Your Questions, Answered

Photography

  • My photography sessions typically range between $100–$400, depending on the length of time, number of images, and type of session. I offer everything from family photography and couple sessions to maternity, newborn, and branding photography.

    Wedding photography begins at $1,500 and goes up to $4,000, depending on coverage, location, and any extras you’d like. Whether you’re planning a wedding Alabama, a destination elopement, or a full-day celebration, I create a plan that fits your vision.

    ✨Sometimes, sessions don’t cost dollars at all. I happily trade for goods or services if it’s the right fit. If you have a skill, service, or goods that feel like a good exchange, I’m open to bartering.

  • Absolutely. I believe professional photography should be accessible. I offer flexible payment plans and ways for you to earn discounts for weddings and portrait sessions so you can spread out your investment and have a payment schedule that works for you.  

    Please note that no photographs will be taken or released until the payment has been completed in full.

  • You and your story are unique! I don’t believe they should be boxed into one-size-fits-all pricing or a cookie-cutter package. We’ll chat about the type of experience you’re dreaming of, how many photos you want, and what budget you’re working with. From there, I custom build each session for what fits your needs.

  • Yes. We are a licensed business in Alabama, although the state has no special requirements for photography companies.

  • Turnaround depends on the type of session and how many galleries are ahead of you in my lineup. They can take anywhere from 1–6 weeks. Most galleries are delivered quickly and because of that, I usually don’t send previews. You’ll receive the full gallery before you know it.

  • Yes! Travel within 45 miles of Talladega, Alabama is included in every session. Beyond that, a travel fee applies. I also travel worldwide for destination weddings, elopements, and portrait sessions. If your story takes us across the globe, I’ll meet you there.

  • Yes. Once I deliver your gallery, the photos are yours to keep. You’ll receive high-resolution digital images with full printing rights. You don’t have to purchase additional prints (though I do offer professional print options if you’d like heirloom-quality albums or wall art).

    You are welcome to share your images! But Please, Do NOT submit, use filters on, or re-edit any of the images!

    Kindly tag The Sol Creative Co. in any images you share on social media.

  • For most sessions, it’s just me. However, for weddings or larger events, a second shooter can be hired for additional coverage. They are perfect for capturing multiple angles and moments.

  • Your session should feel like you. While I recommend steering clear of neon colors, loud graphics, or bold prints that pull focus from your face, I’ll never put you in a box. If needed, I can provide you with a Style Guide that has tips on what will photograph beautifully for your session, and for clients who want more direction, I can create a Custom Vision Board tailored to your story. The goal: timeless photos that feel authentic, not staged.

  • I always recommend booking early. Especially if you’re planning for a specific season, milestone, or weekend. My calendar fills quickly, and reserving ahead ensures you get your dream date. That said, I occasionally have last-minute openings. If spontaneity is your thing, reach out!! I might have the perfect slot waiting.

  • This depends on the session we design together. During our consultation, we’ll decide how many images you’d like. You’ll always receive that number, plus all the beautiful, unplanned gems that show up naturally along the way. My promise: you’ll never feel like I held back on delivering the moments that matter.

  • Your finished images will be delivered via an online gallery link that will be available for six months so you can download them at your convenience. I also keep an archive for extra peace of mind. Want something more tangible? You can add on a USB with your full collection which is perfect for safekeeping and sharing.

  • Yes. Every session includes a simple contract that outlines expectations, protects your investment, and allows us both to feel clear and cared for.

  • Yes! Family photography sessions and pet-friendly shoots are some of my favorites. Just one request: please make sure extra guests aren’t taking photos over my shoulder so we can keep the energy focused on your story.

  • Both. I use a three-prong approach: gentle posing so you feel confident, guided interaction so you look natural, and candid captures that honor the real, unscripted magic of the moment. This blend ensures your photos feel both artful and true to life.

  • Weather can be part of the story and sometimes the most magical photos are born in the rain. If you’re up for it, we can embrace the elements. If not, no worries: I offer a simple reschedule option and a clear cancellation policy. Your session should feel stress-free, not weather-dependent.

  • You may cancel your session at any time prior to the scheduled date; however, please note that the deposit paid is non-refundable. This policy ensures that I can manage scheduling effectively and compensate for any administrative costs incurred.

    If you need to reschedule your session, please provide a minimum or 7 days notice. In such cases, your retainer will be transferred to the rescheduled session. The new session date must fall within the same calendar year. Should the rescheduling request be made within 7 days of the original session date, a new retainer will be required.

