Crystal Anderson Photography

Holiday Cheer

2011-12-14T13:14:00.000-05:00

This is Hercules' debut on our Holiday Cards. He did such a great job and is of course the cutest subject. Thanks to my husband for humoring me every year and getting the dog to stay still, love you honey!

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Football Sundays!

2011-10-03T14:47:00.000-04:00

Yay, yay, yay! Football is back, and the Pats are looking pretty good. Our playful pup also seems to like the pigskin. I decided to make yummy cheddar biscuits for the sweet boy. This was my first attempt at dog biscuits, and they turned out pretty good, and pretty cute. Hercules liked them, but I don't know if that's saying very much because he seems to like anything.

2011-09-17T10:00:00.000-04:00

It was so bright and sunny at Lake Junaluska that day, and the perfect weather for a wedding. Melissa was gorgeous and glowing, and Justin was quite dapper. Thank you for letting me be a part of your day, it was truly a pleasure to get to know the both of you and I wish you all the best. Congratulations!

A Lake Junaluska Engagement Portrait

2011-09-06T16:19:00.005-04:00

Melissa & Justin are such a sweet couple, and it shows through in their portraits. Stay tuned for wedding photos, they're coming soon...

Bad Boy!

2011-08-25T07:25:00.003-04:00

Meet Hercules....

He really is normally a very good boy. And so sweet! And lovable! And well behaved! But he just got a little too excited about a red pillow on the bed. Bad Boy Hercules, Bad Boy!

Bandita Wear

2011-05-30T09:23:00.005-04:00

Awesome Original menswear hand made by Bandita Wear. The models were perfect for the style and setting. Liz, you've got talent!

The Broken Lilacs

2011-05-26T18:29:00.008-04:00

What a fun photo shoot! Out at a beautiful Farm in Marshall with a beautiful horse. The Broken Lilacs, Kate & Tom, were awesomely melancholy and completely in character. And they're wearing clothes made by Bandita Wear. Stay tuned for those photos since this was a Double Shoot...

Married at the Biltmore...

2011-04-12T16:17:00.009-04:00

April and Greg were such a sweet and lovely couple. I so enjoyed capturing this special union. And the rain held out just in time. I wish them the best on their journey together. Here are some of my favorites...

Can you find Tanner?

2011-02-24T10:29:00.005-05:00

Sheets and pillows and blankets, Oh My! Such a hard life...such a hard life.

New Year, New Prices

2011-01-27T09:38:00.004-05:00

And unlike most, mine are lower! We all deserve a break, and wedding photography shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. Please contact me about my new packages, book before May 1st and receive a freebie! Your choice of a 30 page scrapbook OR engagement portrait.

Leigh Glass Band

2011-01-25T15:52:00.009-05:00

Rock & Roll and sexy Leigh! These were taken at The Get Down in West Asheville. What a perfect spot, so awesomely dirty and tacky. Leigh is a blast to work with, and they are definitely one of my favorite bands in Asheville. I'm running a special on band photos, so please contact me for more info...

Foundling Jewelry Catalog Photo Shoot

2011-01-06T10:03:00.018-05:00

(Betsy and her husband Stephen...So CUTE!)

(A great goofy shot of the gang!)

I LOVE Foundling jewelry! I also have the privilege of working for Foundling and helping create these adorable pieces. They're all made of sterling silver with re-purposed bits of vintage paper, maps, fabrics and dictionaries. I've worked for Betsy Carr, creator and talent, for WOW...3 years now. And her husband has recently joined the team and it's just so much fun. I truly love being a part of the studio and Foundling Team. And I was honored that she asked me to photograph for her FIRST catalog. Foundling has grown so much and I'm so happy for her.

Please visit her website and Etsy site to purchase this unique jewelry. The best part is that they can be personalized. For my up coming wedding I'm giving my bridal party necklaces and cuff links with their initials. Your possibilities are endless...

Yay, the Snow is here!

2010-12-12T14:54:00.006-05:00

And the holiday season is upon us. We were able to lure Tanner out with dog treats. Isn't he just the perfect present?

