RYAN + JILL MARRIED

In the days leading up to Ryan + Jill's wedding, snow was falling and anxiety was climbing. This is the biggest gamble when having an outdoor wedding in Colorado - that we can have a freak snowstorm at the end of May ... or June, or July! But rest assured, the phrase is solid. "If you don't like the weather in Colorado, wait 5 minutes."  And that we did. The day of their wedding finally came, and we had a sunny and 60 degree ceremony, with most of the snow melted. 

It was a beautiful ceremony, at Arrowhead Golf Course. Their landscape is breathtaking, and the couple is stunning. The ingredients to an amazing wedding day. The outdoor space, overlooking the red rocks, adorned with crisp white chairs for the guests to enjoy the ceremony. Jill and Ryan picked an amazing location. 

With no first look scheduled, the couple made their way around the venue in rotations, as to not get a peek of eachother before the moment when Jill walks down the aisle. Mission accomplished.

These two families that came together on that day in May are two gems. They both left me feeling like I became an honorary member of their families, and I was very lucky to be a part of this small moment in their lives.  I cant speak more highly of the families, the bride and groom, the wedding party and the guests. They are full of love and laughs and I know their future is going to be bright. I can't wait to see how Jill and Ryan's life unfolds, now as one. Congratulations!

Venue: Arrowhead Golf Course
Flowers: Petals Floral + Gifts
Hair: Amanda Barbieri
Makeup:  Leah Patterson 
Dress: Davids Bridal 
Suites: Men's Wearhouse
DJ: Matt Rowles

Photographer turned Bride-To-Be

All photos taken by my amazing brother, Ryan, who grabbed my camera sitting on the couch and captured this amazing moment for us. 

It's taken me a little bit to write this post, as my mind is a complete blur. We just got back from a vacation to Sayulita, Mexico. If you haven't checked out this surf town, you're missing out! ((And behind trend!)) But shhhhh, we don't want it to become the next Cancun. 

Sayulita has easily become one of my favorite places, because during our stay, Shea asked me to be his wife! It was the most magical moment filled with tears, hugs, smiles and one loud YES! 

The story: Shea and I love traveling, and we recently got word of Sayulita, Mexico from some close friends. We gathered up our family and their significant others and made our way down to this colorful surf town, right outside of Puerto Vallarta.  The house we rented at the top of a hill was stunning, with views of the whole town, the beach and the sunset was insane. Another fun fact: we love to cook. We're always cooking up a storm at home so on vacation, you better believe we'll be cooking just as much. With a huge outdoor kitchen on our rooftop patio, the food was prepping hard. The scene is set. 

As the sun started to go down, I'm elbows deep in garlic shrimp getting them on skewers to grill. Shea stops and gathers everyone around for a toast to the view, the company, and ultimately to us. At the beginning of his toast, I'm a little preoccupied as I couldn't find a towel to dry my hands after washing them. Dripping water from my fingers, he turns the toast to me. "And that's why in front of you all, I would like to ask Ash to be my wife." Wait, what?! OMG it's happening! 

Shea is down on one knee and I start to tear up. The ring is stunning! I'm pretty sure at this point I cussed a few time "F*€% yes I'll marry you!" Or something to that effect. Honestly, I don't remember. I think I blacked out a bit. Haha. Can't take me anywhere. 

Dinner is served and we eat our bellies full. Then after a ton of photos we hit the town and find live music at a rooftop bar. My life couldn't be better at this moment. I have a my best friend that I get to marry, our family is with us, we're in another country dancing to live salsa music. Pinch me. 

Well, that's the story of the best day of my life (so far). I can't wait to explore more of this world with my soon to be husband. Holy shit, it's so cool to say that. I love you, Shea.  

So, what's been the best part of wedding planning for you? Your favorite store? The best advice you have received? Tell me everything, friends!

Wedding Traditions: The Real Why.

Your wedding day is an event you dream about your whole life. The dress, the flowers, the venue, your dad walking you down the aisle, seeing which single friend of yours will catch the bouquet.... wait what?! Why do we throw our beautiful flowers in the air to a mob of single women? You paid good money for those flowers!!  How does that signify who's getting married next? Did you plant magical seeds in that bouquet? Is the phone number of her MR RIGHT neatly written on a rustic burlap and lace tag, tied to the bouquet with ribbon?

