Friday, July 23, 2010

dancing like the stars @ raleigh's southern women's show - raleigh event photography

  
ever since our move back to nc, i have had numerous moments of complete humility.  i am so blessed that my dream, my photography has succeeded and i am so grateful for that.  so many opportunities have opened up... more than i could have imagined.


some of you know my cousin is clay aiken, who became popular when competing on american idol in 2003, and is an amazing singer!  (by the way, his newly released cd is his best yet!  make sure you get a copy!)


clay, along with help from other wonderful people, created the national inclusion project.  the national inclusion project opens doors for all kids to be included together and experience all that life has to offer.  they conduct programs with community partners to teach others how to be inclusive so that kids with and without disabilities can experience lifelong benefits.  they believe no one should sit on the sidelines.  and i couldn't agree more.


to learn more about national inclusion project, visit their website by clicking on the image below.






clay's mom, my wonderful aunt faye, is an integral part in the organization and coordinates the annual dancing like the stars contest at the raleigh southern women's show.  this year i was honored to be the exclusive photographer of the event.  i had so much fun!!!  if you have never been to this i suggest you attend next year!


below is aunt faye welcoming everyone and laying out the rules.  she had such a stage presence!  the whole time i was looking around at the jammed packed audience and wanted to yell "that's my aunt!" but then i realized everyone would immediately know i was truly a johnston county redneck disguised as a photographer and i didn't wanna blow my cover.


this was probably one of the most inspiring, emotional performances i have ever seen... they dances so well!!  and even got a standing ovation.  this is exactly what the national inclusion project is all about.


here's a quick snapshot of each contestant.  they were so talented and entertaining!

scott fitzgerald
(wptf 680am)

bill reh
(weather for nbc 17)

billy dukes
(music director/night dj at 94.7 wqdr)

renee chou
(weekend morning anchor/reporter for wral)

tina seldin cash
(hosts the North Carolina Education Lottery Drawing on wral)

while the final numbers were being tallied we had special entertainment by anoop desai!


congratulations to renee chou and partner dan barber on winning 1st place!


as part of my duties i had the honor to photograph each contestant weeks before the contest.  we did headshots and images of them dancing to be used in the promotions.  below is a poster that was displayed at the women's show as well as numerous places leading up to the day.  i was so proud to have our logo/name on it hubby just had to get a quick snapshot!  all the images you see on the poster are by us too!!





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