Welcome to Autumn Olive Photography's Blog!

New Blog

2009-05-12T18:51:00.003-04:00

Hi there! Autumn Olive Photography now has a new blog. Please check it out at http://blog.autumnolivephotography.com. Also don't forget to change you RSS feeds and google reader! See you on the new blog! :)

My life...

2009-05-11T16:39:00.005-04:00

Yesterday Chris washed up the old truck for Church. We had been wanting to get it out for sometime…it just seems like life gets too busy sometimes. After church we went back to the house, changed, picked up Little Bobby and went to Morganton (the next town over). One cannot be in a hurry while driving the old truck. We usually coast at about 40mph. We took the back roads as to not slow anyone else down. I love how the old and young wave at us while we are in the truck and how the old men will stop to talk to us or give up a “thumbs up”. We stopped at a gas station before taking our mini-trip. While at the station, an older man came up to us and started talking. We were both sitting in the truck and out of no where, the old man started crying and saying that he just buried his wife. He went on to talk about his wife and what a great lady she was. My eyes were watering up and it made me realize how lucky I was to have Chris by my side and how I hope can can grow old together. The old man was in our minds the rest of the afternoon. Chris and I went on to eat lunch at a BBQ joint and went for a walk on the Morganton Greenway. It was a perfect afternoon…..but why is it that we are always in such a hurry in life? Does it really matter if the laundry didn’t get folded today or the grass not mowed…will one day really hurt in the whole realm of life? Now...off to do the laundry...one day late!

The grass was so green this weekend that I had to take some pictures of my favorite shoes with the green grass! :)

Life in Marion, NC

2009-05-08T20:18:00.004-04:00

This afternoon, after I was done running some errands, I came home to Chris working on the other end of the land on a fence. We are working on getting part of our land set up for cows! Who knew that it took so much time and HARD work to put up a fence for cows....!! Not to mention $$$!! Oh well, we will get through it...I mean, I know I will....I just talk his head off while he is sweating and digging and all that manly stuff. I offer to help, but assume I will just get in the way...so I talk away. ;) We are hoping to have at least 5 acres fenced in. Once we get that done, we will get a couple cows, and work on fencing in more of the land at that time. So, you may ask...why cows? ! ? I would have laughed at myself 10 years ago and would have never believed such a thing!! We mostly just want to raise our own, hormone free beef!!

Little Bobby watching daddy work hard! It is so funny...Chris will throw roots and limbs over the bank to get them out of the way. Little Bobby runs after them and thinks Chris is throwing a stick for him to fetch!

I picked some wildflowers from our field while Little Bobby was playing in the creek.

And finally, on my way up to the house, I grabbed my basket and walked to our garden to pick some spinach and leaf lettuce for dinner tonight! I love warm weather! :)

Chris and I - Wedding

2009-05-06T17:35:00.003-04:00

The other day, the groom's uncle emailed me images that he took of Chris and I photographing Cory and Charity's wedding. I had no idea that he was taking photos of us and it was a nice surprise to get an email full or images! Although I look silly in them, It still it fun to see images of myself at work! :)

Cory and Charity- Destination Wedding

2009-05-04T18:17:00.006-04:00

Chris and I ventured out to the Tri-cities in Washington to photograph Cory and Chairty's wedding. Cory, Charity, and the rest of the wedding party were up for anything. They even played football while all dressed up (more on that later). Their family and friends were so welcoming and fun to talk with as well! :) Here are a few images from their very special day!

Can we say BEAUTIFUL!!

Apparently Cory is known for this look! :) I think I have an image of at least 5 others (including his bride) doing this!! :)

This image is precious and seriously one of my favorites. Cory and his brother are about to hug in the background while Cory's dad just got done hugging Cory. The emotion in this image really touches my heart.

Message from the Groom: Autumn Olive Photography did a Wonderful job. So many wedding guests commented on their work as more than profesional, but personal too! Plus they are tremendous friends!

New Logo

2009-04-30T16:42:00.006-04:00

I finally have my new logo up and going. I have been working on this logo since January with Hannah from Hannah Deesigns out of the Atlanta, Georgia area. I want to thank Hannah for being very patient with me and for being so darn good at what she does. A logo is so very personal to me and she came up with so many fun logos based on my ideas. Not to mention Hannah is prompt, professional, and so very easy to get along with! So, if you are in the market for a logo, or anything with a handmade personal touch...call Hannah!! :)

My logo is of a hand drawn tree with a maple leaf. I wanted the feel of the logo to be unique and earthy...just like Autumn Olive Photography is!! :) So be on the look out for it to be on the website and the new blog within the next week!!

A Barn in Washington

2009-04-29T17:45:00.002-04:00

The whole time that Chris and I were in Washington, we had a plan. We wanted to capture a part of the country we had never seen before with our cameras. Chris and I took the back roads to get where we wanted to visit. We wanted to see the countryside. We wanted to see the cows and tractors in the fields, and the orchards up close. We wanted to see the windmills and the barns. It is a part of our new project! To decorate the walls in our house. Yes, it is embarrassing to say that since we have built our house (some 1.5 years ago), we have yet to put ONE hole in our wall! I guess the main reason is because I have felt that nothing is "worthy" of being on our walls. It has to be special...have meaning....I guess I am kind of quirky like that (if quirky is a real word). So, we have decide to take scenery images that have meaning to us and get canvases made.

When I see this image I think about an EARLY morning driving to Leavenworth. We just stopped along side a road to see some big animals (for the life of me I cannot think what Chris called them). We were turning around the car and saw the barn. Chris stopped in the middle of the road and I snapped away. That is the memory I have with this image.