Have you ever really looked at the traditions we follow, and wonder why?  Are we following wedding day special events we no longer believe in? Why is the bride's dress white?  Why can't the groom see the bride before the ceremony? Why is there a wedding party? No, it's not so we can treat our friends to an unlimited supply of booze and potential single mates. 

Seriously, why are we doing these things on the most planned and dreamed about day of a womans life!?  I'm going to break down 6 of the most popular traditions that may have an unknown and/or strange meaning. Keep reading ya'll. Its about to get good. 

1. The White Dress
A wedding dress is a women's biggest decision on her wedding, besides the person she's marrying!  Color, style and ceremonial importance of the gown can depend on the religion and culture of the wedding participants. Most brides choose a dress of white to symbolize purity of the soul. It doesn’t matter if you know, deep in your heart, that you are embarrassingly clumsy and WILL drop something on all that pristine white satin. The modern choice is white, however white has evolved into many options these days: ivory, off white, champagne, etc, etc etc.  Just only 200 years ago though, the choice of color was red!  It wasn't until Queen Victoria rebelliously choose a white lacy wedding dress in 1840, that it became the fashionable choice. My advice: Wear whatever color you like, brides-to-be. Be yourself, and do you!

2. Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue.
I have to wear something old and stinky? Something that's not mine? And something that doesn't match my colors? Why?
The meaning behind "Something Old":  Stay connected to your family and where you came from. Okay, this is kind of sweet. Wear your grandmothers ring, or your mother's bracelet. 
The meaning behind "Something New": Signifies Good Fortune in your life. We could all use a little good fortune, right?! Your dress counts. Done and done. 
The meaning behind: "Something Borrowed": To remember that your friends will always be there to support you.  Queue the music: I get by with a little help from my friends! Right!?
The meaning behind: "Something Blue": A symbol of faithfulness and loyalty. Makes sense I suppose, but what if blue isn't my color?  Hide something in your bouquet like a blue charm. 

3. Unifying the Bridesmaids Outfits.
Why do your girls all have to wear the same dress, in the same color, and carry the same flowers? Traditionally they even dressed the same as the bride! Wait, I thought you weren't supposed to wear white to a wedding unless you're the bride?!  Its true! In ancient times, bridesmaids dressed exactly like the bride, in hopes to confuse evil spirits hovering over their wedding.  Now thankfully, brides are getting creative and letting their bridesmaids dress to fit their personal style and body type. 

4. Not seeing each other before the ceremony
As a wedding photographer, I don't like this one. The earlier you two see each other, the more photo opportunities we can create during the day. Plus, the "First Look" is a seriously beautiful moment.  But this is a modern revision to this ancient tradition.  Believe it or not, this is a tradition to keep the groom committed to the marriage up until the last minute so he can't back out!  Especially in arranged marriages, the fear is that the groom will see the bride before the ceremony and not go through with the marriage. The veil comes into play at this point. To buy more time throughout the ceremony without seeing the bride, the veil remains covering the brides face until the official kiss, so there's no way the groom can decline! Different religions have their revisions to this tradition and you'll see this even in modern times. In my opinion, this is the day to show the brides beauty, happiness and love to everyone - so don't cover her up!

5. Wedding Flowers + Throwing the Bouquet
Wedding flowers are some of my favorite details of the wedding day. They are meticulously arranged, based on color, size and smell of each particular stem. In ancient times, they were not only a decoration, but a shield. The origin of this tradition is a little blurred…. One of the reasons that brides carried bouquets was born out of the ‘necessity’ of covering odor, trying to smell pretty on that special day. Bathing was not an every day thing back then! Another old and popular custom for carrying a bouquet, was to ward of evil spirits.  Usually these bouquets were made from very pungent herbs, spices and yes, garlic could be involved.  I am thinking that you could kill two birds with one stone with a garlic bouquet; evil spirits and evil odor could be knocked out with one bouquet! Oh the old days!

The second part of this tradition is throwing the bouquet. In ancient times, it was tradition for wedding guests to rip off a part of the brides dress, as an offering of herself and good fortune to her guests. Can you imagine?! I'd be so pissed to have my dress ruined! So it evolved, that the bride outsmart her guest by giving an alternate offering of herself and allowing herself to keep her clothing intact: she starting throwing her garter and bouquet in lieu of pieces of her dress. The tossing of the bridal bouquet is a custom that roots in England and was believed to be a non destructive way for the bride to pass along her good fortune to others. The lucky one who catches the bouquet/garter carries the good fortune and is supposedly in route to finding their life partner.

