4 hours ago
6
The North Carolina Attorney General has announced he is suing a wedding photography business that allegedly took money from hundreds of couples without providing a service.
PetaPixel previously reported how over 50 brides say they paid thousands of dollars to Holly Christina Photography. Since then, North Carolina’s Department of Justice says it’s received 166 complaints from unhappy customers who collectively say they’ve lost over $750,000.
“This photographer left engaged couples and newlyweds stranded without a wedding photographer, without refunds, and without memories from one of the most important days of their lives,” Attorney General Jeff Jackson tells ABC 11.
“Even before they shut down, they were deceiving customers to maximize their own profit. We’re taking them to court to get justice for these brides and grooms.”
One bride, Destiny Mantz, tells ABC 11 that Holly Christina shut off her phone, while another bride, Alexis Sullivan, says Christina didn’t show up to scheduled meetings and didn’t respond to emails.
Last month, the Holly Christina Facebook page announced that the business is ceasing operations due to unforeseen circumstances.
“We are no longer able to continue providing photography or videography services,” the post dated January 25 reads. “No new bookings are being accepted, and all business operations are in the process of being formally closed.”
FacebookAccording to ABC 11, at least three brides received their RAW photos, while others were able to get their money back by disputing the payment with their credit card companies. Other couples say they haven’t received photos or their money back.
The complaint filed with the North Carolina Department of Justice states that at least 92 customers requested refunds on their deposit payment and didn’t receive them. 36 clients received a sneak peek of their photos but were never sent the full gallery they paid for, including videos. 35 clients received the RAW photos and videos that weren’t edited, despite paying for that service.
The court documents also allege that Holly Christina Photography double-booked and even triple-booked weddings on at least 60 dates.
The documents also allege that the business used backup photographers without prior approval of the client and placed undue pressure on clients to book services. This included “Black Friday Sales tactics” in which the photographer used a high-pressure, time-limited “sale” offers to push couples into paying large sums upfront. Couples say they were told spots were almost gone, paid in full, and later struggled to get any communication from her.
Attorney General Jackson tells ABC 11 that his office also reached out to Holly Christina Photography “several times” but has received very little communication back.
“Now that we’re taking them from court, I expect that to change,” adds Jackson.
Image credits: Header photo licensed via Depositphotos.
English (US) ·