Windwood Family Services Annual Fundraiser

It was an absolute pleasure to photograph the Annual Fundraising Gala for Windwood Family Services this week! Not only was it a great event…it was for a fantastic cause!!!

Windwood Family Services provides help, hope, and healing to children and families affected by abuse, neglect, or trauma through residential programs and community services. Windwood Farm serves boys ages 6-16 who have either experienced prior abuse or neglect and are in the custody of SC Department of Social Services…or are experiencing behavioral issues without abuse or neglect in their background and are in their parents custody.

The event was held at beautiful Hotel Emeline in downtown Charleston. Guests were greeted with a fun cocktail hour in the open courtyard, where Silent Auction items were available for browsing and bidding. Everyone was then invited into the gorgeous ballroom for a lovely dinner. Then the program kicked into high gear with guest speakers and a lively Live Auction. It was so heartwarming to see the amount of money that was raised to help fund this wonderful organization.

Many thanks to Mia for trusting me to cover this important event for Windwood Family Services!

ITC at Primland Resort – Day 3

Sometimes I just have to pinch myself. Over the course of my career, I have been lucky enough to meet the most amazing people, and shoot in the most amazing locations!

This weekend, I had the pleasure of photographing a fantastic event with my good friend and incredible photographer, Gary Coleman. We always have so much fun working together! But that enjoyment was doubly amplified by the kind and gracious clients we were working with, the absolutely gorgeous venue we were shooting in, and the amazing staff serving along side us.

We were photographing an incentive trip for the International Terminals Company. ITC is a premier terminal services company strategically positioned in key market hubs internationally. For over 50 years, ITC has provided exceptional logistical services for customers who operate within the global petrochemical and petroleum products market around the world.

The event was held at Primland, an Auberge Resort located in Meadows of Dan, VA. Amongst the natural paradise of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Lodge sits atop a private 12,000 acre mountain. Beautifully manicured greens extend as far as the eye can see. And the nearby Outdoor Activity Center is a launching point for an outdoor playground like no other. The entire property is absolutely breathtaking!

After breakfast on Day 3 of the program, we headed back to the Outdoor Activities Center to photograph more horseback riding, skeet shooting, fly fishing, and RTV riding. We also covered more groups out golfing. That night, a tent was set up on the driving range, overlooking the beautiful valley below. Everyone was treated to a fantastic final evening, with cocktails, a group photo, couple’s portraits, dinner, live music from Green Levels, and an amazing drone light-show.

Many thanks to Hope and Jenna at KLH Group for inviting us to be a part of this special event, and for making sure everything ran smoothly all weekend!!!

ITC at Primland Resort – Day 2

Sometimes I just have to pinch myself. Over the course of my career, I have been lucky enough to meet the most amazing people, and shoot in the most amazing locations!

This weekend, I had the pleasure of photographing a fantastic event with my good friend and incredible photographer, Gary Coleman. We always have so much fun working together! But that enjoyment was doubly amplified by the kind and gracious clients we were working with, the absolutely gorgeous venue we were shooting in, and the amazing staff serving along side us.

We were photographing an incentive trip for the International Terminals Company. ITC is a premier terminal services company strategically positioned in key market hubs internationally. For over 50 years, ITC has provided exceptional logistical services for customers who operate within the global petrochemical and petroleum products market around the world.

The event was held at Primland, an Auberge Resort located in Meadows of Dan, VA. Amongst the natural paradise of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Lodge sits atop a private 12,000 acre mountain. Beautifully manicured greens extend as far as the eye can see. And the nearby Outdoor Activity Center is a launching point for an outdoor playground like no other. The entire property is absolutely breathtaking!

Day 2 of the program found us photographing attendees enjoying fun activities like golfing, horseback riding, skeet shooting, fly fishing, and RTV riding. That evening, everyone met at the Stables Saloon for a group photo, couple’s portraits, cocktails, and dinner. Afterwards, some fun awards were given out!

Many thanks to Hope and Jenna at KLH Group for inviting us to be a part of this special event, and for making sure everything ran smoothly all weekend!!!

ITC at Primland Resort – Day 1

Sometimes I just have to pinch myself. Over the course of my career, I have been lucky enough to meet the most amazing people, and shoot in the most amazing locations!

