hotel collars email format

Here is how to format an email to work with hotels and hospitality companies as a creator! Make sure to have an up to date portfolio ready to show your work!

Sample Pitch Email

Below is real sample pitch email I sent last year that landed me a hosted stay:

Hi ABC HOTEL Team,
Popping into your inbox to introduce myself – I’m Emily Croslin (better known as @helloemilyerin), a St. Petersburg, Florida-based lifestyle and fashion influencer and blogger. As I mentioned, I am located in St. Pete and I love spending time at our local beaches! In fact, one of my favorite things to do is make a day trip down to AMI to enjoy the sugary white sand down there. I love highlighting the Florida lifestyle and encouraging others to visit the area and see all that we have to offer! Recently, I stumbled upon your property and it’s safe to say, I’m OBSESSED! I love the luxurious resort feel and would love the chance to share more about your property with my Florida-based audience.
Would you be open to discussing a collaboration between ABC HOTEL and Hello Emily Erin? I would love to feature your resort on my Instagram account and blog and promote the idea of social-distanced “staycation.” With this, I can highlight the beautiful pool area, a social-distanced brunch or cocktails outdoors, stylish rooms, and any policies your team has implemented since the pandemic to ensure safety for guests. In exchange for a two-night stay at your hotel, I can provide an Instagram post (with photos you can use on your pages!), stories, and a dedicated blog post.  In the blog post, I will provide a dedicated write up for your property, including photos and links to booking websites and optimized search terms. For a sample of this type of content, I recently shared a dedicated write-up on my blog for a Marriott Bonvoy property, The Sarasota Modern. I also shared this post on Pinterest on my account with 60,000 monthly views.
For a little more information about my brand, I’d be happy to share my media kit for a deeper dive into my audience, past branded collaborations, and opportunities available. Additionally, you can view my portfolio and website here, which showcases some of my past branded work. You can view sample hotel stay posts from my stay at the Sarasota Modern here, here, here, and here.

For added context, this week on Instagram (the past 7 days) I’ve received:

• 54,319 impressions

• 12,920 reach

• 2,230 actions taken on my account

• Engagement rate: 4.39%

My audience breakdown is as follows:

• 18,000 followers

• 70% women

• 22% in 18-24 range

• 45% in 25-34 range

Please let me know if you have any questions. I hope to partner up soon!

8 tips for SEO

The Top 8 Factors

These are the top 8 SEO ranking factors. There are 200+ other factors that Google takes into account, but these are the ones that you should focus on first:

• Quality Content: The most important SEO factor. Google wants to show users high-quality, informative, and relevant content.

• Backlinks: Links from other websites to your website. They act like votes of confidence. The more high-quality backlinks you have, the higher your website will rank.

• Technical SEO: The technical aspects of your website, such as its website speed, mobile-friendliness, and crawlability. Make sure your website is technically sound so that search engines can easily index and understand your content.

• Keyword Optimization: The process of using relevant keywords throughout your website’s content. This helps search engines understand what your website is about.

• User Experience (UX): A measure of how easy and enjoyable it is for users to use your website. Google wants to show users websites that provide a good UX.

• Schema Markup: A type of structured data that you can add to your website to help search engines better understand your content.

• Social Signals: The likes, shares, and other social interactions that your website’s content receives. Make sure your website is shareable and encourages social interaction.

• Brand Signals: The overall perception of your brand online. Make sure your brand is well-known and respected.

Rain Doesn't Bother Us Anyway

How to Deal with RAIN on your wedding day!

Montana How to Prepare for Rain on Your Wedding Day in Montana: A Photographer’s Perspective

Montana is one of the most breathtaking places on earth, with its towering mountains, wide-open prairies, and rugged beauty. From the sweeping landscapes of Glacier National Park to the charming charm of local barns, it's easy to see why so many couples choose the Big Sky state for their wedding day. But with such unpredictable weather, there’s always the possibility of rain. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen couples navigate the challenges that come with rain on their special day—and some handle it with grace and others… well, not so much. If you’re planning a wedding in Montana, here’s how you can prepare mentally and physically for rain, so your big day goes off without a hitch.