Your Wedding Monogram

2009-04-28T17:17:00.004-04:00

One of the latest wedding trends is to have a personalized monogram. By having a monogram, you can visually tie in your engagement announcements, save-the-dates, websites, invitations, programs, favors, and thank you stationary.

Autumn Olive Photography

(Image Source)

Inn on Mill Creek

2009-04-27T16:45:00.006-04:00

I had the opportunity to interview Dave and Brigette, the owners of the Inn on Mill Creek! This is such a great place to visit or have a small wedding ceremony at!

(image source)

Can you tell the readers a little about weddings at the Inn on Mill Creek?

The Inn has seven guests rooms, an organic orchard, walking labyrinth, and pond. It’s truly a peaceful and lovely spot for intimate wedding ceremonies, with beautiful laurel and rhododendron covered ridges and mature trees as a backdrop. We host weddings of up to 30 guests. All of our wedding information can be found on our website at www.innonmillcreek.com/weddings.htm.

What lead you to be owners of a Bed and Breakfast?

We moved to North Carolina from Ohio, where I (Brigette) had worked in Human Resources at a large law firm for 10 years, and Dave had worked for Ford Motor Company, first in Materials Planning & Logistics, then as a network engineer. Seeking a change of pace to our busy lives and a change in climate, we searched for more than a year around Asheville, where we had gotten married and fell in love with the beauty of the area. Our search ended when we found the Inn on Mill Creek -- a property that fits our laid-back style, our love of the outdoors and desire for a little elbow room. We bought the Inn on Mill Creek in 2007.

Can you tell us a little history about the Inn on Mill Creek?

The Southern Railway Company purchased the land from the government in the late 1800s (prior to the establishment of the National Forest) to create a water reservoir for Andrews Geyser, a manmade fountain constructed in 1885 as part of a luxury resort called the Round Knob Hotel. A caretaker’s cabin was the only building on the Inn’s property at that time.

Unfortunately, the Round Knob Hotel burned to the ground in 1903, but the Andrews Geyser still runs to this day, shooting water 80-100 feet in the air, controlled by the valve at the Inn.

The current buildings that house the Inn on Mill Creek were built in 1980 as a private residence by a gentleman who retired to the area from Florida. He and several thoughtful citizens of Old Fort were instrumental in refurbishing the Andrews Geyser in the mid-1970s, as it had fallen into disrepair when passenger rail service was halted several years earlier. Coincidentally, the date that the Andrews Geyser was rededicated was the day I (Brigette) was born.

The Carillon family purchased the property in 1999, and established it as the Inn on Mill Creek, converting the large private residence into a four room Bed & Breakfast. They expanded in 2001, adding three more guest rooms with a kitchen in a second building they called the Lake House.

Anything else you would like to share?

We love sharing our little piece of heaven with our guests. We hope if you’re in our neck of the woods, you’ll stop by to say hello!

To find more details about the Inn on Mill Creek, you can visit their webpage at http://www.innonmillcreek.com

Cory and Charity- Destination Wedding

2009-04-26T21:20:00.004-04:00

Chris and I just got back this evening but I wanted to share a quick photo of Cory and Charity who got married this past Saturday in Richland, Washington. More to come...

Back to the homeland

2009-04-25T21:47:00.002-04:00

Cory and Charity has a beautiful wedding with the most perfect weather! The church was located right next to an orchard which made for a beautiful background! Their family and friends were so welcoming! I will have some photos up of their wedding in the next couple of days!

Back in Richland, WA

2009-04-24T22:50:00.003-04:00

Today we drove around most of the day seeing all there is to see in the area. We just got into our room and are resting up before tomorrow's wedding with Cory and Charity.

Below is a photo I caught while we were passing through a small farming town. It was crazy how the wind picked up for just a few seconds as we were driving by!

My day!

2009-04-23T22:29:00.002-04:00

Chris and I flew into Pasco, WA yesterday and then got up this morning to fit in a couple small trips before Saturday's wedding. We drove through beautiful country to Leavenworth and are staying this evening in Wenatchee (they are known for their apples). Above is a photo from one of the tributaries of the Columbia River running off the Casscade Mountain Range.

Day of Travel...

2009-04-22T03:42:00.002-04:00

Well, today is a travel day. It is like 3:30am and we are headed out the door! I am sooo not a morning person!! Here was the highlight of my day from yesterday! Flowers delivered to me! :)

Oh, and Happy Earth Day!! :)

Daisies....my favorite! 2 Red roses for 2 years!

Pasty me.....I really like the photo of me 2 years ago in my white dress better than this one (but Chris made me post it this morning...ahhhh)

Happy Anniversary Baby!!

2009-04-21T06:34:00.000-04:00

Today Chris and I celebrate 2 wonderful years of marriage! It was such a perfect day! There were daisies everywhere (my favorite flower), the weather was perfect (I was so scared with it being an outdoor wedding), but best of all, I had the man of my dreams! We got married at the Rumbling Bald resort in Lake Lure, NC. Our wedding day was followed by a day of rest then a week long trip to Playa Del Carmen. Chris and I have grown so much closer in the past two years and I am so excited to see what the future holds for us!

Crazy around here....a good crazy though :)

2009-04-20T20:45:00.000-04:00

Chris and I are so excited to be heading to Washington to photograph a wedding. I never know what to pack when I travel. I either pack too much or never enough! The good news is that we are getting to Washington a few days early to celebrate our Anniversary as well! We hope to get some R&R along with seeing some amazing countryside on our hikes! I will keep you posted throughout the week but will have limited Internet access.

All packed up....I am only doing carry on because I refuse to spend $15 to check in each piece of luggage! ;)

Aydan in Morganton

2009-04-19T08:45:00.002-04:00

Aydan loved to pick flowers for grandma and I! He also loved to run.....at the camera and away from the camera! :) Here are some more photos from this session in Morganton.

