First Look February 15, 2010

I know this is a big decision for couples when planning their big day.  Do we see eachother before the ceremony, or do we wait for that big moment when she walks down the aisle?

Well, this is of course a personal choice.  However, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Seeing eachother before is every single bit as exciting and special, if not more, than waiting until the ceremony.  One of the best reasons to do a first look, is that you have the opportunity to talk, share, laugh, kiss, and cry if you need to, without interruption and without audience.  This is such a special moment, and when you wait for the ceremony, you aren’t able to say anything, kiss, hug, or share what is happening.  I remember getting up to my fiance at the alter, feeling so much, and seeing that he was overwhelmed as well.  But you know what?  I’ll never know what he was thinking, and he’ll never know how I was feeling, because the ceremony had started, the microphone was on, and all eyes were on us.  We held hands and looked into eachother’s eyes, but without any privacy, the moment passes.

Was it beautiful and amazing and wonderful in every way?  Yes.  But looking back, and knowing what I know now after dozens of weddings, I would absolutely, without a doubt, do a first-look instead.

Erin and Andrew, thought as I had, that waiting to see one-another until the ceremony would create the most special moment you could.  But after discussing it, and giving her all the reasons (photography absolutely being one of them) that I thought they should consider a first-look, they agreed.  They were able to share a very private, tender moment together.  Their first look was filled with excitement, anticipation, and joy.  Andrew was able to present Erin with her wedding gift personally, and I could honestly feel the electricity in the air as she approached him, and he finally turned around to see his beautiufl bride standig before him.  We were then able to get nearly all of the wedding party images completed, many of the family photographs, and about half of their couple’s portraits too.  Then, after the ceremony, we had about 20-30 minutes of relaxed time to finish pictures.  They were able to spend the maximum amount of time with their guests, and maximize their reception time too.

Place Settings with a Buffet January 4, 2010

Courtney and Eric proved that you can have a beautifully set table, even with a buffet! And the secret ladies and gentlemen: CHARGERS!!!!

When I got married, I loved the idea of my guests walking into the reception area, and seeing all the beautifully set tables waiting for them.  However, my budget deemed a buffet necessary (and frankly many simply prefer the ease- no counting steaks vs. salmon, and the freedom it gives your guests).  I wish I had been to Courtney and Eric’s wedding, so that I could see how pretty the tables can be!  As you can see, she had silver chargers at every place setting.  She also had various stem-ware, champagne flutes at every seat, including the beautiful detail of a fresh raspberry in the bottom of every glass.  Silverware was also placed at each setting, along with the napkin, as it would be for a seated meal.  twinkling candles, and a silver box with a special message and a sweet treat completed the tables.  So the only thing the guest got at the buffet was their actual plate, which went right on top of the charger when they got back to their seat.  Simply stunning!

Bridal Suite December 1, 2009

Today’s tip is quick, but SO VERY important.  It has to do with the bridal suite, or the room in which you will dress, spend time with your brides maids, and often, sign your wedding certificate in.  The first thing to consider, is a very key ingredient to telling the story of your big day, is having pictures taken in this room.  Finishing touches on hair and makeup, stepping into your gown for the first time, those shots of the dress before you even put it on. etc. etc.  So it is very important, that both you, and all the bridesmaids, keep this room very neat and tidy.  I can’t tell you how many shots have been nearly ruined by a pair of panties on the floor, shoe boxes everywhere, and general mess.  So heres the deal brides: your bridesmaids and both mothers need to be dressed, shoes on, all ready to go when you step into your gown.  AND, the room needs to be picked up and organized.  You may even want to delegate this task to two bridesmaids, or another female in the family who perhaps isn’t already a bridesmaid (think aunt or cousin here).   Just a simple tip that will aid me in capturing the most beautiful images I can, from start to finish.

I love Blush October 30, 2009

Meet the lovely and talented ladies of I Love Blush www.iloveblush.com

Owners Karen and Shannon have begun their blossoming business called

                                                                    I Love Blush. 

Calling all BRIDES!  This wonderful team is able to fulfill your EVERY beauty need.  And, they’ll come to you!  Lash extensions?  Got em.  Makeup lessons?  Got em.  Up-dos?  Yup.  They even offer classes for you and your bridesmaids.  Or, just let them do their magical make-up thing and get you all ready for your big day.  These girls are filling up dates for 2010 already, so don’t wait too long to get them on your wedding team.

Elements in Bloom October 6, 2009

When you find someone who does great work, you gotta share the news!  Meet Tanya, florist extraordinaire, owner of Elements in Bloom www.elementsinbloom.com .  I met her as she put the finishing touches on Kathleen and Jim’s wedding at the Salish Lodge this summer.  She was prompt, very friendly, and I think you’ll agree, very talented.  She has a great website, check it out if you have a minute!