For the last couple years I have been looking for the right person to assist me at big events such as weddings and reunions. I didn't need anyone yet, but I hoped to one day be busy enough that I'd need that person.
This year. . .it happened! I was busy enough that I needed help. . .and people were requesting that second photographer. After a few months of weighing my options, several nights of late talks with my husband, a chat with a close friend, and talking with my parents about it. . .I realized the answer was obvious.
I knew who I'd ask; I knew who I wanted.
In fact, it was someone I had in the back of my mind since I was 17. One of those dreams you have in your head as a kid like, "someday I'll marry a doctor and have 3 kids, and live in a big house. . .". Back in the late 90's Ashley had taken some pictures, and when her mom showed them to me, the dream developed. They were pretty darn good for someone that young. And her eye was very similar to mine. Someday. . .someday we'll work together.
Years passed, I moved away from the Western Slope and continued with my photography. She was still here and continued to work on hers. Both of us grew up, got married, had kids, and moved on in life while still working on our passion separate from the other. The hope that we'd work together never died, but with us living so far apart, it didn't look like it was going to happen.
Then, in 2012, my crazy life moved me to Montrose. Only 25 miles away from the talented Miss Ashley. We started to talk little more often, see each other a little more often. . .and that idea in the back of my mind started pushing it's way out again. I began poking around and asking people we knew if she was still working on photography. . .if they thought she might be interested in doing more. . .
And in January of this year, I dropped by her work and asked if she'd be interested in trying to work with me. She didn't have to say a word. The way her eyes lit up and she smiled, I knew it would be a yes. And in August this year, our work together began.
We have a ton of memories together in the last 24 years. . .i.e. falling off trampolines, sunburns, locking her brother in his room, getting chased by an evil turkey. . .and now we get to experience art, love and life together in every wedding and big event. Here's to a long, successful future in the photography business with my gorgeous, wonderful and talented cousin. . . .
Introducing Ashley Carney!!
Photography by Ashley Carney & Editing by Katie Rice
We make a great team. Don't we? :)