    Your understanding and cooperation with these policies is appreciated.

  • I’d love to hear from you. Every session I photograph is unique. If your question isn’t answered here, reach out through my contact page. Whether you’re looking for a wedding photographer, an engagement session, branding session, or family photos, I’d love to create something meaningful for you and I’m happy to walk you through it.

Estate Sales & Home Organization

  • Running an estate sale can easily become a full-time job. For most families it is hard to juggle and find the necessary time to devote to the project. Pricing, organizing, marketing, research, set-up, staffing, negotiating, and cleanup can be overwhelming. Our team handles all aspects, turning months of stress into a manageable 2-4 week process. We know how to price items, attract buyers, and manage sales efficiently. By hiring The Sol Creative Co. you get to save your time, energy, and sanity and focus on life outside the sale. We think you’ll find that our commission rate is well worth the service!

  • Every estate has a soul, and we approach the process with reverence and creativity. Our design aims to blend strategy and maximize interest and turnout. We don’t just “sell things”, we tell the story behind them. We are passionate about what we do, and it shows. Our goal is to honor the memories tied to each item while making the transition smoother for your family. Marketing, advertising, presentation, and attention to detail are our superpowers. Every estate has a unique story and our personal touch helps it shine so buyers connect with your items in a way that makes them want to take them home.

  • Trust is everything. Chat with a few companies, ask about past sales, and make sure you feel comfortable. Referrals are earned with results and transparency, not bought. You deserve someone who treats your home and your treasures with respect.

  • Yes. We are a licensed business in Alabama, although the state has no special requirements for estate sale companies.

  • We sell approximately 90% of a home’s salable items. Remaining items can be donated, auctioned, or purchased through an estate buy-out if needed. An estate sale is not a storefront where things might sit for a year or two before selling. The same principle applies to things that are sent to consignment shops; it may or may not sell at a higher price and may take a year or so before it does. Prices are adjusted daily so that you are not left with half or more of what you started with. Some estate sale companies ‘overprice’ to begin with and turn people away with such tactics. Things are only worth what someone else is willing to pay for them.

  • Yes — but these are separate services from the estate sale itself. Each option is custom-priced based on the size of the project, and we’ll discuss details during your consultation so you can choose what works best for your needs.

    • Clean-Out Services: If you’d like the home completely cleared after the sale, I can handle donation drop-offs, trash removal, arranging for buy-outs, and full house clean-outs. Whether you want the home completely empty or just cleared of unsold items, we’ll build a plan that honors your needs and timeline.

    • Organization Services: If you’re not looking for a full sale but need help sorting, decluttering, or creating order in your home, I also offer professional organization as a stand-alone service.

  • Every estate is exclusive, so income varies. My goal is to sell your items at fair and realistic prices, ensure good turnout, and maximize your proceeds, ensuring items don’t linger unsold for months. I don’t overprice and turn buyers away; I want a lively, successful sale that reflects your home’s value.

  • Estate sale fees are typically based on a commission percentage of the total sales, ranging from 30%–50%, depending on the size of the estate, the amount of setup required, and the services included. Our earnings depend on the success of your sale. No upfront costs, no minimum guarantees. Our success is tied to yours. We are invested in achieving the best possible results for you, so we work hard to make sure your sale is a great one.

    For situations where a commission structure may not make sense, I also offer an hourly rate option. This can also be a good fit if you only need help with organizing, sorting, staging, or selling a limited number of items.

    After a walkthrough and consultation, we’ll review your needs and I’ll provide a customized estimate that fits your situation. This ensures our goals are aligned. The more successful the sale, the better for both of us.

  • After the sale is complete and funds are tallied, you’ll receive payment (minus commission and any agreed-upon expenses) within a set timeframe: Usually 7 business days.

  • Aside from the commission, additional costs may apply if you request extra services (such as clean-outs, dumpsters, moving, or special advertising). These are always discussed upfront so there are no surprises.

  • Most estate sales don’t require upfront payment. My fee is taken from the proceeds of the sale, with a clear agreement in writing beforehand. For partial services (like organization or home staging only), I may require a deposit.

  • Yes! Estate sales aren’t just for full households. Whether you’re moving, downsizing, or clearing a loved one’s belongings, I can create a sale that fits your scale and story.