The Campbell Family...

2010-12-02T09:21:00.006-05:00

Gallagher and Company, and opposing NFL teams! I had such a great time running around Beaver Lake with these guys. And Gallagher it just TOO cute...

Waiting on Baby...

2010-11-07T08:06:00.005-05:00

I can't wait to meet the Pollock's new baby in December. Vicki is such a beautiful woman and she truly glows in these photos...

Sweet Melodie's...

2010-11-01T09:49:00.009-04:00

I'm so glad Melodie waited til October for her bridal portraits, the fall colors were so brilliant! I love love LOVE the Grove Arcade shots, the architecture is so cool. And Melodie was a sassy model, and of course beautiful. We had a great time during this shoot...

Boo!

2010-10-27T19:46:00.004-04:00

Ok...so the pumpkins are not that scary. But I do think they're AWESOME! The Patriots Flying Elvis was originally Justin's idea, but when I got so excited about it he let me have it...thanks honey!

Norine & Justin, October 2, 2010...

2010-10-27T07:46:00.009-04:00

Norine designed the most beautiful backyard wedding. The leaves were just beginning to change and the weather was perfect. They had homemade BBQ with macaroni and cheese. And The West End Bakery made a carrot cake that was out of this world. When the sun went down the hanging votives made everything glow. Such a lovely day for such a lovely couple. Norine, your vision came to life, and it was gorgeous...

Kind Words...

2010-10-13T17:45:00.004-04:00

Mrs. Melodie Barton sent me the sweetest e-mail, and it just made my day. It makes my job even better than it already is...

I also want to thank you for the wonderful job you did. It was a perfect day (I know all brides say that, but Drew and I keep gushing about how it was perfect for us, how we wouldn't change a thing) and a big part of that was having you involved. It's like you were there when I was looking for you and hiding in the background at the same time- amazing. About the only thing I was nervous about (well, along with the whole marriage thing) was feeling awkward about being photographed so much and you made it more comfortable than I ever thought it would be. We both feel truly lucky that you were there.

And both our families can't stop talking about what a wonderful job you did.

So yeah, it was perfect and thank you, thank you, thank you!

Married in Memphis...

2010-10-05T09:28:00.011-04:00

The former head brewer of The French Broad Brewing Co. gets hitched! Drew and Melodie said their vows at the National Ornamental Metal Museum in Memphis TN. It was gorgeous! And there was in incredible sunset over the Mississippi River. The Two Man Gentlemen Band out of New York provided the OH SO FUN entertainment. Thanks to the happy couple for letting me be a part of this beautiful day!

Beautiful Norine...

2010-10-03T12:35:00.012-04:00

We had such a girlie day...hair, makeup, and flowers. And she is so gorgeous in her gown. Wedding photos are on their way...

Sneak Peak: Norine's Bridal

2010-09-21T09:15:00.006-04:00

I can't wait to post more after their wedding in October...

Kick Off!

2010-09-12T08:50:00.003-04:00

Oh Joy, Football Season is here again! For the first Sunday I've made Kick Off Cupcakes. How cute are these? It was Justin's idea to make it look like grass and I love how it gives them a textural quality. I've been humming the NFL theme song all week. Go Pats!

Bubbles & Toes

2010-09-02T12:17:00.007-04:00

...Fun side project, more to come...

St. Augustine

2010-08-20T09:42:00.003-04:00

We had a beautiful summer vacation in St. Augustine, Fl. with Mr. and Mrs. Nick Baldelli. We loaded up my Jeep with 4 bodies, 2 dogs, a cooler, 2 suitcases, and headed South. To our knowledge, this was Tanner's first beach experience. He was loving the sun and the waves. Marlaine took this photo for us and I just adore it! Mad photo skills girl...

Carole & Andrew, July 17, 2010

2010-08-13T11:26:00.005-04:00

These 2 married at the Farm in Candler NC. This venue is really beautiful and the horses are such a sweet presence. There was a little thunder through the ceremony, but no rain. I love all the dancing photos! Carole has a great smile, and I think it's there in almost every photo at the reception. Congratulations, and thank you so much for letting me be a part of your special day!

