This couple had a wedding themed around random acts of kindness

Leigh and James Clark wanted to do something to give back. (Picture: Miranda Lawson Photography)

When Leigh and James Clark decided to tie then knot this September, they didn't want the wedding to be all about them.

So they added one simple request onto their wedding invites: 'If you are so inclined, please do a random act of kindness sometime between now and the wedding and use the hashtag #kindleigheverafter on social media.'

Leigh told metro.co.uk: 'We wanted our wedding to be very reflective of our personal style.

'I am passionate about Random Acts of Kindness, and I blog about kindness and positivity on the Huffington Post.

'We had talked about James and I doing a random act of kindness in celebration of our wedding, and thought why not involve everyone else?

'There's something so wonderful about doing something kind for others, and we wanted our guests to be able to share in that feeling to celebrate our big day.'

Leigh and James on the big day (Picture: Miranda Lawson Photography)

Leigh and James' friends were up for the challenge, and soon the stories of good deeds started pouring in.

They ranged from small and lovely, like their friend Keegan Leahy, who bought lunch for the person behind them…

(Picture: Courtesy of Leigh and James Clark)

…to big acts involving the whole family. Leigh told us she was truly touched by the actions of her childhood friend Jillian Bhatia.

'Jillian brought her children and gathered supplies to donate to a women's shelter. It warmed out hearts to see her involving her whole family and supporting us.'

(Picture: Courtesy of Leigh and James Clark)

Another friend, Caitlin Blewett, bought frozen yoghurt for the security guard in her office.

(Picture: Courtesy of Leigh and James Clark)

Bridesmaid Emily Schairer and her daughter Chloe took pet supplies to a local animal shelter.

(Picture: Courtesy of Leigh and James Clark)

Michelle Syner, sorority sister of the bride, baked cookies for her local UPS driver.

(Picture: Courtesy of Leigh and James Clark)

Of course, Leigh and James didn't just leave the good deeds to their guests. They decided to spread some joy by delivering flowers from their wedding to local hospitals and nursing homes, as well as handing out decor from their wedding to strangers.

(Picture: Courtesy of Leigh and James Clark)

The random acts of kindness theme spread far outside just the wedding. Leigh says that after sharing the story on Facebook, she's seen loads of people participating who don't even know the couple.

'I was so overjoyed, that after sharing our request on Facebook and extending it to friends who weren't attending the wedding, that people actually participated.

'We feel that the awareness this has brought to acts of kindness, to be the biggest gift we've received.

'We know that the world can seem full of negativity, so to know that kindness has been spread far and wide as a result of what our guests did, it's truly inspiring.

'It has reaffirmed to us how important it is to continue to stand for the power of positivity, and we hope to continue to do things in gratitude for all this kindness that's been bestowed upon us.'

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Source: This couple had a wedding themed around random acts of kindness

Photographer recreates wedding day for newlyweds

Photo Gallery View Gallery (28 images)

BAY CITY, Michigan — Matt and Heather Koehler were married in Michigan last month, but their wedding photographer didn't show up to the ceremony. They were upset knowing their special day wouldn't be documented.

"I found out right before I walked down the aisle," Koehler said, "We were bummed, obviously, but we still wanted to enjoy our night."

When photographer Dana Gruszynski, 23, heard the news from her cousin, a guest at the Koehlers' wedding, she was heartbroken, according to CNN affiliate WNEM.

"I instantly broke into tears for her," she said. "Weddings are so important."

The wheels began to turn. She would do a free photo shoot for the couple.

Initially, they set up an intimate shoot for a few weeks later, including just Heather, 27, and Matt, 28. But Gruszynski had different plans.

"I wanted to do something more," she said, "I clicked with Heather. I saw myself in her."

So she started brainstorming — and wedding planning.

She contacted the Koehler's friends and family, she had a local flower shop donate a bouquet, her sister-in-law recreated their wedding cake — she even paid a visit to a craft store to mimic their original decorations.

Gruszynski welcomed the couple to her cousin's home on Sunday, with the song Koehler chose to walk down the aisle, "How Long Will I Love You," by Ellie Goulding.

"She (Koehler) lost it. I lost it. Her family lost it," Gruszynski said.

Heather was overwhelmed.

"I could not stop crying," she said.

Gruszynski has always had a camera in her hand, and a giving heart.

Koehler said, "She's probably the kindest person I've ever met — we couldn't have asked for anybody better."

