Hiii, my name is Michelle Stoker…

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I’ve had this blog for over two years and just realized that I’ve never done a fun “Get to Know Me” blog post! You know my work through my photos but here’s a chance to get to know a little more about the lady behind the camera. Hiii, my name is Michelle Stoker, I am 25 years old. I was born and raised in Orlando and lived there for 21 years. My loved ones call me “Mich” and I love it. I instantly feel like BFFs if you call me by that name. I graduated from UCF with my Elementary Education degree and have taught Kindergarten for 3 years. I started my photography hobby towards the end of 2008 and my official business in 2012.

I purchased my first DSLR camera in May 2008 and the photo on the left was the very first click on the camera. I thought it was so artsy and creative. Ha! I was a sophomore in college and was so excited about using my new Canon Rebel XT to document my world, including lots of selfies with my niece!If I had a free Saturday to do anything, I would always choose to go hiking in the mountains (not helpful, Florida). There is nothing like making it to the summit and looking at the incredible view. My favorite mountains are in Colorado, Alaska, and Switzerland.

My sister, Carissa, and I were such divas growing up. She’s 4 years older and has led the path for me through the years. She got married in November 2008 (Hi Jon!) and had a beautiful, low-key wedding. I served as her maid of honor and her PHOTOGRAPHER. Yes, my first wedding was my sisters!

My sister has provided me with my two favorite children in the world – Faith and Lily. I am so happy that they have each other as sisters, just like Carissa and I have each other. Also, she’s a super talented face painter!! She does parties and events in Orlando. Check her out – Butterfly Wings Facepainting

I plan to photograph weddings for a very long time but I also hope to have the opportunity to document more pregnant women and newborns. I love capturing a woman’s body as it changes, grows, and adapts. And is there anything more perfect than a fresh newborn? Mmm.. I love it. #babyfever

David and I started dating when we were 15 and 16, the summer after 10th grade. We are celebrating 10 years of dating this summer. Ahh! Our junior year, we were selected for the Junior Court for Homecoming. We got to ride on top of a convertible in the parade around our neighborhood. So fun!

David and I dated for five years before we got engaged. David’s proposal included the most beautiful words I’ve ever heard. “Michelle Marie Bilyeu, I love you…” He said those words for the FIRST TIME when he proposed. Yep, we kept those 3 words sacred until we got engaged. He wanted to save it so that he only ever said those words to his wife. (Awww)

I totally understand, support, and encourage budget brides. We did a lot of DIY for our wedding and spent around $9,000 for the entire day and our honeymoon cruise. My wedding dress was only $220 at David’s Bridal. YEP. Proud of that.{ Photo by the talented KT Crabb Photography }

Ok, I saved the cutest photo for last. Growing up in Orlando, I loved going to Magic basketball games and cheering them on! In the early 90s, I was chosen as Stuff’s Biggest Fan. I was featured in a local magazine and got lots of Magic goodies!

Thank you for reading! I would love to get to know you more! I dare you to post a fun fact about yourself in the comments.

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