Amanda Marks Photography - DO NOT HIRE

jdcook1

Her home address is 4445 Pekins Street #306 Metairie, LA 70001. Her new email is Agagnard1@gmail.com and you can find her on Facebook under Amanda Gagnard. She is still not responding to me and I even went to her house yesterday.... No answer, even though her car was in the parking spot. Also, I have heard she actually shut her business down. I also sent an e,ail to the BBB to update the address they have on file for her. Once they have her new address, can you resubmit a complaint?

charlieandtachic

JDcook... What car were you looking for? She has a new car and no longer has her Benz. I'm very curious as I went over there last night but her car wasn't there. Please feel free to reach out to me @ my outside email address tachiclovesnola@gmail.com. I would love to speak with you over the phone as well. I'm really ready to take some legal action. I'm soooo not trying to allow Amanda to screw us all over and we just take it.

jdcook1

She has a rental car that is a new 4 door silver Hyundai.

charlieandtachic

Did you hear movement in her apartment at all? Did it sound as if she was home? I just really can't believe she is doing this. I'm really flabbergasted by her actions.

blaineyblue

Ladies, 

I am an attorney and I am emailing her for jdcook, and will let her keep you updated on the situation but this does not look very promising. 

I spoke to the owners at Primary Color lab, they do not in fact have any orders from Amanda Gagnard  (Marks).  They are able to offer her brides a price for albums and will use her disks if you have them.  They do have brides who have taken them up on this so the few albums that are in process are from the brides themselves.

Advice: keep a record of every time you speak to her and what was said.  Also, no stalking her at her house please, phone calls and emails and facebook messages are sufficient.  

Thanks,

Blaine

charlieandtachic

Why isn't it ok for us to go over to her house? I mean she's come to our home and vice versa. I'm not interested in stalking her. Only CONFRONTING her!! There's no law forbidding that we go to her home unless given some type of restraining order.

charlieandtachic

Hey Ladies,

Sooooo very much has developed over the last few days regarding the Amanda Marks fraud scandal. Here are the facts...

Amanda has contacted that I know of myself and one other Bride most recently this weekend. One Bride actually spoke to her over the phone. I, myself only spoke with her via FB. She told me she would contact me on Jan. 7th, Saturday morning. However, that call never came through and is still pending.

Today, I'm hearing that Amanda was arrested over the weekend. BUT, this is very likely to be a RUMOR. I'm having an NOPD officer look into this now to make sure...so we're not spreading false rumors.

While, there is strength in numbers...I've been legally advised that we should all pursue legal action individually. Mainly because all of our fees/prices were different contingent upon the package we selected. Our chances of recouping any money would be much more successful pursuing her individually as opposed to collectively.

Pretty much the entire wedding photography community in Southern Louisiana is abreast of what's going on and everyone is completely appalled. Such an awful shame that one photographer is giving the community such a blow.

Finally, there is always hope in any bad situation...but I would highly encourage you ladies and grooms to not hang onto hope too long. Begin pursuing legal action ASAP. It's very clear that none of us or our albums are a priority in Amanda's life, unfortunately. Soooo very sad because I honestly thought I had a pretty good business/client relationship with Amanda Marks. Guess, my money, myself, and my husband were simply another couple for her to run her scam on.

FYI...her new phone number is 504.452.1134. Please be careful to not harrass her though, or she may change it again.

P.S.
I can't tell you how much the human non-civil part of me wants to beat the crap out of Amanda. But, I'm suppressing those feelings to instead beat Amanda at her own game.

Good Luck Ladies...let's all keep in touch with one another's progress.

Tachic A. Hickman-Piazza
tachiclovesnola@gmail.com

drfoster78

Thank you sooo much Tashic for letting us know that info and number. And ladies lets please respect that she did get us a new number and use it wisely and professionally so we can get EXACTLY what we came on this blog to get. Let's all keep the updates coming

lizcmac

Does anyone have any updates on Amanda?

charlieandtachic

Hey Ladies/Brides,

Here at the latest updates...

As we now all know. Amanda did indeed get arrested. I do know it was an actual Bride that pressed charges against her.

I reached out to Amanda's mother via FB, who actually replied to me with the with the following...

