Vendor Spotlight: Raenewed Pieces

I had the pleasure of meeting the founder and designer of Raenewed Pieces, Danielle Rae before my most recent photoshoot. I fell in love with her unique handmade hair accessories and I knew I had to incorporate them into my photoshoot. Danielle's hair accessories are perfect for brides, bridesmaids, homecomings, prom, going downtown, or that little something extra to help make your outfit complete.


I sat down with Danielle to find out more about her and Raenewed Pieces.

Have you always been interested in fashion?
Yes. I have always been interested in the fashion industry. It was between fashion school and cosmetology school, and I ended up going to get my cosmetology license. I have always enjoyed style and trends. Fashion is definitely a passion of mine, which is also why I love working a part-time job at a clothing boutique.

How did you come up with the name Raenewed Pieces?
Is there a backround story to the name Raenewed Pieces?
The reason my name is "Raenewed" is 1) I take different pieces of jewelry/appliance/etc. and change them into something else. 2) The spelling is "raenewed" instead of "renewed" is because Rae is my middle name.

What inspired you to start your own line? Do you see yourself expanding outside of hair accessories to maybe to jewelry or purses?

It's always something I thought about and talked about but never followed through with. Until one day I went to Renniger's with my mother who has always encouraged me to try my ideas, and found some amazing antique jewelry that I made into headbands and hair pins. Then a week later I was filing to be a business and that was that. I do see potential to expand which is why in my name I didn't specify or define it as being just hair accessories. I will probably try expanding into belts.

What has been your favorite piece you have designed?
My favorite piece is one of the first ones I ever made. It was my rhinestone choker from prom that I made into a headband! It's pretty awesome!

Do you do custom pieces for bridal parties? What is the average turn around time?
I do and I love it! I love working with brides and creating something that is special, unique and beautiful that matches their dress and personality! It usually takes about 10 days, depending on quantity. I have done weddings where I do just a piece for the bride and I've done some with up to 14 pieces including 2 for the bride and all her bridesmaids.


Do you take requests?
I always take requests! Always looking for new, different ideas. I will always try anything.

Where can your products be found and how can someone get a hold of you?
Right now my stuff can be found 7 days a week at 4th and Ocean in Lake Mary. It's a surf chic boutique. Anyone can get me through email - raenewedpieces@gmail.com, call me - 321-228-2811 or Facebook search - Raenewed Pieces.

Danielle and I have discussed collaborating for an upcoming photoshoot with her new pieces. Definitely keep checking in on my blog or my Facebook page for updates!

Amy Van Epps Photography - Facebook
Raenewed Pieces Official Site
Raenewed Pieces - Facebook

A Day in the Life of a Wedding Photographer

A Day in the Life of a Wedding Photographer

Most people have a misconception about wedding photographers. “You just show up and take pictures right?” Totally not true!

How some people think Photographer's spend their time (I wish!)

Although most weddings occur on the weekends, I am quite busy during the week. A lot of my time is spent marketing my business, scouting new locations, answering e-mails, editing photographs, meeting with clients, blogging, and more.

My time looks more like this:

Preparations for the wedding occur the night before. I collect all of my camera equipment: camera, multiple lenses, my flash, flash batteries, memory cards, my diffuser, camera batteries, light meter, & my ShootSac. I charge all of my batteries the night before, clean my lenses, and I pack everything up so I’m ready to go in the morning.


The day of the wedding I arrive early. If the ceremony and reception are in the same venue, I like to survey the area to familiarize myself with the location. If bridal prep is in the same location, I meet up with the bride to go over any last minute details. My assistant will meet up with me at the venue and I fill them in with any important information or what I would like them to focus on that day. If my clients have hired a videographer through me, I will go and check in with them to make sure they have their film schedule.


Then the most exciting part of the day comes, I get to photograph the wedding! The time I spend photographing actually depends on the client. I offer a few different wedding packages ranging from 5 hours of coverage to unlimited. If you would like me there photographing from the time you wake up to the time you go to bed, then the unlimited package is for you!

When I get home, I download all the photographs to my hard drive. I then will transfer the images to two other hard drives. The last thing I do is burn the images to DVDs. As you can see, I’m very protective of my images!


Depending upon the length and type of wedding, I can photograph between 800-3000 images. This also includes whatever my 2nd photographer has captured too. After all the images have been transferred, the editing process begins. It takes me approximately 20-60 hours to edit a wedding.

A good percentage of what I make from a wedding goes back into my business. Hard drive storage, new equipment, maintenance of my website, gas/mileage for my car, and hiring assistants or a 2nd photographer for a wedding.