1. Embrace the Possibility of Rain

The first thing I always tell couples is this: Don’t get married to the idea that the weather will be perfect. Montana’s weather can be as wild and unpredictable as the state itself, especially in the spring and fall. While I’m sure you’re dreaming of a sun-drenched ceremony with mountains as your backdrop, the reality is that rain could come at any moment. Embrace it as part of the experience. The truth is, some of the most magical wedding photos I’ve taken have been in the rain. There’s a sense of intimacy and serenity that comes when you’re huddled together, sheltered from the elements, and taking those moments in stride. Trust me, rain can be just as romantic as a sunny day.

2. Have a Backup Plan (and a Great Venue)

As a photographer, I love couples who are prepared for anything, especially when it comes to weather. It’s important to have a solid backup plan in case rain makes your outdoor ceremony or reception impossible. Montana has so many amazing venues, from rustic barns to chic indoor spaces with mountain views, that you don’t need to worry about sacrificing beauty if the rain rolls in. Make sure your venue offers an indoor option (with a view, if possible) or has a covered outdoor space in case of downpours. Be ready to pivot on your plans—whether it’s moving the ceremony inside or using a tent for the reception. This flexibility will take a lot of the stress off of you, and it will give you the peace of mind to fully enjoy your day no matter the weather.

3. Rain Gear: Prepare Physically

If you're determined to have a portion of your day outdoors, make sure you and your bridal party are physically prepared for rain. Waterproof shoes, umbrellas, and even stylish ponchos can save you from ruining your wedding attire. If you’re walking through a field or on a trail for photos, make sure to bring shoes that can handle wet or muddy conditions. I’ve seen more than one bride stress about her shoes sinking into the mud or her dress dragging through puddles—but a little preparation goes a long way. Some of the most beautiful wedding photos I’ve captured have been of couples embracing the rain—dancing in the downpour, running across fields with their umbrellas, or snuggling under a blanket as the storm passes.

Also, don’t forget about your hair and makeup! Have a trusted touch-up artist on hand to help with any adjustments if the rain decides to show up uninvited. Keeping some extra hairspray or setting powder in your bridal kit is always a good idea when you’re facing unpredictable weather.

4. Mentally Prepare for the Unexpected

Wedding days are emotional, and the added stress of rain can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you’ve always envisioned a sunny, outdoor celebration, it can be hard to accept that things might not go as planned. Here’s the thing, though: It’s your day. The rain will pass, and what matters is that you’re marrying the love of your life. Whether you’re under an umbrella or surrounded by the mist of the mountains, that’s what makes your day unique.

In my experience, couples who mentally prepare for rain are often the ones who shine brightest on their wedding day. They don’t let the weather dictate their joy or their attitude. Instead, they embrace the unexpected and find beauty in every moment, rain or shine. I’ve witnessed couples laugh together as the rain starts to fall, kiss in the middle of a thunderstorm, and even dance on wet grass, all while their love for each other takes center stage.

5. Focus on the Moments, Not the Weather

Finally, as a wedding photographer, one of the most important things I encourage couples to do is focus on the moments that matter—not the weather. Whether it’s your first look, a shared laugh with your best friends, or a quiet moment with your partner before the ceremony, these are the memories you’ll hold on to. The rain might create a temporary inconvenience, but it will also give you one-of-a-kind, stunning photos that will make your wedding day even more memorable.

When you look back at your wedding photos years from now, you won’t remember if it rained. You’ll remember the way your partner looked at you, the way the mountains stood tall in the background, the way the world felt intimate and serene as the rain fell around you.

The Bottom Line: Rain Doesn't Ruin Weddings—It Enhances Them

As a Montana wedding photographer, I can confidently say that rain is not the enemy of a beautiful wedding day—it’s an unexpected guest that can bring a unique charm to your celebration. With a little preparation, the right mindset, and a willingness to adapt, you’ll create moments that will last a lifetime. So don’t worry about the rain. Instead, focus on your partner, the love surrounding you, and the fact that this is the day you’ve been waiting for.

And when it does rain, let it wash over you and remind you that love, just like the weather, is unpredictable—but always beautiful.

Posing Guide

HOW TO POSE: models & clients

So how do you cope in a situation like that?

You'll most likely be feeling:

- anxious

- stressed

- unsure of what to do or say

- desperate to seem professional and like you know what you're doing.

How do I know you'll be feeling like that? Because that's how I felt for years! (And sometimes still do). 

So here are a few quick tips on posing inexperienced models. 

