regina holder

new blog

2008-06-15T00:44:00.002-04:00

I am excited to finally launch my new blog! My friend Christine and her wonderful husband Mike have been so helpful in getting it together. All new posts will be at www.reginaholder.com/blog. Please update your reader or bookmarks! I hope to see you over there!

kirstan and robert - hilton head

2008-05-23T23:18:00.002-04:00

Kirstan and Robert were married at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa. I drove down Friday afternoon to do a couple portrait session with them on the beach and ended up going to their ceremony rehearsal. We did their engagement session in Atlanta in February after several times trying to plan a trip to Hilton Head because the weather was not cooperating. Click here for the engagement slideshow.

The weather on Friday was perfect - in the 70s with a cool ocean breeze. Saturday was a different story with a storm looming overhead. It sprinkled a little at the end of the ceremony and we were afraid to go too far out on the beach. No "trashing the dress" before the reception!

Kirstan and Robert had hired me over the telephone, but we seemed to instantly "click". Kirstan has the most infectious laugh - you can't be around her long without having fun for sure! Robert is part of a huge family and such a nice guy. They all had a way of making me feel like family really quickly.

Both of Robert's parents and Kirstan's mother had passed away, so there was a lot of emotion that day. I asked Robert if he noticed all the guests watching from their rooms and he said that once he saw Kirstan all he saw was the tears in his eyes. They lit memorial candles before the cake cutting and I love the photo of Kirstan wiping his tears. Then, during the father/daughter dance, it was Kirstan's time to cry.

I don't normally go back to the room with the couple - I wasn't the only one there! BUT they had such a fantastic view off their balcony. It was hard trying to capture them and the ocean in complete darkness, but I love the shots we got in the end. Robert's nephews are 2 floors down yelling up to them. I'm sure at least one wing of the Westin knew which room they were in.

Thank you so much Kirstan and Robert for such a wonderful day. I enjoyed hanging out with you and your families and friends. Much love to you!

A casual and relaxed Robert hanging out with his nephews.

Cheers!

First kiss.

3rd or 4th kiss!

Here's where I was afraid of Robert's back going out.

They love these pelicans that are all around the Westin. This is their favorite because they said it looks like the are getting married. Kirstan shared her bouquet for a few.

The best wedding party entrance EVER!

Ummm....I think this is called....

CHEATING!

I wonder if she has a ring yet?

Robert's nephews were hilarious!

Go Robert! Go Kirstan!

may pug and my birthday

2008-05-20T21:57:00.006-04:00

Last Tuesday night was our monthly Pictage User Group (PUG) meeting, which is held in the conference room upstairs from my studio. Charlotte photographer Critsey Rowe was our guest speaker. Critsey is a partner of Indigo Photography and has recently launched her own boutique style company. She has been published in many local and national magazines and had her first international magazine feature in the current issue of UK’s “You and Your Wedding”. She photographed Carolina Panther Thomas Davis’ wedding that will be featured on the WE channel show Platinum Weddings and published soon on the cover of a local magazine. Critsey talked about how she stepped up marketing her business and meeting with event planners outside NC. She founded The Next Set, a group of photographers networking to high end vendors. She photographed celebrity planner David Tutera in his NYC apartment last month. Critsey and Thomas Geist from Germany just recently got married. It was great having them up for the PUG and dinner afterwards.

So, my birthday was the day after the PUG, last Wednesday. I had thought that Mexican would be a good choice for dinner - because it is my favorite. Then, I had the most embarrassing birthday experience ever in a restaurant. They came to the table singing with a red sombrero that they plopped on my head and started sticking a spoon of whipped cream in my face. Thinking it would make the guy stop, I finally let him put the spoon in my mouth - only to end up with whipped cream up my nose. What was I thinking!!! Please God, don't let any cell phone photos show up on the internet!

I had arranged a lunch at 12 Bones with Critsey, Thomas and a few other friends from the DWF forum, which is how we all met. Much to my surprise, Critsey, Corey Cagle and Honour Hiers had arranged for a lot of other photographers and vendors to come. 12 Bones always has a long line and so as I walked up - 1/2 the line started singing! They went all out decorating and even got an awesome cake made with Reese's cups.

