The simple fact is, whether you meant to or not, you did strongly imply that someone who doesn't have lots of equipment is an amateur, and further implied that they're basically not up to the task.
I never said lots of equipment. ANDS keeps quoting a phrase that was not mine "the lack of multiple copies of very expensive tools renders a persons art and talent as amateur." NOT my quote. (notice that whenever he quotes that, it is his own typing and not a wrapped quote from the site software) I never said this so I am unsure why he keeps attributing this statement to me. I merely said we should have a backup. I myself only have one camera body backup and three lenses (each lens is different-I do not have two of each lenses and again think he is misunderstanding my statement that we need to have a backup) All of his arguments directed at me are based on the above statement which was never said by me, so I'm sure you could see where the mistake lies. He needs to figure out who said exactly that, and direct his comments appropriately before he lashes out.
You've also jumped headlong into the trap of trying to define what a "professional" is or isn't, which around here is tantamount to wearing a meat suit to a rabid starving dog convention. This one has been debated ad-nauseum here and elsewhere by people far brighter and more capable than you and I. I don't know what the ultimate answer is, but I can tell you that the people who I have the most respect for in business and photography are the ones who I least often hear uttering the word.
I don't think you are qualified to say whether or not I am bright or capable, but you are entitled to your opinion. If people were trying to make nice, they wouldn't attack a visitor for trying to engage in conversation.
I'm not going to be foolish enough to get dragged into your little debate here, but I will go as far as to say that I think you're in up to your neck in this and sinking fast. I think much of it has just been a matter or word choices and that your core ideas are actually fine, it's just that you have kinda carved off a subsection of people and told them they are not fit to serve... whether you are right or wrong, that isn't going to win you any friends.
I wouldn't say I'm sinking just because a few people disagree with me. Although I will say I never intended for this to be a debate. I was just trying to give the OP some help! There were other posters here that were in complete agreement with me but for some reason my advice to Miss Daisy was not well taken (perhaps because I'm unrecognized in this particular community or they did not read what I actually posted and just looked at what ANDS said I posted?). I don't really know what you mean by me treating people like they are not fit to serve. I simply stated my opinions based on experience (after all, forums are where people post their opinions and ideas for the benefit of others to learn from. If people can't handle the advice, don't read it! I and some of the other photogs here were just trying to give helpful advice and information, but there seems to be an air of defensiveness when no offense was intended). 
Go back and read MY actual statements (not what ANDS keeps saying I said, and then tell me where what I said was offensive.) I would be glad to apologize for any misconceptions if it was something that I actually said in proper context.
Really, my ideas are nothing radical in the professional community to warrant such a reaction. (That idea stated for the record so there are no further misunderstandings is that a responsible professional should carry backup equipment for the sake of the bride and the protection of their business. No mention here of how many or how expensive. Let's not split hairs here and make it harder than it needs to be.) Anyone who has been in business for a few years or more feel free to back me up on this reasonable statement.
I suppose winning friends isn't necessarily what it's all about, but this is a community and as such people do try to make a point to play nice. I guess all I'm saying is that you basically stepped into the community and knocked over several sacred cows on day 1 and you may want to step back and rethink a bit before you fire up the chanisaw and cut yourself some nice juicy steaks.
I am not here to make friends (that's what "real life" is for) Just the same, I don't believe I said anything rude and backed up all of my perceptions with logical explanations to point out I am not purposefully being contrary. I realize there is insecurity among some regarding their station and as such have taken my statements rather personally.
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