The Fall issue of Manhattan Magazine has been out for a couple of weeks — this was a fun, fun issue to photograph! Pulling these stories together is such a collaborative effort of writers, editors and other contributors, including the people whose businesses, lives and homes we showcase with each issue.

This issue is full of heartwarming stories, from the two little guys who stole my heart at Christy’s Farm to the adorable kiddos featured in “Growing up Manhattan”. I loved the energy of all the kiddos… I can’t bypass the amazing story of the Sheffield home and how their decision to build a new home right after 9/11 was the best decision they ever made for their family.

And this cover shot is one of my favorites from this story…check the whole issue out!

Ever since they met, he knew she was the one. Back in high school, he pledged her love to her and said they’d marry one day… and this summer, their one day became forever. Surrounded with the love of their amazing friends and closest family, they were excited to celebrate this day and the promise of an amazing future together. Cheers and encouragement bubbled throughout the room while a women’s soccer World Cup game filled the tv, as the girls prepared at the Overland Park Marriott.

I loved this moment from their first look…

I loved Alison’s nontraditional choice of a wedding ring — the dark blue sapphire was gorgeous.

Their reception was held at Shadow Glen Golf Club ::  so charming and had lots of beautiful spaces for portraits.

Huge thanks to Kami from OrangePeel Photography; I loved having her as a second photographer for the day! Alison and John, I’m grateful to you for having us document your wedding day. I wish you all the very best of everything ahead! Cheers!

K-State, and Manhattan, have always been a second home to Katie and Brian. So much so, in fact, that they were happy to move back to the area this summer to take advantage of an opportunity for Katie’s career. It was like coming home again, a comfortable, familiar community where they first met and began their relationship. It seemed only fitting to photograph their engagement in the places where it all began, and I can’t wait to document what’s sure to be a beautiful wedding in just a couple of weeks!

Katie wore the same dress she donned on their first date as we made our way around Aggieville on the warm fall day.

Katie — you are gor.ge.ous! You’re going to be a beautiful, beautiful bride.

A quick change and we headed to the Kansas State University campus…

This was a day Wendy had looked forward to for a long, long time :: the day she’d finally begin married life together with her soul mate. She was radiant, bursting with such excitement to finally say I do, while Austin, even in all his calm demeanor, was focused on one thing — making sure their day was filled with joy. And on the hottest day of the year (well, I think every day between April and October in Hays must be hot…) they warmed the hearts of everyone around them as vows were exchanged and happy tears were shed.

Laughter filled the spaces of every room throughout the day — lighthearted jokes from their friends, well wishes of family, and the cheerful conversations about what the future holds for them. I was pleased to have Rik of Rik Andes Photography photographing alongside me, although he didn’t seem to melt in the heat as much as I did.

After the ceremony, a few portraits on the Fort Hays State University campus ::

Wendy and Austin, it was a delight to meet your wonderful families and get to know the friends and people who have helped shape the people you are, and shared in your experiences individually and as a couple. Best wishes for a life filled with days as joyful as your wedding day! Cheers!

Just look at this little cutie! At three weeks old, he was a fun age to photograph — totally aware of his momma’s soft and sweet voice, and so content in her arms. We photographed him in the family’s home, which is where newborns are generally most comfortable among such familiar surroundings. I found myself quickly enamored with his little belly rolls and sweet, chubby cheeks.

Asleep in heavenly peace.

Soft, gentle, and so, so sweet.

One of the family’s favorite things to do together is make music — dad is an amazing guitarist, so it was really special to him to have this portrait. And the blanket is was made just for Trey — it was warm and thick and incredibly soft!

I never tire of seeing how much mommas love on their little ones.

And even better when dad gets in on it, too! A timeless family portrait, in my book. This is how I’d want to remember the early days….

Such a happy, sleepy peanut.

Thanks, Trey and family, for asking me to capture these early days as a family for you!

I photographed this little cutie with his big sister last fall :: and this time, it was his turn to have the spotlight all by himself! He’s a total boy’s boy, who doesn’t go anywhere without his favorite John Deere in one hand and clutching his “guy” in the other.

We visited a friend’s farm near their home, with (gasp!) real John Deere tractors. But first we had to check out the other sheds and see if we could find anything cool.

I love the curiosity of little boys… I think it’s a characteristic we abandon much too early in life.

We found a metal frame and it fit him perfectly!

Then we moved on to the real deal :: a game of hide and seek totally brought out the giggles. (don’t you love his little cowboy boots?!)

And he drove his “little Deeres” around the wheel of the big ones.

Little boys and their toys…

Thinking about family or portraits like this of your kiddos this fall? Only TWO sessions are available for holiday ordering! Email me (info {at} cathymoresphotography {dot} com) or fill out the contact form above for more information.