My beautiful cake from Chez Nous.

Woodward + Rick (Brian and Gry)

Surprise! - 1/2 the line starts singing.

Brian, Corey McNabb and Thomas

More singing - 3rd time!

The whole gang!

Karen from Brown's Floral Design

Jill Schwarzkopf and Corey McNabb

Shay Brown and Brian

Kelly Giezentanner, Gry and Audrey Goforth

Critsey, Me and Brie Castell

My friend Christine from TX did a wonderful blog post for my birthday and you will get to see my new pimped out present soon!

I got a ton of birthday wishes on Facebook, my new internet obsession, and an awesome email from my friends Gene Higa and Ann Hamilton from San Francisco with a hilarious series of photos. Bogie was asleep so he is partying in photo form.

THANK YOU SO MUCH to all my friends for making me feel so special!

belinda and dr. h

2008-05-19T23:26:00.003-04:00

I've made some major accomplishments in the last couple of weeks, so I am happy to finally take some time to blog about one of the absolute most fun weddings ever!

Belinda and Dr. H's wedding was the last wedding for me in 2007. They were married at the chapel at Lake Junaluska on a cold and rainy December afternoon with the reception following at Crest Center. A few things that I learned about Dr. H very quickly - he is passionate about food, he LOVES music and his goal in life is to make Belinda happy. On Friday night at the rehearsal dinner at The Sunset Inn, after a magnificent meal prepared by Chef Vincent, H presented Belinda with a limited edition signed lyrics to one of the last songs written by John Lennon. The next afternoon, the bride walked down the aisle to the same song, "Grow Old with Me".

Dr. H's daughter, Leigh, and Belinda put together a winter wonderland theme and Stacey at The Bloom Room absolutely transformed The Crest Center. It was the most elaborate decor I have seen and was wonderful! The tables were named with the words "I love you" in many different languages.

And now the fun part! They had an Elvis performance during the reception. It was top secret, only a few people knew it was happening ahead of time. After dinner was served and Dr. H and others made a few toasts, the lights went down low. The band with the full horn section came on stage. If you ever saw Elvis perform or on TV, you know the song!!! The drums did the famous, intro beat and as the room went dark, H was so excited he was bouncing in his seat! The spotlight hit Elvis and it was magical. The next hour and half was just FUN!!! Lou Vuto doesn't really impersonate Elvis - his performance is more of a salute to Elvis. Of course Belinda got the first scarf and kiss, but it was the scarf and kiss to H's mother as she stood at the edge of the stage that was one of my all time favorite wedding moments!

Check out the slideshow!

I just love the snowflakes and white roses. Stacey always does beautiful work!

Yet another beautiful cake by Cakes by Jane!

I think the signature drinks were a huge Elvis hint - very "Blue Hawaii".

This is actually Lou's son on the drums.

LOVE IT!!!

Check out Lou at The Memories Theatre in Pigeon Forge.

Special thanks to Mike McKinney for passing along my info to Dr. H and to Corey Cagle for 2nd shooting with me.

bridal portrait in the orchard

2008-05-19T22:54:00.002-04:00

I LOVE the bridal session that I did recently with one of my summer brides. I can't wait to be able to share all of them, but I am just teasing one image. It was so beautiful with the trees in full bloom and the buttercups in between. A huge THANK YOU to Jane and Bennie Arrington for use of the orchard. They own Pinnacle Mountain Farms and the Barber Orchard Fruit Stand, where National Geographic and Southern Living recommend the apple cakes.

kelly and dan

2008-05-16T19:23:00.005-04:00

Kelly and Dan were married on a super rainy April morning. They were supposed to have their ceremony and reception at the Wyche Pavilion in Greenville, but it is open to the elements. Instead, they had to move inside Larkin's on the River, who caterers for and coordinates the Pavilion. We were lucky that the rain cleared enough to do some nice couple shots at the end of the day.

