best,
Carissa
story?
Can I tell
you a
During my childhood, our front door was constantly revolving with new guests coming in and out of our home. My mom always had spare sheets washed and ready in the closet, frozen cookie dough stocked in the freezer, and the uncanny ability to add more servings to any recipe so guests could pull up a chair for dinner at the drop of a hat. Growing up with friends and strangers from all over the world gathered around our table, you could say hosting is simply in my bones.
When I married a man who shares the same passion for hospitality, it was a tradition that we were keen to continue by intentionally crafting our lives in a way that is always ready to welcome others into our home. It is with that same spirit and philosophy that I have built Carissa Mennen Photography. As a photographer – entrusted to capture some of the most tender, beautiful, extraordinary moments of everyday life – my primary goal is to make sure that each soul in front of the lens feels comfortable, earnest, at home, and taken care of.
When we work together, you’ll be invited into a space that feels authentic; a space where you'll feel 100% free to be your genuine self (squinty-eyed laughter, tears, and all). And, with one last nod to my roots, a space intentionally crafted to be much like our dining room table.
So, the only thing left to ask is: coffee or tea?
13
years of experience
768
incredible clients
(and counting!)
800k+
PHOTOS SHOT IN LIFETIME
about me
my latest obsession:
kombucha
MY FAVORITE PERSON IS:
my husband
I STARTED THIS BUSINESS:
whenI was 17
MY PERFECT HOBBY:
backpacking
I COULDN'T LIVE WITHOUT:
dark chocolate
BEST VACATION SPOT:
Alaska
MOST IMPORTANT LESSON:
do it scared
FAVORITE ICE CREAM:
mint chocolate chip
DID WE JUST BECOME BEST FRIENDS?
i love sunrises, but i also love my bed.
i'M A SUCKER FOR nostalgia and early 2000's pop music.
my friends say I'm "a little crunchy" and i've accepted that.
i'm a former public school teacher but i plan to homeschool my kids.
i believe anything worthwhile takes an uncomfortable amount of hard work, but the payoff can be better than you ever dreamed.
I know ALL THE WORDS TO EVERY SILLY SONG WITH LARRY, AND by god's grace i'm still in a church community that i love.
my favorite memories are made up of simple moments spent with friends who know my soul and love me still.
my top priorities are my relationship with jesus, my husband, and my kids (in that order).
sound like your vibe?
let' 's work together!
love
notes
PR
EV
NE
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Her work is overall breathtaking and 100% worth the investment.
From her clear communication and kindness, to her flexibility and attention to detail, Carissa is extremely professional, yet down to earth- not to mention a built-in hype girl for your special day! Her editing skills are impeccable. We will cherish our engagement and wedding photos for the rest of our lives!
KARA AND KYLE | ENGAGEMENT + WEDDING
PR
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From the moment she started taking photos, we were instantly at ease.
All day, she was kind, professional and gave us special moments together as she was capturing the day. Our actual experience was awesome, BUT THE PHOTOS! We absolutely loved them, each photo captured the wonder and joy of the day so perfectly, they were just what we had hoped for. We are so happy we chose Carissa!
JOY AND DEREK | ROCKFORD WEDDING
PR
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Absolutely, absolutely recommend!
I remember wondering if it was silly to spend such a big portion of our budget on photography. I can honestly say it was 100% worth it! I was also afraid I’d be too uncomfortable in front of the camera to make it worth it. Carissa’s professionalism and ease eliminated that concern early in the day. Photos are forever, and Carissa’s style is timeless! She has an intuition for photography and people that translates beautifully into her work.
KARA AND BRENDON | SPRINGFIELD WEDDING
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When we got our pictures back, we were gasping and smiling for a straight half hour.
There is something really special to how she captures people. She was really fun to work with as well! Put on fun music and had a really relaxed but professional feel. We felt well directed and completely relaxed. Thanks Carissa!!
DANIKA AND STUART | CENTRAL IL WEDDING
PR
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Our wedding went so smoothly thanks to Carissa.
Everyone was so impressed. We were so blessed to have found Carissa Mennen to take such special photos for us. Thank you for your talent and for sharing it with us so we have memories that will last a lifetime! Such beautiful and stunning work. Snag Carissa if you can! You will be thrilled and won’t have any worries or regrets."
MARY & NOAH | QUAD CITIES WEDDING
PR
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I look at our photos and see the truest versions of us, as a couple, from our goofiness to our passion.
She creates a safe, intimate, and joyful space where the most camera shy (my husband) can be brought out of their shell and the most over the top camera hog (me) can be authentic.
LIZ & ROB | MICHIGAN WEDDING
PR
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Carissa truly was a dream to work with.
She was kind, hospitable, personable and exactly who we wanted to help us remember our day. From coordinating the details, finding sweet and authentic ways for my bridesmaids to encourage me while taking pictures, running the family photos, capturing the seemingly 'small' details, she did everything with grace and excellence.
ALLISON & TRAVIS | PEORIA IL WEDDING
PR
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WOW. We got along with Carissa so well and felt like we’ve known her for years after the FIRST time we met.
ALSO it was freezing on our wedding day and I didn’t even think to bring a jacket, but Carissa had an extra one she let me wear!!!! It’s the little things that mean the most. She went above and beyond for us and we truthfully cannot imagine our day without her."
PR
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Without hesitation the best decision we had made (besides saying "I do").
Carissa was an absolute delight and we wouldn't have the wedding of our dreams without her."
PR
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Carissa is simply the best.
So helpful in brainstorming solutions and picture ideas. An expert in planning all the logistics of our day. Extraordinarily friendly. She intentionally got to know us and worked to make us comfortable during the shoot (like making a personalized playlist for us!) THEN THE PHOTOS 😭😭😭 she captured the joy and love with every shot. I 100% recommend her to everyone. You will not be disappointed."