I am very sorry that u havent been able to contact Amanda. She has been going thru a lot of personal issues that have unfortunately affected her business. Trust me when i say that she is doing everything within her power to resolve these issues and produce the albums that she owes to you and the other brides .My daughter is not a thief nor is she trying to deceive anyone. There are many brides that are bashing and trying to discredit her name.She has some legal issues that she hopes to resolve within the week and will be addressing all her clients at that time,Rest assured that she still intends to fulfill her contract with you.She is and always has been a trustworthy person. I am not at liberty at this moment to furnish you with a way to contact her.But will gladly forward any message you may have for her. Thanks for contacting me . Hopefully i have put your mind at ease . Feel free to stay in contact with me . Thanks again

The above message was received a week ago. Still haven't heard from Amanda. I believe her new phone number is not taking calls from anyone at the moment.

A good discretional source is telling me in a nutshell Amanda's way of living has truly caught up with her. With all of our money Amanda was living well beyond her means and I guess robbing Paul to pay Pete. After her divorce from Stacy, Amanda could not keep up with the daunting task of running her business. While she was with Stacy, apparently Amanda held the responsibility of shooting the photos, but it was Stacy that took the responsibility of editing and putting together the albums. Basically making sure each Bride/Couple received their albums. After their divorce, this proved to be a bit much for Amanda to handle. As a result, the clusterf*ck she's currently in. To my knowledge, Amanda has no money to produce the albums we are all contractually due. I'm also hearing that recently she was robbed by an Ex-Boyfriend, who stole her camera/photography equipment and also wedding discs. So for those of you who don't have your wedding disc, very likely it could have been stolen. So very sad!!!

I know that the Printing Company she works with which I believe is Primary Coloring in Kenner is working with many Brides to produce their albums. I personally, haven't gone yet but I hear they are really nice and doing all they can to aid us Brides that have been scammed by Amanda Marks photography.

Finally, I can only encourage you ladies once more to pursue individal legal action. This situation will definitely take some time to fully play out. And, quite frankly it may be a while before either of us gets what we are due. Even legally!! If she has no income, she simply can't produce the albums.

klosborn

It will be hard to enforce a judgment against someone who has no money/assets.  Please keep that in mind. Also you will have to pay court filing fees, etc.

Please also keep in mind that this is a criminal offense.

fotopro

To the clients of Mrs. Amanda Marks:

 

 

I’m a friend of Mrs. Marks an was appointed to be the mediator in this case so we can get everything situated and everyone their bridal books. I’m also here to set the rumors straight about Mrs. Amanda Marks.

 

Each an every one of you booked Amanda for your wedding based primarily off her talent! I’m sure you took the time before booking your event with Mrs. Marks to voluntarily view her proof books, internet post, website and credentials before giving her your deposit. So far the thread has mentioned a past occupation and her divorce with Stacy. So what you are saying because someone was a dancer and got divorced they have no talent, ambitions or future?? I find the thread to be offensive and slanderous. I understand as a bride you want you photo albums, pictures and a response from your photographer. As Amanda’s mediator I will make sure that everyone gets a response, questions answered and problems resolved. But, I will not tolerate abusive, vulgar, harassing language. People coming to my home, business or harassing phone calls. I will also not engage in the online bashing of a friend. This is coming from a fellow professional photographer that sees another photographer needs a hand! Furthermore this will not reflect on my business, talent or creditability as a photographer. I am here to help!

 

Before Amanda’s arrest she filed with the Jefferson parish police a complaint that her equipment with cards was stolen from her legal address. We have the names and numbers of the bride’s weddings that were on the chips and I will be contacting those brides tomorrow, to make a formal payment arrangement. I’ve also spoken with Mrs. Marks about the Italian flush mount albums and they will be dispersed in a timely matter. I can also assure you that to make a complaint on someone is a civil matter and that her arrest was completely illegal and we are currently settling these issues. I believe that everyone should be allowed a few bumps in the road, however it’s very unfortunate that this involved everyone and wasn’t intentionally done to hurt anyone. I will make it priority to answer every email.

