Only because I was asked.... (edited)

In addition to this post- and although I feel I have every right to express my opinion (and obviously it is not unlike the consensus with almost every single comment that I have at this point refused to publish or deleted) I am so surprised how many mean feelings and comparisons this post has evoked. I have re-read it, and don't think that I said one bad thing about any vendor. I was respectful and honest. I am surprised how anonymity can allow a fraction of people to be so rude. This was never intended to be a forum to allow the opinions of two sides to be thrown about-

There are only a few comments I have left published- mostly because they are mean- mostly because they are meant to be insulting-mostly because I know that my clients didn't post them but especially because they inadvertently insult a LARGE fraction of customers. Character says a ton (so why don't we let it shine on through? Lets be honest- I suppose there are people out there that think that some vendors in the industry are the equivalent of a second hand store? - well someone better tell a boat load of engaged people out there?) Dreadful!

Please don't leave a comment if you prefer not to leave your name. It's my belief that people would certainly stand behind their opinion if they weren't trying to be hurtful in attempt to defend their opinions.

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This week a group of photographers in Winnipeg collaborated and made a list of elite wedding vendors in our city. I normally don't want to say anything- actually even try not to care, but because it was such a buzz and many of my clients asked what I knew about it today I decided to post a little bit of my opinion.

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Truthfully, the 6 photographers are fantastic in skill level and business practices- I certainly can't argue with work- nor would I even try. I actively look at 2 of the photographers blogs daily and am in adoration of the work they produce. Who decided that they were the elite?

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What I think has been suggested to me via some clients and what I can articulate is that the group refers to themselves as the "elite" and has used the phrase "because you deserve the best" It's a fantastic sales pitch- a well thought advertising promotion.

I think that the only thing that I can express when former and present "brides" comment on the promotion is that the only concern I have is that when someone of a group of people refer to themselves as "setting the standard" or the "elite" it inadvertently (probably not intentionally)refers to anyone not belonging to the group as someone "not elite", and not providing services of the "best deserving brides" which simply is only advertising.

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I have photographed weddings for 5 years now and have met countless vendors (photographers and otherwise) who are talented and have a high set of standards that they have set for themselves. In addition, many of these vendors fall much below the price ranges of this elite group. We are so lucky to live in a city with so much selection and vendors of all price levels to accommodate brides of every budget. I actively associate myself with vendors that I know have a high standard with a fair price- I encourage shopping around.

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And only because it has come up more than once in the "this wonderful weddingish weekend" I only wanted to say that self promotion is a wonderful thing and I think that any gimmick that brings someone business is fantastic.