Join us in welcoming our new studio manager, Nicole

We are gearing up for our busiest month- 15 weddings!- and the (sniff, sniff) so long to our dear studio manager Megan as she heads to New York in a few weeks (we promise we won't be long-faced about it too long as we're so lucky that she'll be back next summer to photograph in Maine!). Fortunately for us (and all of you, too!), we are so happy to introduce you to Nicole, our new studio manager- and then some (specifically, her fancy formal title is director of operations). Nicole has been working with us since mid-August to help with this big transition, and starting this week, you will begin to hear Nicole's voice at the other end of the phone or replying to your emails. Nicole will also be wearing several other hats in addition to the day-to-day tasks around the office including development, marketing and social media. She will be here full-time during the week to assist you with anything you might need, so don't be shy in reaching out to say hello, and welcome! So, so happy you're here, Nicole!

 
Nicole, tell our blog readers a little about you!

Hello blog readers! I proudly claim my birth place and first seven years of my life in New Orleans where the summers are hot, Mardi Gras is one of life's must-do's and the beignets at Cafe Du Monde are delicious! That said, I'm also a through and through New Englander having spent most of my childhood growing up in Worcester, Massachusetts. I headed north to Saratoga Springs, New York, for four fabulous years at Skidmore College exploring the Adirondacks and experiencing the ultimate race track. I've also lived in Boston and Chicago but my true love is Portland, Maine, where I settled eight years ago.

Now on to the fun things about me! My five favorite things that I can't live without! My dog Pedroia, my passport, my niece and nephews, my KitchenAid mixer and my best friend. I live my life to the fullest and live by the saying that "everything happens for a reason" which keeps me positive and always looking ahead. My goals in life are to continuously seek happiness and keep it close, love my family unconditionally, pay it forward on a daily basis, never have regrets and have a fabulous job!

What were you doing before you started with emilie inc?

I've done a quite a few things since college including management consulting and working at a ski resort. The past seven years I worked in the experiential and event marketing world, launching new products and planning amazing events around the country. I've loved all of my jobs, the people I've met, the skills I've learned and the experiences that I've had. I'm very excited to be starting a new adventure with emilie inc.!

When did you know this was the right job for you?

The moment I read through the job description and viewed the emilie inc. website I knew this was the perfect place for me to work! That feeling was 100% confirmed after chatting with Emilie and J over a coffee at a local coffee shop where I proceeded to tell more about myself than I'd ever think to tell a potential employer! The comfort, huge smile on my face, positive vibe, and enthusiasm that came from our first meeting told me that this job was "the one."

What do you do outside of the 9-5?

I am a baker at heart. Old school desserts baked from scratch are my specialty with grandma's apple pie being my favorite and most everyone else's, too! I love trying new recipes (lemon curd cheesecake anyone?!) and finding willing guinea pigs to do my taste testing. I don't think I've ever been turned down!

What do you love most about Maine?

My first taste of Maine started with family camping trips on Cape Neddick when I was little. After a few college summers working at the Augusta Country Club as a swim instructor and a camp counselor in Bridgton, my love affair with Vacationland took root. When I moved to Portland 8 years ago I vowed to never leave the beautiful oceans, green forests, four seasons and wonderful friends I've made here. I can't imagine living anywhere else!

Favorite kind of cupcake?

Yellow cake with chocolate frosting. Old school! Add a little cream filling and it's golden!