Dan sang Kelly down the aisle to "Hallelujah". It was so sweet! They radiated happiness all day. During the toasts, Kelly put her head on Dan's shoulder and it was just a beautiful moment.

The beautiful and talented Vanessa Renee, performed the couple's first dance song. Dan is a huge fan of Vanessa's and they were so excited to have her perform during the reception. Dan and Kelly are quite the dancers!

Click here to see the slideshow. Special note: It is actually Dan singing on the first song and then Vanessa. How cool is that!

Special thanks to Jarrad Lister for helping me photograph Kelly and Dan's wedding. I am excited to have Jarrad working with me on several weddings this year.

Here's the link to Dan's blog!

wedding party photos

2008-04-27T22:59:00.002-04:00

For years, I just did the basic line up boring shots for the wedding party. Occasionally, I would have a bride ask me to do something different and thought that some of them were fun. Now, I give the couple a list of the common ones, such as wedding party walking arms linked, groomsmen "sopranos" type pose, etc, and let them tell me the specific ones that they want. Sometimes, the bride puts "yes" on the groomsmen jumping shot and doesn't so much tell the guys. LOL! So, when I say, "jump" - they really aren't so sure. I just had to share this shot from Courtney and Mannings wedding last Sunday. At first, reluctance but as guys do, things got a bit competitive and look how high they got! I love the shadows, too. Check out the guy on the right - he bent his knees. And yes, that is the groom's dad catching some air! So fun!

las vegas

2008-04-26T23:01:00.002-04:00

I have some really important things that I am working on for clients, so I always feel guilty taking time to blog. I marked 2 major projects off my list this week, so I am going share my trip to Las Vegas.

One of the coolest things about being a photographer is the friendships and relationships with other photographers. Many people seem kind of shocked that as photographers we are great friends with our competition. WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photographers International) hosts a convention in Las Vegas every year. This year, there were 11,000 photographers there! From Asheville, Corey Cagle, Corey McNabb and I went out for the convention. Corey Cagle and I traveled and roomed together at the Paris hotel. In addition to the speakers, there is a tradeshow and lots of parties. I got to see so many friends from all over the country and meet some of the photographers who are great inspiration to me.

Gene Higa is an incredible photographer from San Francisco that travels to exotic locations all over the world. We met last year in Orlando and I just love him dearly!

Jose Villa takes the most gorgeous photos and in a digital world still shoots film. One of my goals for this year is to take his Mexico workshop.

Rachel from LaCour, myself, Corey, the world famous Timco and Christine from TX at the Flosites and Pixel2Canvas party at the Palms.

Corey and me with the beautiful and talented Jules Bianchi at the Pictage party. I mentored with Jules almost 2 years ago and again last year. She is a huge part of where my business is right now and a super cool chick!

With Robert Evans in the Pictage booth. Robert is famous for photographing the Brad Pitt and Jennifer Anniston and the Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes weddings and has started Photography Mentor to educate photographers - joined the first day.

On Wednesday night, the Coreys went to see Elton John in concert at Cesar's Palace. My friend Christine Tremoulet from Houston and I went up in the Eiffel Tower, which is 1/2 the size of the one in France, towers 460 feet above the strip, and one leg comes down into the hotel casino. We saw two water shows from the Bellagio across the street. Then, we went down to the Venetian with Jamie also from Houston. Of course, we got there right after the gondola rides closed.

Thursday night after the desert shoot Corey and I went for walk around the block over to Bellagio, seeing the light show from a totally different perspective. It's amazing how high the water shoots up - you can hear blasts from it in the Paris rooms.

I came home exhausted and really sick! The worst thing about Las Vegas is the cigarette smoke. We had to walk through the Paris and Bally's casinos to go to the convention. I thought I just had bronchitis but I haven't had a fever over 102 in years. It took me about 3 weeks to finally feel back to normal. Corey was super sick, too.

