Molly and Devin - Kalamazoo engagement session

When I first met this couple I could tell they were something special. Molly has such a vibrant energy that compliments Devin's steady personality perfectly. When we were talking engagement photo ideas, they mentioned the restaurant where Devin proposed, and I couldn't have been more thrilled to include the location in their portraits (Also, Principle is flipping fantastic and easily one of my favorite spots in the city). The weather may have been bitterly cold that day but they were both troopers in the outdoors, and you would never know it to look at the photos!

Seeing how easy they were to photograph makes me extra pumped for their wedding in June!

Gift ideas for your guy (That don't suck)

It seems like the longer you’ve been with someone, gift giving becomes oddly challenging. With each passing month, I know David’s likes and dislikes even better, but I also begin to realize that he has pretty much already purchased everything that he wants.
This leaves me scrambling for an awesome gift that is somehow also original. Rather than panic-buying a cutting board like last Valentines day (I know, I’m about as romantic as celery) I really put my head to the task and came up with a list of dude-friendly V-day gifts that don’t suck...

1. Damn Handsome Grooming Co

Do you think your man is handsome? Damn right you do.

Damn Handsome Grooming Co. is founded on the concept of creating the finest grooming products from the byproducts of beer manufacturing (Which is pretty much the manliest thing since the hatchet pizza cutter). They aren’t all beard balms and mustache wax either, some of their other offerings include Juniper IPA beer soap, the Barrel Aged Oak candle, and Gingerbread Stout lip balm.

Photo by Damn Handsome Grooming co

http://www.damnhandsomegroomingco.com/

 

 

2. Grayling Ceramics

Nothing says “I love you” quite like handmade, and the people at Grayling Ceramics got it right. From mugs that fit in your hand perfectly, to growlers for toting that beloved craft beer, he’s sure to love this one even more with each use. (Bonus points for my favorite piece in their shop: the bear growler)

Photo by Grayling Ceramics

http://www.graylingceramics.com/

3. Craft Beer

Speaking of beer, which significant other wouldn’t appreciate a six pack of their favorite brew? Sometimes we think so hard we overlook the obvious. For my dear hometowntown of Kalamazoo at least, it’s no sooner said than found.

Try:
Gonzo’s Vanilla Porter

Bell’s Brewery Two Hearted IPA

Founders Kentucky Breakfast Stout

Entrada Photography

4. Experience Counts

If the gentleman in your life values experiences over items, why not embrace that? When David’s birthday was coming up, rather than cave and buy him a small anvil for the living room (long story) I decided to knock an item off his travel bucket list and bought a pair of plane tickets to New Orleans. It doesn’t have to be elaborate either, a weekend getaway or a concert full of his favorite tunes would be so appreciated!

Entrada Photography

5. Boudoir Photo Album

Whether you want to add some fire to date night or you’re just foxy and you know it, a boudoir photo session is not only a guaranteed original present, but is also 100% personalized. He gets to see you at your most confident and most radiant, and you are reminded of the bomb shell you always knew you were. Win-win. Whether you compile the finished images into a photobook, hand over some glossy prints, or just gift a flash drive he’s sure to swoon. 
(While I don’t really advertise this one, I totally offer boudoir sessions upon request!)

Photo by Nations Photo Lab

http://www.nationsphotolab.com/boudoir_albums.aspx

Do you have any more Valentines ideas that are sure to please? Drop them in the comment section below!
Happy Valentines Day
- Esther