An ABC Rehearsal Dinner...

2010-07-30T17:16:00.006-04:00

Pizza, beer and Cornhole! What a cool and laid back rehearsal dinner, just like Carole and Andrew themselves. Check back, their wedding photos are coming soon...

Carole...Stunning...

2010-07-18T11:43:00.012-04:00

I don't think there's much more to say. Beautiful. The NC Arboretum was a perfect setting for her. And I'm IN LOVE with the downtown shots. I guess lastly, thank you Carole for being such an inspirational subject.

Molly & Jeff

2010-07-12T16:18:00.004-04:00

I photographed a beautiful wedding for HH Fine Arts, a.k.a. Honour Hiers in June. Kelly Giezentanner was part of the Team and I think we did a fantastic job. Take a peak at Honours blog to see our work. And read the sweet comment that Molly left...

My Girl is getting MARRIED!!!

2010-07-08T17:47:00.007-04:00

I am just too excited about Norine and Justin tying the Knot! Norine is one of my dearest and best friends, and I've known her since middle school. So many memories between us and now an event that will be the most memorable of them all. I am also so happy about photographing this beautiful and most special occasion...but that's not until October. So to get them started, here are the fun engagement photos I took of them. Justin was such a great sport, and Norine was adorable, as always. These are my favorites...

Fisher Stark

2010-06-28T13:23:00.007-04:00

I photographed my friend and favorite lawyer in Asheville, Perry Fisher. They've just recently moved their office to this beautiful building in downtown Asheville. Here are some of my favorites...

BBQ, Horseshoes & Fun!

2010-06-27T10:43:00.004-04:00

I LOVE my fisheye Lomo! This small film camera is perfect for candid, fun photos. Here's how we spent a Sunday afternoon with two of our favorite people in the world. I can almost smell the grill and taste the margaritas now...

Engagement Photos @ Beaver Lake...

2010-06-22T17:25:00.008-04:00

I met Carole and Andrew at Beaver Lake on Sunday. They were so fun to photograph and are such great spirits. I'm really looking forward to their wedding in July!

Breakfast of Champions

2010-06-12T10:06:00.003-04:00

Keeping in mind I'm going to have a very long work day today (a beautiful wedding in Lenoir), I cooked a large and tasty breakfast: scrambled eggs with cheese, and my boyfriends favorite, blueberry pancakes. I think this will hold me over, for a while...

Old Band Photos

2010-06-04T08:37:00.013-04:00

These are just a few favorite photos I've taken in the past of some really great bands. I love all these guys, The Trainwrecks, Pierce Edens, and the Oh So Sweet Lindsay Wojcik. All are taken at the Grey Eagle, and some from when they hosted the Fresh Air Benefit back in 2007.

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-05-31T19:43:00.005-04:00

Here's how my darling boyfriend spent his Memorial Day afternoon... Doesn't it look so relaxing?

Tanner the MODEL

2010-05-27T21:18:00.003-04:00

On a recent visit to the North Asheville Animal Hospital, they took Tanner's picture and posted it on their blog. Check out his mug, he is just too cute! And a shout out to Doctor Duncan and the wonderful staff that take care of our baby, you guys are amazing.

A Donation to the Animal Compassion Network

2010-04-11T14:07:00.006-04:00

I'm donating 5% of profits from every wedding package to the Animal Compassion Network. I adopted my dog Tanner from them and think they are an incredible animal welfare organization. Following a no-kill philosophy, they foster homeless dogs and cats until they find forever homes. I believe every pet deserves a loving home. My dog has brought so much love and light into my life, and it's organizations like this that gave me the chance to find him. To learn more about the ACN or if you're looking for a special furry friend, please visit their website. You can also help support them not only with a monetary donation, but also by volunteering at one of their adoption events or becoming a foster parent.

Sunny Saturdays...