1. Talk to them during hair and make up:

To often photographers will set up their make up artist and hair dresser, and disappear to fiddle with lights or cameras. Don't be that person! Of course, do what you need to do, but definitely make sure that you take the time to go and chat with your model. Ask them questions about themselves (ie. how long have they been modelling? How did they get scouted? Do they enjoy modelling?). 

By asking questions, you break the ice, and make your model feel comfortable around you. You want them to feel like they can trust you, and be vulnerable around you. 

2. Ask them how they're feeling - often

It's easy to start shooting, and then never ever ask your model how they're feeling. I now make a point of frequently checking in. It's little things like saying: "How are you doing? Do you need a break? Can I get you a glass of water or anything?" Often models are young, and might feel pressure to not say something if it's bothering them. 

Your model is arguably the most important person on your shoot, so you want them to look and feel their best, right?! 

3. Do they want a closed set? 

If they're inexperienced, they'll probably feel shy. Not always, mind you, but from my experience if they're just starting out, the last thing that they'll want is 10 people staring at them while they pose. So be gentle and kind - ask them if they'd prefer a closed set! Would they feel more confident if it was just you and her/him? If so, kindly ask the rest of your team to pop into another room. 

You'll find that as the shoot goes on, and as she/he gains in confidence, they'll be happier for the rest of the team to come back in. 

4. Play music

A really quick way to make a model feel comfortable, and make posing easier, is to play music that they like. I always make a point of letting the model pick her music. If you put on what you like, she/he may hate it! And what will that do? Probably not help them move. So ask them what music they like, and play that. 

5. Give lots of direction

I know that this can be the hardest thing when you're just starting out, or you feel pressure with an inexperienced  model, but trust me, talking to your model and telling her/him what you want them to do is going to make the WORLD of difference. If you simply say "GO!" and then hide behind your camera throughout the whole shoot, what you'll find is your model will stay in one pose throughout most of the shoot. You'll get the same shot over and over, and end up feeling frustrated that you didn't get the shot you wanted.

Don't expect your model to know what to do, or to move easily. It takes a lot of experience for a model to know what she's doing, so help her out and give her direction. 

6. Have a posing guide nearby

Obviously, to give direction you need to know what to say! This is what stumps a lot of photographers, me included. Our minds go blank! We can't think of a pose we want them to do.

There is an easy solution to this! Have a posing guide nearby at all times. 

I NEVER go onto a shoot without some kind of pose inspiration. Some photographers might feel like it's "cheating" to look at other poses and ask your model to do that, but I promise you that it's not. 

For one, being able to show your model a photograph of what pose you'd like them to do make its SO much easier for them to understand what you want. There is nothing worse than trying to explain what you want someone to do with their body. It's hard work! So help you and your model out by just showing them a photo. 

Another big tip is to ask your team! Don't be shy about asking them what ideas they have. I do this all the time, and sometimes my team come up with the best poses. 

7. Ask them to move a lot  

One of big problem a lot of photographers encounter is that their model will find one pose, and hold it for 10 frames. You then go back over your images and realise that you've taken the same image 100000x. There's a simple solution to this - ask them to move a lot! 

I explain this simply and say: "Every time you hear the click of my camera, just move ever so slightly. Even if it's just the tilt of a head, or the shift of your weight to the other side of your model, every movement, no matter how small, makes for a different image."

8. Slow down. Think. 

The biggest tip is this: slow dooooown. When we're stressed, or feeling intimidated, the tendency is to rush. We want to rush through that stress and get it over and done with. I promise that if you slow down, and take your time with your shots, to get the pose exactly right and how you want it, you'll get amazing images, no matter how experienced your model is, or isn't!  

Tips for Getting Married in Whitefish Montana

Introduction

Nestled in the picturesque Flathead Valley of Montana, Whitefish is a dreamy destination for couples seeking a rustic and romantic wedding experience. With its stunning natural landscapes, charming small-town atmosphere, and a plethora of activities for guests to enjoy, it's no wonder why many choose to get married in this enchanting mountain town. If you're considering Whitefish as your wedding destination, we have compiled a list of tips to help you plan the perfect day.