As you can see, wedding photographers are spending more time in front of a computer than behind a camera. It’s just a sign that we are living in a digital world.

Graphs and some information courtesy of ISPWP

Vendor Spotlight: Who is the Knitting Nanny?

The Knitting Nanny

I enjoy networking and collaborating with other vendors and artists in the community. My most recent partnership is with The Knitting Nanny, Meredith Britcher Swaine. Meredith is based out of Orlando and her talents really shine through her knitting and sewing.

I sat down with Meredith to learn when she discovered her passion for knitting and what services The Knitting Nanny has to offer!

When did you discover your passion for knitting?

I got started knitting back in college. I was already crafting quite a bit; mostly general craft painting, mosaics, decorating my room, picture frames, etc. I was always looking for another creative outlet. And then an older friend of mine at the time showed me how to make very simple knitted slippers (a pattern I still use today because it is so simple!). By the time I got home, and was ready to make the second slipper to complete the pair, I forgot how to even get the stitches on the needle! I rushed to the computer and Googled how to "Cast On." You Tube ultimately saved the day! And that is how I gained the rest of my knowledge! I just started reading patterns and making items and when I came to a term I didn't understand, I would just research it. Thanks to my little sister, I have never run out of inspiration or a reason to knit. She is the best! She loves everything I make

What else do you enjoy creating aside from knitting?

Besides knitting, I also enjoy sewing (which I just got into), scrapbooking, card making, and general crafts. But knitting is definitely my favorite! I love walking by the Gap and saying to myself "I could so make that!"

Where do you get inspiration for your ideas?

I usually get my ideas from a site called Ravelry.com. It’s kind of like a Facebook for knitters. You have a profile and place to share patterns, resources, favorite stores, etc. There is a huge inventory of free patterns. I don't always use the pattern exactly as written. Most of the time, I combine 3 to 4 different patterns to achieve what I want. This usually comes in handy when making a sweater. I can combine the basic structure with cables or lace and get a completely different look. I also have this composition notebook that I carry with me. You know all those Sunday ads? Well, whenever I see a knitted item, I cut it out, paste it in my book, and write a note or two about what I love or don't love about it. I then use these clippings to help me with future ideas.

Some of The Knitting Nanny's creations:



What has been your favorite piece that you have made thus far? Have you received any fun requests?

My favorite piece thus far has actually been a set of pieces! My husband and I are huge Harry Potter fans! Once the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened, and the premiere was fast approaching, I just knew I had to make us our own set. And then my little sister approached me, and she said she wanted to be a Hogwarts student for Halloween. I labored away for 3 months creating a student outfit for each of us. I learned so much from that project! I made my first vest, my first sweater, and my first pair of leggings and skirt! I think that is why it is my favorite! I learned so much!

The most fun request so far has been my latest project, the Mary Poppins costume for my little sister. She is participating in a living wax museum for her history class. I get to incorporate so many different pieces on this project. Can't wait to see how it all comes together! It should be done by the end of February.

I know there are tons of different types of yarns. Is there anything you prefer over another? Which ones do you typically use?

Yes there are many many many different kinds of yarn! Everything from wool to alpaca, and milk to soy! It can be overwhelming at times (along with my yarn stash!). But my absolute favorite is Red Heart Super Saver. You can find it at any craft store, it's cheap, versatile, and comes in so many colors and patterns! I tend to stay away from the really expensive yarns that can only be purchased online or from a local yarn shop. I don't like using that kind of yarn because by the time you make a sweater at $14/ball, it really adds up! And at that point, I usually tell myself, at that price, I could go buy a sweater already made! I reserve the nice yarns (and I do have quite a nice stash) for special items, like a shawl or wrap for a family member.

Once you have received an order, how long does it take you to complete it?

Once I have received an order, it can take anywhere from a day to several weeks to complete it. Scarves and sweaters take the longest, while hats and mitts take the shortest amount of time. The deciding factor? The complexity of the pattern. A simple scarf can actually knit up faster than a pair of cabled gauntlets (fingerless mitts). Needle size and yarn can also greatly affect the amount of time it takes to finish. On average, I would have to say that hats take less than a week (depending on how many other orders I have), scarves take 2-3, and sweaters can take up to a month.

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions Meredith! I cannot wait to start incorporating The Knitting Nanny's creations into my photoshoots.

For more information on The Knitting Nanny or to request a piece, please visit her website The Knitting Nanny

A Wedding Inspired Photoshoot in Historic Downtown Sanford

I have been wanting to collaborate with local businesses for some time now. I finally had the opportunity and thought it would be fun to do a wedding inspired photoshoot.

