It started with a tweet. Had I checked twitter 10 minutes later, I probably would have missed it. Totally one of those happened-to-be-there-at-the-right-time kind of things. Although, I don’t believe in chances. I believe that everything happens for a reason. So, I’m not sure I deserved it, but I thank God that I was blessed with such an opportunity.
When I happened to see Gabriel’s tweet about winning a free spot to their first ever BUILD Workshop, I knew I had to try. Gabriel and Carlie are not only incredible photographers (and incredible people), I’ve always admired how they seem to run the business side of things, too. Which is something that I’ve struggled with from the get go, simply because I am SO not business minded. I mean, helloooooo, I’m an artist. That means I’m entitled to be horrible at business, right? (I kid, in case you can’t tell.) Seriously though, it’s not something that comes naturally to me. But I knew that BUILD could change that, so I just had to try…
As you probably guessed, yes, they picked me. Little ole me! To say I was ridiculously stoked when I found out would be an understatement. I will forever be soooo grateful that they picked me!! BUILD did change me, and the way I look at my business. I can’t express enough just how encouraging, motivating, and especially educational the workshop was. I came away with a strong direction, more knowledge, and some new friends : ) It was an experience I won’t forget any time soon. If you’re a photographer just starting out in the wedding business, or even if you’ve been doing it for a while and you just need a fresh perspective and vision, this workshop is so worth it.
But enough of me blabbing away. Let’s get to some pictures, yeah?! Gabriel and Carlie arranged a styled shoot for us, and it was FABULOUS. I’m still drooling over gorgeous tablescape and the adorable smiles of our models, Evelyn and Jesus…
We started off walking the grounds of the clubhouse where the workshop was held, and found this tunnel with pretty light.
Gabriel showed us how he works his magic.
Then we headed out into the neighborhood and just walked the street. And my gosh, Ladera Ranch is full of prettiness!
Gotta love posing shots ; ) (Sorry Gabriel, I couldn’t help myself!)
Bah, how cute are they?!
Love.
Evelyn looked exquisite, wouldn’t you agree?
Jesus workin’ it for the camera : )
Evelyn and Jesus, you guys were perfect! Thank you so much for modeling!!
And now for the tablescape that I took entirely too many photos of… A HUGE thank you to the marvelous Melanie Bittick for designing it for us!!!
The mushrooms? LOVED. And I don’t even like mushrooms.
I died over the giraffe napkin holder. So awesome.
Everything just went together perfectly!
Not gonna lie, my stomach might have grumbled a little when I read the menu… I’d totally be down for a twice-baked purple potato!
Just sooo pretty. Thank you again Melanie!
To the other amazing women who attended, Emily, Jodi, Michelle, Katie, and Shanna, thank you for all the great conversation, honesty, and encouragement! I’m so glad I got to know all of you : )
And to Gabriel and Carlie… saying thank you seems insufficient for all that you guys have done. All the time, hard work, and passion you put into this workshop. All the honest advice and the strong desire to help us succeed. And most of all, for choosing me to be a part of it. I just hope that someday I can influence people the way you have and will continue to do : ) THANK YOU!!