  • Most full households are perfect for a 2–3 day sale. Homes with 3–4 bedrooms, common living spaces, and kitchens usually provide a nice mix of inventory. Items that sell well include:

    1. Everyday household items (appliances, electronics, books, cleaning supplies, clothes)

    2. Furniture and décor (mirrors, artwork, candlesticks)

    3. Kitchenware, linens, tools, and yard equipment

    4. Collector items or antiques

    Larger estates may require longer sales, from several days up to several weeks. Each estate and sale is different. We handle estates of all sizes and tailor marketing to fit each home’s offerings. There’s always something you have to sell that someone else will want to add to their collection.

  • For specialized or rare items, I can bring in an appraiser or market them to targeted buyers to make sure they’re valued appropriately.

  • Antiques are lovely but not required to have a successful sale. Most buyers attending estate sales are looking for good bargains on everyday use items. These items in good condition often sell extremely well, including:

    • Tools and yard equipment

    • Patio furniture and grills

    • Vintage items and costume jewelry

    • Coins, gold, and silver

    • Hunting gear

    • Home décor and clean furniture

    Even without antiques, a clean, appealing home full of small treasures can have an amazing sale.

  • Some items can be challenging:

    • Pianos and organs (unless high-end)

    • Older, worn, or outdated furniture (not considered antique or vintage)

    • Cabinet-style electronics

    • Encyclopedia sets

    Regardless, if you have any of these items in your estate we ask that you leave them in place. We review everything before making final decisions – nothing is left to chance.

  • You have options. I can arrange for donation to local charities, coordinate buy-outs from resellers, or organize a secondary sale (online or by appointment). Nothing is one-size-fits-all. We’ll choose the route that makes the most sense for you and your family.

  • Pricing is based on market value, condition, and demand. I combine experience, research, and knowledge of local buyers to set fair and competitive prices that maximize profit while ensuring items sell.

  • We often discover overlooked items (money, papers, or photos) during preparation. Even in cases where the family has thoroughly gone through the house, by the time we clean out every drawer, closet, cabinet, pocket, etc., it is inevitable that we will find something. No worries though, we securely box these and arrange for pickup or shipping back to you.

  • I take care of organizing, staging, and merchandising so your home feels welcoming and easy to shop. Buyers purchase more when the space is orderly, and I ensure your estate is presented in the best possible light.

  • Most sales run 2–3 days. Preparation generally takes 1–4 weeks depending on sorting, pricing, setup, and marketing needs. Larger estates or specialized collections may require more time.

  • I handle sorting, staging, pricing, advertising, running the sale, and managing buyers. Your only job is deciding what items you’d like to keep before I begin the process and disposing of personal items.

  • Yes! Dispose of medications properly and remove personal papers, sensitive documents, food, and trash. Otherwise, leave items in place for us to assess. Whatever remains after the sale is yours to donate, keep, or otherwise manage.

  • No. We focus on liquidation, not cleaning. We’ll leave the home as empty as possible, and we’re happy to refer cleaning services if you need them.

  • Yes. Every estate sale includes a clear contract that outlines fees, responsibilities, and expectations. This protects both of us and ensures the process feels organized and professional.

  • I use a mix of estate sale listing websites, social media, email lists, and local networks to attract buyers. High-quality photography, video, and detailed descriptions ensure your items are presented in the best light, drawing serious collectors as well as casual shoppers.

  • Everyone from antique collectors and vintage enthusiasts to neighbors, resellers, and first-time shoppers looking for unique finds. I create an inviting atmosphere that appeals to a wide audience so we maximize turnout and sales.

  • The sooner, the better. Most families book 2–6 weeks in advance so there’s enough time for sorting, pricing, and marketing. That said, if you’re on a tighter timeline, reach out, I may have space to accommodate last-minute needs.

  • We can do sales year-round.

    ·       If severe weather prevents safe access, we’ll work with you on rescheduling or extending the sale to make sure you don’t lose momentum.

    ·       But some times are slower than others. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, traffic often drops, so sales may be lighter. Otherwise, we’ll work with your schedule to pick the timing that gives you the best results.

  • Appraisals are separate from estate sales. We can provide them for a fee, usually for insurance purposes, but our primary role is to sell your items.

  • Most families prefer not to be there. It can feel emotional seeing belongings sold. I can handle the entire process on your behalf, from setup to closing out, while keeping you updated along the way. Of course, you’re welcome to attend if you’d like.

