hello, i'm marissa.
MY WHY
Since I was little, I've had a heart for people. At three, I dreamt of becoming a doctor, because I wanted to help others. Then, when I was four, my little brother, Zachary, was born. With bright eyes and blonde curls, he was the most angelic baby. But as time went on, his initial charm was overshadowed by intense tantrums and missed milestones. He was soon diagnosed with Autism and severe developmental delay.
I was always super protective of my little brother, just wanting everyone to see him as a person. My brother taught me the importance of treating every person with equal respect and dignity.
Later, as a psych nurse, I had the privilege of connecting with people from all walks of life. This
broadened my worldview and intensified my love for humanity. So, now, I take all that affection for people and the joy of human connections and pour it into my photography.
God designed us to be in community and intimately connected to one another. I'm grateful that my camera enables me to capture this intimate bond between two individuals. My goal is for the couple in front of my camera to know that no matter who they love, their love is worthy and that no matter what they look like, they are beautiful. My hope will always be that someone who doesn’t see themselves as beautiful or doesn’t see their love as worthy will see the couples in my photos and know that they are stunning and that their love is perfect.
a bit about me
I'm a cookie enthusiast, but I'm a bit of a cookie snob. I insist on that perfect balance of slightly crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside. None of that Famous Amos or Chips Ahoy stuff for me!
When I'm not on a cookie quest, I love exploring God's creation, whipping up delicious treats in the kitchen, getting lost in a good book, and watching movies. You'll also find me dabbling in graphic and interior design, along with a bit of gardening.
Thrift stores are my playground — finding hidden treasures and snagging great deals is my idea of a good time. And, I can't resist the allure of Home Goods and TJ Maxx.
But, honestly, my heart is happiest when I'm hanging out with my family, being goofy, and sharing lots of laughs.
brown butter chocolate chip
FAVORITE COOKIE
any pasta dish
FAVORITE FOOD
Bachelor in Paradise
GUILTY PLEASURE
the Office
FAVORITE SHOW
definitely sweet
SALTY OR SWEET?
outgoing introvert
INTROVERT OR EXTROVERT?
THE JOURNEY
Photography entered my life unexpectedly when I was overwhelmed with being a pre-med student and quite unsure about what I wanted to do. I was pretty timid, and I didn't like stepping out of my comfort zone. Photography offered a creative outlet I didn't know I needed. It quickly evolved into a passion, and I experienced a newfound sense of freedom and confidence. God orchestrated some crazy connections and events that brought me into the wedding industry. I learned how to step out of my comfort zone, direct others with confidence, and skillfully manage the flow of a wedding day. Photography became more than a creative escape; it was a journey of self-discovery.
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WHO I LOVE
I've known my high school sweetheart for a whopping 19 years, and we've been married for a solid decade. The love is still as strong as ever! Our two kiddos, Atlas (5) and Athena (6 months), keep things lively and full of joy. Growing up, I always wanted to fast-forward to the next stage of life, but now, being a wife and mama feels like the sweetest spot.
THE THINGS I VALUE
creating photos that represent you
all love
getting your skin tone right
good cookies
family
transparency
genuine inclusivity
growth & learning
living & loving like Jesus
"Marissa is one of the warmest, kindest people you'll ever meet."
COLIN + MINDY
"Marissa was overall the most genuine, caring, and comforting photographer I’ve ever experienced."
HALEY
"Marissa is professional, responsive, and makes you feel right at ease in front of the camera."
MATT + ALIDA
13
years experience
200+
couples captured
5-STAR
