2016 seems to be a year of big changes and huge steps forward, both for CGP and for our personal lives. So when Misty of Misty Saves the Day told me all about the Hampton Roads chapter of ILEA, I knew it was something that Ryan and I needed to be a part of.
In big parties or social situations where I don't know many people, I tend to be the wall-flower. I have known this about myself for a while. And I knew that ILEA would be the perfect group to grow and stretch me in this area. I don't know if I'll ever stop being nervous about walking up to someone and introducing myself and my business, but I knew that I wanted to network with all sorts of event professionals and not just the photographer friends that I love so much.
The yearly ILEA Gala was last week and now that Ryan and I are officially members, we were so excited to attend. (Thank you, Natalie, for helping to make that happen! You're the best, girl!) I know we get dressed up all the time for weddings, but choosing a dress that allows you freedom of movement all day and the ability to carry a bag on your shoulder without ever needing to adjust anything is a little different than putting on a sparkly little dress and heels.
In just three meetings, Ryan and I have already gotten to know so many amazing local wedding and event professionals and we can't wait to see what the rest of the year will bring!
And because a professional photographer can't capture her own memories on anything but an SLR (at least this one can't... my phone is terrible!), here are a few snapshots from ILEA's Under the Sea Gala!
And because I couldn't resist a shot or two of the conga line...
Photo by Dragon Studio
Many thanks to the amazing ILEA leaders and the team who put this beautiful night together: Cypress Point County Club, Stage Right Lighting, Traditions Catering, Waterford Event Rentals, Botanique Events, Astro Entertainment, and my new friend (and fellow photog) Mike Dragon!