In the new American Photo magazine, Gene, Jose and LaCour were named in the top 10 wedding photographers in the world! Very exciting!

something different

2008-03-30T20:09:00.002-04:00

I recently did a photoshoot in Red Rock Canyon, outside Las Vegas (another post coming soon). I was super excited to try out my new infrared camera. One of my favorite photographers, Jose Villa, had posted some images on his blog from the new Fujifilm IS-1 and I ordered one right away! This camera reads the infrared light, similar to how infrared film used to - instead of taking a normal digital image and running an action to make it look infrared.

A special note - the bride up on the rocks is wearing a black dress and black veil - more images coming soon!

it's about time! - iphone

2008-03-09T22:15:00.003-04:00

I am so excited to finally get my iphone today! Many of you that call my cell phone on a regular basis are probably used to my ringback tone. So far, that is the only drawback I have found and the awesomeness of the iphone way makes up for it. When you call and get a real ring, you've got the right number! THE PHONE NUMBER DID NOT CHANGE.

regina holder photographer - grand opening party

2008-02-25T20:09:00.004-05:00

I was so excited to finally have my studio ready to have people over to celebrate my grand opening. My studio is at Biltmore Park, One Town Square, just off I-26 at Long Shoals Road. Even though I found this incredible space last fall, I was moving residences and in the busiest month of the year, so I didn't really utilize it until January when the first clients met with me. For the party, I invited wedding vendors that I have worked with, a few that I really hope to work with and some close photographer friends over for some chocolate martinis and hors d' oeuvres. I can't tell you how incredible it was to have so many awesome people come by to celebrate with me!

I have so many people to thank:

My friend and fellow photographer, Corey Cagle, who helped me carry in everything, rearrange furniture and hang the new canvas prints. She is always such a huge support to me and I appreciate her so much!!!!

Nicole from Verge Events talked me through numerous frantic phone calls and helped me figure out everything. There were so many things that I had never thought of. She was a lifesaver at the last minute and I couldn't have done it without her.

Blossoms at Biltmore Park - Audrey made the GORGEOUS floral arrangements. They were perfect!!! and Alan saved the day when the bags I bought for the cookies were too small.

Nick at 28806 Deli did an amazing job with the food. I LOVE the mini ruebens that they do (and I don't even really like ruebens that much). Everything was incredible and he even came back the next day to pick everything up.

Dylan from Blazin Sounds Entertainment set up custom lighting for the party. I love that he was able to take a boring flourescent lit hallway and uplight it purple to set the environment. He even projected stars on the black ceiling - how cool!

Penelope at Classic Event Rental, who got stuck at work and didn't make it to the party, was so fantastic and had even referred a bride to me the day after I talked to her. Here's the big "green" tip of the day - rent your plates! It is way cheaper and much nicer than paper or plastic.

Lisa McMillan, Exquisite Events, who bless her was sick with the flu, was still worried about helping me. She came by with all the martini shakers early that morning so she wouldn't get anyone sick.

My friends at LaCour in Atlanta sent flowers since they couldn't come and the sweetest note that absolutely made my day. My friends and baby clients Emily and Dawn sent a beautiful orchid that I get to enjoy - it's even purple and brown! A special thanks also to my former brides and friends, Jennifer and Rita, that bartended and were both a HUGE help!

Karen from Brown's Floral Design laughs as Corey Cagle races to get out of this room shot.

Patti from Shay Brown Events, Maggie Schlubach and Telle from Chez Nous

I LOVE this arrangement from Blossoms at Biltmore Park!

The signature Godiva chocolate martinis.

I yummy mini ruebens and mini bleu cheese burgers from 28806.

Nicole and Corey McNabb, whose wife Jill is the queen of the martini. I hate that she wasn't able to join us!

Maura from Honey Darling Events

Jill, Maggie, Corey and Nicole

Maura and me!

Stacey from Bloom Room and me!

The "after party" in the hall to show off Dylan's lights.

Dana shows her brother and the others the cool plaque she made for my birthday.

Dylan and his lovely wife Xochilt chilling on the couch. Corey Cagle took this fun shot (and many of the others!)

dine to be kind

2008-02-22T15:58:00.003-05:00

Animal Compassion Network in Asheville is holding their 5th annual Dine to be Kind day on Tuesday, February 26. Area restaurants are donating a portion of their proceeds to ACN's spay/neutral program to help control the pet population. A lot of incredible restaurants are on the list, including 28806 Deli, 12 Bones, Urban Burrito, West End Bakery and Pomodoros.

