So yesterday our photographer emails me and says she has a family emergency and has to move out of state, she is cancelling all up and coming gigs. This super sucks for her but also sad for us. She sent back our deposit.
Our whole wedding budget is $5k and it took me 4+ months to find someone who could remotely work within our budget. We have less than a month to go now. "Budget" priced photographers here seem to charge $2k...average ones closer to $3k.
Early in our planning I had "booked" 2 different acquaintances both of whom bailed, so I really don't know who to ask. I'm not really tied to photos. My fiance thought originally not to have a photographer just get a friend but it became apparent that he really wanted a few good shots, and in general I know he appreciates nice photography. Once we actually found someone who would work with us I surprised myself by feeling relieved and happy to have it. I am doing everything else for the wedding...cooking...made wine...DIY decor...arranging the flowers...getting my band to play and overall just planning everything. It just seemed nice to have. I honestly don't know I have any more energy to look again for someone and I'm in the middle of high work season for both of my careers right up to the wedding.
Has anyone gone without a photographer and any tips?