2010-03-24T19:29:00.003-04:00

This was our beautiful Saturday afternoon, the backyard, a blanket, and our sweet doggie. It was the perfect Spring day!

WNC Magazine photo spot!

2010-03-20T11:14:00.005-04:00

The Winter Warmer Beer Festival got a spotlight in this months issue of WNC magazine and 2 of my photos were published as well, thanks WNC!

Yummy Coffee...

2010-03-12T11:37:00.003-05:00

My day doesn't begin until I have a cup (or 2)

The 2010 CAA Mens Swimming and Diving Champs...

2010-03-02T09:39:00.023-05:00

the UNC Wilmington Seahawks! My Brother Robert Anderson, aka Bud, swam incredibly last weekend. And what a way to bring a close to his senior year. He won Gold in both the 50 yard Freestyle and 100 yard Breaststroke. And the team won again for the 9th year in a row! After losing my voice almost completely and right before he swam the Breaststroke, my sympathy nerves were so intense I thought I was going to hurl. Congratulations Bud, this beaming sister is so PROUD!

Beautiful Scrapbooks...

2010-02-20T15:18:00.004-05:00

I've just discovered these scrapbooks, and I'm giving a 20 page one to each bride that signs with me before May 1st!

Beer Lovers Unite!

2010-01-26T14:38:00.012-05:00

This past Saturday marked the 2nd annual Winter Warmer Beer Festival. Mark and Trish Lyons, owners of the Brews Cruise, organized the event in 2009 and it has quickly become an Asheville favorite. I was so glad they asked me to photograph the event again, I have such a great time! All the local Asheville Breweries were there, French Broad, ABC, Wedge, etc., as well as many more. Woody Wood and Brushfire Stankgrass were also asked to return and provide the entertainment. And the Lobster Trap catered, serving mussels, New England clam chowder, and other seafood delights. Don't miss it next year!

Feliz Ano Nuevo de Puerto Rico!

2010-01-06T10:43:00.013-05:00

I couldn't think of a better way to ring in the New Year than hot, sunny Puerto Rico. My sweetie and I escaped the cold and relaxed in 85* weather. We explored Old San Juan, toured the Bacardi Rum Factory, enjoyed mojitos from the swimming pool bar, and got the FULL experience of the beautiful El Yunque Rainforest (I'm talking down pour). I was a little upset about El Yunque just because I couldn't bring my camera out in the rain, and so there are no photos. But we also met some amazing people and hung out with the locals. And we tried using as much spanish as we could. It was an incredible vacation...

Winter Wonderland

2010-01-05T18:58:00.009-05:00

The day before we left to celebrate the holidays the snow started falling. And it didn't stop. Well eventually it did, but it sure was a lot of snow...

Fusion Pilates...

2009-12-09T19:18:00.005-05:00

I photographed the Fusion Pilates studio last year. They needed to update the studio photos since they moved from California to Asheville. This was a lot of fun, and definitely more of a commercial shoot, which is different for me. I've had a few private lessons there, and was amazed by the way I felt afterwards. It involves low impact movements that require a lot of coordination, and a lot of stretching. And those machines are a thing of beauty, I highly recommend them. Check out their website, my photos are in the studio section...

http://www.fusionpilatesasheville.com/studio.php

let it Snow, let it Snow, let it Snow...

2009-12-06T17:25:00.004-05:00

Snow touched the ground for the first time in Asheville. A dusting, but snow none the less. I can't wait for a really good snowfall, one to get me out of work for at least a day...

Happy, Happy Holidays!!!

2009-12-03T20:12:00.011-05:00

I LOVE CHRISTMAS!!! And not because of the gifts. Christmas is like Thanksgiving, but with pretty, bright lights and trees and all the trimmings. I am extremely close with my family and I love the cozy warmth that comes with this time of year. It's also an excuse for me to show off my adorable pup in greeting cards. I can't help but exploit his cuteness every chance I get. Here is his high fashion photo shoot. He strikes many poses here, of course following the treats in my hand. This dog is so tolerant of my many charades. And so is my boyfriend Justin, he was a wonderful assistant. Thank you honey for all your help!