43.594468 -83.888865
Source: Photographer recreates wedding day for newlyweds

Shea McGrath Estes Park Wedding Photographer Participated in Fall Wedding Showcase Last Weekend

Shea McGrath Estes Park Wedding Photographer Participated in Fall Wedding Showcase Last Weekend

Golden, CO, October 29, 2015 --(PR.com)-- Shea McGrath, renowned Estes Park Wedding Photographer, participated in the Boettcher Mansion's Autumn Wedding Showcase this past weekend. The show was on October 25th, 2015 11am-2pm at Boettcher Mansion, 900 Colorow Road, Golden CO 80401. McGrath noted, "It was a great opportunity to speak with engaged couples about their dreams of the ultimate wedding. A wedding is a very special event and I wish to do my part in making it everything they hoped for."

Admission was free at the wedding showcase. The Autumn Bridal Showcase took place at the Boettcher Mansion on Lookout Mountain in Golden, Colorado. Engaged couples and bridal event planners attended this great bridal event opportunity. This complimentary bridal showcase event offered a chance to meet wedding vendors and wedding event coordinators to help couples plan a dream wedding event in Colorado.

About Shea McGrath Photography:Shea McGrath Photography is developing a reputati on as an intuitive and kinesthetic photographic artist. McGrath is often asked to photograph for personal events, such as weddings, as well as for the health & beauty, and fashion industries. According to McGrath, "What started as a hobby and avocation in college has quickly turned into a passion and profession. Invited to be part of those special moments in people's lives is joyful and allows me to capture happiness. Clients feel comfortable and have a great time when on one of these photo shoots. Many clients have shared they had so much fun during the session, they forgot there was a camera around."

McGrath, has extensively travelled Eastern and Western Europe, including France, Ireland, Germany, and Turkey. McGrath, who is bilingual in Spanish, resided in Madrid, Spain where she started her photography business.

Shea McGrath Photography (www.sheamcgrath.com) is a professional photography company specializing in natural light photography helping people to ce lebrate life events such as weddings, graduations, engagements, and all lifestyle celebrations. Her work style is quickly gaining attention for product, fashion, and beauty photography as well. McGrath is now recognized worldwide as a portrait wedding photographer for over a decade. Follow Shea McGrath Photography on Twitter @shea_mcgrath, like on Facebook at facebook.com/sheamcgrathphotography, or Instagram @sheamcgrathphotography.

Source: Shea McGrath Estes Park Wedding Photographer Participated in Fall Wedding Showcase Last Weekend

Frances Photography Adds Three Associate Photographers in 2015 and Celebrates with a Time-Sensitive Fall Family Special and Holiday Boudoir Special

Frances Photography in Arvada, Colorado, has expanded its team and is offering a Fall Family Special from October 30 to November 5, 2015, and a Holiday Boudoir Special from November 7-16, 2015 to celebrate this milestone.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) October 28, 2015

Frances Photography, a tight-knit team of professional female photographers based near Denver in Arvada, Colorado, has expanded its team and services to serve the growing demand for specialized photography services. To celebrate this milestone, Frances Photography is offering a Fall Family Special from October 30 to November 5, 2015, and a Holiday Boudoir Special from November 7-16, 2015 (details below).

"Increased demand in the Denver area, especially for outdoor boudoir and wedding photography, has taken off this year," said Frances Marron, owner and lead photographer. "Because of this growth, and our unique personalized imaging services, we've expanded our team to ensure customers can count on both images and an experience they'll never forget."

In business over 10 years, Frances Photography has added three new associate photographers during 2015 to focus on Colorado and destination-based weddings. Julie Timmer, Telly Weddon, and Jennifer Winder join Frances Marron, who specializes in outdoor boudoir photography, and Amber Lundberg, the studio business manager. Collectively, the all-female team at Frances Photography offers over 50 years of photography experience.

To celebrate this growth milestone, to give back to many loyal clients, and to welcome new customers, Frances Photography is offering two time-sensitive photography specials.

The first is a Fall Family Special, running October 30 – November 5, 2015, and includes a 30-minute photography sitting for up to five people. Sessions take place at the beautiful Standley Lake in Westminster, Colorado, and include 40 images of digital download proofs and an online gallery for easy viewing and print ordering. Retouching for all photographs is available. This special costs just $350 and must be booked within the dates of the special, listed above.

