Last year around this time, I remember seeing these absolutely incredible images from a Styled Shoot Across America (SSAA) Conference in Texas. The images got me thinking, I wonder if they will host another conference next year, 2019? I emailed the coordinator and she let me know they would be announcing the conference location in a few weeks. In a few weeks, I found out the conference was going to be held outside of Atlanta, Georgia! The date was set for April and like many things, I put the date in my calendar just so I can keep it on my radar. Never did I think I was actually going to get to go!
In early 2019, I saw the date quickly approaching. I reached out on social media to see if anyone was going. Next thing I know, a wedding planner I know through social media, but have never met, said she and a house of girls were getting an AirBnB together and there was 6 available beds. I told my two friends who were interested and they each told a friend of theirs. Next thing I know, I purchased a flight to Atlanta, I’m flying with my of my friends, and I’m sharing an AirBnB with 11 other girls for a few days!
The conference was 2 days of educational guest speakers and photographing! On day one, we focused on flatlays, had headshots taken, and I had the opportunity to meet and hear Julie Paisley (who I just adore) her in person! On day two, we heard more guest speakers and spent most of the day photographing several models at 9 completely different styled stations. Photographing these gorgeous models, massive bouquets, several thousand dollar designed tablescapes was a dream.
I wanted to attend this conference to meet and connect with new photographers, feel inspired, grow and get out of my comfort zone, learn from the best, and have some girl time on a road trip. I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to go!
Special thank you to the incredible team of vendors who made this conference so fun and educational!
Host // @styledshootsacrossamerica
Planning and Design // @heatherbengeevents
Venue // @2400ontheriver
Gowns // @enaurabridal
Florals // @intrigue_designs, @cecedesignsllc, @thorneandthistle
Stationary // @brownfoxcreative
Cakes // @ajoy.cakes
Hair // @bilgahmoka
Makeup // @makeupbysarah.lord
Linens // @nuagedesignsinc
Men’s Attire // @generationtux
Furniture and Decor // @milieu.decor
Rentals // @peachtreetents
Props and Signs // @ten23designs
Modeling Agency // @clickatl
Models // @_mikhol_
@jefferson.bell
@kennedykapanzhi
@michaelkapanzhi
@muir_models
@frequency.wav
@laurenrfarmer
@kelsojohnson
Click here to view more recent weddings.
Sarah Botta is a Northern Virginia based wedding photographer whose work can be described as organic, natural, and timeless. Sarah specializes in capturing people’s stories and building connections with each client to help tell their story. Sarah has photographed over 55 weddings across Virginia and Maryland from rustic outdoor ceremonies to elaborate estate mansion receptions. Her natural timeless style shines brightest with outdoor locations. Sarah is available for travel and is passport ready.
