{Vendor Spotlight} Izzy Hudgins Photography

WOW! It's been awhile since I did a photographer vendor spotlight and so I asked Izzy if she would like to share her images and more about herself. I really like to do this with some photographers who I have recently met and also those who I TOTALLY click with or plan to work with in the future. Izzy is super fun, very smart, witty and talented! Sit back and enjoy our little interview.......

Layla: Which are your 5 favorite images and why?

Izzy: It’s so hard to pick only 5! But I chose ones I felt best represented my style of photography and the experience I give my clients.

1) I really loved how easy this couple opened up to me. Establishing a great connection with my clients is my number one priority. I love catching these laugh out loud moments and I definitely love when my clients have a blast during their session.

2) This image signifies to me the importance of my job as a photographer. I absolutely enjoy my responsibility of documenting some of the momentous occasions in a person’s life but its always most rewarding knowing how much it means to those people. This beautiful girl was unhappy with her wedding photography, which made me so sad, especially with how GORGEOUS she is, her dress is, her man is and her venue was, oh dear! So I promptly offered to photograph her in her dress. Afterwards, she wrote to me saying she was on the verge of tears at how happy just ONE of my images made her compared to the whole of her wedding images. That’s powerful stuff.

3) This is just the magic of pretty pictures. I love the colors, the light, the pretty bokeh (that buttery out of focus background), the happy couple, all of that just fills me with goodness.

4) This is an example of how I like to mix in more fashiony editorial poses with the more natural relaxed images. Fashion photography was always my first love and I continue to draw inspiration from that industry. I love pushing myself in this way and I love when my brides fully embrace how beautiful they are and really bring that confidence out in their pictures. But its OK if you feel shy in front of the camera, I totally am…by the end of a session with me, though, you’ll be having a blast, pinky promise.

5) This image is important to me for two reasons: 1st it shows the other facet to my style. And 2nd, on top of capturing silly fun laughing moments and super fierce editorial poses, what makes me love being a wedding photographer most are these sweet intimate melt your heart moments. Its really what makes the world go round. This wedding was a highlight in my career. It took place in a little town outside of Madrid, Spain in a gorgeous, ancient hotel/restaurant right off of the most quaint plaza. I couldn’t have asked for a prettier location or a better couple.

Layla: How did you get started in photography?

Izzy: I started photography in highschool at the tender age of 14. I immediately fell in love it, with creating stories and fantasy worlds, with connecting with people through portraits, with the magic of film and processing, all of it. I absolutely knew I wanted to do photography for the rest of my life. I continued my education at SCAD, focusing on portraiture and fashion photography, and graduated with honors in 2006.  While living in TN, I discovered that my fashion flair portraiture had a place and I fell in love with wedding photography.

Layla: What has been your most memorable wedding thus far?

Izzy: One of my most favorite weddings was the wedding of my dear friend Julie Roberts. She was actually my mentor in TN and the one responsible for turning me on to the wedding industry. She photographed my own wedding and I photographed hers. It was such a full circle moment for me and a wedding I am most proud of!

Layla: When you’re not working, what do you do with your time? 

Izzy: You can find me neck deep in social media and Pinterest. I swear, every time I sit down to get some work done, hours go by and all I’ve done is look at pretties all day. I also am a complete bookworm.  Favorite books include Water for Elephants, The Book Thief, The Pillars of the Earth, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close and The Help. I am currently reading Eat Pray Love (I know, I know Im behind!) and next I plan to re-read all the Harry Potters in Spanish. Also, I have a new puppy! So most of my time these days are spent playing with her.

Kahlo

Layla: Something my readers would be surprised to know about you?

Izzy: I lived in Spain for nearly 3 years – I actually walked across the whole country, took 31 days! Also, I still sleep with my blankie.

Layla: What inspires you?

Izzy: The reason that I love photographing weddings is that I am truly inspired by people in love. Nothing makes me happier than to capture that emotion, its just so sweet and beautiful. I’m also very much inspired by traveling. Its what I’ve done with the majority of my adulthood and I couldn’t have it any other way. Its deliciously exciting to see other parts of the world, to connect with people from all over, to eat amazing and strange food and to see sights that would knock you off your feet!

Layla: What’s your current obsessions?

Izzy: Music is always an obsession. My current playlist includes: The Naked and Famous, Foster the People, the XX, Passion Pit, Cloud Cult, Stars, Menomena….I mean the list could go on and on. Also, my most favorite activity is to dance like a fool to 80s music, so if you play any, I WILL dance at your wedding! Oh yeah, and food. I’m totally a fat kid at heart.--- (side note by Layla, um yah right, you are a skinny minnie LOL!!)