This weekend, I had the pleasure of photographing a fantastic event with my good friend and incredible photographer, Gary Coleman. We always have so much fun working together! But that enjoyment was doubly amplified by the kind and gracious clients we were working with, the absolutely gorgeous venue we were shooting in, and the amazing staff serving along side us.

We were photographing an incentive trip for the International Terminals Company. ITC is a premier terminal services company strategically positioned in key market hubs internationally. For over 50 years, ITC has provided exceptional logistical services for customers who operate within the global petrochemical and petroleum products market around the world.

The event was held at Primland, an Auberge Resort located in Meadows of Dan, VA. Amongst the natural paradise of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Lodge sits atop a private 12,000 acre mountain. Beautifully manicured greens extend as far as the eye can see. And the nearby Outdoor Activity Center is a launching point for an outdoor playground like no other. The entire property is absolutely breathtaking!

Day 1 of the event began with guests arriving in time for a fun group photo, cocktails on the East Terrace overlooking the Dan River Gorge, live music by Chris Crosby, visits from several special birds of prey, and a lovely diner in the fabulous Leather Flower restaurant.

Many thanks to Hope and Jenna at KLH Group for inviting us to be a part of this special event, and for making sure everything ran smoothly all weekend!!!

Export Exchange 2024 – Day 3

It was an absolute pleasure to be invited back as the official photographer for Export Exchange 2024 last week. The event was held at the Omni Fort Worth in Texas, with over 500 attendies from over 35 countries.

Export Exchange is an international conference that allows overseas attendees the opportunity to build relationships with U.S. suppliers of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn, sorghum, barley and other commodities, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in grain sales. Export Exchange is a biennial event, sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council, Renewable Fuels Association, and Growth Energy, to offer an opportunity for education of and introductions to members of the U.S. grains production and export industries.

Day 3 was filled with more networking, presentations, panel discussions, and final group photos. Keynote speakers included Joe Ward from the Dried Distillers Council, Carlos Suarez from the U.S. Grains Council and Vijay Singh from University of Illinois. Plus Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO of the US Grains Council, brought the conference to an end with his closing remarks.

Export Exchange 2024 – Reception

It was an absolute pleasure to be invited back as the official photographer for Export Exchange 2024 last week. The event was held at the Omni Fort Worth in Texas, with over 500 attendies from over 35 countries.

Export Exchange is an international conference that allows overseas attendees the opportunity to build relationships with U.S. suppliers of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn, sorghum, barley and other commodities, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in grain sales. Export Exchange is a biennial event, sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council, Renewable Fuels Association, and Growth Energy, to offer an opportunity for education of and introductions to members of the U.S. grains production and export industries.

At the end of Day 2, a fantastic western-themed reception was held at the famous Billy Bob’s Texas near the Stock Yard. We had everything from photo ops on a Texas Longhorn Bull and a trick rope performance, to a live bull riding show and line-dancing classes. It was fun to see everyone relax and unwind after a long day of presentations!

Export Exchange 2024 – Day 2

It was an absolute pleasure to be invited back as the official photographer for Export Exchange 2024 last week. The event was held at the Omni Fort Worth in Texas, with over 500 attendies from over 35 countries.

Export Exchange is an international conference that allows overseas attendees the opportunity to build relationships with U.S. suppliers of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn, sorghum, barley and other commodities, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in grain sales. Export Exchange is a biennial event, sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council, Renewable Fuels Association, and Growth Energy, to offer an opportunity for education of and introductions to members of the U.S. grains production and export industries.

Day 2 was all about education and networking. The day began with comments from Ryan LeGrand, President and CEO of the US Grains Council, as well as a warm welcome by Dan Hunter from the Texas Department of Agriculture. Dan was followed by keynote presentations by Chris Bliley of Growth Energy, Norma Ritz Johnson of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, Scott Richmanof the Renewable Fuels Association, and Alejandra Castillo of NAEGA, among others.  Plus there were several networking breaks in between so attendees could visit booths and make connections.