The second is a Holiday Boudoir Special, available November 7 – 16, 2015, for only $250. This 30-minute photography session is available for one selected outfit, and all images are included. Session must be booked within the dates of the Holiday Boudoir Special listed above.

The expert team of female photographers at Frances Photography is available for weddings, portraits, outdoor boudoir, event, and fashion photography. Services include image captures, studio production, lighting, design, processing, editing, and studio management. Whether in the photography studio in Arvada, in the Rocky Mountains or on location at a far-away venue, photography services are available with price points for all range of customer and need.

Learn more about Frances Photography, the professional team, and services at http://www.francesphotography.com or contact them at (303) 424-3800.

For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/FrancesPhotographyOffers/BoudoirWeddingFamilyPhoto/prweb13047847.htm

Source: Frances Photography Adds Three Associate Photographers in 2015 and Celebrates with a Time-Sensitive Fall Family Special and Holiday Boudoir Special

Jeff Wasserman: Creating Delectable Stock Food Photography

All images by Jeff Wasserman. Used with permission.

Photographer Jeff Wasserman's day job is being the Photography and Multimedia Editor for the Canadian newspaper the National Post. When he's not sorting through the images of other photographers, he is a stock food photographer represented by Stocksy United.

Jeff started out as a commercial and wedding photographer then moved over to photojournalism where he later climbed the ladder to a desk job. The problem: Jeff missed shooting daily. "Food photography proved to be a great creative outlet for me," Jeff says.

So it only makes sense that he combined it with his passion for cooking.

Phoblographer: Talk to us about how you got into photography.

Jeff: I have been involved with photography most of my life. My brother bought a Pentax camera and a darkroom kit when we were teenagers. He quickly lost interest in it, and I picked it up and never looked back. I eventually began shooting weddings and then commercial assignments. A friend working as a photojournalist convinced me to give photojournalism a try and I have never looked back!

Phoblographer: What made you get into food photography?

Jeff: Cooking has always been a passion of mine, even before photography. When my photojournalism career moved to an inside management position, I eventually found myself missing the creative outlet of daily shooting and felt I was getting out of touch with hands-on photography. I realized stock photography would be a way back into shooting, since I could schedule shoots to fit my free time.

At first, I shot very contrived lifestyle photos, which I now look back on with some embarrassment. I did not really understand what modern stock photography entailed. Retrenching a couple of years ago, I focused on food photography, and was fortunate to receive an invitation to Stocksy United, a stock photography coop founded by Bruce Livingston and Brianna Wettlaufer (who also founded iStock Photos).

At Stocky, creativity and individual styles are nurtured, and I have been able to grow with the agency. It is a great agency to be working with. As well, I am a Getty Images contributor, where I have rights managed content.

Phoblographer: As the Photo and Multimedia Editor for the National Post, do you feel that any of the work that you see inspired you or influenced you in any way at all?

Jeff: I am exposed to thousands of incredible images every day from all over the world. The influence this has on me cannot be understated. It opens your eyes to the breadth of humanity and conditions, both bad and good. I am continually inspired by the drama captured in daily life and conflict, photographers' powerful use of light, timing and perseverance.

It's almost always a case of tons of preparation and a bit of luck. (Ever wonder why the same photographers seem to always be lucky?) Food photography, like most good photography, requires a lot of thought and planning before you pick up a skillet or camera.

Phoblographer: Food is very personal to each and every different ethnicity but for some odd reason food photography seems to be very universal in that the way images are perceived are all pretty much the same with the way that they look like a dinner table with natural window light. Why do you feel this is?

Jeff: For years food was styled and photographed in a very artificial manner. It still is to some extent, mostly for food packaging art. People grew tired of looking at food photos that did not represent any type of real lifestyle and grew wise to the tricks of plumped up, shellacked food that did not represent what they were eating. Styles have now moved to the more realistic settings of dinner tables that people can relate to. I hate to use the work authentic – but this is what I strive for, because people are drawn in by it. Perhaps "contrived-authentic" would be closer to the truth.

Food bloggers really led the way to opening up food photography to a more spontaneous style. As people became accustomed to seeing Instagram photos of food, they began to expect this casually styled photography from pros as well.

Phoblographer: Where do you get the inspiration and creative ideas for your images?

Jeff: I read a ton of magazines and newspapers every month and as well as viewing a ton of online content. Art, film and TV are also in the mix. Keeping up on current trends is very important. On top of that, I view several thousand news and lifestyle photos every workday. Ideas come from all these sources as well as from just walking around the city, shopping and observing daily life. Sometimes ideas come in the middle of the night and I send myself a quick email to remind me. I am a big believer in lists and always have lists of ideas for shoots.