Stacey George is an up and coming stylist and was so gracious to offer her services for the shoot. Stacey has a wonderful personality, very professional, and did a remarkable job with all the models.

Sophie & Trey and 4th & Ocean are two boutiques located in Lake Mary, Florida. Sophie & Trey provided the perfect outfits & accessories for the photoshoot. Sophie & Trey has everything from dresses, skirts, blouses, purses, jewelry and more! Whether you need an outfit for a night on the town or something chic and sophisticated for a wedding, I highly recommend checking them out.
Right down the road is Sophie & Trey's sister store, 4th & Ocean. Their collection is more casual and surf-chic. If you are in the Lake Mary area I highly recommend checking them out.

Danielle Rae is the owner and designer of Raenewed Pieces. She designs unique handcrafted hair accessories. Her collection varies from headbands, clips, hair combs, & more. These can be a wonderful accessory for any bride or the accessory that helps make an outfit pop. Her designs can be found at her website and at 4th & Ocean.

Here is a behind the scenes look at the models getting ready for the shoot.

I decided I wanted the photoshoot to be in Historic Downtown Sanford. Sanford has a lot of great old buildings that provided the perfect backdrop for the photoshoot. I am so happy with how everything turned out. Thank you to the models, vendors, & Stacey George. Without all of you this shoot wouldn't have been possible!



The vendors:

Raenewed Pieces

Sophie & Trey

4th & Ocean

Salon INXS

Visit my website:

Amy Van Epps Photography

The 411 on Wedding Cakes

Planning for your wedding can be extremely overwhelming. Especially if you are not using a wedding planner. When it comes down the deciding on a wedding cake there are so many choices. I sat down with my good friend and local cake designer Ashley Barber to learn a bit more about the wedding cake business, educate my readers, and see if there is anything you can do to cut back on costs.

Hey Ashley! Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to sit down with me. Let's start things off with talking about the traditional wedding cake. Within the past few years the "traditional" idea of a wedding cake has gone out the window. Many brides are going against the grain of a standard tiered round cake. What have you noticed as some of the popular trends in recent years?

The idea of a traditional wedding cake is definitely being redefined. What most people consider “traditional,” (the elaborate 3 tiers, ridiculous amounts of lattice work, 2 figurines on top) is definitely becoming a thing of the past. Women these days don’t want their grandmother’s wedding cake. They want something that represents them and their own personality.

One popular trend I’ve noticed is that people are opting for more simplistic designs. Copious amounts of piping work are becoming a thing of the past. Sleek, elegant designs, sometimes with a pop of color are becoming the norm. Many couples are opting for a monogrammed cake instead of a bride & groom topper as well.




Another trend I’ve seen is miniatures. The modern bride has decided to shake things up a bit with miniature cakes for her guests. Some brides are even taking this a step further by opting for miniature pies or pastries and throwing the cake idea completely out the window.

The idea of a groom's cake is a tradition in the South however the idea is spreading across the US. What is a groom's cake?

Groom’s cakes are definitely a southern tradition but are frequently showing up at more and more weddings these days. Without getting into all the folklore behind the groom’s cake tradition, it is essentially a separate cake, typically in a different flavor than the wedding cake, that often reflects the groom’s personality or interests. Having a groom’s cake as part of the celebration is great because it allows the guests to have a choice in cake flavors without the couple having to spring for individual flavors in the wedding cake itself. Many groom’s cakes are comical in nature and help show the couple’s sense of humor as well.


I've noticed a lot of cakes have very elaborate designs including bows, monograms, or even lace work that mimics the bride's dress. How are these designs achieved? Butter cream? Fondant? Crazy piping skills?

The elaborate designs, bows, monograms, etc. are achieved in many different ways. It all depends on the cake decorator. The more complicated designs the more skill is required. Buyers should be aware that not all cake decorators can do both piping and fondant with equal skill. While there are some decorators that are multi-talented there are many that have a preference. I personally prefer to work with fondant. I admire the piping skills of someone who works with buttercream, but it is certainly not my strong suit. The opposite goes for another baking friend of mine. She hates to work with fondant preferring to work only with buttercream.

In regards to fondant cakes, I’ve had many clients tell me during consultation that they dislike the taste of fondant and that even though they want a fondant cake, they want as little fondant as possible. In this situation, I always recommend finding a cake designer that makes his or her own fondant. Places that use store bought, prepackaged stuff, typically does not taste good. But, the good news is, even if the fondant isn’t very popular with some guests, most cakes still have a decent layer of icing underneath the fondant which is used to adhere the fondant to the cake.

