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!)