Layla: How would you describe your style?

Izzy: The biggest element of my photography is FUN. I really love having fun with my couples, like belly laughing, knee slapping fun. This always makes for amazing photos. I mix these photos with sweet intimate moments and more high fashion editorial poses. I’m always inspired by anything vintage, so often my pictures carry that feel.

Don't forget to check out her website at www.izzyhudgins.com and facebook at http://www.facebook.com/izzyhudginsphotography

Favorite wedding so far!!

{Vendor Spotlight} Alexis Sweet Photography

Drum roll please!!! Today's Vendor Spotlight is Alexis Sweet Photography, whom I have become very good friends with. Alexis will be the photographer for one of my upcoming weddings here in Savannah and she will be taking their engagement session very soon (I'll be the doggie sitter since the couple MUST include their adorable two corgis, but will also be taking some pictures san-doggies). Alexis was also the amazing photographer behind the Bohemian Beach Styled Shoot that we recently just finished which combined many talented Savannah area vendors - pictures and post to come, don't worry! 

Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy our little Q & A.....

Layla: Which are your 5 favorite images and why? 

Alexis: I couldn't possibly choose favorites. Instead, I offer 5 wedding images that I enjoy and am proud of.

1) This photo was taken in the hotel lobby as we were waiting for the car to come around to take us to the ceremony. I love that the bride has a look of both confidence and nervousness at the same time. Her mother was holding her train for her in the background with such a wonderful expression of pride and contentment. I am such a sucker for beautiful window light and the lobby of the Bohemian provides a beautiful example of the best kind.

2) This wedding had been running behind all day. We had planned to do shots for 45 minutes on the beach after, but I ended up with only having the couple for 5 minutes right before the reception for their portraits. This couple was sweet and quiet. The wedding schedule was so crazy, but the entire time the couple exuded a quiet calm. It was evident that this was the way they loved each other too. I thought this photo captured that calmness beautifully. 

3) This super fun couple (mentioned in a further question) was willing to do anything for their portraits. I love when I get couples like that. This bride trudged right into the surf to get this photo. When she pushed him up on the rock and kissed him it was all her, not a hint of direction from me. He just loved it. He said to me he had finally snagged his mermaid. This photo is also in a way the birth of my current style. The beautiful creamy luminescent quality was a happy accident that I now try to carry through a lot my editing process. 

4) This was from a simple elopement wedding. The couple tied the knot in a very quick ceremony in one of the sqaures and we headed off on a sunset walk through downtown. I saw this railing and the beautiful light and directed them to it. I suggested he kiss her cheek and as he did, she moved right into it and gave this beautiful expression. It was like his kiss was just as warm and inviting as the sunset.

5)  This was taken just before they were announced as husband and wife and kissed. As the moment drew close they both became so excited that they began swinging their arms back and forth in anticipation. Their smiles went from being big to being mega-watt. I connect with the total adoration you can see in the bride's eyes when she looks at her man. 

Layla: What makes you laugh?

 

Alexis: 80's teen movies like Better Off Dead and Just One of the Guys, awkward moments, and I always burst out in uproarious laughter when I fall down.

Layla: What do you find enjoyable?

Alexis: I enjoy fall air, my dog Molly (when she isn't destroying my house), a quality sandwich from the likes of Starland Cafe, the city of Chicago, and bees wax candles. 

Layla: What are you most proud of?

Alexis: I am most proud of myself. I have come a long way to get from point A to point B in my life. While I have a long way to go to get to Z (although I'm pretty sure only folks like Nelson Mandela or Ghandi make it to Z), I'm proud of who I am now and how I am learning to handle what life throws at me.  

Layla: How would you describe your style?

Alexis: Its a bit of a grab bag when it comes to my wedding work. My work seems to polarize between really fluid candid shots and editorial portraits. This really seems to work for me though. The candids pull at my documentary heartstrings, while the editorial style adds a little extra gloss and polish. I find that it suits the task of capturing a wedding very well. I often remind myself throughout a wedding day "shoot the story, then shoot it prettier". 

Layla: How did you get started in photography?

Alexis: I got started in high school with a fabulous teacher. He imparted in me the importance of composition and light and I was immediately hooked. It was the darkroom aspect that sucked me in at first. Something about watching the image I captured slowly appear on the paper while it was in the developer. That was like poetry to me. I made a misguided attempt at studying Classics in college, but after a year and a half transferred to an arts and media school to pursue a photography degree. 