Shutter Booth Photos...

2009-11-19T19:26:00.014-05:00

I recently assisted Honour Mann, owner of HH fine arts photography at a gorgeous wedding in Charlotte. Their reception was held at the Vanlandingham Estate and Shutter Booth attended to spice up the party. Honour and I slipped into the booth to join in on all the fun. I think our photo strips came out so cute! See more of Clare and Jason's wedding photos at Honours blog, http://www.hhfinearts.blogspot.com/. And also check out Shutter Booth at http://www.shutterbooth.com/, the photos are such a fun addition to a wedding.

My Website Has Launched!!!!

2009-11-17T13:25:00.007-05:00

I am so excited!!! I finally went live yesterday after 3 months of planning and deciding on photographs. It can be so difficult when you have thousands to go through and choose from. But I love the finished product and I'm just so happy that it's done. I hope you enjoy it!!!

http://www.crystalandersonphoto.com/

Rachel & Bryan October 17, 2009...

2009-10-21T10:41:00.014-04:00

I had such a great time at this wedding! It was an uncommonly cold and sort of snowy October day at the Highland Lake Inn, and the ceremony was moved inside. Rachel was determined to have the October leaves as her background and braved the cold. Bryan changed into his kilt towards the end of the night, stepping up the party a notch. And we had a bagpipe tribute to the couple. There was also a Michael Jackson Thriller dance led by the bagpipe player that was so fun to watch. My assistant Norine was awesome and she got some amazing photos, thanks Norine! And best wishes to a very sweet couple!

Beth & James September 6, 2009...

2009-09-11T15:24:00.028-04:00

This was the perfect example of how designing your own wedding can be beautiful as well as personal, showing your own unique creativity. The ceremony was held at the gorgeous Botanical Gardens, but the real treat was the reception at their new home. Beth's theme was peacock feathers combined with a vintage style. The house and decorations were amazing. The front yard was lit up with lights and candles above an enchanted garden, complete with pumpkins. It was a photographers dream. And they even built their own photo wall for guests to enjoy. It too ran with the vintage theme, a wall covered in old wallpaper and framed photos. It was simply beautiful, incredible job Beth!

Caroline & TJ July 18, 2009...

2009-07-21T18:45:00.022-04:00

When I met Caroline at a coffee shop in Asheville to talk about her wedding I knew that it was going to be so intimate and sweet. And it was exactly that. She married TJ at The Farm in Candler. The barn has a polished rustic quality about it, that's only complimented by the horses that are roaming near by. Their daughter walked her down the aisle, and was all too eager to marry TJ herself, exclaiming "I Will!" during the ceremony (it was sooo cute). The setting was sunny and warm surrounded by those closest to the couple. It was such a pleasure to be a part of their special day.

On Broadway Wedding Feature....

2009-07-17T18:56:00.004-04:00

Shay Brown Events and Pallettes of Perfection have blogged my sweet May wedding with Amanda and Chris. Check it out...http://shaybrownevents.blogspot.com/2009/06/amanda-and-chris.html

A Summer Engagement Session...

2009-07-14T17:37:00.015-04:00

I met Rachel and Brian at the Botanical Gardens on a sort of rainy Sunday afternoon...They were so cute and Brian looked awesome in his kilt (at the wedding Rachel is letting him change into it after all the formal stuff). After a quick change, we headed downtown to an alley that was part of thier first date. I love the photo that looks like they're behind bars, it's too funny. Just want to say thanks to them, I had a lot of fun and I so look forward to thier wedding at Highland Lake. I know Rachel is going to look beautiful in her "Princess Mafia" dress (as she calls it).

Amanda & Chris May 24, 2009...

2009-06-11T14:02:00.021-04:00

Amanda & Chris tied the knot on a beautiful Sunday afternoon at On Broadway, downtown. Amanda was so sweet, tearing up as her mom walked her down the aisle. Thier son Dylan was the cutest ring bearer in his contrasting white tux. They had quite a dancing crowd that made for some really fun photos. I wish them all the happiness in thier journey together.