6. Throwing Confetti or Rice at the Bride and Groom.
Ouch - that hurts! Throwing things at people isn't usually a very nice thing to do, but on your wedding day its great! This tradition can be traced back to ancient times and symbolizes wishing the marriage to be as abundant and fruitful as the grain. It also sends good vibes your way, in the hopes you'll be as fertile as the seeds thrown at you.  In this day though, not everyone wants kids, so be careful if you have this tradition at your wedding, and you may end up with a baby bump! 

What other traditions are you confused about? Comment with the tradition and I'll look into it! Cheers!

Making the Leap

Oh that pup? That's Teller. Our blue heeler mix furbaby.

Yesterday was my last day I'll sit in a cubicle. My last day of working towards someone else's dreams. Today, I woke up, and sleepily strolled into the next room, to my home office. My studio space. The tiny little bedroom-converted-office that will be the space where I'll make my dreams come to life.

I'm no stranger to hustle. I can not remember a time where I was only working 1 job. During college, I worked on campus at multiple spots, off campus serving tables, played collegiate softball, and took a full schedule of art classes. Since college, I have had full-time jobs, plus tons of side-hustles.  I have glorified "being busy", until today.  Today, I woke up with 1 job. A full-time photographer. 

holy. shit.

I am full-time photographer. I made it. I'm shouting and giggling with excitement. Doing a little happy dance in my office. Dance with me, dangit! This is exciting! My cat, Elton, thinks I'm crazy. Maybe I am.

Now that I have left my corporate job to work full time in my business, I'm excited to slow down a bit. To think through what makes me tick. I now have time to expand knowledge, learn all the things, try and fail, and try and succeed. I am so happy I am here. My face hurts from smiling so much.

I'm so happy you're here with me, reading this. I'm pouring my fears and dreams out to you through this blog. Please follow along as my journey continues, but now in a different capacity.

“I just want to have a completely adventurous, passionate, and weird life.”

— Jeff Buckley

Me too, Jeff. Me too.

Relax + Play

Most people think Photographers have it easy. Our job consists of just clicking a button and enjoying sunsets, right? WRONG!  Yea, we have it pretty damn good. We get to hang out with amazing humans, during their weddings, family outings, celebrating newborns, cheering on business owners etc.  But its not all sunshine and laughter.

We are faced with the constant changing of technology, social media algorithms, with new trends and styles, and constantly searching out for the next best session location. It can get exhausting.

Ashleigh with Red Aspen Photography and I got together for a session to just play. To let our minds relax. To engage with lighting in new ways, to focus on being in front of the camera, as well we behind the camera. Directing, moving, revising and let's be honest, laughing! 

Its important for us to let our guard down every once in a while and learn from each other. To see things from another artist's viewpoint. To the first of many inspiring photoshoots with this beautiful gal, Cheers! 

AND THEN I DID SOMETHING I ALMOST NEVER DO. I GOT REAL CLOSE AND DARK.   Eeeeeeep!  I love the turnout!

David + Lauren ENGAGED

Love. What does that really mean? I claim to be a photographer of love. Woah, hold up. I AM a photographer of love. Like, really, I am. Photographer of relationships. Of people's lives that have intertwined to the point of cohabitating, creating families, and living their lives so intimately....together. 

I'm the woman behind the lens while my clients kiss, touch, and showcase their love to one another.  How lucky am I? But for real, I am not the lucky one. Lauren and David are. These two are so madly in love. So perfectly created for one another.  Happiness flows throughout the sparks between them. This is what I am lucky to photograph. Passion between humans.  Making life the most beautiful gift to experience. 

Cheers to Lauren and David, lovebirds. 

Shawn + Daniela ENGAGED

Shawn and Daniela are just the sweetest couple. These two are so down to earth and full of life and love. Their engagement session was at North Table Mountain in Golden, which is one of my favorite spots to photograph. I always get asked recommendations on locations, and this place always comes up. Its stunning! We hike up to the top, and just basque in the goodness of the sunset. #swoon

I usually get questions on if I will hike during a photoshoot! ABSOLUTELY!  As a photographer I'm always in search of beautiful backgrounds, stunning lighting and fresh air, to be honest! Let's hike. Let's get ourselves to a place where hard work will bring us, so we can create beauty. I mean, that's life, right!?