Export Exchange 2024 – Day 1

It was an absolute pleasure to be invited back as the official photographer for Export Exchange 2024 last week. The event was held at the Omni Fort Worth in Texas, with over 500 attendies from over 35 countries.

Export Exchange is an international conference that allows overseas attendees the opportunity to build relationships with U.S. suppliers of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), corn, sorghum, barley and other commodities, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in grain sales. Export Exchange is a biennial event, sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council, Renewable Fuels Association, and Growth Energy, to offer an opportunity for education of and introductions to members of the U.S. grains production and export industries.

Day 1 started off with everyone registering for the meeting, mingling, and networking while vendors set up their tradeshow booths.  I also photographed all the team group shots from the various countries.  Then everyone met up for a fun Welcome Reception.

Fran’s 70th Birthday Party

It was such an honor capturing all the fun memories of Fran’s 70th Birthday Party this weekend! Kayla from Anderson Event Design did an amazing job planning every detail. Olivia from the Country Club of Charleston did a wonderful job with the food, drinks and decor. And the latin band from Miam absolutely crushed it!!!
 
Many thanks to my friend David Archer for the referral.
 
And Happy Birthday to Fran! You are a true gem!!!

NAEGA Conference in Winnipeg, Canada

I’ve never been to Winnipeg. It’s a beautiful, walkable, picturesque city, that seems to be plaqued by inclimate weather. This was also my first time in Manitoba…which is the 5th province of Canada of been to.

I was in town to photograph the North American Export Grain Association conference at the Alt Hotel. NAEGA is a not-for-profit industry trade association promoting policies, rules and commercial practices that support efficient international trade in grains, oilseeds and their derived products. Established in 1912, NAEGA’s members include private and publicly owned companies and farmer-owned cooperatives that export agricultural production to customers around the world. Their work benefits consumers, farmers and people working the trade.

I had previously worked with Alejandra, the president of NAEGA, at a former organization. So it was an absolute honor to work with her again and photograph the NAEGA conference for her!

ICGA Annual Grassroots Summit

Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is singularly focused on supporting sound policy development and pro-farmer legislation to support long-term profitability for corn growers. ICGA works to support state and federal policy on increasing blends and access to renewable fuels, decreasing regulatory burdens on Iowa’s livestock industry, improving Farm Bill programs, promoting trade policies and so much more.

It was a real honor to photograph this year’s ICGA Annual Grassroots Summit, which is one of the many opportunities for delegates to get involved and make their voices heard. Attendees get an in-depth look at the issues facing the corn industry, debate key policies that impact their farm, help set the direction for the organization moving forward and get to know other corn growers from across the state. This year’s event was held at Prarie Meadows Hotel & Casino in Altoona, IA. Keynote speakers included Secretary Mike Naig and Governor Kim Reynolds!

Many thanks to Shannon, Amanda, and Rachel from the ICGA communications team for bringing me on board to capture all the energy and excitement of this amazing conference!!!

US Grains Council Salt Lake City Board of Directors Meeting – Reception at Hogle Zoo

It’s been a real pleasure photographing the USGC’s annual Board of Directors Meeting each summer. This is their 64th annual meeting!!!

The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum and related products, including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol. With a full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in over 50 countries, as well as the European Union. The Council’s work is vital to global economic development, and to the profitability and sustainability of American farmers.

This year’s conference was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Salt Lake City, UT. Cami and I flew out a few days early to explore Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. But we also enjoyed the sights and sounds of Salt Lake City, including the Utah State Capitol, Temple Square, the Tabernacle at The Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints, the Conference Center, and Hogle Zoo.

But the main event was of course the USGC conference! With a welcome address by Mike Mower from the Utah Governor’s office, a motivational speech by Matt Booth, a CEO outlook by USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand and keynote presentations by the likes of Carlos Suarez (USGC Director of Global Sustainability), Lloyd Day (Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture), and Keneth Smith Ramos (ARGON), the schedule was absolutely packed! In addition to the conference speakers, there were a variety of panel discussions, tons of Advisory Team meetings, Sector meetings, and of course the Board of Delegates Meeting. Needless to say, I was kept quite busy capturing all the action!

Many thanks to the team at the US Grains Council for inviting me back and trusting me to capture all the key moments of this important conference!!!