What a cute little cowboy!

A baby in Morganton

2009-04-18T09:28:00.003-04:00

This little girl was so calm the whole session!! She was trying to crawl and raise her head up which made for some great expressions!!

Another Morganton Session

2009-04-17T15:14:00.002-04:00

A quick preview.....more to come! :)

A baby in Morganton

2009-04-16T18:13:00.002-04:00

Here is a sneak peak of a session I did the other day! This was the sweetest little girl!! More to come....

I just love baby toes! :)

Happy Tax Day!

2009-04-15T13:15:00.004-04:00

For all you newlyweds out there (or soon to be), I found this article about marriage and tazes on one of the blogs I like to follow. Click Here to read

Sad but true...

2009-04-15T07:16:00.005-04:00

What did we ever do without the internet? My internet was down yesterday and I was unable to post to the blog. :( Good news is that it is back up today......

Save the Date

2009-04-13T17:52:00.003-04:00

Autumn Olive Photography is now offering "Save the Date" cards for all engaged couples. These cards are a great way to show off your engagement photos while reminding friends and family to mark their calendars for your wedding!
Ask for more details!

Happy Day!

2009-04-12T08:52:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter everyone! After church this morning, Chris and I plan to go or a hike (an Easter tradition), then head to his Grandmother's for dinner. We wish all of your families a safe and happy Easter!

Garden time!

2009-04-10T18:09:00.002-04:00

Happy Good Friday! Chris and I had chose Good Friday to be our official "Garden Day". We woke up very early this morning (5am) to try to beat the storms that were forecasted for the the day! We ended up getting caught in the rain twice, and we were both a muddy mess....but the garden is in (minus a few peppers we want to get bigger before we plant)! Below are some photos I took this morning!

Spring

2009-04-09T21:36:00.003-04:00

Oh how I love spring and all the life and color it brings to this world! :)

Packages

2009-04-08T15:26:00.001-04:00

I love getting packages in the mail. They are especially special when you have no idea that they are coming! I remember back in college when I would get these big packages full of goodies. My parents and my aunt were especially great with sending both cards and packages. The whole time I was in college, packages kept coming to remind me of home. I really figured they would stop when school was over, or when I got married. Nope!! I still get them....I don't get to see my family at Easter most years or on my Birthday and other little holidays like Valentine's day due to living so far from home. However, they never let me forget they are thinking about me! My first easter package this year......

If you look real hard, you can see me taking the photo in the reflection! :)

Little Bobby is not sure what to think...

***Blogging Daily in April!!

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More of Ashley

2009-04-07T06:30:00.002-04:00

We had a great time in Morganton! This girl is so much fun and full of energy! It totally made my job easy! :)

I love these images! :)

Ashley in Morganton, sneak peak...

2009-04-06T17:58:00.004-04:00

Here is a sneak peak of beautiful Ashley! More to come......

Autumn Olive Photography Homepage

Photos at the Marion Egg hunt!

2009-04-05T19:16:00.004-04:00

I have the greatest memories of Egg hunts!! Growing up, we had one every year!! It is amazing to see how the little things make kids so happy. Sometimes I feel that us "grown-ups" are in such a hustle and bustle that we forget the little things! You can view more photos from the egg hunt here in Marion on the website. Just click here and click on the proofs tab. Password: Egghunt . Enjoy! :)

The girls at Bella Rouge Design did a fantastic job with the face painting (just see for yourself)! I don't know who was more popular....them or the Easter Bunny? :)

The hunt is on!

Look at their expressions! Priceless!!

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A Baby

2009-04-03T18:00:00.007-04:00

PS. For some reason it says Friday above, but I posted it on Saturday :)
Happy Saturday!!

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Session in Marion

2009-04-03T17:52:00.007-04:00

She just might be the new cover girl of Autumn Olive Photography. ;) This photo was taken here in Marion and has been on my webpage for sometime now. I ran across it again the other day while I saw searching through some photos and changed it up a bit. I love the vintage look. What do you think?

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The boy is gone for the weekend...

2009-04-02T17:12:00.005-04:00

Well, one boy that is. Chris headed out to Cherokee (to fish) and then to Nashville, TN to go Turkey Hunting with his good friend JD. Today, he sent me a photo from his blackberry of where he was...then this evening I got another photo of what he caught from fishing! There will be some good eating when he gets home on Sunday!

From Chris's Blackberry..

Chris's catch

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Happy April!!

2009-04-01T18:25:00.004-04:00

Rain really is good. It might have caused a few sessions to get postponed, but that's okay! I love how everything starts to grow and bloom in April. Chris and I knew the rain was coming so we frantically have been working on seeding our yard. As many of you know, we started building our house about 2 years ago. Chris cleared the land of all the trees for our house site. Most of the property is filled with trees so I talked him into a BIG GREEN YARD. Chris: "You know that there will be a lot of mowing with a BIG yard. If we keep trees close to the house, we won't have to mow as much." Me: But Baby.....I grew up with a BIG yard and had so much fun with it. I want our children to enjoy a yard like I did. Chris: "Cristen, you are right, you are always right" (okay, so maybe I added in the last part, but I do have my big yard!) :) So I won that battle in the house building process. However, we have been facing a whole other battle. Getting the grass to grow. We heard it takes about 3 years to get it the way you want it. We are on year 2......aerate, lime, fertilize, seed, straw. I actually think Chris likes it...it gives him an excuse to get on our tractor. Boys and their toys!!

Chris on his favorite toy! Can you believe that we bought the tractor while we were still engaged!? Who would have really known how much we (he) would use it. I got banned from it after a couple of months of having it (I hit a rock...opps)!

