I'm a Charleston Chick!

I met the incomparable Alyson Bailey only a few short weeks ago, but have been undeniably changed by her passion, drive and multi-tasking ability. She began with an idea almost a year ago of a website that would feature what's great about Charleston; the people, places and events in a fresh new way. The long process of bringing this idea to light ended in March when http://www.thecharlestonchicks.com/ went live.

When I met Alyson, just a few days after the launch, it all just clicked. A kindred Lowcountry spirit to be sure. By the end of our conversation I felt like we'd been friends for years. It also worked out well that I am a photog about town and insatiable blogger and she's got a website about Charleston. Now you'll be able to read my latest adventures, hijinks and schenanigans about town over at http://www.thecharlestonchicks.com/ too.

What is Charleston Chicks?

Charleston Chicks is all about the back story and all about a woman's point of view. Want to know how intelligent, successful, interesting women in our community got their start? Read about them in Charleston Chicks. Wanna know the best way to spend your weekend? Charleston Chicks has got the the hot list of cool places to be around the Lowcountry. It's all about learning about and sharing your community. So join the conversation! If there is something that you want to read, know or do... share it! This is your community!

Click here to see my curtsy on the Charleston Chicks stage.

A whole new me... well, sort of

I had a quick photoshoot with my friend Ameilia Philips-Hale at Kudu coffee downtown this morning. I was in desperate need of a headshot of some projects that I have been into lately. What do you think of these?

The thought of getting a headshot done made my stomach churn.... I am on the other side of the lens for a reason. I can say that I have a new found compassion and sympathy for the comfort level of my clients in front of my lens.
I have long admired how Amelia and her husband Dan capture the essence of real people. After being award winning photojournalists out in the big wide world, they began a wedding photography business based in the idealic wedding destination of Charleston, so they are well familiar with working with all types of people and situations. Not to mention, they are funny ( a photography requirement in my book). They have a sense of how to relax you and get you laughing right from the start that makes the whole process easier.
Check out their website: http://www.dreamlandimages.com/ for some rockin' pics!

Java flows through my veins!

Untold amounts of thanks to you Amelia!

I've been a bit quiet here on the blog... but for good reason! I've been really busy over at this one:

http://www.thefosterpets.blogspot.com/

I've taken on the challenge of fostering 3 puppies and am writing a blog about the experience. It's chock full of day to day anecdotes and information about raising/fostering puppies. And of course it wouldn't be complete without a ton of super cute puppy pictures! So hop on over and have a good laugh.

P.S. If you know of anyone who might be interested in a super cute and lovable-gonna-be-a-big-dog then send 'em my way. I can't keep them all to myself forever!

An evening at Saks

In a strained economy non-profit organizations feel the pinch in big ways. They must work twice as hard to just keep up with current plans, let alone expand programing. This week's news of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra shuttering it's doors for the remainder of this season was a harsh reminder of what can happen when the community doesn't rally to support organizations that do so much to aid our collective growth and development.

The Center for Women is as creative as I have seen, by way of creating unique events... and prolific too! There is at least one event within the community per week and the women at the helm are pro's. They don't even look like they are breaking a sweat! Partnering with businesses and stand-outs in the community for varied programs is a way to open up new audiences and gain exposure.

Tonight's event was heald at Saks Fifth Avenue, downtown Charleston. Carol Perkins of Harry Barker spoke about how her business began and became what it is today - an International Luxury Dog Accessory Brand. Harry Barker was born inspite of and even because of a rare brain tumor, years ago, that took her back to the begining where she could start over - this time, doing what she loves.
The interactive portion of the evening was the Trish McEvoy demonstration and make overs at the beauty counter. Followed by - shopping at Saks! A portion of tonight's sales will go to the Center for Women. And with thirty + women in attendance, one can hope that will go a long way to assuring that women's development events at the Center can continue.

All in all a smashing success... even if I didn't win the Harry Barker goody basket for Peanut.

For more see:

http://www.c4women.org/

http://www.harrybarker.com/

http://www.trishmcevoy.com/

Exercise your right to vote!

Had a fun time with Aldwin and his fiance Christine on downtown this weekend. I'll be shooting their wedding in the fall. Now, usually if you are gonna shoot a wedding, an engagement session or bridal portrait session is first in line. So why was I taking pictures of Aldwin?

The short story is... Christine entered him into the PETA "Sexiest Vegetarian" contest on a lark. He was one of 1000 entries and he's made it to the top 10! Go Aldwin! The grand prize is A vacation to Maui.... they have a wedding coming up.... I suspect that might make a nice honeymoon.

So click here to vote for Aldwin.

A VOTE FOR ALDWIN IS A VOTE FOR LOVE (and animals).