VENDOR SPOTLIGHT // SCARLET LENS PHOTOGRAPHY
Today we are happy to share some inspiring words and images from our talented Swish List member Alisia, of Scarlet Lens Photography! Scroll through for some loveliness on your Thursday!
A short description of what you do: I shoot people....at least that's what it says on a t-shirt I have. I am the creative genius, fun loving, artistic soul behind the camera of Scarlet Lens Photography. I'm often asked the meaning behind my business name as I didn't follow the norm of "your first name" photography (not that there is anything wrong with that) but you will quickly learn I am not the norm. I put it out to my friends and family asking what they think of when they think of me and two common things came up: the colour red and anything vintage.
How long have you been working in the wedding industry? This is my 6th year in the wedding industry and I don't know why I wasn't in it sooner.
What makes your business unique? I’m all about the experience; whether its our first meeting, shooting your engagement or wedding day, or the personalized reveal party of your wedding photos, I want all my couples to feel special, valued and appreciated. I remember the little things like inside jokes, details of your love story and any other tidbits you may mention during our chats.
Favourite part of your business? This is a tough one as I truly do love it all, but if I had to pick one thing, it would be seeing my couples faces when they see their collection for the first time. Facial expressions say it all and I know within the first few photos whether you love them or not! Photos and your memories are all you have once that day is over and I’m both proud and honoured to be the one to provide you with both!
What inspires you? Genuine love and happiness! Couples who are truly invested in one another is where it’s at. It makes for great conversations, beautiful stories and photos that speak for themselves because it is effortless.
Who is your mentor/hero in the industry? (your own industry or the Niagara wedding industry) Gosh, there are so many amazing people in this industry that have inspired me or pushed me to be better with every shoot. Trevor Dayley has played a big part in helping me with so many aspects of my business. He's a stellar photographer but his willingness to share his knowledge is what I admire the most. For right here in my own backyard, I'd have to say Destiny Dawn and Elizabeth in Love are my top two picks for simply gorgeous portraits!
On your day off...where would we find you? When this rare occasion does happen I’m either spending time on our 4-acre property with my husband, 5 year old son, 6 month old daughter, doberman, great dane, 10 ducks, 4 turkeys and our cat, or I’m hunting for some treasures in my local antique markets.
DIY projects are my fav and I’m always doing something. From cooking a new recipe, sewing curtains or refinishing furniture my hands are always creating something new. Right now it’s creating my new in-home studio! This has been a dream for 5 years now and it’s finally coming to life. I can't wait to share it with the world when it’s finished.
If you weren't a wedding vendor, what would be your dream job? I'm not going to lie I absolutely LOVE what I do right now but if I were to switch gears it would be interior decorating. HGTV has my heart and I would love to have one of those shows flipping houses with my hubby! He's a pretty handy guy and with my design plans we would make an awesome team. Plus putting my education as a Sheridan College Interior Design graduate, might be a good thing.
What great wedding trends are you seeing this year? All the bold colours right now has me in heaven, and that the groom is starting to get his own spotlight by getting creative with his attire and standing out from the groomsmen! So many fashion-forward options for them to make a statement next to their partner. Long are the days where the groom just changes his tie and vest colour to stand out.
Do you have any practical advice for couples planning a wedding? Think about what's important to you and allocate your budget accordingly. If you want the big fancy dress, then go and get it. If you want the best food, then hire that chef you follow on Instagram. This is the day you've been dreaming of and it should reflect that. But be sure you have someone you love to capture it for all time, not just because I am one, but your photographer is probably one of the most important vendors your going to hire.