This is my tractor. Chris says I can play with this tractor as much as I would like. It is plastic and I cannot break anything with it. So I wasn't raised to drive a tractor.....geesh!! :)

Today starts the event of blogging daily for a WHOLE month!!

Home

2009-03-30T17:04:00.005-04:00

April is almost here! Seriously, can you believe it? April is a VERY exciting month both personally and professionally! I cannot wait to share with you all of the exciting news Autumn Olive Photography has to share over the next couple of months!

To help celebrate April, I will be blogging everyday in April! Yes, everyday!!! And, to keep me on my toes....if I miss ONE day of blogging, the first person to email me will get a prize!

Here is a quick photo of my little man...yes, I know purple is not a "boy" color, but he just looked so darn cute!! :)

Website

Sunset

2009-03-29T18:35:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to share. I was looking through some photos I took last week and I found this.....Happy Sunday!!

A couple of ideas...

2009-03-26T17:41:00.004-04:00

My head has been flowing with ideas lately!! Here is one that I have been wanting to show for a few days now. Just take a clear glass jar, cut the photo to fit the jar, and then place the photo in the jar! I think this would be a great idea for a centerpiece for a wedding or even somewhere in the house! These photos are from a September wedding! Happy Thursday! :)

Something New!

2009-03-24T18:08:00.006-04:00

You can now follow Autumn Olive Photography on Twitter. To follow the "everyday happenings" just click on follow! There will also be an active Twitter thread on my blog! It will be at the bottom of the page! :)

A hike in Morganton

2009-03-23T17:17:00.003-04:00

After Chris and I both worked all day Saturday (doing different projects), we decided that we needed to take an afternoon for "us" on Sunday. This is what an "us" Sunday afternoon looks like. Now we are refreshed for the rest of the week (we hope so at least!) :)

Here are a few photos with our point and shoot camera.

The view

My Boys!

We could hardly keep Little Bobby out of the water! :) Chris and I laughed so hard!

Old Fort

2009-03-21T14:52:00.003-04:00

Happy Spring (I know, I know....1 day late)! Here are a couple of photos from my morning in Old Fort!

Class of 2010!!

2009-03-20T16:10:00.003-04:00

Hello class of 2010!

I know that Spring Break/Prom is almost here....and that is mostly on your minds, but I am looking for some students from the class of 2010 to help me get "Autumn Olive Photography's" name out there. It may seem a little early to think about senior photos...but it really isn't!! :) If you book a session or refer a friend by the end of April (for a summer/fall session) you will have the opportunity to get a lot of free stuff!!

Senior photos shot by Autumn Olive Photography can be done in the studio or at a location of choice! These are photos that will last a lifetime and show who you really are!

If you know any 2010 seniors, send them my way! I promise they won't be disappointed!

Also, find out how you can get one of these cards and what it means! Email me or leave me a message on facebook!! :) There is only a limited supply!

*2009 Seniors are welcomed as well! :)

A Big FUN Project!

2009-03-19T19:29:00.004-04:00

Here is just a quick shot from this evening. This is a BIG project I am working on.....! More details to come! :)

Ps. Please pay no attention to the dirty shield on my helmet! Chris has told me soooo many times that I need to clean it and it just keeps slipping my mind. I guess that shows you that is has been awhile since I have been on my motorcycle! :(

Meet Mack!

2009-03-19T15:58:00.001-04:00

Mack is the newest addition to the Clark household. He has been hired to keep all of the crows and other animals OUT OF THE GARDEN! Although he has a friendly face, he makes a lot of noise when the wind blows (that is not so nice). If Mack works out this year, we may bring him back for another gardening season!! :)

My life...

2009-03-18T17:19:00.002-04:00

I broke open my fortune cookie today and smiled real big when I read it. The statement that is written on the fortune is one that I live by in both life and business. Just wanted to share...

Happy St. Patrick's Day...

2009-03-17T06:46:00.005-04:00

In celebration of St. Patrick's day, I went around the house yesterday and photographed items that were GREEN!! :) Don't forget to wear your green today!!

Kiwi...one of my favorite fruits!

Green M&M's.

Our only plant we can keep alive in the house

Green jello....yummy...it was our dessert last night for dinner!

Green glass....Chris started me this collection when I first met him. We did whitewater kayaking at that time (well, he did the big stuff and I did the small water). He would find glass bottles that had been broken in the creeks that had no sharp edges left to them. The glass had been pounded against the rocks/waves/sand and were now smooth, beat-up pieces of glass. He would give them to my for good luck when I paddled.

My favorite towel

Little Bobby's Dog house (green roof). Yes, it is in our bedroom (not outside like most dog houses). When we are gone during the day, Little Bobby has our bedroom all to himself, along with a little doggy door to get out onto the gated porch. Yes, this dog is spoiled! But really, have you seen how cute he is?? :)

A few more...

2009-03-14T08:42:00.004-04:00

Here are a few more of the Cody Man! He just turned 2 yesterday!! There are just so many good photos to choose from......

He's ready for a game of golf!

Cody....

2009-03-11T20:51:00.004-04:00

This afternoon I got to play with Cody! We had such a fun time! Cody and his mom came from Charlotte for the week and we met at his grandparents place! The golf course is in their backyard! Cody even showed me his mad golf skills! Too cute! Here are just a few that stick out from today. More to come...

Charlotte

2009-03-10T17:21:00.004-04:00

I went to Charlotte last night for the 'Tots 2 Teens' tour and it was wonderful!! I forgot to take a photo of Sandy and the stage while I was listening to Sandy speak, so I only have a couple from before the show!

Look at all those toys!! I got to try a few lenses out. I now know which one I am buying next!! :)

All of the photographers looking at the latest in albums!

It feels like Spring!