jdcook1

Fotopro, First, I am curious as to who appointed you as her mediator in her case, since there isn't a case yet. If there is a case, then it is an individual case and not a group case. Did Amanda ask you to speak on her behalf? Also, you may find this thread to be offensive and slanderous, but we find the actions of Amanda taking our money, lying to us, and refusing to contact us after we paid her in full for products to offensive, scandalous, and just down right wrong. I also think that the lies she is telling about the printing company could be considered slanderous. Lucky for me, I have those lies in writing from her. I spoke with her on January 7th and she lied to me more than once. I knew that the printers did not have ANY orders for her, yet she kept telling me and assuring me that they did. She kept giving me the run around and blaming it on the printers. She was supposed to contact the printers and get back to me, but of course, that didn't happen. Amanda has been caught in a very bad web of lies and betrayal. I understand that you are sticking up for your friend (or ex wife), but you, as a professional photographer, should know how terrible her actions are and that she will be suffering the repercussions of her actions. Where is her professionalism? If she was on top of her business from the beginning, none of this would've happened. If she would've gotten a handle on this issue early on and actually made an effort to get the brides' their albums, instead of waiting nearly 2 years for some, then her actions would not be thought of as intentional. But seeing as how she did none of that, it comes across as intentional. What she's putting us through is not "a few bumps in the road", this is "massive potholes that you can't drive through in the road". Also, in referring to her "legal address", are you referring to her current address on Perkins or Stacy Marks address. Because according to all documents I've received from her, her website, and the BBB lists the Hullen address as her "legal address.". I find it strange that only her equipment would be stolen from his home. I am just asking For clarification. My name is Jessica (Cook) Chin. I was married on October 22, 2011. I am waiting for my mother's album and my Tuscany Flush album. My phone number is 504.570.0288 and my email is jessicadchin@gmail.com. I am one of the brides Mrs. Amanda Marks scammed. I will be waiting for my phone call from you. If I do not hear from you, I will assume you are no better than her. I have started my legal actions against her. She should receive my demand letter next week from my lawyer.

charlieandtachic

To the Mediator...

There wasn't a need for a mediator when my husband and I held a consultation with Amanda Marks last Spring. Nor was there a need for a mediator when we issued Amanda a deposit/retainer fee, a mid-payment, and our final balance. So to be frank, I don't see the need for you to serve as a mediator now. I signed a contract with Amanda Marks, not with a Mediator. Therefore, Amanda Marks is the person I as a Bride need to have direct contact with. And, if not her...then her lawyer needs to get in contact with our lawyer to proceed further.

Don't you find it quite strange that a Mediator would say they will make it their priority to answer every email YET, not leave any outside contact information such as an email address, a name, or phone number. Surely, I'm mistaken right??? Can't be, because I certainly didn't see any outside information left within your email. How is it that you can answer every email, yet no Bride/Couple on this forum has a direct email address to you? I find that to be quite absurd. I hope you know what you are getting yourself into!!! Some of us Brides are indeed
"very smart" and shall I say "extremely resourceful" So, I will say again, I hope you know what you are getting yourself into!!!

klosborn

To the "Mediator", 
Please send me your name and contact information.  It appears that you are acting as an anonymous person - which is suspect. If this is serious, I need your name and contact information to facilitate future communication. 

I sent you a private message, so please check it.  In addition, I expect a response within 24 hours.
 

fotopro

amanda is going through a hard time and i will be the one you contact for your books,pictures and cds! 

jdcook1

Fotopro/"Mediator", I request the same information from you. Please send me your contact information so I may continue communication with you regarding this matter. I have sent you a private message requesting this information. I also expect a response within 24 hours.

fotopro

shutterqueenfairy@gmail.com please send me wedding date,time and all details please!!

fotopro

shutterqueenfairy@gmail.com

lizcmac

My name is Elizabeth McIntyre Daigle. Our wedding was November 11, 2011. We have received nothing. All we want is an unedited digital copy of all of our photos. We will worry about the albums at a later date. We just want the pictures.
Please contact me asap:
lizcmac@yahoo.com

Also, she called me the wrong name throughout my wedding so if you find pictures with the name Rachel on them then they could be ours.

dlovell1954

My name is Denise Lovell, my daughter got married in November 2010. We, like the rest of you have pretty much the same story. I'll spare you the details. Same lies and delays that everyone else here has reported. I am very thankful for Primary Color Lab for being so helpful and professional with their response to my problem.I brought my discs to them a couple of weeks ago and I received a call yesterday that most of the work is done and that my albums should be ready next week. Sure I had to pay again, but I want my albums and I will deal with her later. Stacy Marks helped me as well and I appreciate that. As for Amanda, I feel that her actions should be considered criminal. When a person continues to repeat the same process over and over for a considerable period of time, it is no accident nor should it be considered one. I don't know if we will ever recover our money, but I feel that Amanda should be prosecuted for her actions. What she has put us all through is fraud plain and simple.