Click here for a complete list of restaurants and more information.

asheville pug - february meeting

2008-02-14T01:04:00.000-05:00

At our February meeting, the Asheville PUG did a panel discussion. The PUG has so many new members that I thought it would be great to have a format that allowed them to ask questions to a panel of "experts". Honour Hiers, Corey Cagle, Corey McNabb and I answered questions and got to know some of the new people better. Out of the 13 people in attenance, 8 have been in business about a year or less and 4 were at the PUG for the first time. Questions that we will explore further in future meetings include second shooters and the expectations both from the primary and second photographer, advertising, studio task management and websites.

The group

Sage, Christy and Suzanna

Alicia and Corey McNabb

Corey Cagle and Honour

Mark Block asks a question, Christy, Suzanna, Peter and Zac

january pug meeting

2008-02-14T00:13:00.002-05:00

In January, the Asheville Pictage User Group (PUG) had the privelege of having Justin and Mary Marantz guest speak at the PUG meeting. Their presentation on client "loyalty beyond reason" left all of us thinking of how we can improve how we treat our clients, how going above and beyond on customer service brings clients that rave about you and how to be more exclusive. They are genius at branding, marketing and setting themselves apart from the "competition", which is really their network of friends that refer weddings to them. By creating client loyalty, resulting in super-referrals, and networking with other photographers, they have been able to shift the dynamic and actually pick and choose which clients they want.

We had the biggest turnout ever, even with the snow that arrived just as we finished dinner. I really appreciate the ones that braved the weather, especially with long drives home and a massive THANK YOU to Justin and Mary that spent 15 hours driving home in a snow storm.

Another big THANK YOU to Corey McNabb and his lovely wife, Jill, the queen of the martini. A few of us headed over to Corey's studio for some chocolate martinis and fun times with awesome friends.

Look at that group shot! Awesome turnout for a snowy night!

Justin and Mary with Detra Dowling

Martini-maker extraordinaire - Jill McNabb

My BFF - Mary!

Zac Thomas

Cheers!

Corey and Justin

"Say cheese"

Zac, Mary, Corey, Sarah Henry, Honour Hiers, Justin and me in front

open house - portrait special for habitat for humanity

2008-02-12T00:04:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to announce the Open House for my office! I finally have it decorated and all my canvas prints, so it's time to invite you all over!!!

Sunday, February 24 from 1:00 - 5:00 pm

One Town Square Blvd, Suite 204, Asheville, NC 28803

In conjunction with the Open House, I am running a portrait special from February 14 - April 20. During this time, all "play dates" will be $50 off and $50 from each session will be donated to The Portrait House. As if it can't get any better, for every new client that you refer that actually books a session, you will get a $50 product credit!

The Portrait House is on a worldwide fundraising mission to raise money and awareness for Habitat for Humanity. Founded in 2006 by photographers, Justin and Mary Marantz, The Portrait House relies on a national network of the top photographers in the industry to offer their services in exchange for a direct donation to Habitat.

Play dates are documentary, photojournalistic photography sessions that shows your child in the family environment, interactions with parents, grandparents and other family members. There are no "say cheese" or formal posed shots. More details are available on the children's website. Here are some favorite recent favorite images:

Please drop by for a few minutes to check out my new space! I would love to see you!

email alert

2008-01-26T23:37:00.000-05:00

"this is only a test..."