2009-03-07T18:27:00.002-05:00

The weather was amazing here today! Chris and I had the house open the whole day and played outside for most of it (played/worked...at least we were outside!) Here is just a quick photo of my sun catcher!

I also wanted to announce the winner to the Chili's gift card from last month's contest (sorry for the delay)! I assigned each person a number and had an online program pick the number. Tammy Chavies is the winner! Congrats! There will be more contests to come so stay tuned!!

Went to a Castle yesterday....

2009-03-07T13:58:00.004-05:00

...Castle LadyHawke that is! I was invited to a vendor's day and it was nothing short of fabulous! It was an amazing venue and it would make for an amazing place to get married! Read more about it by clicking here. This place is a photographer's dream! Below are some photos of the details in the castle.

View from the top of the castle!

Cake?

2009-03-05T16:28:00.004-05:00

The other day I got a text message. It was from Emily's mom. She had taken a photo with her phone of Emily's birthday cake (with the photo I had taken on it) and sent it to me! This is a great idea for cakes!! :)

Photo taken my Emily's mom on her phone

Some photos from the week....

2009-03-05T16:15:00.001-05:00

Monday started out with snow and an amazing sunrise from our front porch! There is nothing like waking up and seeing the ground covered in a white blanket! It reminds me of the days when mom would come into my room and say, "look out the window....no school!" :)

With the days staying "longer later", Chris is loving it! We got our tiller fixed and he has been busy getting our garden ready! It's going to be a big one this year! :)

Some more of our plants we started last week

My little helper....drinking all of the water for the plants!!

Gallery Wrapped Canvas

2009-03-04T17:39:00.004-05:00

I have had a few clients ask me recently what a gallery wrapped canvas is. It is one of my favorite products I carry! Basically, your canvas is wrapped over a 1.5 inch wooden frame and looks perfect on you wall without a frame. These canvas's have such a fresh and clean look to them! It really is a piece of art that would look good anywhere in your home. Plus they are coated with a UV coating, so they won't loose their color over time like some pieces of art!

Beauty.....

2009-03-03T16:06:00.003-05:00

Rachel was so much fun to photograph......the lighting was perfect! We walked around the trails and Rachel was such a trooper with those heels! My feet would have been toast!! :) I hope you enjoy the photos Rachel!!

Rachel laughs so much!! I love it!!

We were just walking back to our cars and the natural light from the sunset hit her perfectly!

Portrait

2009-03-02T18:38:00.003-05:00

I am editing my photos from Rachel's session, and had to share this one real quick. Here is a peak at what is to come.......

Candle Light Wedding.......continued

2009-03-02T16:38:00.004-05:00

It was a Friday evening candle light ceremony. 33 years ago that is! That is when Joanna's mother and father got married. Joanna and Brandon got married exactly 33 years later on a Friday evening with a candle light ceremony. How cool is that? What a great story to tell generations to come. The Bride and her sisters even had a cake for their parents made for the reception. Such a beautiful ceremony, reception, and family. They had friends and family from everywhere at this wedding (Joanna and her parents being from South Dakota themselves). Thanks for letting me be a part of your big day! :)

This was so funny....this dog came out of no where!! When the ceremony began, it was like he knew it was time to "watch".

Love it!

2009-03-01T19:24:00.006-05:00

I love seeing two siblings that get along so great! It was pretty cold outside, but we were able to get some photographs in. These 2 kiddos love the outdoors! Here are a few of the photos.....:)

The weekend has come and gone...

2009-03-01T18:56:00.004-05:00

Well, this weekend was a great one. I was without the internet until this evening (which I guess did me some good). I wanted to share with you all some photos from Friday evening. Chris and I got all dressed up and headed to Asheville for the grand opening of "PALETTES OF PERFECTION". It is a wedding Event and Planning Library, Boutique, and Gallery. Chris and I enjoyed seeing those that we knew and mingling with those that we just met. Here are a few photos from the evening. I just brought my little point and shoot camera (I wanted to carry a small purse for once instead of a camera bag).

The awesome band! (Swingin Richards)

Asheville Aerial Arts (All I can say is AMAZING)

Wedding Planner Anyone?

2009-02-25T17:56:00.003-05:00

Someone to help plan your big day and make sure it runs smoothly can be a big help (and stress relief)! In my quest to help brides, I asked Tara, of Weddings with Tara, a few questions about her business.

1) Tell me a little about yourself and your business
I have been in the wedding planning business for 10 years, but started my own company 2 1/2 years ago. I am married to an amazing man who supports me in everything that I do, and we have one daughter-a 2 year old boxer/boston terrier mix named Toni. I have a home office, and I love it. Also, Toni would hate it if I was gone all the time! :) The most important thing in my life is my relationship with Jesus Christ, and He is the reason I am able to do what I do. He has blessed my life and my business so much, and He deserves all the credit!

2) What is your favorite part of planning a wedding?
I have many favorite parts, but I LOVE getting to know the bride, groom and their families. It is such a joy to me to hear their stories of where they met, how the got engaged, and to hear their visions for their wedding. I really enjoy bringing their ideas together and making them happen. I simply love what I do!

3) What is the first thing a couple should book for a wedding?
The first thing they should book is a location for their ceremony and reception. If they already have this in place, I would suggest booking those vendors that can only do one wedding per day/weekend...photographer, videographer, band, etc.

4) How often do you meet with the couples you work with?
Goodness...this varies so much that I can't even give you a good answer!

5) Do you work alone, or do you work with a team?
Technically, I would say I work alone, as I try to keep my business very personal. I am very blessed to have a wonderful associate that I use for the rehearsal and day-of, only if a bride wants to use my services, and I am already booked. But, I work with them up until the event on all the plans. I also bring people with me to assist on the day of the wedding if this is necessary.

