Check Out Philip C’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Philip C.

Hi Philip, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
On a hot summer day in 2023, we (Philip and Heather-a.k.a. Pheather; owners of Applehead Photography and Design) were lamenting about a recent wedding vendor event we photographed in Atlanta. It was meant to be a networking opportunity to build connections between wedding professionals. However, it wasn’t long after our photos were published that zero feedback hit our inbox and we became ghosts to those “professionals” that were there. Of course we felt used as we’d spent time photographing and editing photos to represent something no one cared that we captured in the first place. It made us realize once again that we are legit industry outsiders and just don’t seem to fit within the traditionally glowing white wedding bubble. An idea went off like a rocket in my brain! Why not create a platform for engaged couples who don’t fit the norm to meet with wedding professionals who don’t either? Thus, Uncon Bridal Con was born. Uncon continues as an annual bridal show, but as has also evolved into a magazine. 2026 marks our third Uncon Bridal Con event!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Usually, most roads are rocky until you make the effort to clear the path. Uncon Bridal Con is no different and has always been an organic movement despite any hurdles. Most of our challenges come from organizing professionals who desire to collaborate at our shows each year. The purpose of our show is to exhibit the unconventional creativity of our vendors where hopefully we’re all gaining clients for future weddings and events. Our ultimate goal is pair unconventional professionals with unconventional couples every year we’re able to host our show. Although we work/play ITP of ATL, another challenge is our Uncon location. Some don’t like the drive outside the city, while others view it has a night to get away. With many of our professionals coming from Atlanta we hope more of our guests will follow-suit and join us for next year’s Uncon on February 28, 2026.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We’re full-time wedding photographers known as Applehead Photography & Design. Our photography is known for dramatic, timeless, and Chiaroscuro-styled photos. Uncon Bridal Con is our “brain-child” initiative to create a platform showcasing unconventional creatives for couples’ weddings and/or events. Overall, we’re set apart by our out-of-the-box way of approaching each frame of life.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Uncon Bridal Con has opened up a new world of networking. Uncon is a social platform where we place an enormous emphasis on collaboration. Inspirational mentors continue to present themselves as we build our list of Uncon sponsors. We enjoy promoting other unconventional professionals who desire the same for us. At the end of the day, the Uncon show becomes a huge celebration of so many creatives within their own field of expertise.

Pricing:

• Free to engaged couples
• Vendor registration fee (check unconbridalcon.net for details)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.unconbridalcon.net/
• Instagram: @unconbridalcon

Image Credits
Applehead Photography & Design