I can't wait to photograph Shawn and Daniela's wedding day. Its going to be a day of good feelings deep down in your heart. Cheers!

Ryan + Jill Engaged

It was an honor to spend the evening with these two rad humans. Jill, a close family friend, and her fiancé Ryan, chose a mix of Green Mountain and Red Rocks for their engagement session.  

Picking a location is a essential part of creating the photos we want. In this case, Green Mountain is a huge part of Ryan's life, growing up at the base of the mountain (#housegoals, right?!) We then caught the golden hour at Red Rocks, spreading the subtle light across the landscape. 

Ryan and Jill are a perfect example of teamwork. Working with 3 dogs to get the perfect family photo could have been an anxiety ridden situation, but the soft spoken words between them, made my heart smile. This is how relationships should work. Respect, gentle speech, and a love that shines. These two have it, and I can not wait until their wedding. Theirs is the first of my wedding season! Cheers!

Custom + Rentable Wedding Signs

Now in addition to wedding day photography, I also offer a line of wedding signs that you can rent from me (because what the heck are you going to do with a "Please Sign Our Guestbook" sign after your wedding day!?).  I also offer custom signs, including your names, wedding date, menus, and any special quotes that resonate with you! 

Take a peek and let me know what you're in need of. More signs are being added everyday, and inventory books up quick! 

Browse Signs here: https://ashley-tiedgen.squarespace.com/signs

An End to the Season

As I sit in my hotel room, unwinding from today's wedding, my eyes are misty. Tonight was my last wedding of the 2016 season and I spent it with one of the most amazing couples. One I hadn't met until today. One that will leave an impact on me forever.  Just like each of my newlywed couples. 

Today is also my 31st birthday. And how else would I want to spend it but in a room full of so much love, doing what I love most: photographing life's most precious moments.  I'll never forget the DJ playing "Go shorty, it's your birthday" and dancing with the wedding party and guests like it was my night. They showed love to someone on the other side of the guest list, because they chose to show love to everyone. 

Weddings aren't just a bunch of people wanting to have a few free drinks and dance to "shout!" - Leaving at the end of the night only to return to everyday-normal life.

Weddings are about reflecting on our lives. Taking a long look at how we love each other.  Are we loving our family and friends enough? Are we showing everyone our true feelings or appreciation and admiration? I urge you to show love more. Way more.

Tonight my eyes are most definitely misty. Because I realize that I love my job with my whole heart. It's a part of me that I get to share with all of my newlyweds. And I am one of the lucky ones. 

To my brides and grooms: How can I even tell you how I feel? I guess I'll start with the simple fact that I appreciate your love. I appreciate you allowing me to capture that love and spend your wedding day by your side. To capture your laughter, tears and memories.  To become a small part of your beautiful lives. 

As I said goodbye to my stunning bride tonight, through undeniable misty eyes, I am happy.

Cheers. Cheers to you, friends. #lovemore

Michael + Kayla ENGAGED

Well hello there! Yea, I know it's been awhile since I've blogged. Like, TOO LONG. Sorry 'bout that.  But after the weekend that I just had, I believe that this story needs to be told. Now. 

I'll start with Michael. He's one of those people who constantly brings a smile to your face. He's funny, outgoing and extremely sincere. He's my boyfriends younger brother, and one of the best humans out there.  He brought Kayla into the equation, and ever since I met her, she was a ball of happiness. Always laughing, smiling, and has a heart of gold. 

They live in Kansas (Move to Colorado already!), and told us they were embarking on a 2 week roadtrip through Colorado, and we made it work to hit the first weekend on the road with them. Fairplay, CO is the backdrop for some off the grid camping in a killer little cabin out in the middle of nowhere. Michael has planned to propose to Kayla on top of Mt Sherman, after we climbed the massive 14er. Capture the moment for us- he asks?  UH, YES PLEASE!!!

The whole hike up, we're trying not to drop hints, bitching too loud that our packs were super heavy (2 bottles of celebratory wine + mini Coors Lights in tow!) Naming Meredith "Frodo" because her pack was carrying the precious ring. I think all 14ers need an incentive like a surprise proposal at the summit. It made it easier to continue on after every break. 