Aside from the traditional chocolate and vanilla, what are some other flavors of wedding cake couples can consider? What about fillings?

I love seeing wedding cakes in unique flavors. I recently saw a wedding cake that was done in a strawberry flavor and another more adult cake that was essentially a Harvey Wallbanger cocktail. I personally like cakes with fillings, such as a German chocolate or a chocolate strawberry torte. I do, however, recommend keeping weddings cakes one flavor. I know many brides think having a multiple flavored cake will offer variety to her guests, but it also adds additional costs and can be a hassle when it comes time to cut the cake – having to disassemble the tiers in order to reach each needed flavor. While we are on the topic of cutting, let me just say that it is important to know how you plan to cut the cake ahead of time. Ideally, you should cut starting on the top tier and work down, removing the supports inside as you move to each layer. Ask your cake designer for a cutting guide or Google one yourself beforehand. This will help the cutting of the cake go smoothly. And remember, this is not your grandmother’s cake! There really is no need to keep the top tier for your anniversary anymore. It tastes awful after being frozen for a year and it doesn’t aid in the cutting of the cake at all. Seriously, do you want to start year two of your marriage off with stale tasting cake? A better plan would be to purchase a small, single round for your anniversary by the same cake designer!

If a bride wants to think outside of the box, what are her options? I've seen some people incorporating cupcakes. If a couple is looking to save money on a cake, what are their options?

Many couples these days are looking to cut costs on their weddings. A big misconception is that getting mini cakes or a dummy cake will be more affordable. It is important to realize that if you choose individual mini cakes or petit fours, it can be a lot more time consuming for the decorator. There is a lot more time and effort put into decorating hundreds of miniatures rather than one large cake. Some couples opt for a decorated dummy cake with a sheet cake back in the kitchen that is cut up for the guest. Unless you can find a good deal on this, a dummy cake can still cost you about as much as a real one. The bulk of the cost will be in the labor spent making it. Plus, the cake that will be sliced-up and served to your guests will still look like sheet cake.




The best way to cut costs on a wedding cake is to keep it simple, which is great since that is the popular trend in cakes these days. Sugar flowers, while extremely beautiful, can cost a lot. Instead of having your cake exploding with foliage, why not have a small group of cascading flowers flowing down the tiers?

I strongly suggest using an individual cake designer for your wedding cake rather than using a large catering company. While I am sure there are many catering companies with fantastic pastry chefs, my experience has been that the service you receive in designing your cake, having it tailored to your wants and needs, not to mention the additional options in flavors and designs, seem to be the perks of using a small local cake designer instead.

Wow! That was a lot of great information Ashley, thank you so much for contributing!

I hope my readers have a bit more insight when it comes to wedding cakes and that these ideas have inspired you.

What's in your camera bag?

There are a few things I believe that will make you a better photographer when you are out shooting. You need to have your equipment organized, easily accessible, and most importantly it needs to be comfortable.

I had been struggling to find something to hold all of my equipment. When I go out to a shoot, I usually bring with me what I call my essentials. Aside from my camera, I bring at least two lenses: a standard and wide angle. I also bring my Canon Speedlite flash & Gary Fong diffuser. I honestly prefer to work with natural light. However, in some circumstances like photographing a wedding reception I find it necessary. Depending upon how high the ceiling is, I will bounce my flash with the diffuser attached. It helps to soften the light so it is not too harsh on anyone's face. I keep on hand a ton of extra batteries because my flash loves to eat them up! I would rather be over prepared than under. I carry an extra battery for my 5D and 3-6 8 GB memory cards. My light meter comes with me no matter what, just in case any there is any tricky lighting situations or if I'm using strobes. My nonphotographic items include bobby pins and a comb. Sometimes hair can be out of control and if the stylist is not there, it is a quick way for me to tame some stubborn hair. Although it doesn't fit in my bag, I have a multi-colored reflector that always stays in my car. Sometimes it can give that photograph a little bit of extra light that really makes the subject stand out.

Now you may be asking what is so special about a hand held light meter if your camera already has one built in? Well there are two different types of light meters: reflected light and incident light. All cameras have reflected light meters. The cameras measure the light reflected off the subject. They pretty much give an "average" exposure. Incident light meters measure the light falling on the subject. It is an independent reading of what subject is reflecting so it is less likely to give an incorrect exposure reading. If you want a more detailed explanation, there is tons of information on the web if you just Google it!

