Photographers rally to help brides after Raleigh wedding photography business suddenly closes

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Where are my pictures, and where’s my money? These are just some of the questions dozens of brides are asking after their wedding photographer, Holly Christina Photography, announced it has ceased operations.

Holly Christina Photography posted on social media that it is no longer in business, but many customers say they still haven’t received their wedding photos, refunds, or any direct communication from the company.

Bride-to-be Avary Flynn said panic set in the moment she learned her photographer was shutting down.

“We’re not going to have a photographer, this is like, so stressful,” Flynn said.

She signed a contract with Holly Christina Photography in September and paid a $1,900 deposit for her May 9 wedding. As months passed with no communication, she said red flags began to appear.

“I did think it was a little weird that we were just over three months out from the wedding and I hadn’t heard one peep,” Flynn said.

She’s not alone. More than 100 brides said they were affected by Holly Christina Photography. Troubleshooter Diane Wilson was first to investigate Holly Christina Photography. Earlier this month, during a Zoom interview, 50 brides and mothers of brides said they paid thousands of dollars to Holly Christina Photography, but can no longer get a response. Some brides said communication stopped entirely.

“Her phone was no longer working, so there was no way to get a hold of her,” said Destiny Mantz.

Other brides said missed meetings and unanswered messages left them panicked with their weddings just weeks away.

“They did not show up to the meeting, and they have not responded to two emails, a text, and an Instagram DM. My wedding is in 60 days,” said Alexis Sullivan.

Mothers of the brides are worried, too.

“I’ve been blocked. I can no longer text or call the number. And she’s not communicating with anybody through email,” said Dana Chavis. She did hear from the Raleigh-based company last week, and she said it did send the promised engagement photographs.

Wilson continues to hear from brides who have been affected by the closure of Holly Christina Photography.

Some of the brides who had a fall wedding photographed by Holly Christina Photography said they still don’t have their images and want to know when they will get what they paid for in full. Others are questioning why Holly Christina Photography took on new customers as recently as this month, just weeks before it shut down.

One bride paid $7,700 in full on Jan. 10. Her mother shared emails with the Troubleshooter, including a Dec. 29 email from Holly’s husband, Chris, confirming wedding date availability and promoting a year-end sale. Another email dated Jan.12 from Holly Christina Photography confirmed payment had been received, and everything was “confirmed.” Days later, the company announced it had ceased operations.

Many customers say repeated emails and attempts to contact the company have gone unanswered. Holly Christina Photography first posted on its Facebook page on Jan. 19, stating in part: “Over the past few weeks, our family has been navigating a serious and unexpected medical emergency. Holly has been hospitalized twice, which significantly disrupted communication and our ability to respond as promptly as we always strive to.” The statement went on to say, “…all scheduled weddings have continued to be covered.” Then on Jan. 25, Holly Christina Photography posted it had ceased operations. The statement said in part, “Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are no longer able to continue providing photography or videography services. No new bookings are being accepted, and all business operations are in the process of being formally closed.” The statement gave an email address for clients to contact them at, and the statement said, “Messages are being reviewed periodically. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult transition.”

On Tuesday, Holly Christina Photography posted on social media: “To affected clients: we are actively working to release photos and videos. Due to large file sizes, delivery is a staged process. We appreciate your patience.”

Some brides reported late Tuesday afternoon that they did get an email from Holly Christina Photography that stated in part, “Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are unable to fulfill existing contracts, and no services will be provided for future events. All business operations are in the process of being formally closed.” It went on to state, “We truly regret the impact this has on your plans and encourage you to make alternative arrangements as soon as possible.”

Photographers Step Up to Help

Amid the frustration, some local photographers are stepping in to help brides in need. One of those photographers is Avery Wooten of Avery Wooten Photography.

“I just believe you need to do good where you can,” Wooten.

Wooten said she typically donates one wedding a year, but after hearing about the Holly Christina Photography situation, she felt compelled to do more.

“You just can’t help but help,” she said.

One of the brides she’s now assisting, free of charge, is Skylar Rowland, whose story was featured in the Troubleshooter investigation. Rowland is getting married in September, and Wooten has agreed to shoot her wedding. Rowland only has to pay for lodging and a second photographer if it’s needed.

“So far, we have four weddings that are official where we’re helping them out,” Wooten said. “And we’ve gotten even more inquiries.”

Wilson has also heard from other photographers who would like to help affected brides.

What Brides Can Do Now

As for Flynn, she disputed the charges with her bank and has since found a new photographer offering her a discount and a free gallery. She’s relieved that she at least found someone to help her document her special day.

Experts recommend that affected clients:

Immediately file a dispute with their bank or credit card companyDocument all communication, contracts, and receipts

The North Carolina Attorney General’s Office confirmed that it is now investigating and wants to hear from customers who were affected by Holly Christina Photography. If you believe you were affected, you’re encouraged to file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office. You can do that here.