Phoblographer: Not only do you shoot, but you also style your own images. What are some of the most common things you do to make the food look better?

Jeff: Mostly I use lighting and arrangement to enhance the food. Getting the proper highlights and shadows, is what makes the food come alive. I use very little other enhancement, aside for the occasional brush of olive oil to increase the glisten factor and a light water spray on some fresh fruit and vegetables. I find the more you meddle with the food, the more artificial the food looks.

Phoblographer: Considering that you also style your own photos, what do you think is the biggest discovery that you've made in the past year is when it comes to styling images?

Jeff: Styling is incredibly difficult and it's really a separate profession from photography. I am slowly learning to be a better stylist. I think most people don't realize just how important the styling of a food shoot is and just how much meticulous work and creativity goes into the styling.

Phoblographer: What gear do you use and how do you light your images?

Jeff: I use Nikon D800e bodies and have a wide variety of Nikon lenses, but my go-to lens is the Nikon 105mm f2.8. If I am shooting overhead and want a lot of texture detail I will use the 24-70 2.8 zoom, since this gives me a lot of cropping control with the zoom. If I am looking for a narrow depth of field, I always use prime lenses, which are sharper wide open. For lighting I use Elinchrom D-Lite strobes with various soft boxes and grids.

I mostly use one head aimed through a large, Westcott two-stop white flat to achieve a more natural light source and use a lot of black and white cards and reflectors and flats to control the light. As well, I use a Camranger which transmits a basic jpeg to my iPad so I can better view the image, which allows me to work on the composition and styling.

I can also use it to remote focus and fire the camera if I have it mounted in a difficult to view place, such as above the set. Occasionally, I do shoot available light, but I like the predictability of strobe lighting, and given my shooting schedule I cannot depend on sunlight to do the trick for me.

Phoblographer: Where do you see yourself as a photographer in the next year, and do you plan on getting to that stage?

Jeff: I am very lucky to have two great careers that I love. My work at the National Post is both demanding and rewarding and will continue to be the main focus of my working life. Food photography is really like therapy for me. There is no "breaking news" in food photography! My goal for next year is to produce larger shoots involving people and food, concentrating more on the social aspect of food and drink. This will require some tricky time management on my part, and likely the help of an assistant and perhaps a stylist or chef.

Source: Jeff Wasserman: Creating Delectable Stock Food Photography

Breaking the ‘Bridal Rules’! Beauty Boudoir, Charis Hair & AO Photography’s STUNNING New Shoot

The brains behind AO Photography, Beauty Boudoir & Charis Hair joined forces once again to create a perfect bridal hair & makeup look book; but this time they were joined by GroomInspiration, providing something for the guys.

Their last collaboration was a hit – click here if you missed it – one of the images of Imelda is in our top 10 most liked photos on Instagram EVER!

Today's shoot showcases different ways of wearing your hair and makeup uniquely as a modern bride/bride-to-be, while matching your groom/groom to be.

For the hair, Tola says,

"The hairstyles were inspired by vintage timeless updos infused with modern creative curls, giving that perfect classic style with a modern twist (stepping out of the norm)."

Imelda broke the 'bridal rules' with the makeup,

"Everyone thinks bridal makeup should be nude and subtle but there are no rules against having colour infusions or bold looks to contrast nicely with the white wedding dress. For instance, adding a hint of blue eyeliner can be your "something blue" or even opting for a classic red lip to make that walk down the aisle have and even bigger impact."

Here are a few looks put together by the team, covering the pre-wedding to the white wedding.

Be inspired!

***

'Pre-Wedding' Images White Wedding Looks

CreditsPhotography: Abi Oshodi of AO Photography | www.AO-photography.co.uk | email: info@ao_photography.co.uk | Instagram: @ao_photographyHair & hair Jewelry: Tola Olayanju of Charis Hair | www.charishair.com | email: info@mycharishair.com | Instagram: @charishairMakeup: Imelda Ladebo of Beauty Boudoir | www.beauty-boudoir.net | email: info@beauty-boudoir.net | Instagram: @beautyboudoir_LTiara, Earrings & Necklaces: Elsie Joy Bridal | email: info@elsiejoy.com | Instagram: @elsiejoybridalBrown Sports Jacket: Mark Stephen designed by Mark Marengo

We love weddings as much as you do – get in touch!

