extra love and attention.

So..this is short and sweet...but let me encourage you to unearth problems...eat them for breakfast. If you can be bold enough to expose them...and find solutions for them, no matter how painful...you will become a better leader, organization, family, etc. It applies to all areas of our lives.

Pinned up on the inside!

2008-06-05T09:11:00.003-04:00

I (Candice) have had several blogs pinned up on the inside of me the past couple of days...the way they used to be pinned up back in the days of my blog, "China Girl Quotes." I've had zero time to post....but today...I'm going to share some and hopefully share some tomorrow as well.

Let me first say...it's quite an experience for me doing Guest Services at Elevation Church. I've always considered myself a leader. But a real leader doesn't just lead people, they also lead other leaders. What's the difference, you may ask? Well...there are people and volunteers that just enjoy being led, shown where to go and they will own whatever you ask of them...but leaders...are different.

When leading a leader you will need to provide the why's, how come's and more. Leaders think of all of the detail that it takes to pull something off--not just the task. Leaders see the bigger picture and realizes the sacrifice that it will take to get there. Leaders look out for their teams and the best interest of the ministry itself and of those following.

I never in a million years would have guessed that God would have placed me in a position to lead leaders...but I am being stretched and challenged every step of the way. It's exciting and frustrating at the same time. If you are leading leaders, I imagine that you will feel some of the same things--but in the end, when you ask leaders to take a risk with you for a vision bigger than yourself, if they are the right leaders--they will go there with you. BUT....not without the 'why'.

Let me encourage you to not be discouraged by leaders needing to know the why--lead them in a way that they have confidence in the vision that you are placing before them.

***
In a personal note...Happy 77th Birthday Pa! I love you so much and wish we lived closer. His birthday was actually June 3rd...but I'm posting it late...

Payton & Laney

2008-06-02T14:25:00.002-04:00

We met Payton and Laney through their mom and dad (Brandi & Quinnton)at Elevation Church. Brandi has quickly become one of my favorite and most kind people I know. I couldn’t ask for nicer people and sweeter children to photograph. Payton (the oldest) was so funny…she wanted to pose like a model in every picture…it was hard for her to be in her natural habitat while Laney couldn’t be still for more than a moment. What fun!

Here are a few of our faves from the day…

A few more here....and here....and last but not least...here. (There were so many more to post...but I'm trying to learn the art of only sharing a few...much to learn for me).

The Smith's...

2008-05-29T23:09:00.004-04:00

Brendan, Heather, Lindsay & Tyler...they make up the Smith family.Two weeks ago we had the awesome privalege of photographing this family. Two super fun parents with the cutest 3-year old twins. The twins fed off of one another's energy...and they had the same wonderful laid back personality as their parents...

Below are a couple of pictures that share their unique and sweet personalities....

Wind Blown Out Of Your Sails

2008-05-28T08:52:00.002-04:00

Ever just felt defeated? There are so many things in our life that we often allow to dictate our worth. Even things that are beyond our control can dictate our worth. We allow someone’s words, criticisms (constructive or not), traffic, family….to determine our worth.

I am so guilty of feeling this way at times. Circumstances determine my countenance at times, and that should not be so. My worth is not found in my own abilities…but my worth is in Christ. I am a child of the most high king—and no matter what is going on, he is watching me and you—and we ARE important, so much so that Jesus gave his life to us on the cross. It’s sobering to think about it.

In Isaiah 49, I imagine Jesus speaking this about us, though I know he’s talking about Israel…in my estimation Israel equates to his people…and that we are. I am amazed that God would even think of us to allow us to be a part of his vision. Check out Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Bible and his understanding of this passage. The commentary really brought out God’s love for me to light. I pretend to be no scholar—so check it out and see what it may mean to you.

Allow the Lord to speak into you and allow him in you to dictate your worth. You were placed on this earth to be so much more than someone making it day to day. You were made to flourish, make a difference and feel empowered by the wonderful power God has placed within us to accomplish MUCH for his kingdom. I believe there is DESTINY in you.

Kathy & Forrest...and a family affair...

2008-05-26T10:03:00.006-04:00

...while doing a 2nd Engagement shoot with Kristy & John...we did engagement shots with Kristy's sister & fiance', Kathy & Forrest. It was so fun to shoot them. They played up to the camera and were such good sports.

It was an interesting challenge shooting both simultaneously. Daniel and I were both shooting..then we would switch couples. If that's not interesting enough...we then did some of them all together. They turned out great...and we learned so much....check out a few of Kathy & Forrest's pictures below...to see the rest...go here.

We've also posted a few of them together below...but to see the rest of those...click here.

p.s. We got a d300 yesterday with a sweet fisheye lens. We got a FANTASTIC deal. Can't wait to shoot with it.....

Now some of BOTH sisters and their loves together...

Kristy & John

2008-05-25T22:58:00.003-04:00

...let me start by saying...this weekend with the fam was great. We celebrated my dad's 54th birthday...it was his golden birthday! More to come on that later...

...back to Kristy and John. He slowly walked her up the beautiful St. Simon's Island Lighthouse. It was getting dark outside and the ring was burning a hole into his pocket. She had an inkling that it was coming...and her heart beat with excitement. He got down on one knee at the top of the lighthouse and asked Kristy to be forever his....

...they had one set of engagement pictures in November...but had to have another set at St. Simon's Island...because of the memories they had to have captured there. Below are a few of our favorites. Click here to see more.

U-N-I-T-Y

2008-05-23T09:35:00.002-04:00

(from Left to Right: Ryan Hollingsworth, me, & John Bishop...we dressed all matchy-matchy unintentionally...and used my point-and-shoot courtesy of Gene Lakey to take the photo)

...that's a Uni-ty...UNITY... yeah. I love that Queen Latifah song. (As pictured above..we're so unified we dress alike ;-) Unity...it's something that doesn't come easy, but something that is worked for and maintained. It's a choice.

If I could say something was most important at church to have...I would say that UNITY would rank in the top 5. It means that everyone knows and feels the weight of carrying out their part of the ONE vision that's been placed before us.

The hardest part is putting aside personal preferences for the vision. But in the end...who really cares what color the carpet ends up being or how loud the music is...are people getting saved in the end? Let's be a part of something unified...becasue if it's not unified, it's divided.

p.s. Yesterday was my sweet daddy's birthday. Happy Happy Birthday. A special post will be coming soon. Wait for it...wait for it....