I have been told that some emails have bounced back and others have not been received in the last few days. If you ever email me and I do not respond promptly, please know that it is very likely that I did not receive the message. Yahoo email addresses are particularly bad about not coming through on Hotmail. When I get my iphone next month, I will be officially changing email addresses. Until then, if you are having a problem contacting me, please email me at info@reginaholder.com.

your carolina with jack and kimberly

2008-01-25T20:51:00.000-05:00

My new really awesome friend, Lisa Gatewood-McMillian, of Exquisite Events is appearing on Your Carolina with Jack and Kimberly on Monday, January 28. The segment will air on Spartanburg's WSPA Channel 7 at 10:00 am. Monday is the first of a four part series on destination weddings. Lisa asked for some images that are indicative of the Asheville area to hold up during her segment. I am so honored that she asked me! How cool is that! I can't wait to see the show. I am TiVoing it!!! Your Carolina is a local show kind of like the Today show meets Regis & Kelly.

happy birthday lennox!

2008-01-24T22:14:00.000-05:00

Today is my baby's 8th birthday. It's so hard to believe that Lennox is already 8 years old. She's had a great day with an Arby's junior roast beef, a new chewy and some extra Mommy time.

melissa and joey - engagement

2008-01-15T00:54:00.000-05:00

Melissa and Joey live in New York City and came home last May for a shower and to do their engagement session. They have the coolest jobs! Melissa is an accessories buyer for Saks Fifth Avenue and Joey works for Saturday Night Live. I had talked to Melissa several time by telephone and actually ended up meeting with her mom to finalize them hiring me for the wedding. So, I was really excited to finally get to meet them in person and their whole families at the same time since we did their session right after the big shower.

Melissa's parents live at the Cliffs at Walnut Cove. We started out on their screened in porch and then in the front yard. Then, we walked around the different falls at Walnut Cove and did some relaxed portraits. They are so fun. It's always a great e-session when the couple is having fun with it.

Click here to see Melissa and Joey's engagement slideshow.

bridal show

2008-01-10T23:13:00.000-05:00

It's that time again. I will be exhibiting at the Wedding Festivals bridal show on Saturday at the Asheville Civic Center. The show is from 10 am - 3 pm. I will be in my normal spot right across from the concession stand.

This is the craziest booking time of the year. I have gotten at least 50 inquiries in the last 2 weeks and have booked 3 weddings and have 4 more that I have talked to on the phone or am meeting with by Monday. If you are seriously interested, please contact me soon before your date is already taken.

casey and jared - warren wilson

2008-01-07T21:58:00.000-05:00

Casey and Jared were married June 2, 2007 at the Warren Wilson College Pavilion. Casey's family hosts a Thanksgiving Folk Dance Camp and her grandfather is well-known for calling square dances at Montreat. It was one of the most fun weddings. Everyone was up and participating in the square dances. Friday night at the rehearsal, Glenn taught the groom's family and their friends the basics.

Casey, her mom, her sisters Mary Evelyn and Tamara and the groom's sister Dana got ready at the chapel across the street. There were so many special moments. Casey and her mom are so close. After some tear shedding, they all walked across to the ceremony with her dad. Those are some of my favorite shots of the day.

The dinner was served in the gardens above the pavilion while it was transformed for dancing. Casey's mom Beth had made all of the linens for both nights and the bridesmaids dresses. Everything was so pretty and personal.

June 2 is also Casey's parents anniversary. One of my favorite moments was during a dance to Blame it on the Bosanova when Beth and Bruce were dancing in the middle. Warning - you will be singing the Bosanova song after you watch the slideshow. Months later, I still find myself singing it.

Click here for Casey and Jared's slideshow.

monica and norman - lake junaluska

2008-01-03T12:18:00.000-05:00

Monica and Norman were married at the Memorial Chapel at Lake Junaluska on May 26, 2007. They are two of the friendliest, most down to earth people you can ever have the opportunity to meet. I have said before, I can spend hours talking to them and not even realize it. Here is the link to their engagement blog post.

Monica and the girls got ready at Sunset Inn. The rooms there are so pretty and I just love the shot of Monica checking herself out in the mirror. I rarely do any "teastained" tinting to an image, but Monica's dress was almost exactly that color. My friend Danny came along to shoot the groom and guys getting ready and for the on altar shots during the ceremony.

Karen at Brown's Floral Design did such an awesome job! The bridal bouquet, the groom's boutonnière, the massive floral arrangements on the altar and the hydrangeas on the tables were all so pretty. Karen really worked with Monica to make it exactly how she dreamed of.