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E-mail: weddings (at) bellanaija.com | E-mail for #AsoEbiBella: asoebibella (at) gmail.com

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Source: Breaking the 'Bridal Rules'! Beauty Boudoir, Charis Hair & AO Photography's STUNNING New Shoot

Drones are amazing at wedding photography

It's easy to hire a wedding photographer. But why stop there? You can get even better footage with a drone.

 Drones have captured some of the most beautiful moments in people's lives, and some photographers now offer drones in addition to standard cameras.

 U.S. regulations ban drone use for business purposes, so those photographers need to get special permission from the Federal Aviation Administration. For that special day, though — it's worth it.

Story by Jacob Shamsian and editing by Kristen Griffin

Source: Drones are amazing at wedding photography

Orlando Prince: preserving memories with photography

Orlando Prince is not used to being the subject. Well-known for his portrait and wedding photography and videography, he is usually the man behind the camera with the concepts and the scenes producing the perfect shots for his clients' memories.

This week The Scene turned the spotlight on this artist who followed his calling and the completeness he feels with…to continue reading this article, please subscribe.  Already a subscriber ? Sign In.

Source: Orlando Prince: preserving memories with photography

Wedding photographer refunds couple, promises more refunds

GRIFFIN, GA (CBS46) -

A wedding photographer accused of taking deposits from local brides and then never providing his services says he intends to issue refunds.  

Kelsey Cox, who shared her story with CBS46, has been refunded the $1,500 deposit she paid for engagement and wedding photos.  

"Thank you so much for helping us and so many others get out money and sanity back. Cannot tell you how grateful we are!!" Cox said in a message to CBS46.

Since our first report aired, CBS46 has heard from 21 other couples and former freelance photographers who say Chris Yellina, owner of Graceology Photography, owed them either refunds or compensation.  

Several have filed lawsuits in Spalding County Civil Court. The business is based in Griffin, GA.  

Others have filed formal complaints with the Better Business Bureau, which has given the business an "F" rating.  

CBS46 also found numerous negative reviews on wedding planning websites, including The Knot. 

One couple told CBS46 they got married four years ago and are still waiting on their photo album.  

One bride's father said Yellina called just a few hours before her October 10 wedding to cancel. They scrambled to find a replacement photographer, but have yet to be issued a refund.  

CBS46 will continue to cover any significant developments in this story. 

Copyright 2015 WGCL-TV (Meredith Corporation).  All rights reserved. 

Source: Wedding photographer refunds couple, promises more refunds

Shea McGrath Colorado Mountain Wedding Photographer Featured in Autumn Wedding Showcase This Weekend

Shea McGrath Colorado Mountain Wedding Photographer Featured in Autumn Wedding Showcase This Weekend

Shea McGrath, renowned Colorado Mountain Wedding Photographer, announced her participation in the Boettcher Mansion's Autumn Wedding Showcase.

Denver, CO, October 22, 2015 --(PR.com)-- Shea McGrath, renowned Colorado Mountain Wedding Photographer, announced her participation in the Boettcher Mansion's Autumn Wedding Showcase. The show will be October 25th, 2015 11am-2pm at Boettcher Mansion, 900 Colorow Road, Golden CO 80401. McGrath noted, "This is a great opportunity for engaged couples to speak with me about their dreams of the ultimate wedding. A wedding is a very special event and I wish to do my part in making it everything they hoped for."

Admission is free at the wedding showcase. The Autumn Bridal Showcase takes place at the Boettcher Mansion on Lookout Mountain in Golden, Colorado. Engaged couples and bridal event planners will attend this great bridal event opportunity. This complimentary bridal showcase event offers a chance to meet wedding vendors and wedding event coordinators to help couples plan a dream wedding event in Colorado.

About Shea McGrath Photography:Shea McGrath Photography is develo ping a reputation as an intuitive and kinesthetic photographic artist. McGrath is often asked to photograph for personal events, such as weddings, as well as for the health & beauty, and fashion industries. According to McGrath, "What started as a hobby and avocation in college has quickly turned into a passion and profession. Invited to be part of those special moments in people's lives is joyful and allows me to capture happiness. Clients feel comfortable and have a great time when on one of these photo shoots. Many clients have shared they had so much fun during the session, they forgot there was a camera around."

