The past few months have been tumultuous at best for most of us, and like most others, I find myself compelled to do something instead of simply saying something. I’ve learned that the best thing we can possibly do to fight negativity is to breathe it’s opposite – positivity – into existence as often and vigorously as we can muster.

Last year, my good friend and wealth of inspiration of a human and creative Chris Martin launched #giveaday. He wanted to “take a more active approach to living life with intention, with purpose, and to make a difference in other people’s lives.” Christopher’s reasons for founding Give-A- Day align with my core values and the reason I became a photographer in the first place. On top of that, his generosity filled my heart in the most profound way and this year, I asked if I could join him. After all, every wedding needs a photographer, too.

Which brings me to the exciting and wonderful and crazy kick ass news:

Christopher and I are giving away a wedding film + photography package (I know!! Right!?!?!) We will meet with you, talk about the day, help with the schedule, shoot the day of events, edit it into a beautiful, artistic story, and deliver it to you at no charge. Of course, there’s a catch (but don’t worry, it’s a good one.)

Each of us is donating a day of our time, and we ask that the winning couple do the same. Hence the name “Give a Day.”

Here are all of the juicy details and how you can enter to win (it’s easy, we promise):

1.Follow both of us on Facebook and Instagram. Athena: Facebook. Instagram. Christopher: Facebook. Instagram

2. Look through our websites and, sometime (any time) in the next two weeks post your favorite photo of Athena’s and favorite film of Sky Focus‘ on Facebook or Instagram (separate App needed to post films to instagram ex: Repost) with a reason/explanation as to why you like it (or love it!), and include #athenapelton #skyfocus and #giveaday2017. Please tag us so we can see.

3. Submit an inquiry through the contact form on either one of our websites letting us know when you’re getting married, and where, and fill us in on your story. Please also include what charity you are planning to donate your time to and why.

4. Most importantly: If selected on March 7 th (two weeks from today!), you must be willing to dedicate a #giveaday (a whole day) to volunteering for the charity of your choice or equivalent to a full day (8 hours) for both of you (or combined total of 16 hours).

All entries will be put into a drawing and the winner will be randomly selected. That’s it! We will select a winner on March 7 th .

Important Tidbit: The winner must complete their day of charitable time prior to the big day. You need not be local to Minneapolis. We are accepting entries from all over the country (or the world!) and will only require travel costs to be covered by the winning couple.

Not sure how or where to start giving back? Here are a few charities at the top of our list in case you need some ideas. Of course, we love it if you choose something close to your own heart and passion.

The ARC | Arthritis Foundation | Animal Humane Society | Bridging, Inc | Habitat for Humanity