The sit down dinner reception followed at the new Maggie Valley Country Club. The new building is so nice and dinner was excellent. Too bad, the small town police decided to road block the exit as guests were leaving. I've seen this happen several times recently.

There were so many special moments. Monica was just radiant as she walked down the aisle with her dad. Danny caught the great shot of her son and the best man putting their arms around Norman as he saw her for the first time. I love the shot of Norman's mom looking at this ring during the reception. Monica's son gave the toast and it was such a sweet moment for all of them.

Click here to see their slideshow.

new website content

2008-01-02T23:21:00.001-05:00

I took a break from working on the last few weddings from last year to update my website. My website is getting so many hits and I am getting a lot of inquiries, so I thought it was important to show the new work. I only have one feature gallery for now, which is Ann and Nathan. Their wedding at Claxton Farm was so awesome and they had so much fun. I keep posting the image that I made a huge canvas print at my office, so I will post one of my other favorites. I love Queen Ann's Lace. It's my favorite flower, which is hilarious because it is a weed. My mom chose my name because it means queen in Latin and my middle name is Ann, so there you have it.

I have other images that I need to upload, including the two weddings that were featured before. There are other weddings that are completely not respresented, including Tera's and Karen's, that will be. My last wedding was the most fun - they had an Elvis impersonator so that will definitely need to be included. I have only put a fraction of the engagement sessions up, too. I am planning on launching a completely new website in the next month - so stay tuned.

reflecting on 2007 - on to 2008

2008-01-01T19:31:00.000-05:00

I have to say that my business blew up in 2007! I have been so blessed and so thankful for the opportunities that I have been given, the photographer friends that have supported and encouraged me and for the wonderful couples that I have worked with.

I had some goals going into 2007 that came true and then some!!! I attended 3 major workshops, went to 2 Pictage partner conferences, was published in Weddings Unveiled and The Bride's Book, started the Asheville Pictage User Group (PUG), got an office at Biltmore Park, more than doubled my baby clients and made some incredible friends along the way. Having said that, I also took on way too much work, not turning anyone away and got behind on editing. I work non-stop day and night. It has been very frustrating and I finally gave up in September and hired a company to help me. So, my number one goal for 2008 is to outsource more and work less. I am not a Photoshop expert - I know just enough to make my images look good, so having someone who is much more skilled (and faster) helping me actually makes my images look even better. I also want to bring on a part-time person, who will hopefully 2nd shoot with me regularly and help me with the children's editing. I am going to finally do a Grand Opening for my office, so that people can see my place and to thank the people who have been so supportive. My biggest goal professionally for 2008 is to shoot outside the US - so if you are getting married in the Caribbean or Mexico, EMAIL ME!!! I am also working on "going green" - I've already put all new light bulbs in and have always been a recycling maniac. I am going to be setting up a new studio management tool that will help me reach the paperless office goal. Personally, I need a more energy efficient vehicle, too.

Ok, the New Year's Resolution - BLOG MORE. I have so many weddings, engagement sessions and children's play dates that you guys have never seen. I am going to try to blog every day until I get caught up.

A lot of photographers are doing their Top 10 favorite images. I have way too many favorites to just pick 10 and I know I am missing some awesome shots. I put together a slideshow of some of my favorite images from this year. Not every wedding is featured - that would be like a 30 minute slideshow. Click here for the 2007 highlights slideshow.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope 2008 brings you peace and happiness!

weddings unveiled magazine - going to the chapel

2007-12-31T13:19:00.000-05:00

I got my box of Weddings Unveiled magazines in the mail today and was thrilled to see my name listed in the Going to the Chapel section. Each issue, they feature a city and list the "inside scoop on some of the city's top wedding professionals". In this issue, the featured city is Asheville and I am on the list!!! How incredibly cool is that!

I have a new full page ad in this issue, too. I just LOVE this photo of Elizabeth and Paul at The Yellow House.

The Winter 2008 issue of Weddings Unveiled should be on newstands throughout the Southeast in the next week!!!