A Prize Winner

I borrowed a friend's slide scanner to scan some old photos that I have taken. I first got interested in photography while taking classes in high school. My parents bought me my first camera as a graduation present. During my first summer after high school, the local photography store sponsored a contest which I entered. The theme of the contest was to take a photo from the Flower Festival, which is the big local event every summer. Lompoc, California is the flower seed capital of the world, which might be important information to know. Anyway, here is the photo I entered that won first place. The prize was $50 which I used to purchase my first flash. In case you are wondering, it was the summer of 1979.

An Elegant Wedding Experience

Last year, we discovered the Westin Hotel in Charlotte. While there are many venues to have a wedding, they do a superb job of creating a wonderful experience. As a photographer, I often do not get to experience what the bride and her family do when booking vendors. Yesterday, I met with Kristi, the Catering Sales Manager at the Westin and I was extremely impressed with their presentation and what they offer. I saw the words "unfold your own story..." and imagined dreaming of the perfect wedding reception unfolding before my eyes. The right people make all the difference. If you are looking for a great wedding experience, check them out. www.westin.com/charlotte

They have lots of room for a photoBooth too!

Ice!

I know it's only September and its hard to imagine ice. Not outside, but inside.

Yesterday, I visited Gary at Ice Sensations in Charlotte. Gary creates amazing and beautiful creations from ice, which are enjoyed by wedding and event guests. I was absolutely astounded by some of his creations. While some of the work is done by machine, he also has a set of carving tools to add that artist's touch to his beautiful masterpieces.

So, the next time you think about an event, think ice and think Ice Sensations. I will picture Gary working away in the freezer, which sounds appealing on a hot summer day!

www.icesensations.com

New Beginnings

I dropped by The Bridal House, one of my favorite bridal shops yesterday. My friend Shanika recently took over ownership and I know it will flourish under her direction and skill. Shanika's experience as a wedding planner will serve her well in her new venture.

www.theplaceforbrides.com
www.sjbweddingsandevents.com

A Graceful Location

Once in awhile, you come across a real gem. Yesterday, I found one at Grace on Brevard. This venue is an old church that was built in 1902 with beautiful architecture and old brick. The building is now an event space, but it maintains the feeling of history and elegance. In a day when there is a lot of new construction in Charlotte and the old is being lost, it is nice to see such gems flourishing.

If you are looking for a space for your wedding or event, check it out. www.graceonbrevard.com.

If you are getting married and want to do something different, ask them about the New Year's Eve wedding.

The Fungus

Yesterday I made a great discovery. I met with a couple to do their engagement photos at Reedy Creek Park in Charlotte. If you haven't been there, then check it out. It has lots of trails, recreational facilities, ponds, and fungus. Yes, I found this fungus lurking off the trail and was amazed at the color and beauty of it and I had to take a photo.

Fashion Fun

As a photographer, I am always looking for something fun and different. Last Friday was Passion Fashion 09 in Charlotte, which I had the chance to go and photograph. It was definitely a different experience but I have to say it was fun. One of the featured designers was Kortu Momolu, who was a finalist on Project Runway in season 5. Check out her web site at http://www.kortomomolu.com/. The other featured designers were Charlotte's own Tara Davis http://www.flowbytaradavis.com/ and Cate Lyon from Savannah http://www.catelyon.com/. Here are a few of the photos.