celebrating the DOG DAYS of summer! {pet portraits at The Wedding Pantry}

On Sunday, August 29th, I'll be holding another round of mini-sessions at The Wedding Pantry. And this time, it's all about the animals! That's right... I'll be offering PET PORTRAITS! Because, let's face it: your pet is part of your family. Sometimes, even like your own child. So wouldn't it be nice to have some family photos of your "fur-baby," too?

mini-session + mini-accordion book = $65

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to charity... I will be donating $10 from each mini-session to the Animal Assistance League of Orange County, and The Wedding Pantry will be donating 10% of their day's sales, as well. (So be sure to do a bit of extra shopping while you're in the store that day.) The Animal Assistance League of Orange County is a non-profit no kill humane society dedicated to aiding lost and homeless pets, helping people with pet related problems, promoting responsible pet-ownership and pet population control, and preventing cruelty to animals through educational programs.

Please note... while the day is being dedicated to our furry friends, you can still take advantage of the mini-sessions for the day even if you don't bring along your dog. I still welcome any other type of portrait session, as well... family, friends, kids, etc. And $10 from each of those sessions will also be donated to the Animal Assistance League of Orange County. So even if you don't get pictures with your pet, you can still play a part in helping a good cause.

d e t a i l s :

when: Sunday, August 29th

where: The Wedding Pantry (138 W. Main Street, Tustin, CA 92780)

how to participate: To book a session, contact The Wedding Pantry with your desired session time by calling (714) 505-9927 or sending an email to info@theweddingpantry.com.  Walk-ins are welcome, but since space is limited and spots are filling up quickly, it's definitely recommended that you reserve your session time in advance.

fee: $65.  Includes a 15-minute portrait session and mini-accordion book with the best shots from the day. 15 images will be finalized and hosted in an online gallery for 4 weeks; you are able to purchase prints and products directly from this gallery during that time. Specially priced package deals will also be made available for purchase on the day of the mini-sessions; regular prices will be in effect after that time.

to prepare for your session: I will be using (healthy) treats and squeak-toys to hold your pet's attention. However, you know your pet best. If there is a certain treat or possession that your dog responds to, please feel free to bring it along for use during the session. We will be taking photos in a public area, so I ask that your pet be in your control at all times (either on-leash or held by you).

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I wanted to give you a peek at what you can expect from your mini-session, so I borrowed a couple of friends and their dog, Duke. (Isn't he adorable?)

And I just couldn't pass up an opportunity to snap a few pictures of my own pup, Jasper...

And now for the mini accordion book...

With its small size (3"x3"), it's the perfect size to slip into your purse or keep at your desk as a mini family album. The hidden magnet in each cover helps keep the book sealed shut, protecting the enclosed images.  (And being magnetic, you can even keep it on the fridge! Go ahead... try it!)

Please visit this site to learn more about my mini-sessions and  see what's in the works: www.minis.theSuitcaseStudio.com

the dog-days of summer {pet portraits at The Wedding Pantry}

If you haven't heard yet, I'll be holding pet portrait mini-sessions on Sunday, August 29th at The Wedding Pantry. Full details coming soon. In the meantime, here's a preview that's bound to make you smile. Just like these guys:

mini-sessions {q&a}

I'll be offering mini-sessions again this Sunday, July 11th at The Wedding Pantry. Walk-ins are definitely welcome, but reservations are recommended. Click here for details and to reserve a session time. I've been getting some questions about these shoots, and thought I'd answer them here. (And if you have questions besides these, PLEASE feel free to ask.)

Q:  What, exactly, is a "mini-session?"

A: A mini-session is pretty much what it sounds like. It's a mini portrait session.  While my normal portrait sessions last an hour, a mini-session lasts 15 minutes. You'll spend that time with me in front of my camera, in an awesome location somewhere near The Wedding Pantry...using brick walls, ivy walls, trees, gazebos, storefronts, churches, and other places as backgrounds. Click here to see sample images from a mini-session.

Q:  What do I get for the price ($65)?

A: For $65, you'll get the mini-session with me, plus a 20-page mini-book including the best images from your session. Click here to see sample pages of the mini-book.

Q:  Can I purchase additional books?

A: Yes. Additional copies of the mini-book will be sold for $35 each.

Q:  Can I purchase other items from you?

A: Yes. When I have finished editing the images from your session, I will upload them to an online gallery which will be available for 4 weeks. You can order prints and other products (such as books, accordion albums and digital images) directly from that online gallery.

