Ever since I teased this BIG NEWS last week on social media, I've received so many texts, emails, and messages asking what it is!! I should keep secrets more often!!! ;)

WE ARE GROWING!!!

Two weeks ago, I celebrated my FIVE year full-time-wedding-photographer-iversary! I don't want to get too mushy-gushy, but suffice it to say, I'm pretty dang proud. FIVE YEARS?! I remember when I first took the leap, I thought to myself...What's the worst that can happen? I fail miserably and have to get another job? I can do that.

Five years later, I'm dreaming big again and making another huge leap of faith!!! I'm so excited to introduce our very first Team Photographer! Why? Because my heart feels so sad every time I have to turn away an incredible couple because I'm already booked. I'm pretty sure I've uttered the phrase "I just wish I had a clone!!!" like a thousand times. While Lauren might not be an exact clone (although she could be Jennifer Aniston's!!), she's pretty dang close! I know the questions are coming, so I'm going to pretend interview myself on your behalf...you're welcome! :)

when did all this start?

We began accepting Cassi & Co. team wedding commissions a few months ago! I've been introducing Lauren to couples when I'm already booked for their date and they are SO happy to have the option for someone in the Cassi Claire family!!!

who is this Lauren character??

Actually, many of my past couples have already met Lauren so they can vouch for her awesomeness! Lauren has been photographing weddings with me since the beginning. We shot our first wedding together in 2011 and have worked together countless times over the past 5 years. She has been my favorite second photographer and #DREAMTEAM go-to lady. I love her vision so much that she actually helped photograph my own wedding day! And even though our Canon vs. Nikon rivalry runs deep, I love her nonetheless! Check out her bio from our pricing guide below!

but Cassi, I thought you were a boutique and you only accept 15 weddings per year?!

YES, and I personally will continue to accept a limited number of commissions per year! I looooove to build genuine friendships with my couples - I've actually lost count of how many of my brides have asked me to help them decide on their wedding dress (including texts from the dressing room)...is there a greater trust than that?!!? I mean, WOW. I live for those moments, and so does Lauren! Lauren will be accepting 10 or less wedding commissions each year to make sure each couple is well cared for!

so how does the Cassi & Co. Experience differ?

There are two options now: (1) the Cassi Claire Experience and (2) the Cassi & Co. Team Experience. Both are GREAT options, if I do say so myself! The Cassi Claire Experience will be the same as always - little fun surprises throughout, as much email attention as needed, wedding day timeline creation, same-day slideshows, featured blog posts, optional in-person preview sessions (a time to see all the heirloom product options), a final gallery curated by Cassi Claire with each photo individually edited, and so much more!

The Cassi & Co. Team Experience is very similar, but since it is offered at a slightly lower price-point, there are some differences. Think of it as the experience without all the bells & whistles! For starters, Lauren is an artist so she has her own unique shooting style. The photographs she creates will represent her vision of the day, and then they will all be edited in our signature bright & happy style by our AMAZING private editor. While certain bonus items are not included (same-day slideshows, preview sessions, etc.), the experience is still complete in every way! We always include at least 8 hours of coverage, a second photographer, and the high-res edited images in an online gallery (great for sharing).

will there eventually be more Team Photographers?

Yes! Without giving too much away, we may or may not be training our second Team Photographer all of this year!! ;)

how do we book Lauren for our wedding or find out more info?

Send me an email!! cassi@cassiclaire.com

I am over-the-moon excited about this! It is a huge leap of faith, but I truly feel this is the direction God is calling my business and when He calls, He provides!! I won't lie, I was terrified of this idea at first. TERRIFIED. Can I really do this? What if I fail? But lately all I feel is JOY and overwhelming peace!! I feel like every moment of the past five years has led me to today. It's exhilarating!!!

Thank you so much for sharing in my excitement!! If you made it this far, you're a champion! XOXOXOX!!!

PS: All the wedding photos in this post were taken by Lauren while she was second shooting for me! Amazing right?!