6) Is there anything you would like to add?
If you want to see some of my work and meet some of my wonderful couples, please visit my blog

Candlelight Wedding.......

2009-02-23T16:31:00.004-05:00

Here are a few "sneak peaks" from Friday's wedding! More to come in a later post! Stay tuned....

Weekend Adventures!

2009-02-23T15:57:00.004-05:00

This weekend I attempted to be "Miss Suzy Homemaker". ATTEMPTED is the big word! I got a new Kitchen Aid Mixer last week so I felt that I should put it to use! Besides making smoothies all weekend with my grinder attachment for the mixer, I decided to make some bread! Remember, this is my first attempt at bread. Who knew you had to let it rise for so long! Below is my bread (I think I should have let it rise a little bit more, but at least it tasted good)

This is our basement greenhouse!

Do you see all the green? Yes, that is our cabbage growing.....it has only been planted for 6 days! I am amazed!

Happy Anniversary

2009-02-22T14:24:00.003-05:00

It was their 33rd anniversary! The same day that their daughter was getting married (more to come in a future post). Mike and Patsy live in South Dakota, but have a house here in North Carolina as well. On their property, there is this old house that Patsy loves! She joke around by saying that her and Mike will live there once they retire!! Such a great couple! Happy Anniversary!

I am an Izze Girl!

2009-02-19T18:15:00.003-05:00

Yes folks, I am an Izze Girl! I seriously think I am addicted! 70% Pure fruit juice with sparkling water and fortified with Vitamins. The drink has no refined sugars, no preservatives, and no caffeine! It is so refreshing and just plain fun! I also adore the logo.

Stuff....

2009-02-16T17:55:00.003-05:00

I was sitting in my kitchen this morning looking at our pottery mugs. These mugs have been with us for a long while. You see, a few years ago there was this girl (me) that hated to do dishes (still do, but at least I have a dishwasher now). The one thing she disliked the most to clean were the cups/mugs. Her boyfriend (Chris) thought it would be a good idea to buy 1 mug that each of us always used (and had to wash less often because of that). I never thought it would work, but I have got to say I have become fond of my mug! My mug is on the left! :)

It's Garden Time!

2009-02-12T16:33:00.003-05:00

Yes, once again it is time to start a garden! This year Chris and I plan to have a bigger garden than we have ever had! We have also decided that with having a bigger garden that we are going to *gulp* can! I have never ever canned in my whole life and am very excited/scared to do so. Chris said he will help (this year at least..haha). For the past month or so we have been trying to figure out what it is that we want in our garden. This weekend we have set aside to start planting. About half of our seeds require inside growth for 8-10 weeks before our last frost (I read it to be April 24th). I even made a little booklet for our planting schedule (yes, I know, I am a dork!). Here are a few pictures...have a great Thursday!

I have all the seed packets organized by veggie/fruit

All the seeds.....

The lighting in my living room this afternoon!

New Canon 5D Mark II Camera

2009-02-11T06:28:00.003-05:00

I have been meaning to post this for the past month! The new love of my life (besides Chris and Little Bobby of course). This is the newest camera out by Canon that I got about a month ago and am loving it. I love the 21 megapixel feature along with the many other features it has including video!! Yeah for new toys!! :)

The past 2 weekends!

2009-02-09T16:49:00.004-05:00

Two weekends ago Chris and I went to South Mountain State Park where we went on a hike to Shoals Falls! The weather was perfect that Sunday afternoon and it was nice to get out with my man (and not be working). :) This past weekend, I went to Charlotte to be with Chris at the Boat show at the Convention Center. Chris had to work a booth, and long hours were put in! However, we still found time to roam around Charlotte in the morning! Even though it was work, it was a nice get away!!

And in Charlotte.......

Me in desperate need of coffee

Chris being silly....as normal!! :)

Wedding cake anyone?

2009-02-07T15:33:00.001-05:00

Are you looking for a great wedding cake? I recently did an interview with Tiffany of Tiffany's Baking Co. Her cakes are beautiful and I hear that they taste even better!!

(image source)

Tell us a little about yourself and your business
We have been designing desserts and cakes for over 10 years. I personally, was a Pastry Chef for several years, and developed all my delicious recipes early on. Alot of pride goes into all that we do. Everything is from scratch and we purchase as much dairy and produce as possible from local vendors and businesses. Classes with national renowned cake designers have taught us current trends and classic styles for Wedding Cake and custom cake designing.

What made you get into the cake decorating business?
Always had a love for Art and the Culinary field. I Naturally fell into the world of pastries and cakes as a Pastry Chef at the age of 19. As I progressed in my career as a Pastry Chef I began to do Cakes more frequently. After several years it dawned on my that my love was in designing and creating things, as well as getting to personally meet with my clients to make sure they are getting their 'Dream Cake'.

Is there a cake that you have done that sticks out in your mind?
Our topsy turvy Apple Bushel Cake took alot of time to design, and the bride LOVED IT!

How far in advance do you usually book the cake?
Brides come to us as soon as 1.5 years before their Wedding Dates. Some design their Wedding 'themes' around the cakes design. Very cool! We also have had brides come to us as soon as 1 month prior.

Anything else you want to tell the blog readers?
We pride ourselves on taste as well as the cakes appearance. This is why we do not charge more for any of our flavors or icings. We even make our Marshmallow Fondant by hand the night before we drape our cakes! Our icings are made and flavored to order for each individual client. And no two cakes are ever alike. Every client only deserves the best from us and we love that challenge!

Our Wedding Cake Consultations are complimentary. We hope to hear from you soon!

You can contact Tiffany Baking Co. by clicking here

More from Nick and Allyson's big day!