McGrath, has extensively travelled Eastern and Western Europe, including France, Ireland, Germany, and Turkey. McGrath, who is bilingual in Spanish, resided in Madrid, Spain where she started her photography business.

Shea McGrath Photography (www.sheamcgrath.com) is a professional photography company specializing in natural light photography helpi ng people to celebrate life events such as weddings, graduations, engagements, and all lifestyle celebrations. Her work style is quickly gaining attention for product, fashion, and beauty photography as well. McGrath is now recognized worldwide as a wedding and portrait photographer for over a decade. Follow Shea McGrath Photography on Twitter @shea_mcgrath, like on Facebook at facebook.com/sheamcgrathphotography, or Instagram @sheamcgrathphotography.

Source: Shea McGrath Colorado Mountain Wedding Photographer Featured in Autumn Wedding Showcase This Weekend

Yuba City Couple’s Wedding Pictures Stolen After Thieves Hit Photographer’s Car In Huntington Beach

YUBA CITY (CBS13) — A thief stole hundreds of priceless memories of a Yuba City couple's wedding day.

The photographer at Laura and Michael Underwood's wedding had her car broken into in Huntington Beach. Her equipment, including the memory card with the couple's wedding photos, was stolen.

The dress, rings, invitations and home video only tell a portion of their love story. The rest was being captured by their photographer and family friend.

That great moment in Anaheim turned into a nightmare the next day.

"I have this really long text message from my photographer that said I had the worst news ever. And it was the worst news ever, yeah," Laura said.

"Her rent-a-car was broken into I guess in Huntington Beach, California and they shattered her back window," Michael said.

"They took all of her equipment," Laura said. "Thousands of dollars worth of her camera equipment and of course all of our photos."

The break-in happened in a BJ's parking lot where three other vehicles were also targeted.

"I feel heartbroken over it. You know, we spent a lot of money on this. And it's not just the money, it's our memories," Michael said. "I'd like to have something later on down the road to show my kids, my grandkids. I don't have that now."

What they do have left to cherish are a handful of shots snapped by family and friends.

"We are just hoping that maybe there is some decency that they find it in their hearts to please return the cards. No questions asked," Laura said.

Source: Yuba City Couple's Wedding Pictures Stolen After Thieves Hit Photographer's Car In Huntington Beach

Unhappy brides take aim at wedding photographer

GRIFFIN, GA (CBS46) -

After dozens of complaints, negative reviews, and lawsuits, a local wedding photographer is now under fire for taking money from brides and then not fulfilling those contracts.

The Better Business Bureau in Atlanta has been looking into more than a dozen formal complaints against Graceology Photography, a company based in Griffin, Georgia. Most of those complaints remain unresolved and the company currently has an "F" rating.

The company also has at least six lawsuits pending against them in Spalding County and numerous negative reviews on wedding planning websites like The Knot.

"He's ruining this for us"

Kelsey Cox is one of the many customers who told CBS46 she never got the photos or services she paid for.

"It's supposed to be the best time of my life.  I'm supposed to be enjoying every moment of this and he's ruining this for us," said Cox.

Cox is getting married in June. She and her fiancé gave Chris Yellina, owner of Graceology Photography, a deposit for $1500 for toward their engagement and wedding photos. Cox says she tried several times to schedule a sitting for those engagement photos, but kept getting the runaround and had to reschedule more than once with little or no notice.

"He was unresponsive. He never showed or he would come up with an excuse the day of. He would totally bail on us," Cox said.

Another bride, Nicole Nguyen, got married in August and she says she hired Yellina to take her wedding photos, but on the day of her wedding, he never showed up. Instead, he sent a replacement photographer. More than three months after her wedding, she says she's only received nine unedited photos and no refund.

Business owner refutes negative reviews; promises refunds to customers

A quick search online found many negative reviews, but Yellina refutes them.

He told CBS46 over the phone that "anyone can go and post a review. So people were writing reviews that've never done business with us - like other photography companies competing with us."

When asked about the lawsuits and complaints also filed with the BBB, Yellina  offered an explanation via text message:  "We have had a horrible year medically in our family between myself and our two children."

He claims the unhappy customers will get a refund, but couldn't say when.

"I told them it would take a little while to get their refund because I'm sitting on over $29,000 in medical bills," Yellina said through text message.

Cox says she's tired of waiting for her refund and tired of getting excuses.

