You know that feeling when something amazing happens to you, and your first reaction is to run around and tell everyone about it? And I mean EVERYONE- the mailman, your neighbor, your neighbor’s dog, etc.? That’s about how I felt when I found out I was going to the Katelyn James Workshop– it was all I could do to keep from screaming with excitement! I’ve been following Katelyn’s photography for a while now and I’m a huge fan of everything KJP. Her work, her website, her brand, everything. Add to that the fact that she’s incredibly generous in sharing her know-how, and I’m one step short of crazed groupie.

The day of the workshop arrived and I was a nervous wreck- it felt like the first day of high school. “What if I ask too many questions? What if I annoy her? Oh my gosh, Matt, what if she thinks I’m creepy?!” But worry not, little one- as soon as I entered the room Katelyn ran over to me and gave me a huge hug and exclaimed “Oh my gosh, it’s my #1 commenter!” Yessss.

The Workshop turned out to be even better than I expected, and believe me- I had high expectations. She spoke on posing, lighting, branding, and creating an EXPERIENCE for our brides, instead of just a “show up, shoot, burn and done” business. And to top it all off, we had a portfolio session with one of Katelyn’s gorgeous couples, Annamarie and Ryan. Katelyn styled everything- the reception table, the paper hearts garland, the stationery, you name it.

I’ll stop talking now. Enjoy the prettyness. (PS- she’s probably going to kill me for the working shots I took of her- sorry Katelyn! You’re just so darn cute!)

Oh my GOOOSH Anna! You are so flipping gorgeous!

Friends, take note- this is what FIERCE looks like. Thank you for the perfect smeyez, girl.

I was dying over these pear escort cards. Katelyn’s attention to detail is unbeatable. You should see her own personal wedding– whoa! She also had a bit of help with style from Alisha Broman.

A cute little bouquet, courtesy of The Bride’s Cafe, and a delicious cake from Wegman’s.

How gorgeous is this backdrop? The Virginia Center for Architecture was jaw-droppingly beautiful. Anna’s flawless hair and make-up was courtesy of Emily Hudspeth, and the dress was from Tiffany’s Bridal in Richmond.

Sigh. Just beautiful.

Katelyn, thank for you for the best day I’ve ever spent on my business thus far. You did such an amazing job with everything, and I feel buoyant with excitement about where my business is headed, and newly equipped to deal with the challenges I face while shooting. Your work is flawless, you business model is inspiring, and you’re the cutest thing since… puppies. Or something. Thank you!

A huge thanks to Anna and Ryan for their modeling skills. Guys? If you haven’t considered a career in professional workshop modeling, you probably should.

Happy Tuesday!