We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Marton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
The wedding industry tends to stoke some controversial opinions. With rising costs worldwide, I’ve noticed an influx of complaints through TikTok videos and online discussion forums from engaged folks lamenting the price of services for wedding vendors. In some circles, disdain for wedding vendors grows as the top priority for many engaged middle class Americans is finding the most cost-effective option available to get the job done for their wedding. A sector of people even sees weddings as “a waste of money” because “it’s just one day” and it “doesn’t deserve that much financial investment.”

For my couples, I’ve noticed that the conversation of value is very different. The rare chance to celebrate with and honor everyone most beloved remains at the forefront of decision making. Time spent with these cherished family members and friends is of the utmost value. The chance to thank them and show appreciation for their impact on your story and relationship in a curated, beautiful setting that reflects your unique connection with the love of your life… it’s challenging to fully put into words what this means to the couples who choose to invest in highly skilled wedding artists who bring visions to life, flawlessly executed.

So if you’re an outsider, there’s a chance you may view weddings as frivolous or expensive. But if you reframe your perspective, think about what you would pay to have everyone you love most in the world under one roof with you for the night. I know for myself, the answer is that no amount of money would be enough to cover how much I value that moment.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a wedding artist, I organically capture intentional connection. Weddings inspire me because despite a similar structure for each event, the celebrations are all so unique because of the couple’s creative vision and their set of guests who shape the day into a lively reunion.

When I first started my business in 2018, I brought several years of photojournalistic experience into the wedding world. At the time, I was highly motivated to run a business due to the level of flexibility and control entrepreneurship offers. Desk jobs felt confining, and I wanted out. Wedding photographers I knew seemed fulfilled and joyful, and I was curious!

As my experience with weddings progressed, my motivations shifted as my desire to thoughtfully create grew stronger. I crave weddings. The energy, emotions, aesthetics all contribute to the perfect type of organized chaos I yearn for. Particularly with film photography, I’ve learned to slow down and pay attention to the moments that matter most all while framing and shooting in a way that resonates deeply with my creative spirit.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Born and raised in Southern California, local businesses and restaurants are a huge part of my daily life here. Some favorites for eating include Northgate Market, Neat Coffee, East Borough, Sidecar Doughnuts, Hanuman Thai and Bear Flag. In Santa Ana, the Frida Theatre is an art house movie theatre run by volunteers with excellent curation when it comes to programming. For getting outdoors, I love to visit Laguna Beach for the farmers markets, hiking at Top of the World, and swimming at all the hidden beaches.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The unwavering support of my family and friends (both in and out of the wedding industry) continually fuels me and reminds me what I have to offer. As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to gravitate towards the phrase “self-made” when thinking about success. But the reality is that many people have made my business possible by taking a chance on me when I first started all the way to now, offering thoughtful insights and encouragement as I move forward. I am so grateful for my community.

Website: https://erinmartonphoto.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinmartonphoto/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/erin-marton-photography-newport-beach

Image Credits
Erin Marton Photography

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