Tonya & Wes May 23, 2009...

2009-06-03T13:49:00.015-04:00

This was such a sweet and beautiful wedding...The church was in Tryon at St. John's Catholic and the reception was held at the Lake Lanier Tea House. Tonya wore an almost vintage style dress that was just stunning on her. She was so happy to be married to her Wes and said quote, "I've found the man of my dreams." It was a very special day and I was so honored to be a part of it.

Baby Peas!

2009-05-20T14:21:00.010-04:00

We have baby Peas!!! We also have spinach and lettuce. Baby vegetables are so adorable. It's very exciting since we stared these from seeds. I can take no credit for the garden though, I can, and have killed a cactus. This is all my boyfriends super green thumb.

A friend of ours gave us these Hierloom Tomatoes we should be planting very soon!!!

Jennifer & Josh May 2, 2009...

2009-05-04T18:08:00.018-04:00

The sky was overcast at the Lake Lure Inn this past Saturday, but the rain did not fall. Jennifer was beautiful and beaming, and Josh, cool and relaxed. The Gazebo was the perfect place for the ceremony, with the mountains and lake as their backdrop. The reception was held at the restaurant at the Inn. I left the party around 9:30, but I'm pretty sure they partied much much later...

Sweet T

2009-04-29T15:25:00.008-04:00

We took a walk down to the French Broad River and I decided to use my new camera lenses. And what a perfect subject...when he's out of breath and panting he looks like Jack Nicholson as "The Joker." My boyfriend thinks I'm a little silly always taking pictures of him, and I have to agree, but he's just so adorable! I love the shot of him running, it's such a rare event...

Amanda & Chris on the Parkway...

2009-04-29T11:35:00.012-04:00

This past Sunday was so bright and beautiful, and the perfect day to take advantage of the Blue Ridge Parkway. I followed Amanda & Chris to a few different spots, including one with a gorgeous view. They were so lovey and sweet and in the moment. I'm excited about thier wedding at Broadways in downtown Asheville, it has such a cool modern feel about it.

Our Four Legged Love...

2009-04-16T11:14:00.006-04:00

I took this photo of the sweetest and cutest pup that ever lived...Of course I am biased. He is just the biggest snuggle bug, and this is how he looks 95% of the time. This is our Butter Bean, Tan Tan, Mr. T, Sweet T, Bud Bud, a.k.a. Tanner. The light of my life, I just love him!

A rainy day in Charlotte...

2009-03-25T10:54:00.007-04:00

I met with my bride and groom, Jenn and Josh, in Charlotte NC for their engagement portraits. It was a very rainy weekend, and we had some fun with it. We started in the lobby of Bank of America and made the short walk to the Omni right across the road. I just want to say thanks to Jenn and Josh for playing in the rain with me...

Project of the day:

2009-02-13T15:34:00.006-05:00

A photo shoot with our friend Vijay, for his law firm's website. I think he looks dapper.

An Asheville Sunset...

2009-02-10T09:46:00.005-05:00

Even the Birds love to watch.

Presenting the Winter Warmer 2009...

2009-01-28T12:34:00.025-05:00

A festival of 16 plus breweries, barbeque, music from Brushfire and Woody Wood, and a lot of people on a mission...I was there to get it all on camera and participate myself...

Here is of course my favorite brewery...The French Broad, and our crazy crew...

More Fun & Festivities at the WW '09

Sweet Baby Lucy...

2009-01-08T14:11:00.011-05:00

I took the opportunity to visit some dear friends and thier daughter Lucy after Christmas. She is just too precious not to photograph. At a little over 2 years old now, she is growing way too fast.

My Favorite Wedding Photographer...

2009-01-07T13:07:00.001-05:00

Please go to http://www.kgphoto.net/ to see Kelly Giezentanner's beautiful photographs.

Great Wedding Moments...

2009-01-07T09:25:00.004-05:00