Here is just an example of some of my essentials:


Now you may be asking, "Amy, what do you keep your essentials in?"
To be honest, I have gone through a few different types of bags and backpacks over the years. Last December I received a ShootSac as a present. I LOVE IT! The ShootSac is a lens bag that is designed to look like a messenger bag. It comes in solid black or a few different prints. It's light weight and made of neoprene. It keeps all my gear safe, especially my lenses, while I am photographing. Everything is easily accessible and I am no longer digging through a backpack or bag for an extra lens or my flash. It costs less than $200.



There are some other options out there. Some are more expensive than others such as the Porter Magnum Shoulder Bag. It starts at $684 and is made from water-repellent nylon canvas. It has a bit of a retro look and I think it is more unisex than the ShootSac.



Jill-E Designs are a bit more affordable and come in AWESOME colors and fabrics. I would check out the Jack medium camera bag ($240). It comes with dual handles and a adjustable shoulder strap.



Jill-E also has a stunning red leather small carry bag ($169) which has Croc trim and a polka dot padded interior. It looks like a great looking purse but can hold an SLR body, 1-2 lenses, and a few accessories.



Check out Jill-E Designs and ShootSac

Why I believe in professional organizations and continuing education

It always seems with the how fast technology is evolving, once you purchase a computer, cell phone, camera, or software it is already obsolete. Just like technology and fashion, photography is ever evolving. I believe it is important for photographers to evolve and change with what the market is demanding.

I am involved in a few professional organizations, ASMP, PPA, PPSCF, and a casual organization that meets once a month. Other careers usually require continuing education such as professions in the health and hair industry. It is not required for photography, but it is worth the investment. Just like professions in health and hair learn about what is new in technology, what is in style, photographers need to be aware of these things too.



These organizations are phenomenal. They give photographers the opportunity to meet up and discuss what is happening in their business and ask questions. How can I better market my business? What are the latest trends you are seeing? What professional labs do you use for printing? These organizations also provide workshops. The workshops can be on any topic from new trends in lighting, exploring new features in Adobe Photoshop CS5, or a guest speaker coming in and giving their insight to the market.

I encourage any photographer, young or old, in high school, college, or a professional to consider joining an organization. The organizations usually have a yearly membership fee. However, they offer great rates for students and up and coming photographers. They give you access to a wide variety of information in regards to contracts, model releases, continuing education, & networking.

See what is available in your city!

Wedding of Patrick and Misa Egan

I had the privilege to photograph the wedding of Patrick and Misa Egan on December 19, 2010. The ceremony was held for close friends and family at The English Gardens located in Winter Park, Florida.

Patrick and Misa have a wonderful story on how they met. Patrick is a lover of Japanese culture and Epcot at Walt Disney World. Misa just started working at the Japan Pavilion in Epcot at Walt Disney World. One afternoon while Patrick and his sister were at Epcot, he met Misa. They really hit things off and exchanged numbers. He asked her out on their first date to Season's 52 and the rest was history!

The English Gardens was a wonderful setting for the ceremony. Not only is there a small garden area and gazebo for the ceremony, there is an English style house on the property. It provides the perfect place for the brides and bridesmaids to prep before the wedding. All bouquets and boutineers are made by the owner. She just did an amazing job.

Misa's parents flew in from Japan for their daughter's big day!



It was very important for Misa to incorporate her bear into the wedding. It was a gift the Patrick gave Misa on their first Valentine's Day! (How cute is that?) Misa's mother held it during the ceremony and I captured her holding it in the formal portraits.

I couldn't have asked for a better day, although overcast, the lighting was perfect, and everyone had a lot of fun. I captured some images of the guys being goofy as they were trying to hold up Misa. Misa's maid-of-honor, Brenna, did a wonderful job organizing everything. Misa was so surprised to see bubbles being blown and flowers being tossed as she and Patrick were on their way to Season's 52, where the reception was being held. Before they jumped in the car, I captured a great image of Patrick picking up Misa. They requested the pose and I think it turned out beautifully!



Season's 52 is also where Patrick and Misa had their first date, so it provided a great venue for the reception. Publix did an amazing job decorating the cake and the food was exceptional. Season's 52 has an alternating menu depending upon what is in season. Misa is a very crafty person and used her origami skills to make one of a kind accessories for the table.

Brenna gave a wonderful toast at dinner. Her words were very sweet and even made Misa tear up. Brenna does not have a sister and is so glad she finally has one now!

Patrick's favorite baseball team is the NY Yankees, so naturally it was the design on Misa's garter. I captured a great image of the guys going crazy trying to grab it once Patrick tossed it!

Besides the wedding cake, the guests savored on mini desserts in adorable miniature glasses.

It was a beautiful wedding and I wish nothing but the best for Patrick and Misa!