When do we take those romantic photographs?
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I wish I had counted the number of times I have heard "I don't even remember what happened, it all went so fast!" from both brides, grooms and bridal party members. That's why we say why not take advantage of every possible moment. Many Brides and Grooms feel overwhelmed on their wedding day. Many times the first quiet moment is their first dance, on the dance floor in front of all their guests. We strongly encourage any Bride and Groom looking to put some romantic and fun bridal party photos into their album to take those photographs BEFORE the ceremony.
"But I want it to be special when he sees me for the first time." Believe me, I understand that a bride wants the reaction of her groom to be a "major event". That's why we call it the " INTRODUCTION ". We set up a private place where we are capturing the groom's reaction, the bride's bashful smile and those oh-so-romantic almost kisses that pass between them in that 10-15 minutes. Those are our award-winning images seen on our and many other professional photographers websites. Brides are relaxed, enjoying themselves and soaking in every beautiful moment. Her makeup is fresh and free from tear streaks too! Always a bonus when so much time and money went into that detail of the day.
There is an alternate to seeing each other before the ceremony however. When planning the time between your Ceremony & Reception allow an extra 45 minutes to an hour for your guests to arrive at the Reception. Simply include a cocktail hour for your guests. While you and your bridal capture those fun shots your guests are also having a good time and when you arrive the party is ready to begin!
These two suggestions are proven ways that Brides I've worked with come away from their wedding feeling happy and relaxed and have the pictures to prove it!
UNDER THE SKY - OUTDOOR WEDDINGS
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Outdoor weddings are a wonderful way to share your special day with friends and family. The ambiance of both a natural and a cultivated outdoor site can also help set the tone for your service. Nothing blesses a marriage more than a touch of sunlight or the caress of a summer breeze. Before you say, "I do" in nature's paradise however, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
Weather in the great outdoors is obviously beyond your control. For an open-air event, you'd best not leave some things to fate or faith Weather always calls for an alternate plan.
To imagine an afternoon thunder and lightning storm occurring at 3pm on her June wedding day is often too remote for the bride's consideration. But anything can happen at a wedding. While you can't plan for it all, some things you do have control over.
PUBLIC LOCATIONS
If your outdoor location is not on private property, curious animals and passerby are often attracted to the music, the gathering crowds and the air of excitement you create for your outdoor ceremony. After all, no one wants to miss the action!
Public Places such as parks and municipal gardens can provide an interesting list of distractions. Consider all your needs then ask the facility manager about rules, restrictions and options. Also, ask about previous events that were successful. Often the wedding professionals you hire will have experience at your chosen location and they can help you solve most problems, including what you'll need in the way of sound equipment.
BEING HEARD AND SEEN
In most any outdoor setting, unless the area is a natural amphitheatre or your guest list runs on the low side of 20, be sure to plan for amplification. Small quiet electric generators can be rented if electricity is unavailable. Many musical instruments and human voices are easily drowned out when outdoors. To this loss of sound, add children in the audience, late arriving guests and other background noise, all your friends and family may experience is moving lips. A restless crowd can put uncomfortable strain on you. If your guests can hear all your speakers and musicians, they will be more relaxed and attentive.
A nice natural alternative is to have your wedding "in the round". Consultant Lora Ward of A Day to Remember suggests that this gathering of guests around the altar makes a ceremony more intimate and allows a couple to be nurtured by the support and warmth of their friends and family. Most important, the ceremony is heard by all.
Information gathered from various sources - including Soleil Tranquill
WHERE DO WE GET DRESSED?
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I wish I had counted the number of times I have heard "I don't even remember what happened, it all went so fast!" from both brides, grooms and bridal party members. That's why we say why not take advantage of every possible moment. Many Brides and Grooms feel overwhelmed on their wedding day. Many times the first quiet moment is their first dance, on the dance floor in front of all their guests. We strongly encourage any Bride and Groom looking to put some romantic and fun bridal party photos into their album to take those photographs BEFORE the ceremony.
"But I want it to be special when he sees me for the first time." Believe me, I understand that a bride wants the reaction of her groom to be a "major event". That's why we call it the " INTRODUCTION ". We set up a private place where we are capturing the groom's reaction, the bride's bashful smile and those oh-so-romantic almost kisses that pass between them in that 10-15 minutes. Those are our award-winning images seen on our and many other professional photographers websites. Brides are relaxed, enjoying themselves and soaking in every beautiful moment. Her makeup is fresh and free from tear streaks too! Always a bonus when so much time and money went into that detail of the day.
There is an alternate to seeing each other before the ceremony however. When planning the time between your Ceremony & Reception allow an extra 45 minutes to an hour for your guests to arrive at the Reception. Simply include a cocktail hour for your guests. While you and your bridal capture those fun shots your guests are also having a good time and when you arrive the party is ready to begin!
These two suggestions are proven ways that Brides I've worked with come away from their wedding feeling happy and relaxed and have the pictures to prove it!
-Dawn
CHOOSING A PHOTOGRAPHER IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION
Your wedding only lasts one day, but you’ll want to hold onto the pictures forever. Unfortunately, statistics show that many brides are taking big risks with their memories. To help you select a photographer who will make your wedding story one of a kind the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), a non-profit association of more than 17,000 photographers, has these suggestions:
• Interview several photographers. Ask questions about their styles. Most wedding photographers offer either traditional, posed portraits or a candid photojournalism style. Some offer a combination. You should also ask if the photographer specializes in black and white or color photography.
• Look at samples. PPA suggests asking to see albums that show wedding coverage from start to finish. This will give you an idea of both the style and quality each photographer provides.
• Ask about backups. Always ask if the photographer carries back-up equipment. Also, make sure the photographer has a ready replacement who can photograph your wedding if he or she becomes ill.
• Develop a relationship. Look for a photographer that you are comfortable with. Remember, you are not hiring someone to simply take pictures, but to tell the story of your special day. A skilled professional will want to know about the bride and groom – your personalities and preferences.
• Communicate. Make sure the photographer has a clear understanding of your expectations. Take the time to sit down with the photographer and discuss the services provided and the fees involved. This helps avoid any future misunderstandings.
• Photo or video? Photography and videography are two distinctly different fields -- both requiring extensive training to produce high- quality results. Depending on your personal taste and budget, you may want both photo and video coverage of your wedding.
• Ask about credentials. Membership in a professional association, certification or a photography degree shows a certain level of commitment to the profession. These types of credentials can help you determine which photographer is right for you.
• Check references. A friend’s recommendation, the Better Business Bureau and professional associations are excellent sources of information.
THE BRIDES WEDDING DAY ESSENTIALS LIST
1 Gallon Clear Ziplock bag containing...
An unscented, clear deodorant
Small Sewing Kit - needle/colored thread/white thread/black thread
Scissors - IMPORTANT
Nail Clippers
Extra Makeup for Bridesmaids
Lipstick / lip Gloss
Makeup Remover
List of Vendors phone numbers
The Wedding Rings
Sharpie Markers
Men's & Boy's Black socks
The Marriage Certificate -IMPORTANT
Pins for the money dance
All of the above items, even the marriage certificate, have been forgotten at weddings we have covered.
Start now by picking up small items and putting them into your special bag. These small items can really make the difference the morning of the wedding. Treat yourself to a stress free morning and cover your bases now.