1. Choose the Right Season

Whitefish experiences the beauty of all four seasons, each with its own unique charm. Summer and early fall are the most popular times for weddings, as you can take advantage of the pleasant weather and lush landscapes. If you prefer a winter wonderland, consider a snowy ceremony in this cozy alpine town.

1. Scenic Venues

Whitefish offers a wide range of stunning venues to choose from, whether you prefer a rustic barn, an elegant lodge, or an outdoor ceremony with the mountains as your backdrop. The Whitefish Lake Golf Club and Grouse Mountain Lodge are just a couple of options that offer fantastic settings for your special day.

1. Local Vendors

Supporting local vendors not only enhances your wedding experience but also adds a personalized touch to your event. Seek out local florists, photographers, caterers, and musicians to make your wedding uniquely Whitefish. The community here is known for its hospitality, and local businesses take pride in delivering exceptional service.

1. Accommodations

Consider the convenience and comfort of your guests by booking accommodations near the wedding venue. Whitefish has a variety of lodging options, including cabins, cozy mountain lodges, and hotels. Whitefish Mountain Resort provides a memorable mountaintop experience for your wedding and lodging needs.

1. Marriage License

To legally get married in Montana, you'll need to obtain a marriage license from the Flathead County Clerk and Recorder's Office. Make sure to check the specific requirements and timelines for obtaining your license, and plan ahead to avoid any last-minute stress.

1. Embrace the Outdoors

Take advantage of Whitefish's stunning natural beauty by incorporating the outdoors into your wedding festivities. Arrange a pre-wedding hike, organize a lakeside rehearsal dinner, or host a post-wedding brunch at a scenic spot in the Flathead Valley.

1. Adventure Activities

For an unforgettable wedding experience, plan some adventure activities for you and your guests. Whitefish is renowned for its outdoor pursuits, including hiking, mountain biking, and water sports on Whitefish Lake. These activities can be great additions to your wedding weekend.

1. Plan for the Unexpected

Montana's weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Consider renting tents or choosing venues with indoor options to ensure your special day goes smoothly, regardless of the weather.

1. Local Flavors

Treat your guests to a taste of Montana with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Whether it's bison, wild game, or huckleberries, incorporating regional flavors into your wedding cuisine can be a memorable touch.

1. Capture the Memories

Don't forget to hire a talented photographer and videographer to capture the magic of your Whitefish wedding. The stunning scenery and the joy of your celebration deserve to be remembered for years to come.

Conclusion

Getting married in Whitefish, Montana, promises a wedding experience like no other. With its breathtaking landscapes, friendly community, and an array of activities, it's an ideal destination for couples who desire a memorable, rustic, and romantic celebration. By following these tips, you can ensure your wedding day in Whitefish is everything you've dreamed of, and more. Cheers to a lifetime of love and unforgettable memories in this Montana gem!

Tips on Eloping in Glacier National Park

"Eloping in Glacier National Park: A Natural Love Story"

Introduction: Eloping has become an increasingly popular choice for couples seeking a more intimate and authentic way to celebrate their love. And what better backdrop for such a romantic adventure than Glacier National Park? With its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and breathtaking vistas, this natural wonderland is the perfect place to say "I do" surrounded by the beauty of the great outdoors. In this guide, we'll take you through the steps to plan your dream elopement in Glacier National Park.

1. Choosing the Right Time and Season: Glacier National Park offers incredible landscapes throughout the year, but it's essential to consider the season for your elopement. Summer offers warm weather and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall colors. If you're looking for a snowy wonderland, consider a winter elopement. Research the weather, trail conditions, and park regulations to make an informed decision.

2. Permits and Regulations: To ensure your elopement is legal and respectful of the environment, obtain the necessary permits and familiarize yourself with the park's regulations. There may be specific rules regarding the number of guests, the location of the ceremony, and other factors. Be sure to follow these guidelines to protect this pristine wilderness.

3. Find the Perfect Location: Glacier National Park is vast, and there are many stunning locations for your elopement. Some popular spots include Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, and Many Glacier. Research and visit these areas to determine which one speaks to your heart the most. Each location offers a unique backdrop for your special day.

4. Hire a Photographer: Capture the magic of your elopement with a professional photographer who knows the park inside and out. They can help you select the best locations for photos and ensure you have lasting memories of your day. Glacier National Park provides a stunning natural canvas, and a skilled photographer can help you make the most of it.