2009-02-05T23:04:00.005-05:00

Here are some more photos from the wedding!! What a great couple! I hope the two of you had a wonderful/relaxing honeymoon!

Nick seeing Allyson for the first time! :)

You have got to love the preacher's face!

Could not help myself! I am a sucker when it comes to children all dressed up!

Just a quick photo

2009-02-05T19:47:00.003-05:00

As I was working in my office this afternoon, I couldn't help but take this photo of Bobby. He has a blanket along with a basket of toys in my office (okay, so we don't have an kids and Bobby gets all of our attention). Yes, he is a spoiled dog. You see, I had never had a pet before we got Bobby. Not a fish, not a cat.....no pets were allowed growing up! It was a year ago today we got the little guy...who knew how a pet can change you life? He is such a mommies boy and I swear that any day he is going to start talking to me (I know my husband is rolling his eyes as he reads this)!!

Old but New

2009-02-04T18:58:00.003-05:00

Recently I inheirted this bubble gum machine! It was always at my grandpa's house as a child. There is something about it that makes me relax and feel like a kid again. Maybe it is the bright colors or maybe all the sugar it brings to my teeth....! :)

Nick and Allyson

2009-02-03T16:58:00.005-05:00

This couple is beautiful! Here is a quick sneak peak......more to come!

Welcome February

2009-02-01T16:25:00.005-05:00

Happy February!

Everyone who leaves a comment on the blog this month will be entered into a contest! I will take each name, throw it into a jar, and the winner will get a $10 gift card to Chili's. For each comment you leave, your name gets entered into the drawing!! (That means your name could go into the jar up to 28 times!)

I am posting this photo "just because I like it"!

We got a deer!!

2009-01-30T18:38:00.003-05:00

Okay, so this photo is horrible, but Chris and I were so excited to see it! About a month ago, I had bought some more "stuff" for my camera. I felt bad that I was getting all of this "stuff" and Chris wasn't getting anything! So....we bought him his very own camera (a game cam that is). You see, Chris loves to feed the deer on our property. Not to kill them, but to watch them. Chris has a huge food plot right by our house. He attached the camera to the tree, and it takes photos when something comes by it. Every few nights when Chris gets home from work we go out to the cam to see if anything is on it! Usually there are a bunch of photos of rabbits. However, tonight was different! We saw our 1st deer!!

Stuff....

2009-01-29T17:38:00.001-05:00

Be on the lookout for this ad in several spots around the area in the next coming months!

Victor and the princess

2009-01-28T17:40:00.002-05:00

These two kids were so funny! At the end of the session they saw the gumball machine and went crazy for it! We had to keep trying to get a pink gumball for the princess! :) We wanted to take outdoor photos, but it was way too cold for these two to be outside with no coats on!! Here are a few from this session....we will have more once the weather gets warmer!! :)

I love this photo! The natural light was coming in through the window and was a dream for this shot!

My life!

2009-01-27T17:48:00.000-05:00

Okay, so here are some photos I wanted to share from the other day! We took Little Bobby out and he had a chance to make a new friend! It was so funny to see these two dogs play with each other!!

Dad and son time! :)

Bobby kept running under her while he was playing! It was sooo funny!

Adorable!

2009-01-25T10:59:00.005-05:00

Can we say adorable? Ty is learning to ride his dirt bike.....it is so cute! His dad has even made him a little track out in their field! I think he had a smile on his face the whole time (dad and son)! I had to sneak in a few photos of his sister while I was there as well!! :)

Colors for your wedding!

2009-01-24T11:40:00.002-05:00

This is a great link at www.brides.com . If you are trying to figure out your "colors" for your big wedding day, be sure to check this out!

(Image Source)

Reminder!

2009-01-24T08:19:00.003-05:00

This is just a quick reminder that "The Cutest Kid Contest" has a little over a month left! The last day for this promotion is Feb. 27th, 2009! Be sure to book with me if you are interested! Have a great day!

Andy and Tori

2009-01-22T18:15:00.003-05:00

I had a great time with Andy and Tori! They are a really great couple and it was so great to finally meet you Tori!! The best to the both of you!! Look at the love in those eyes and smile!

Just for fun

2009-01-21T16:25:00.004-05:00

So I took this little quiz to see what color best describes me! It is so much fun, and for the most part, explains a little about me! Try it out yourself!

you are lawngreen
#7CFC00

Your dominant hues are green and yellow. There's no doubt about the fact that you think with your head, but you don't want to be seen as boring and want people to know about your adventurous streak now and again.

Your saturation level is very high - you are all about getting things done. The world may think you work too hard but you have a lot to show for it, and it keeps you going. You shouldn't be afraid to lead people, because if you're doing it, it'll be done right.

Your outlook on life is bright. You see good things in situations where others may not be able to, and it frustrates you to see them get down on everything.

the spacefem.com html color quiz

More of John Michael

2009-01-19T12:21:00.006-05:00

Here are some more from the session!! Hope everyone has a blessed day! :)

I love that laugh!!

Such a great family!

And he's done! :)

John Michael

2009-01-19T08:48:00.004-05:00

Can you say cute!!? John Michael was so much fun to photograph! You can tell that he is such a happy kid! I got to see his room along with all of his toys too! Here is one of my favorites. More to come..... I have a lot of favorites! :)

Military Discount

2009-01-14T15:32:00.002-05:00

Just a quick reminder that Autumn Olive Photography gives Military Discounts! Just call or email me to find out the details!

God's Light

2009-01-12T19:15:00.001-05:00

This evening as I was fixing dinner, I noticed an amazing light coming through the windows. These are the colors in their true form. No photoshop! Just God's light....what an amazing place we live in!

Best gift for my Birthday!

