Monday night, I had the pleasure of attending the PASS Premier tour stop in Charlotte. As soon as I heard that this group of pros (read: celebrities) were going to be a mere 90 miles away (all you southeast/east coast photogs know that no one EVER comes to our neck of the woods - darn you California and your beautiful weather and allure), I knew I had to be there.

I could talk for hours about all that I learned, how inspiring and kind everyone was, how refreshing it is to be around photographers that support one another instead of just trying to beat out the competition (ask Josh - I did talk to him for hours about all of those things and more), but instead, I think I'll give you a few photographs and some tidbits from the night...

The event was held at a lovely Charlotte venue called The Depot. Don't let the outside fool you folks - this place has character...

David Jay, who I only recently came to "know" through Jasmine Star (brides, wedding planners, photographers - if you do not know who this incredibly talented woman is, you NEED to read her blog. she will make you laugh, cry, and truly inspire you), spoke about a new program called PASS that is truly going to change the industry. I can't wait to try it out with some of my future clients...

The lovely, talented, and fashion-forward Promise Tangeman gave a presentation on branding and allowing your brand and your website to reflect you as a person. She knows what she's talking about, people. And she's probably the nicest individual I've ever met...

Get ready 'cause this caption's gonna be a long one. What really got me to attend this event was that Zach and Jody of Gray Photography were going to be there. Long before I decided to take my hobby to a whole new level and start my own business as a wedding photographer, this duo planted the seed. Several years ago, when I was looking for a photographer for my own Nashville wedding, I discovered Gray, and although I didn't have them as my own photographers, I began reading their blog. I was inspired by their creativity, their willingness to help other photographers, their relationship with their clients, and their openess about their own trials and tribulations. And their presentation at Monday's event certainly didn't dissappoint...

I very rarely get starstruck, but hanging out with these guys was better than being on tour with U2 (give me a break - it's the first major band I could think of) or having dinner with Brangelina (for those of you who don't read People magazine or watch TMZ, that's Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie). Seriously - they're photography celebrities. Here's one more shot of me with the Grays - that's me on the left (photo courtesy of Bryant Altizer)

Not pictured but not forgotten: I also got to hear from Kevin Swan, the mastermind behind KISS Wedding Books, and I'm looking forward to using their services. Brides - look forward to some AWESOME albums coming your way!

I'm feeling excited and empowered about what the next year will hold for Glessner Photography and incredibly blessed to get to hang out and learn from such an wonderful group of people. There are still a few stops left on the tour - so photographers, if there's one coming to a city near you, get your tickets NOW! You won't be sorry!