Q:  It sounds like fun, but I REALLY don't like being in front of a camera. Help?

A: I hear ya! I HATE being in front of a camera, too. But my style is different than most other photographers... I make things as casual as possible, so it feels more like simply "hanging out" rather than a photoshoot. One possible suggestion... I find that some people are more relaxed if they bring someone along with them to interact with (like a friend or family member). That person would remain off-camera as we shoot, but would be able to talk to you and help you to smile and laugh a bit more. But then again, there are some people that would be mortified to have a witness. Not a problem! Either way, my style is pretty much the same. We wander the area until an area catches our eye. I ask you to stand in a certain area, but relax and look around. For the most part, you don't have to worry about standing still in a pose. I might ask you to "look to the left" or "look at me." And for any pose that I ask you to do, I will demonstrate it myself first. Because it's all about making you relax so that your TRUE SELF can shine through!

Q:  It sounds like a good idea, but I don't think I need any pictures of JUST ME.

A: Are you sure? Before you dismiss the thought of taking pictures solo, you might ask yourself if they'd make a nice gift for someone in your life, like a significant other or family member. And even if you're not sure about the mini-book itself, keep in mind that the price I'm offering for these mini-sessions is lower than my standard portrait session, so it's a great time to think about using this time to simply update your headshot on your blog or social networking site!

Q:  I still think I'd rather take pictures with friends or family instead of just myself. Can I do that?

A: OF COURSE! A mini-session is a GREAT time to get friends & loved ones involved! You can purchase one mini-session for up to 5 people... just keep in mind that only one mini-book is included in the price (though you can purchase additional copies of the mini-book). Here are some ideas for group photos to get you started:

• bridal party (you and your GIRLS!!!)
• family photo session (or even just you and your mom... what an awesome gift a mini-book of pics of the two of you would be)
• you and your significant other (you could even use the mini-book as a guest sign-in book at an upcoming party or shower of yours...)
• just the kids (seriously, who WOULDN'T want updated pics of their kiddos?)

...I hope that's enough information to give you some ideas and help get you excited. Seriously, it's a LOT of fun... I promise. Hope to see you there this Sunday!

mini-books

Just a reminder... the first day of mini-sessions are coming up QUICKLY, on Saturday, June 26 at The Wedding Pantry. There are still a few spots left, so make sure to snag one for yourself and get one of these cute mini-books in the process. Each mini-session includes 15 minutes in front of the camera and one of these adorable mini-books with your best shots included. And at the moment, these little gems are only available when you book a mini-session with me. Click here for details and to reserve yourself a spot. I recently received my sample mini-books from the printer's, and was excited to show them off a bit. Each book is 5"x5", and includes 10 pages (20 sides). Aren't they CUTE???

mini-sessions {dress up days at the Wedding Pantry}

Strut Your Stuff.(and some of ours, too...)

There's something fun about playing dress-up. I don't care HOW grown-up we are all supposed to be... the idea of trying on something new is almost like trying on a new persona... testing it out; seeing if it fits. It's what makes shopping so fun.

The Wedding Pantry gets this and are now holding special "dress-up days." During a dress-up day, come wearing your favorite fancy outfit (or even bring your bridal gown), and finish off your look by playing dress-up with all of the accessories offered in the store. All dressed up and nowhere to go? I've got an idea...

mini-session + mini-book: $65 small on price...big on style. because everyone needs their 15-minutes of fame.

the concept: Not everyone has the time to dedicate to a full-blown photo session. No worries. Good things come in small packages, and a mini-session might be the perfect fit for you! At this time, I have teamed up with the Wedding Pantry, and am offering mini-sessions during their "dress-up days." I will be on hand to document your style by offering mini portrait sessions. We'll have 15 minutes together to wander the surrounding area and capture your fabulous shots. With plenty of places to choose from, you can customize the places we stop to fit your style. For an urban look there are brick walls,  parking areas, stairways, side streets, and various storefronts. For a romantic look we can use ivy covered walls, trees and other greenery, and even a nearby gazebo. Or mix and match. Whatever you want. This is made to fit YOUR style.

This is fun for anyone, but is also a great idea if you've always wanted some trash-the-dress pics or urban shots of yourself in your gown after the wedding.

what you get: (15 minute) mini-session + a mini-book showcasing your best images. All images will also be hosted in an online gallery for 4 weeks, where additional products and prints are available for purchase.