2009-01-12T16:28:00.004-05:00

Well, this was a busy weekend but I would not have wanted it any other way!! Yesterday, as some of you might know was my birthday (thanks for all of the facebook love)! Chris and I don't give each other gifts for birthdays because we tend to buy what we want, when we want. Instead, we like to DO something together. This year Chris took me to Catawba Falls! Believe it or not I had never been there! It was breath taking and such a good change of pace! We had 3 creek crossings before we arrived at the falls! It is a must see for yourself! The photos don't do it justice!

Is he not the hottest guy? :)

On the way to the falls

Does anyone else see that look Chris is giving me. Yes, I was a little chicken when we came to this crossing. I think the look means, "put down your darn camera and cross". I swear though, as I was looking at the crossing I was thinking, "this really might be my last birthday!"

Our little family

A father brought out his two kids to see the falls! They had a little picnic! It was adorable!

The Asheville Bridal Show has come and gone!

2009-01-11T10:56:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was such a great day at the Asheville Bridal Show! Chris and I loved every minute of it! We met a lot of great Brides (along with some of their family and friends)!! We also met some great vendors! Hats off to Marc and Colleen Wheeler for producing a great show!

Heading out....

2009-01-09T13:20:00.003-05:00

Chris and I are heading out to Asheville to set up for the Bridal Show! Come see Autumn Olive Photography tomorrow! Click here for all of the details of the Asheville Bridal Show! Come by and say "hello"!

More of the soon to be Mrs. !!

2009-01-08T17:06:00.001-05:00

Here are the few more that I promised! Have a blessed day!

And the winner is.....

2009-01-08T06:23:00.002-05:00

Erin Langford! Thanks to everyone for leaving a comment! Be sure to stay tuned...there will be another contest to come!!

Allyson

2009-01-07T12:41:00.004-05:00

Allyson was so much fun to shoot last week!! She was so relaxed and mom was a big help!! I promise to have more photos up later, but here is a peak at what is to come!

Don't forget, enter the contest for a FREE Subway gift card! All you have to do is "leave some love" (a comment) :)

Leave some Love!

2009-01-05T17:53:00.007-05:00

I was in the store the other day, and a client said, "Cristen, it looks like you have been pretty busy from looking at the blog!". I was amazed. She checks out my blog? That is when I came to the conclusion that there are a lot of people that check the blog, but never leave comments to let me know they stopped by! So....Since it is my Birthday week, I want to give away something to YOU for leaving some Love! What does this mean? Leave a comment on this blog and you will be entered to win a $10 SUBWAY gift card! Tell your friends! The more comments the bigger the prizes will get!! I will be doing this throughout the year! This contest will run until Wednesday January 7th at midnight Eastern Standard Time!

Happy New Year (a few days late)

2009-01-03T15:19:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year to everyone! Autumn Olive Photography is back in the swing of things after having a couple weeks off for the holidays! Today, I started the new year out with a Bridal session which was very refreshing!! I am very excited about what the new year holds for Autumn Olive Photography and cannot wait to share some of it with you all along the way! Be on the lookout for a couple of fun post in the next couple weeks!

Oh, and because a post is much better with pictures, here are a few cookies Little Bobby got from a good friend of mine! They looked so good that I really thought about taking a bite myself (just to make sure the boy would like them)! :)

Is your child America’s Cutest Kid?

2008-12-30T16:38:00.003-05:00

I am so excited about this!

Autumn Olive Photography is participating in the National Charity Model Search to select “America’s Cutest Kid” and to raise funds for charity.

We’re looking for cute children ages 18 months to 14 years old to model for a portrait to be entered into the contest.

Models Search Special:
$50 entrance fee, which includes a 30 minute model session and one image of the child submitted to the national gallery and a 8x10 print for you!

Finalists will be determined by online votes. Anyone may vote. Each vote is $1, and all proceeds from votes benefit the non-profit Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep.
Grand prize national winner will be determined from the 50 city finalists. Winners selected by photography and modeling industry experts.

If your child is selected the national winner, you’ll receive many prizes, including a $5,000 US Savings Bond and a Canon PowerShot G10 digital camera.

If you’re interested in entering your child(ren), please call 828-442-4599 or email me at autumnolivephoto@gmail.com. For more information about the contest, go online to www.sandypucmodels.com.

Wedding packages!

2008-12-29T17:04:00.004-05:00

Just to let everyone know that wedding packages/prices for the 2009 season will be changing on Jan. 1st! Anything booked before Jan. 1st will still be able to use the current packages/prices! Have a great evening!

Photos from Christmas

2008-12-27T11:56:00.002-05:00

It is always so great to see family and friends over Christmas time. Last weekend I flew into Illinois to hang out with the family for a bit. Chris drove to Illinois later in the week and then we drove back together. We drove all night and I think I am still trying to catch up on my sleep! Nevertheless, I hope you all had a great Christmas! There was a bit of snow at mom and dad's, but mostly everything was Ice!! I sure don't miss the Illinois weather!! Here are some images from the holiday!

Our tree

I have totally eaten too many sweets! My mom was baking the whole week! Yummmm!! :)

While we were in Illinois, my aunt got this outfit for Little Bobby! He looks thrilled....haha

Logan part 2

2008-12-27T10:55:00.004-05:00

Here are a few more shots I wanted to share from Logan's session! Tracy, I hope you all had a wonderful and blessed Christmas!

Adorable! He was playing peek-a-boo with us!

Casual session

2008-12-27T10:33:00.003-05:00

After we took some bridal shots, we scheduled a more casual session for the next day! Here are a photo from that session!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

2008-12-23T15:33:00.002-05:00

Okay, okay...so I have MIA. I guess with everything going on for the holidays I have not had a chance to blog! I did not realize it had been so long! Anyway, I will get on that right after the holidays! I just wanted to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas!:)