Layla: When did you start your business?

 

Alexis: I've been working freelance for the last 10 years. It wasn't until I moved to Savannah that I thought of pursuing wedding photography. In fact, I didn't think I would enjoy it. Thankfully I was wrong and I absolutely love it. I've been doing it now for about 3 years. 

Layla: What has been your favorite/most memorable wedding thus far?

Alexis: This is a tough one. All of the weddings I shoot end up taking up a small space inside me. I get emotionally attached to the couples and the amazing experience they are having, so picking a favorite is nearly impossible. I do have to say that an extra fun wedding I shot was when I was first starting out. It was a simple budget wedding out on Tybee. The bride and groom were laid back and total jokers. They were totally comfortable and up for trying anything during their portraits. Their friends and family were just as fun and by the end of the night the bride was doing keg stands and the groom had on a lobster hat. That was a fun wedding. It taught me that you don't have to have expensive details or flowers to provide a great memorable time for yourselves and your guests. 

Thank you Alexis!!
Don't forget to check out her website at www.alexissweetphotography.com or facebook page or email her alexis.l.sweet@gmail.com

{Real Wedding} Ezella & Elijah

Are you ready for some swagger!? This wedding we planned was filled with so much LOVE and major swagger. The bride was very involved in all the wedding details from creating the flower arrangements, invitations, and making the little Tiffany favor boxes. We were hired on as the month-of coordination and met at the Richmond Hill City Center Elegance in the Park Bridal Show. It was such a gorgeous day for an outside ceremony and then the guests were welcomed into the elegant reception ballroom with teal up-lighting and danced the night away! Everyone had a wonderful night and when guests are happy, we are happy!! Here is the list of vendors who helped make this wedding a success and more pictures of the wedding details...enjoy!


Simply Savannah Events Savannah Vance/Wafford Wedding
Ceremony & Reception Location: Richmond Hill City Center
Photographer: Studio Caesura (Erin Piepgrass) 
Hair Dresser: Upscale Hair Salon
Makeup Artist: Sharita Janay
Florist: Bride Wedding 
Cake/Dessert: Addy B’s Cakes
Lighting: Advanced Audio/Visual Rentals
Officiant: Rev. Marilyn Odom 
Reception Music: DJ Adam Kelley 
Transportation: Coastal Limousine

Eco-friendly details: handmade favors for guests, ceremony & reception in the same location which is also a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) registered facility, flowers bought directly, and handmade centerpieces for flower arrangements. 

{Vendor Spotlight} Taken Photography

Today, I would like to introduce you to Alicja Colon, a very talented photographer from Savannah.

Sparkle | Color | Flash | Dynamic

 

Those four words would definitely describe Alicja of Taken Photography! Other words to describe Taken's work are dramatic, beautiful, and emotion capturing. I am thrilled to have met Alicja and get to know her as a friend. I prefer to meet with all my vendors in person to allow that connection and relationship to form. Just looking at someone's website and emailing them does not create a good bond. I want to make sure that if I refer a client to a professional vendor that I know they are quality. Alicja is QUALITY but also such a caring talented woman. Alicja was nice enough to answer a few questions for my blog post to help y’all get to know her a little better!

Layla: Which are your 5 favorite images and why? 

1) oh my heart - I just look at this and swoon. This image was taken in the Bahamas for fellow photographer, Melissa (of foreverphotographers.com) the Bride. We were on the dock, sun going down. The couple just signed their marriage license, which in the Bahamas HAS to be signed before the sunset. I love how John, the groom, took his bride in his arms and assertively gave his woman a kiss. I love how Melissa cherished it.  

2) During the first dance - there was SO much emotion. This couple has lots to deal with the day of their outside wedding - RAIN. But I love for they overcame and re-focused on what was important: Their love.

3) I lean towards the sexy side of things. We did lots of photos outside, in a playground - but I knew... He is a firefighter (he had to be smokin' under his shirt), and just look how cute she is! I saw a leather couch and a red pillow. Yes, we have to do sexy. So blessed to have clients up for anything :)

4) Love the innocent moment: fun, flirty, and sweet. Jessica, the hottie, was shy of taking photos in a pretty public place. To lighten the mood I was reassuring that no one was looking, "except that guy" and they busted out in sweet laughter. Ahhh - the moments <3

5) Vanessa-a vixen in Miami. She saved for a year to do this glam shoot. When we meet I knew she was ready to rock & roll! I mean look at those red lips-HOT! I love the light, motion, and the confidence our hottie has! 