"It's been just one thing after another – 'I'm waiting for a check to clear from another client, I'm out of town, my kids are sick. I'm in and out of the hospital' - and all this time I'm catching him in lies. He can't seem to keep his story straight," said Cox.

Cox says she no longer believes or accepts Yellina's explanations and she wants other brides to know about her frustrations so they don't make similar mistakes.

Yellina assured CBS46's Melinda Roeder that he will refund Cox's money to her this week, but couldn't say when the other customers would be getting their money back. 

Copyright 2015 WGCL-TV (Meredith Corp). All rights reserved.

Source: Unhappy brides take aim at wedding photographer

Fire destroys Sorrento restaurant, wedding venue The Baths

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Replay video Newlyweds 'shocked' fire destroyed their wedding venue

Jenny Burkitt and her husband Doug were one of the last couples to get married at The Baths in Sorrento before it was gutted by fire.

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A couple due to marry in Sorrento this weekend have watched their wedding venue burn to the ground.

Jonathan Leslie and Jennifer Lewis, who are all set to get married this Friday, were forced to make a last-minute venue change after watching fire crews battle the blaze at The Baths on Sunday night.

The Sydney couple had already been staying in Sorrento ahead of their pending nuptials and were shocked to see their venue gutted by fire. 

The Baths restaurant in Sorrento. Photo: Gary Medlicott

Mr Leslie praised the quick work of the The Baths' owners who managed to sort out a new venue for 80 guests at short notice. 

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"It's the sort of story you hear about happening to other people but not to you," Mr Leslie said.

Investigators have found the cause of the blaze was an electrical fault in a storage area next to the kitchen.

A woman walks her dog on the pier in front of "The Baths", the morning after fire gutted the popular function and wedding centre. Photo: Jason South

Devastated brides-to-be posted on social media on Monday, desperate to find alternative venues for their special days.

High school sweethearts Jai Smith and Meaghan Woolard were due to marry at The Baths on Saturday. They had just returned from a wedding rehearsal when Ms Woolard's father delivered the bad news.

"She just basically fell to the ground and started crying," Mr Smith said.

Jenny Burkitt and Doug Stevens on their wedding day at The Baths in Sorrento last Saturday. Photo: Sorrento Wedding Photography & Film www.sorrentoweddings.com.au

"We have five days now to organise a whole new wedding. All the personal touches that we were putting on it at The Baths, it's all gone."

Radio station Fox FM has offered the couple their South Melbourne studio rooftop for the wedding, but this creates transport dilemmas for the couple, whose 100 guests have already booked accommodation in Sorrento.

The Baths restaurant ablaze at Sorrento. Photo: Instagram

The devastated owner of the Mornington Peninsula restaurant said he was relieved no one was injured in the fire.

CFA crews were called to the restaurant about 8.15pm Sunday.

The desperate efforts of at least 11 fire crews failed to save the Port Nepean Road restaurant, which overlooks Port Phillip Bay.

Jonathan Leslie and his fiancee Jennifer Lewis were booked to get married at The Baths this Friday. Photo: Supplied

Owner and manager James Gibson said on Facebook on Monday that the restaurant was thankfully closed at the time of the fire.

We are devastated that The Baths restaurant has burnt down. Thankfully no customers or staff have been injured, as it...

Posted by The Baths on  Sunday, October 18, 2015

Customers with weddings booked are urged to contact the venue for assistance with alternative arrangements.

Jai Smith and Meaghan Woolard, who were due to be married at The Baths on Saturday. Photo: Supplied

"We are devastated that The Baths restaurant has burnt down," he said.

"Thankfully no customers or staff have been injured, as it was a Sunday evening and the restaurant was closed."

On Instagram, Mr Gibson posted an illustrated quote: "There is always something to be thankful for."

Jenny Burkitt and Doug Stevens on their wedding day at The Baths in Sorrento last Saturday. Photo: Sorrento Wedding Photography & Film www.sorrentoweddings.com.au

"It is still too raw for us to post any pictures of tonight's fire, however I found this picture and thought it was quite fitting," he wrote.

The Baths is about 1.5 hours' drive from Melbourne.

It was named after the Sorrento Sea Baths, which were located on the same site in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

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The CFA's Arthur Haynes said it took an hour to control the fire, with specialist crews called from Frankston and Mount Martha.

Point Nepean Road remains closed.

With Benjamin Millar, Rania Spooner

Source: Fire destroys Sorrento restaurant, wedding venue The Baths