At the top, we took the obligatory photos with the Mt Sherman sign, catching our breath, and giving out high-fives. Then, Michael pulls Kayla over to the side, for a touch of privacy. As his exhausted legs wobble on the way down to one knee (hey - we just hiked 14,000 feet!) he took her hand and spoke the words that every woman dreams about. I am so honored to have been chosen to capture the emotion of their proposal - two humans who are are meant to be together for the rest of their lives. I cried. (duh). 

Afterwards, through tears and hyperventilation, we tore open some wine and coors light to celebrate welcoming Kayla into the McClanahan family. The newest member. The first woman added to the brother's crew. We got back to camp after a quick descent and popped some champagne, and drank from our camp mugs. What a day!  THE. BEST. DAY.

I personally cant wait to see all the adventures these two take on. They are two becoming one, partners in crime, the adventure team, learning and experiencing life together. This is what its all about - love and adventure. 

Cheers to you, Michael and Kayla! You're pretty awesome humans, that I'm lucky to have in my life. Have a wonderful rest of your roadtrip, and I'll see you in a few weeks when you return! 

Joe + Colleen MARRIED

When two people love each other so much, it makes my heart swell with emotion. Every detail of another is cherished and treasured to the point of eternal connection.  Joe + Colleen engage in this type of relationship, which got them to this amazing Dr Who themed wedding day. 

I was in awe the whole day of the love and happiness expressed between people.  With almost a foot of snow on the ground, people gathered at Baldoria on the Water in Lakewood, CO to witness these two tie the knot. 

And that they did. Then they partied and celebrated. Dance offs between brothers and young ones. Clinking of beers Joe + Colleen brewed themselves. I cant say enough of the evening.

Cheers to Joe + Colleen on a lifetime of Dr Who quotes, and fun theme parties like this one. 

Brett + Jennie ENGAGED

I really enjoy living here in Colorado, it's seriously the best thing ever. But springtime can be so frustrating for a photographer who's business is 90% outdoors!! After multiple rescheduling emails, this session finally ended up at Red Rocks on weekday evening. As I waited in my car for yet another springtime mountain rainstorm to pass, Brett and Jennie pulled up, and the sun came out!  For a little while, at least.  

These two are so much fun. Right from the get-go, we vibed. There were dance moves, laughter, jokes, and good times. I think the sunshine made an effort to let us create these photos on that day.  I cant wait to hang with these hysterical love birds this summer on their big day.  I seriously have the best clients ever. 

Cheers to Brett and Jennie - may you have the most wonderful engagement. 

Ryan + Jessenia ENGAGED

Where do I even start with these two? Two of the most important people in my life, who capture so much of my heart and love. 

Let's start with Ryan, my amazing older brother.  Siblings often take different paths, and life may often separate them. Between states, between cities, between houses. Ryan and I have lived in different states for almost a decade now, and our relationship hasn't been stronger.  Distance is no hurdle to inspirational phone calls, sharing photos of recent projects and happenings, and life in general. I could not be luckier to have a sibling, such as him, to look up to. He taught me to follow your dreams, no matter what the circumstances. To breathe every second knowing that you're doing what you love, and make all efforts to do it with your values in mind. To consistently become better by never letting your learning curve plateau. These lessons will forever be the driving force behind my work.

The Loving Jessenia: I could not have asked for a better sister-in-law. From the moment we met, I felt our souls groove naturally together. She's caring, sarcastic, inspirational, loving, and has a sense of individuality.  The perfect counterpart for my brother. I can call on her with a problem, a worry, or just a simple greeting. She cares for our family with her whole heart, a quality we respect and cherish greatly. Because, you know, we can be a little crazy sometimes. 

On a side note: I can finally stop bugging my mother for a sister. :)

I cant wait to witness the ride of their unique spirits as they join together in marriage this summer, back home under the beautiful Nebraska sunset. I was beyond honored to photograph their engagement session in their home of Los Angeles. I just love these two to the ends of the earth.

Cheers to the soon to be, Mr and Mrs Tiedgen. (AHHH!) 