Layla: What makes you laugh?

Alicja: Really embarrassing moments - like when I go bowling and swing my arm back and accidentally let the ball go. I heard that forward is better, but I like to keep things interesting : ) 

Layla: What do you find enjoyable?

Alicja: Trying to get my one-year-old to dance. It's really not hard. When anything with a beat comes on goes in dancing diva mode - full with hip shaking, shrugging shoulders, and hand waving. Yes, I gave her a few pointers.  

Layla: What are you most proud of? 

Alicja: I guess this has nothing to do with me - but I'm most proud of the opportunity to be a professional photographer. Humbly I thank Jesus for the gift to get to know others and serve them in this way.  

Layla: When did you start Taken?

Alicja: In Miami, about 2 years ago. Before that I was operating under Alicja Colon Photography, for a year in Savannah, but no one knew who to spell Alicja or Colon - pronounced "Cologne." That's what happens when a Polish girl marries a Puerto Rican. 

Layla: How would you describe your style?

Alicja: Fashion-forward documentary. I'm very into color, contrast, and emotion. It's a perfect combination because when a moment happens I capture it as it happen. But I can also pose the couple, bridal party, or parents in a way that's natural and communicates deep emotion. 

Layla: What do you do when you are not photographing weddings?

Alicja: Right now designing logos for fellow photographers and picking colors of the house we're building. But always drinking coffee. YUM! 

Layla: Finish this sentence: 

Alicja: I am ... in need of a date with the beauty salon!  

My passion is ... aesthetics! If I'm involved, it has to look fierce.

My favorite moment in weddings is...The first dance! I love listening to music while watching the groom sing to his bride. And then kiss afterwards, many times, rivals the first kiss!  

Layla: What are your accolades:

Alicja: Taken's weddings are have been feature of varying wedding internet publications. That's very exciting! Each time I get blown away at the response of the images I get to craft.

♥ Blessfully Taken 2012 ♥

This is her 3rd year offering the Blessfully Taken contest where Alicja will give away FREE 8 hours of wedding photographic services, 8x12 luxury, hand-crafted album {custom selected leather cover}, DVD of web-ready album images, and online gallery of wedding images for the winner who has been nominate as a Bride-to-be who deserves this luxurious gift. 

Alicja has the BIGGEST ♥ !

 

Thank you Alicja!!
Don't forget to check out her website at  http://www.taken-photography.com

{Real Wedding} Simply Savannah Events Irish Themed Wedding

This bride and groom chose a local wedding in Savannah, GA since they live here, but many of the guests came from afar including Pennsylvanian, Minnesota, California, and Canada! Their ceremony location and reception venue was held at the Roundhouse Railroad Museum for their rustic yet elegant wedding in March. They went to Ireland for their honeymoon and wanted a tasteful Irish theme which can be seen in the pops of green colors and Celtic border sewn by her mother for every table liner. Little shamrock confetti was thrown by the flower girl instead of the traditional flower petals and Irish music flowed from the DJ. Blount Photo captured their special day from the rehearsal dinner at Kevin Barry's Irish Pub, to the behind the scenes flower designing, and finally the Big Day!


The bride is also an avid recycler and loves being able to re-purpose materials and create less waste. So when I found this cute idea for her wedding guests favors online and it was easy to create. She asked all her friends to save all their tin cans and voila! She had enough. We also recycled the extra wedding invitations to wrap around the cans. Check out the inspiration for this here: DIY IDEA


Other great green ideas the bride used was her Seal and Send Wedding Invitations from recycled paper. These invitations cut back on paper used because they do not require a return envelope since the rsvp is a post card. She also had a wedding website that allowed her guests to find out where she was registered and find all the details to their wedding online. Lastly, her something borrowed and blue was her garter belt that was on loan from a friend.


Flowers: Wholesale Distributor arranged by Layla and bride's friend
Invitations: Invitations by Dawn
Dresses: David's Bridal
Ceremony Location and Reception Venue: Roundhouse Railroad Museum ~  Savannah, GA
Cake Designer: Friend
Makeup and Hair:  Friend
Photography: Blount Photo

Eco-friendly details: ceremony & reception in same location, seal and send invitations less paper/postage, favors for guests were plants & wrapped with extra wedding invitations, flowers bought directly from wholesaler, M.O.B. handmade the table runners, guests stayed at hotel in walking distance to reception, & "green" wedding photog.