When my kindergartener’s school raised an impressive $30,000, I was thrilled—until I saw the email. Half of it—$15,000—was gone, swallowed by the fundraising company’s cut. My excitement turned to disbelief, then anger.
I thought about the heartfelt emails I’d sent to family and friends, asking for their support. If I’d known that half of their generosity wouldn’t benefit the school, I would never have asked. That sting stayed with me for years, making me skeptical of every fundraiser that followed.
Then, when my middle child started school, I joined the PTA and saw the struggle from the other side. Fundraising had become exhausting for families, overwhelming for organizers, and frustrating for schools stuck with programs that benefited companies more than kids.
The fundraising company took how much?!"
Reed & Wren was born from that frustration, with a simple mission: to make fundraising easy, effective, and joyful—for families, organizers, and schools. Every dollar raised matters, and every family should feel proud to give.
Get to Know Taylor
My teenager loves to say I’m "suuuuch an elder millennial"—armed with observational humor, a deep affection for social media, and an uncanny ability to sprinkle 90’s song lyrics and movie quotes into everyday conversations. While I’m an introvert at heart, don’t be fooled: People are my Purpose.
I’m a chronic volunteer, irresistibly drawn to helping my community—especially its kids. My calendar is often packed with multiple volunteer roles, leaving me bouncing between, “I live for this!” and “Who keeps letting me sign up for these things?!”
But at the core, I believe in building the village we want to see. I feel most fulfilled when I’m working to create a strong, joyful, and supportive community—not just for myself, but for my children too.
For me, Reed & Wren isn’t just about taking photos—it’s about building something better for our kids and communities.
My frustration with traditional fundraising didn’t just spark an idea; it lit a fire to create a program that truly supports the schools, families, and organizations I care about. I’ve been in the trenches as a parent, a volunteer, and someone who simply wants to do good.
That’s why every aspect of Reed & Wren is designed to make fundraising simple, impactful, and rewarding—because I believe we can create a village where every effort makes a difference and every family feels proud to contribute.
ENOUGH ABOUT ME.
LET'S TALK ABOUT YOU FOR A MINUTE.
If a genie gave you three wishes, you’d wish for:
Happy, healthy kids
A vacation home in Avalon
And a school fundraiser that plans itself, has families lining up to donate, and doesn’t require begging for volunteers on a Saturday afternoon.
I can’t help with the first two, but pass me that lamp—because your fundraising wish is my command.
My fundraising partners are community-minded, ready to roll up their sleeves for the good of the kids, but thinking it should be just a little easier.
What Happened to
Taylor Verner Photography?
When I started my photography business, I followed the straightforward path of branding with my name—Taylor Verner Photography. But as my purpose evolved, I realized the focus should not be on me, but the vibrant, joyful communities I serve.
That’s how Reed & Wren was born. The Reed represents wisdom, love, and protection—values of strong communities nurturing the next generation. The Wren symbolizes joy, renewal, and hope—mirroring the optimism and energy children bring to every session and fundraiser.
Reed & Wren reflects my belief in building strong communities through kindness, support, and meaningful contributions. Even small gestures—like a photograph or fundraiser—can create a lasting impact when done with intention.
