About
After teaching English for several years in Natick, MA, I launched Happy Gatherings, a full-service portrait and event photography company in my hometown of Wayland, MA. Since 2001, I've photographed 2000+ weddings, engagements, mitzvahs, life-style portraits and corporate events all over New England. The best part of my job is translating the hopes and visions of my clients into tangible products - prints, albums, wall portraits. "Memories of a lifetime start here."
Photos and videos
Reviews
Caitlin B.
David R.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
First, we usually communicate by e-mail or on the phone. I check to see that I am available for their date, then we talk about location, time frames, their photo likes and dislikes and budgeting. Later, they visit my studio in Wayland to look at samples from very recent weddings in the New England area.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have an M.Ed from Framingham State University with language concentration. After teaching English for several years, I studied photography at New England Institute of Professional Photography and took workshops with many top wedding photographers. I've owned Happy Gatherings for 24 years and have photographed 1000+ weddings and events.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
My a la carte photo fee is $300 per hour.
I offer collections which all include an album, a thumb drive to keep of images, online photo gallery and an engagement session that range from $2500 - $4000.
How did you get started in this business?
When my father moved to Florida, he left me his Nikon cameras (he was a very good amateur photographer) and suggested that I go into photography as a career. I took his advice and started Happy Gatherings in 1995
What types of customers have you worked with?
In 24 years, I guess I have run the gamut of clients - my wedding couples range from early 20's to late 70's. Most of my clients are from the Boston/MetroWest area, but I also serve all of New England, Cape Cod, Newport, RI and internationally in Mexico and the Virgin Islands.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A recent wedding at The Wayside Inn in Sudbury comes to mind. The best part for me was the great age range of the family and guests - from a newborn infant to a great, great grandmother who was close to 100 years old. Instead of the usual "3 generation shot" we had a big "4 generation shot!"
Great fun and quite emotional!
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
I would ask to see recent work, an entire event or album if possible, actually photographed by the person you are interviewing. "Word-of-mouth" references are always the best form of advertising. Check out FB, Twitter and Instagram platforms to see even more samples of the person's work. Ask yourself, "Do I want to spend several hours with this person on such an important day!" You'll probably know the answer within the first few minutes of meeting her/him.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Think through your budget and decide what pricepoint you'd like to realistically stay around. Most of my colleagues value your honesty and will make an effort to be flexible with coverage and pricing options. Good Luck!