sticker shock

let's face it. getting married is probably the most expensive day of your life. probably more expensive than the day many bring a new life into the world. but there are simple ways to cut cost without compromising the details of the day. one of the greatest costs is a photographer.

my husband and i searched high and low for the perfect photographer. we ended up with someone who understood what we wanted, had fun with us and didn't break the bank. we ended up choosing her not only for her style, but for the cost.

here are my five tips for choosing a great photographer:

1. price. a lot of packages START at $3000. that is a lot of cash. don't get me wrong, photos are worth every dime. but do your parents still have their wedding photos out? maybe one or two, but not all 100. think about your future. what price will accommodate your future photo viewing? also, make sure you can get the digital rights to all your photos. that way you can print what you would like.

2. style. though there are a lot of great editing techniques out there, what is your style. my husband and i decided we wanted clean, traditional photos. we did use some fun, modern poses, but as far as the editing was concerned, we went with a classic style. something that will outlast time.

3. personality. does your photographer make you laugh, because a smile is important on the biggest day of your life. grab coffee and see if they understand your desires and fit with your personality.

4. creative. do they offer some creative poses that capture your big day? one of my favorite shots of my wedding was taken through the pedicab i rode in on. it was such a creative angle. look at their work and see if they offer something special for you.

5. extra sessions. my bridal session was one of my favorite days of the wedding process. extra sessions, such as bridals and engagement sessions, allow you to relax and capture big moments before the big day. this also helps you get acquainted with your photographer. and bridals are a great gift to your groom. honestly, i looked better in my bridals than my wedding day photos because i wasn't crying, tired from the events, or even sweaty from dancing.

Welcome

I love events. Actually, I love to be behind the scenes at events. In 2010, I graduated from the University of South Carolina with my Masters in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Since, I have been working in Economic Development planning an event here and there(including my wedding). While my 8-5 job puts bread on the table, I don't want to get too far from my passion.

I have worked, planned, coordinated and executed events from weddings at the Biltmore Estate, 5k-10k races, non-profit conferences and corporate meetings. I have been in your shoes. I know that the details matter, I know the the execution matters and even if you have planned the event to a "T", you want to enjoy your special day.

Enter me. Let me take care of the details you have so carefully planned. Enjoy your day. I believe two things 1. events should be fun and 2. they should not break the bank. So let me help you achieve those two things with your Western North Carolina event.