An Insight To The Talents Of Ashley Joon

"I’m on a continuous journey to live a creative life. I encourage everyone to create the life they’ve always imagined and most importantly, have faith in the journey."   - Ashley Joon

On her website she describes her painting technique that is paired with dancing. This is how I know we're friends on the deepest level. Any of you who have seen me photograph a wedding, or shoot even a family session, I dance. I'm in the middle of the dance party, camera in tow, dancing alongside the Maid of Honor and Flower Girls. I may not be on rhythm all the time, but honestly who cares? I know you don't, and I certainly don't. So let's party. Dance Party, if you will. 

Similarly, while Ashley is creating masterpieces in her home studio, she grooves and moves. She gets lost in the music, while getting lost in her work - and when she comes back around to reality, and takes a look at the canvas: Its magic. 

Her work has always inspired me. It's beautiful, not only because she paints flowers, but her technique and the way the paint drips down the canvas, brings a personality to each flower. A story as long as the drip, with depth and interest. 

She's amazing, and that's all there is to it. So please, check out her work. www.ashleyjoon.com You wont be disappointed. 

And for the bride who is so in love with your flowers, you can't stand thinking of them dying - Ashley paints custom bridal flower paintings!! 

Josh + Ashley ENGAGED

There are some people who could hear you speak a thousand words and still not understand you. And there are others who understand without you even speaking a word.  
- Yasmin Mogahed

I think it says it all. Actions really do speak louder than words, however words can brighten, wildly excite, fascinate and illuminate a relationship. These two have that down. They get each other. And I can tell, because I barely had to nudge them closer to create that spark - the best part of engagement photography.  They were naturals. Their love is natural. 

As much as I just raved about words, I feel this couple doesn't need any explanation. Whatever I may say, wouldnt come close to what the feel. Because all you really need is love.

So, without further gibberish: Josh + Ashley.

Chris + Amber ENGAGED

David Choe's graffiti art on the walls of downtown Denver, provided the perfect backdrop for these two rad human beings - who happen to be getting hitched this fall!

Amber and Chris are seriously two of the coolest cats I've met - with the coolest dogs. Great Dane, say what!?  They laugh, have fun, and showcase all the feelings.  This is what life is about, folks. Living freely.

Enough of the sap - check out these photogs.  Cheers. 

Drew + Renee ENGAGED

Do not cease to drink beer, to eat, to intoxicate thyself, to make love, and to celebrate the good days.
– Ancient Egyptian Credo

I met Renee at a little neighborhood pub, and she immediately radiated with love and happiness. We chatted over a beer, and connected on many things, one including the appreciation for craft beer. 

When we got together for her and Drew's engagement session, we planned to head up to St Mary's Glacier for some stellar outdoor photos opps. But where did we end the day? Idaho springs, at their new brewery Westbound & Down. It's simply amazing. Exquisitely designed environment, fantastic tasting beers, and I was with some great company. I win! 

These two are just perfect match for each other. They strive to enjoy life and the things offered in this great state: CRAFT BEER! I cant wait to capture their wedding day. 

Good people drink good beer.
– Hunter S. Thompson

Truth, Mr Thompson. That's the truth. Cheers!

Joe + Jess ENGAGED

"I'd choose you. In a hundred lifetimes. In a hundred worlds. In any version of reality. I'd find you and I'd choose you. - The Chaos of Stars.

This quote is so fitting for this amazing couple. Joe and Jess are one of those couples that make relationships seem easy. They are kind, sarcastic, loving and down-to-earth. All things that can get jumbled up in this crazy world that we live in. 

Brooklyn completes this trio, as the most adorable girl on the planet. She joined us during this photoshoot along with their four-legged-friend. All combined to be just the perfect day. Which happened late last year. LATE LAST YEAR! I know, I'm super behind on blogging. Ugh.

But looking back on these photos, it reminded me that I need to give them a shout out for being so rad, and for becoming friends of mine. Which happens a lot with my clients. Because they are all insanely awesome. I have the BEST clients. 

Cheers to these 2 love birds + Brooklyn. Let's go camping this summer, please? Okay, thanks.

Little Liam

There are no seven wonders of the world in the eyes of a child, there are seven million.   ― Walt Streightiff 

Welcome this beauty to this world: Liam. What a handsome little man, isn't he? I can't wait to see all the things he accomplishes, the grass stains and ripped jeans, the baseball and basketball games, the A+ grades and the first girlfriend. 

Liam: take your time little man. Enjoy being so small.