Ali Popken

+ My why

I want to capture what makes you feel most alive. It’s not the posed, perfect, fairytale looking kind of life. It’s simpler than that and it’s way better. Some of the things that make me feel most alive - Belly laughing until I can’t breathe, laying on our back deck on a summer night under our bistro lights and talking about the future, dancing with my little family in our living room, exploring a city I’ve never been to, having one-to-many sour beers with my friends and playing board games, going on a walk down our street & family dinners filled with laughter.

+ My heart

Joe has my heart. He’s not just a partner, but my best friend. Together, we have two children, Natalie and Oliver, who are only 14 months apart. They keep me busy but also fill my life with joy. I often say that I have the best life ever, and it's the honest truth.

Our wedding was postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic, but we couldn't wait to be married, so we had an intimate ceremony in our living room instead. As someone who has experienced the challenges of wedding planning, I'm here to help guide you through the process. In my experience, my favorite weddings to shoot are the ones that focus on the marriage itself because ultimately, that's what it’s all about.

+ My home

I grew up in Dubuque, Iowa. Growing up I spent a lot of time fishing with my Dad, preforming in hometown theatre productions and playing outside any chance I had. I am the youngest of four sisters. I moved in with my Aunt & Uncle and their six children in Wisconsin at the age of 18. I attended the University of Northern Iowa, where I got my degree in graphic design. After graduation I lived in a myriad of places - my sister's basement and a many different apartments. Joe and I bought a home in Windsor Heights in 2019 and we love it here. The neighborhood is quiet; It has grown trees and every house looks different. These places have all been "my home" at one point but over the years I've realized that home isn't a place - It's people.