  • Life happens, and I do my best to keep the process flexible and fair. If you need to cancel, please provide as much notice as possible. Because preparation involves significant time and labor:

    • Before Work Begins: If you cancel in advance, there may or may not be a small cancellation fee. The exact fee depends on the circumstances and how close we are to the scheduled sale. This simply reflects the fact that I’ve held dates for you and may have declined other clients.

    • After work has begun: Once I’ve started sorting, staging, pricing, or preparation, you’ll be responsible for covering the hours worked at my hourly rate or a reasonable portion of the service fee.

    • If I must cancel: In the rare event that unforeseen circumstances prevent me from conducting your sale, all reasonable efforts will be made to reschedule, or you will receive a refund of any prepayments.


  • I’d love to hear from you. Give us a call or message for a free consultation. Whether you’re navigating loss, downsizing, or simply ready for a fresh chapter, I’ll walk you through the process step by step, answer questions, and take the stress off your shoulders. Estate sales don’t have to be overwhelming. We make them smooth, personal, and profitable.

    Reach out through my contact page to start the conversation.

Tips to our Customers to Elevate a Great Estate Sale Experience.

We absolutely love our customers! If you’ve attended one of our sales, you know the energy is high, the vibe is fun, and the treasures are waiting. That said, we’ve learned a few things over the years that help make the experience smoother for everyone. Although we can’t please everyone, think of this as a friendly heads-up so you can have the best time shopping with us.

1.Items may move or disappear.

We do our best to post accurate previews, but these aren’t our personal items. They belong to our clients. Sometimes owners may remove items during the sale. We have no control over this, so thank you in advance for your understanding if something you hoped to buy is gone.

 

2. ALL SALES ARE FINAL

Before buying, please inspect, test, or research items as needed. Once you purchase something, it’s yours. No refunds, no exchanges.

 

3. Pick up purchased items promptly.

If you buy something, please collect it during the sale days.

If you purchase something, you MUST pick it up within the days of the sale.  If you DECLINE to pick up items, after you have paid, we have NOT been able to sell them. THUS, they have not SOLD. this means YOU WILL NOT BE REFUNDED ANY AMOUNTS CHARGED just because you changed your mind. ALL SALES ARE FINAL! 

 

4. Moving large items.

We cannot help you move furniture due to insurance limitations. Have a helper or use a trusted moving company. Please be very careful moving items. You’re responsible for any damage to the property.

 

5. Holding area for your finds.

We have a designated spot near checkout where you can place your items while you continue shopping. While we do our best to monitor the hold area, occasionally items may be picked up by others. Leaving your items is at your own risk and we are not responsible for lost or misplaced items.

 

6. Pricing and first-day bargains.

We price items to sell. If you see something you want, let us know. We can often work with you on deals. Our goal is to balance a good deal for you while getting the best results for our clients.

 

7. How to shop.

Large and valuable items are individually priced. Smaller items may be grouped and priced at checkout. The first day, all items are priced “as is,” but it never hurts to ask—I love a little haggle!

 

8. Security cameras are in use.

Yes, we have cameras. We review ALL footage during and after the sales. Not to be nosy, but to protect both customers and clients. We keep an eye out for lost items and safety.

 

9. Theft is taken seriously.

We love our customers, but stealing is never tolerated. We work closely with local authorities and will take action if necessary.

 

10. Securing large items.

If you purchase a large item, make sure you place a “SOLD” tag on it with your name, cell, and pickup time. You can continue shopping without worrying about someone else taking it.

 

11. Payment options.

We accept cash only… For Now!!

 

12. Keep it tidy.

Please help us maintain a safe and pleasant shopping environment. Don’t discard items on the floor or make a mess. Other shoppers (and our sanity!) will thank you.

 

13. Children.

We adore kids! That said, they must remain with an adult at all times. You break it, you buy it. Broken items are the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

14. Respect taped areas and sold items.

Tape signals items that are off-limits. Please do not move or open these areas. Violators will be asked to leave.

 

15. Parking and loading.

Always park on the same side of the street as the home unless instructed otherwise. Do not block driveways, mailboxes, or emergency vehicle access. Driveways are for loading only.

 

16. Suggestions and feedback.

We love hearing from you! Have thoughts, ideas, or even a complaint? Email us at carly@thesolcreativeco.com. We’re always striving to make the creations better for everyone.

 

17. Most importantly—have fun!

Shop, meander, dance a little if the music moves you, and find treasures to take home. Come join us and make it an experience, not just a sale!