Charlotte, NC wedding photographer, senior portraits photographer » Charlotte NC photography- weddings, senior portraits, headshots, family photography in NC

If you are in need of a makeup artist, Adrian is a great choice! Not only does she offer bridal and bridal party makeup application on the wedding day, but she also applies makeup for senior portraits, boudoir portraits, and model portfolio sessions. She specializes in creating a classic and timeless look that will look beautiful and stylish in photographs for years to come. For more information about her services, contact Adrian at: adrian@beautysophisticate.net or 704-604-5341. View her website at: http://www.beautysophisticate.net. Adrian did an incredible job with Katlyn’s makeup for a recent shoot:

If you are looking for a veil, unlike any other, I highly recommend contacting Dorene from Unveiled Bridal Designs. I ordered a black birdcage veil from her last year for a model shoot that kept getting rained out. We exchanged several emails so she could determine exactly what I had in mind. For my shoot, I needed a black veil with red accents. She created a birdcage with black feathers, red biots, and a jewel accent. It totally exceeded my expectations!

Dorene’s philosophy: “I do not want brides to settle for what ALL the other brides are wearing. I long to see them in something that matches their personality. Romantic, Retro, edgy, vintage, whatever you can dream up I love to create it!”

You can contact Dorene at unveiledbridaldesigns@gmail.com. Check out her stunning designs online here:

Don’t forget to take advantage of restaurant week in Charlotte next week! Many upscale restaurants are offering 3 course meals for $30/per person. So far, I have plans to eat out THREE nights next week! When it comes to eating out, I rarely leave the Lake Norman area so this will be a treat! I’m joining my sister and friends at the Melting Pot, Mimosa Grill, and Sullivans. Over 50 Charlotte restaurants are participating. You can check out menus here:
http://www.charlotterestaurantweek.com/

The DJ, wedding coordinator, photographer, and videographer must work together to make the reception flow smoothly. I absolutely loved that ATRG made sure that I was in the area before announcing any major events. Some DJs start the first dance or bouquet toss without ensuring that the photographer and videographer are ready. It rained briefly before the outdoor ceremony began. The DJ grabbed papertowels and joined the wedding party as they dried off the seats. They definitely go above and beyond what is expected. For more information, visit their website: All The Right Grooves or give them a call at: (704) 549-9951.

I highly recommend Head Over Heels wedding planning service. It is truly amazing how much of a difference a wedding coordinator can make at a wedding! Weddings can be so chaotic but a coordinator will ensure that everything runs smoothly. Head Over Heels has something for everyone….They offer full-service wedding planning and day-of coordinators. Laura is down-to-earth and fun to work with. To schedule a consultation, you can reach Laura at 704-840-7549 or email headoverheels@lauramassie.com.

For more information, check out the website:
Head Over Heels website

Last fall, I overbooked myself by scheduling 2 weddings per weekend. The weight of my camera equipment took it’s toll on my back and neck. I was so sore after a double wedding weekend! I found an excellent massage therapist in Huntersville. Karen at Valeria is amazing! Chad booked massages for us this week. I had forgotten how wonderful the experience could be with the right masseuse.

During the busy wedding season, I usually have knots in my upper back that Karen works out for me. It’s a little painful but totally worth it! When there are no knots to work out, it is just a relaxing and indulgent experience. The 9-head Swiss shower is complimentary with any spa treatment. I haven’t tried the shower yet, but Chad loves it!

The deep tissue massage is 50 min- 1 hour and costs $75 (plus tip). When I visited Karen this week, she gave me 15% off certificates for new clients. If you would like to schedule a massage with Karen and save 15%, please email me at kate@kateashbrook.com. Valeria is located less than a mile off of exit 25 on I-77. Their number is: 704-987-3888.

I’ve worked with Mike a few times over the years. I ran into him again last fall at Crystal’s wedding at the Point in Mooresville. He is so friendly and easygoing, not to mention he has a little something for everyone! Diamond DJ’s has been specializing in weddings since 1997. Definitely check them out!

For more information, visit: http://diamonddjs.net/

Every year the police department and 107.9 team up to give disadvantaged kids Christmas gifts. A list of names, ages, and wish lists can be found here: Santa’s Link to Kids

Many of the kids need coats, shoes, and clothing along with toys. Gifts can be dropped off at the Arboretum Shopping Center on December 17th or the Northcross Shopping Center on Dec 18th. We participate in this every year - it’s a great way to make a difference in someone’s life over the holiday season! =) A few years ago, my daughter was too young to comprehend that other children weren’t as fortunate as her, but now that she understands she really enjoys picking out gifts for children her age. She tells me that she knows exactly what they will like!

I have had wonderful and not so wonderful experiences with other Charlotte wedding vendors over the years. The city definitely has it’s share of people who are passionate about their work in the wedding industry! I will add recommendations for those I have worked with who consistently exceed client expectations. When you have vendors you can trust, you can expect your day to flow more smoothly.  =)