5. Plan the Details: Though eloping is often more relaxed than a traditional wedding, you'll still want to plan the details. Consider your attire, flowers, and any special touches that will make the day uniquely yours. A small picnic, champagne toast, or live music can add a personal touch to your elopement.

6. Logistics and Accommodations: Don't forget to plan your transportation and accommodations. Whether you're staying in a nearby lodge, camping, or choosing a rustic cabin, ensure you have everything you need to make your stay comfortable.

7. Share the Experience: While eloping is an intimate affair, you may want to share your special day with loved ones. Consider live streaming the ceremony or recording a video to show to family and friends later.

8. Leave No Trace: Finally, remember the Leave No Trace principles. Respect the park and its ecosystems, and leave it just as beautiful as you found it. Dispose of trash properly, stick to designated paths, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Eloping in Glacier National Park is a dream come true for nature-loving couples. With its majestic landscapes and awe-inspiring beauty, it's a place where your love story can truly unfold against the backdrop of nature's finest artistry. Follow these steps to plan your perfect elopement, and let Glacier National Park provide the enchanting setting for the start of your new life together.

Beauty Branding with Limelife by Alcone

In a world where beauty and skincare reign supreme, LimeLife by Alcone has carved a niche for itself as a leading brand dedicated to providing top-quality products that help individuals look and feel their best. As a passionate content creator, I have had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with LimeLife, capturing the essence of their products and spreading the word to the world. In this blog post, I want to share my journey and experiences as a UGC (User-Generated Content) creator for this remarkable brand.

Chapter 1: The Introduction

It all began with a simple message in my Instagram DMs from LimeLife's marketing team. They had come across my content and were interested in having me create content for their brand. I couldn't believe it! LimeLife by Alcone had noticed my work, and they wanted to collaborate with me.

I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. I knew this was a significant opportunity to work with a renowned beauty brand, and I didn't want to let them down. So, I eagerly accepted the offer.

Chapter 2: The Learning Curve

Creating content for LimeLife has been an incredible learning experience. While I had already been passionate about skincare and beauty, this journey allowed me to delve even deeper into the intricacies of the industry. I was given access to LimeLife's extensive range of products, and the team provided valuable insights and guidance to help me understand their brand ethos and the unique qualities of their products.

One of the key things I learned was the importance of understanding different skin types and the specific needs of each individual. This knowledge became crucial as I wanted to create content that resonated with a diverse audience.

Chapter 3: Photo Magic

As a content creator, I primarily work with visuals. LimeLife's products were not only aesthetically pleasing but also effective. This made my job more enjoyable as I could capture their essence through stunning photographs. I found that great lighting, composition, and creative product placement could make a significant difference in how the audience perceived the products.

LimeLife's product packaging was both elegant and practical, making them photogenic. From skincare to makeup, I had the opportunity to capture a wide range of their products in a way that highlighted their unique features and benefits.

Chapter 4: The Power of Video

Video content is king in today's digital landscape. I was excited to create video content that showcased LimeLife's products in action. Whether it was a step-by-step makeup tutorial or a skincare routine, I found that video content allowed me to engage with my audience more personally and demonstrate how LimeLife's products could be integrated into daily routines.

Working with LimeLife's products, I noticed how they were loved by beauty enthusiasts worldwide. The positive feedback from my audience encouraged me to keep creating video content that not only promoted the brand but also helped individuals achieve their beauty and skincare goals.

Chapter 5: Building a Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been building a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for beauty and skincare. The feedback, questions, and interactions with my followers and LimeLife enthusiasts have been incredibly fulfilling.

LimeLife by Alcone has been incredibly supportive in connecting me with other content creators, and we often collaborate on projects. This sense of community and shared enthusiasm has been one of the most heartwarming aspects of my work with LimeLife.

Conclusion:

My journey as a UGC and content creator for LimeLife by Alcone has been an incredible adventure. It's not just about creating beautiful photos and videos; it's about sharing a brand that genuinely cares about its customers and the products it creates. LimeLife has provided me with the opportunity to combine my passion for beauty and skincare with my love for content creation. As I continue on this path, I am excited to see how this collaboration evolves and how I can inspire and educate others about LimeLife's exceptional products. If you're a beauty enthusiast or aspiring content creator, take a chance, follow your passion, and you may just find yourself on a journey as rewarding as mine.