The first dress-up day/mini-sessions will be offered on Saturday, June 26th, from 3-6 pm at the Wedding Pantry. click here for address/contact info for the Wedding Pantry

Please note: limited sessions are available. Walk-ins are welcome, but it's highly recommended that you call ahead to reserve a preferred time for your session. Or simply sign up here: http://dressupdayminishoot.eventbrite.com/

To get things rolling, last week I held a few mini-sessions for some familiar faces...  this is for all of those people who say "but I'm not comfortable in front of the camera!!!" (Believe me, I understand. I'm not comfortable there, either.) But this is just for FUN! And remember... this is REAL LIFE. It doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful.

Below are a few of my fave shots from the morning.

Eva (owner of the Wedding Pantry)

Darla (of Darla Marie Designs)

and her fabulous friend, Nicole!

Hope to see you on the 26th!!!

And bonus round... there is also a trunk show being held there on the 26th... for One Ten Jewelry by Jane Jeon of Olive Hue Paper. Jame Jeon has been known for her stationery design but she actually started out designing jewelry. Jane will be previewing her new line of jewelry perfect for everyday wear and bridesmaids. Her line is sold exclusively at The Wedding Pantry.

Hope to see you all there! Can't wait to PLAY!!!

May Newsletter

Relationships are on my mind a lot these days. I gave thanks to my mom and grandma on Mother's Day, just celebrated my 2-year wedding anniversary, and even welcomed a new nephew into the world. I had the pleasure of photographing another newborn, and was also part of a family reunion. That's a lot of connections. And each one has a story...

[Read the rest of this entry by clicking HERE to see the MAY NEWSLETTER.]

the Wedding Pantry {grand opening}

I first met Eva Chiou when she was putting together the "Utterly Spankin' New Year Party," a mixer for Utterly Engaged (the wedding e-zine). We briefly met up at the local KFC so that I could hand off some promo cards of mine to put in the goodie bags for the party. Only having known her through her Twitter account, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. But I really shouldn't have worried. Eva was so warm & friendly, and within 5 minutes I felt as if I had known her for 5 years. Besides being a big part of Utterly Engaged, Eva was still running Red Velvet Occasions at that time. I asked her where her studio was, and our conversation took a new direction. She said that her current lease was just about up, and that they were looking into different options. She mentioned the possibility in the near future of renting a location where other wedding vendors might be able to use the area, as well, and she asked if that was something that I might be interested in. Wow. Little did I know, her plans were already being set into motion. Since then, I've been following her tweets and reading her blog; and have been watching this idea progress from dream to reality in such a short time. And I am so very excited for her.

Introducing... the Wedding Pantry.

It's the first-of-its kind store... in one word: INSPIRATIONAL. Located in Old Town Tustin, it fits right into the artsy atmosphere. And yet, from the moment you enter the store you are aware that this is something different. The decor is modern and streamlined, and yet the feel of the place is totally inviting. One-of-a-kind accessories and wedding-related items are displayed on tables and shelves, showcasing each individual vendor. Magazines are stacked at the rear of the store for people to flip through for ideas. And there are smaller shelves which hold business cards of various local wedding vendors. Everything within the walls of this place has a personal feel to it, putting a name behind it all.

The back area of the Wedding Pantry houses the "offices" of Utterly Engaged, and through another door is a meeting room which can be rented by wedding vendors for use as a client meeting space. I will be one of those vendors, and will be making the Wedding Pantry my official meeting place. THIS is why I have been so excited for the development & opening of this place.

Today was the grand opening of the Wedding Pantry. Let me show you around...

The view from the outside...

Their fabulous window display. (and by the way, this dress is for SALE, if anyone is interested...)

Scenes of the interior.

Their magazine collection, which will grow exponentially. If you have magazines lying around, bring them by every 1st Tuesday of the month to receive $5 store credit with every 10 magazines you bring in.

Food for the day's celebrations was provided by Jay's Catering.

But the awesome cake was made by a friend!

Here is just a sampling of the items you'll find in the Wedding Pantry...

This is the room which will be used as the office of Utterly Engaged.

...and through this door lies the meeting room that you will be seeing soon (as a new client of mine)!

Please note that they are always looking for new talent and products to showcase in their store. Please contact Eva at the Wedding Pantry if you are interested. And I'll see you there SOON!

April Newsletter

Just wanted to let you know that the April newsletter has just been just sent out.  Click here to read it for yourself.  And if you'd like to be on the e-mailing list to receive future issues, please click the button in the top toolbar to sign up.