drfoster78

Well my name is Dr. Tori (Foster) Alexander. My husband Gregory and I got married Nov. 19, 2011 @ Southern Oaks Planation @7pm. My number is 706-593-5388. My e-mail is drfoster78@hotmail.com and drfoster78@gmail.com. I have recieved nothing! Not even an initiated phone call from Amanda since then. All calls were by me to her and then the phone was off. I do expect contact within 2  days especially since my lawyer contacted me and told me that our demand letter sent certifed mail was signed by Amanda with of of the contact information for my lawyer was inside. She has not contacted her either! Not to even say that her equipment was "stolen". The letter stated that I wanted my disc within 4 days of receipt of the letter... No Response. We are filing the already drawn up papers of  civil and criminal charges if I do not hear from you... The mediator within 48 hours.. Thank you!

jdcook1

I would like to thank the mediator for all she's doing to help us brides. If you have not reached out to her yet, I encourage you to do so. I met with her today and she will be editing my wedding photos for me and I feel very confident in her work. She is very talented, down to earth, and honest. I can't thank her enough for taking on this task to help us in our time of need. I know it's a lot to deal with, but she wants to make sure we get what we paid for from Amanda.

katylady

Ladies -

Like all of you I was also duped by Amanda. Allegedly my photos were among those stolen by her ex boyfriend. While I have no idea what to believe, I work for a law firm and through our investigation we've learned that she has an arraignment hearing on February 23rd relating to her recent arrest for theft. It's time we join forces and show up at the hearing. If we all show up, perhaps the DA won't let her off easy for this. The DA NEEDS to know how many she's stolen from.

If you are interested in helping, please email Chris at cgross@tulane.edu with your name, wedding date and the amount you paid for her services. All emails will be responded to by Friday.

Chris was an attorney at our firm and my friend who has been helping me and in touch with the DA's office regarding all of this. It's to all our benefit to push the DA to take her thefts seriously.

jdcook1

Hey Katylady, I sent Chris an email on Friday and haven't heard anything yet. I am very interested in attending and helping with whatever I can. - Jessica Chin

jdcook1

FYI - According to Stacy Marks' Facebook, WWL TV will be doing a story on Amanda and how she's duped all us brides. When I find a link, I will post it here. Be at your tv for 10 pm tomorrow night, ladies!!! (Thursday, Feb. 16th!). This is when it is set to air!!

sroger3

katylady,

FYI. I am one of the brides affected and I sent Chris an email with my info last night. I hope it's not too late to help. I am willing to attend and testify if needed. Will it be in Jefferson Parish? 

I hope justice is served!

-Shelley Olivier

gizzalla

As the Mother of the Bride, I have to say that I was appalled at the way Amanda Marks handled herself as a professional.  She was rude, inconsiderate and chose to take pictures on her own terms without any input from family.  She did not give advice on what brides/families typically set up for photos, etc.  The proofs were provided after several months and very few were creative.  I truly think that I could have taken better photos...shadows were on faces of attendants and others, eyes were squinted, poses were awkward, etc.  A true professional would have noticed these things behind the lens and corrected them.  I am very disappointed for my daughter and son-in-law to have these photos as memories of the most important day of their lives.  My daughter is still waiting on the photo albumn...she will now have to go to imaging company used to develop photos.  sorry to those of you who have signed contract with her...your wedding memories should not be stressful.  Hope it works out for you.

Sherodrigue

Hey! I will definitely be emailing Chris tonight. I hope it isnt too late, but I got married in April and haven't received my books. She was texting me back and forth up until the week before Christmas. She led me to believe that she was going to produce my books before Christmas. She stopped answering my call and stopped answering my texts. She changed her number. I am very upset, and I feel that she owes me the books. I will definietly go to court. 

mandy42282

Hi everyone. I am the owner of the Condo that Amanda was renting. As of this week, she no longer lives there. I just wanted to let everyone know since people are looking for her.