The year 2020 was slated to start off the best year of business for Erin Morrison Photography. At the beginning of the year, I had filled my calendar with weddings and was looking forward to all the bookings in 2021. Then, the grenade known as COVID-19 blew everything up in March.
The Year of COVID
Owning a small business is not for the faint of heart. In any “normal” year, professional photographers have to deal with a number of items: websites, hosting, social media, taxes, contracts, and cancellations. It just comes with the territory. 2020 only amplified the hard work of owning a small business. The hustle to keep afloat was very real, and many small businesses (especially in the wedding industry) did not make it.
I have stayed awake at night thinking about my company, and I have spent many nights thinking about my wedding couples. This year sucked. It sucked hard. And if your wedding was canceled or postponed this year, I feel for you.
Smoky Mountain Photographer
One thing that has not changed is that people love to take photos in the Smokies. And dang, was it busy! I have a Commercial Use Authorization in The Great Smoky Mountain National Park. It is an honor to be a licensed photographer in this national park. Every year, I take family, engagement, and wedding photos inside its boundaries. In 2021, I am looking forward to hitting up some new locations such as Newfound Gap, The Fairy House, and Catalyst Falls!
The Milestones and Stats
Even though this year felt like a dumpster fire, there were many bright spots to be thankful for.
Best Knoxville Wedding Photographer. For the fourth year in a row, EMP was named one of the Best Knoxville Wedding Photographers by Expertise.com. Wedding photographers were scored on more than 25 variables across five categories to earn this distinction.
So, Erin, what are the stats for 2020? #covidstyle
I say it every year. I am SO thankful for all the friends, family, and wedding couples who chose to support Erin Morrison Photography this year. The gratitude I feel for this year is something that I cannot put into words. #muchlove