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Tips From the Pros

 

 

   
COORDINATE YOUR MEMORY TEAM
Eric Leas
Acti-Video Productions
“Don’t wait to determine the selection of your videographer until the last minute,” says Eric Leas of Acti-Video Productions. “Consider different videographers and photographers at the same time. Ask video companies which photographers they recommend, and vice versa. When you have videographers and photographers who have worked well with one another in the past, the total on your wedding day can be greater than the sum of the parts. Good visual pros feed off one another’s creativity. That teamwork can make a significant difference in the finished visual products. It’s certainly better than having professionals who aren’t acquainted worrying about just staying out of one another’s way – or worse, getting territorial about who has rights to the best camera angles.”
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RECOMMENDATIONS, PLEASE!
Christopher Kight
Christopher Kight Photographers
How should you choose your wedding vendors? Christopher Kight of Christopher Kight Photographers has a great tip: “As you begin to find various professionals to create your Wedding (your venue, florist, caterer, photographer, video, etc), ask each of them for recommendations for the other services that you still need. You’ll find that the same names come up over and over with different professionals. These will be the ones that currently have created the best reputation in their field. Consider following their recommendations to put together a great team of professionals.”
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GOING TO THE CHAPEL AND WE’RE GONNA SAVE MONEY
CeCe Beatleston
Loves Wedding Chapel
CeCe Beatleston, Manager of the Loves Wedding Chapel in Lake Tahoe has a tip for the bride with budget on the brain: “To save money, you can have the ceremony at the same facility as your reception; that way you can save on a second rental fee. Also, make sure to make a guest list and stick to it!” To stretch your dollar even further, Beatleston encourages brides to share costs across event. “Ask if there’s another wedding in that day and share the cost of floral decorations with that bride, if the two of you have similar decorating tastes.”
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PICTURE PERFECT FIT
Amy Nicole
The Studio Wedding Photography
Most brides put great effort into selecting the best dress, but not the best fit. To remedy the situation, Amy Nicole of The Studio Wedding Photography recommends: “When you go in for your fittings move around and sit down. See how your dress bustles and try it on with your shoes and bustier. You want to look your best from the ceremony to the first dance - so after all the time spent finding that perfect dress, be sure it fits how it should, is comfortable, and flatters your figure. And just in case, have a little double stick tape on hand and a few safety pins…just in case.”
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IT’S ABOUT THE IMAGES...


Lorenzo Bartone
CinZo Photo
Can’t decide on the perfect photographer for you? Use the Internet to look through the work of various photographers, suggest Cindi Kinney and Lorenzo Bartone of CinZo Photo. “Don’t be swayed by flashy websites and extra large prints. The trick is to pay attention and keep in touch with your instinct while viewing images. When the images of one photographer touch you, that’s likely the one that’ll deliver the photographs of your wedding that you’ll treasure. Can you imagine framed images like these over your fireplace or on your desk? Does your facial expression change while you’re looking? Of course, a personal meeting is important too, but ‘likeability’ and talent are not the same thing. Your instinct will make your best choice.”
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MAKE YOUR REGISTRY PERSONAL
Lora Ward
A Day to Remember Wedding Consultants
Lora Ward, owner of A Day to Remember Wedding Consultants, has a tip for the couple who has everything: “Many of my clients who have established households, advise they don’t need anything, and therefore don’t want to register and prefer that their guests not bring gifts. But your guests will want to give you a gift. I recommend that you register at one location and select something unique and different…patio dishware for outdoor entertaining, Asian or Fiesta china, or even a full set of cookware (rather than the random pots and pans the two of you have collected). Or, let your guests know that you love to dine out and travel and so gift certificates for restaurants, bistros or B&Bs are appreciated. If you are wine aficionados, request bottles of wine or champagne. Your best communication tool is a wedding website; they are fun for your guests and give them registry information as well as insight into your wedding planning.”
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TEAMWORK COUNTS
Mike Jensen
Jensen Wedding Films
An important consideration in choosing vendors for your wedding is to create a team of wedding professionals that work together well, says Mike Jensen of Jensen Wedding Films. “For example, a photographer - no matter how talented - that bullies his or her way into ‘getting my shots’ at your wedding can make it much more difficult for other paid professionals, as well as for your guests. A good question to ask each potential vendor is: How well do you work with other wedding professionals? A team of wedding professionals that work together will create a wonderful synergy that will make your day perfect!”
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KEEPING GUESTS COMFORTABLE
Kendra Pfeiffer
Pfeiffer Event Planning
Kendra Pfeiffer of Pfeiffer Event Planning has a helpful tip for brides: “There are many small, thoughtful touches you can add to let your guests know how much they mean to you. If you are hosting an outdoor wedding, consider putting together a decorative basket with bug wipes and spray, or having parasols available for their use. Also, program fans are a nice touch. Once the sun sets, it may be chilly so it is nice to have outdoor heaters or a basket with throw blankets for use by your guests.”Kendra Pfeiffer of Pfeiffer Event Planning has a helpful tip for brides: “There are many small, thoughtful touches you can add to let your guests know how much they mean to you. If you are hosting an outdoor wedding, consider putting together a decorative basket with bug wipes and spray, or having parasols available for their use. Also, program fans are a nice touch. Once the sun sets, it may be chilly so it is nice to have outdoor heaters or a basket with throw blankets for use by your guests.”
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EXPERIENCE COUNTS AND SHOWS!
Jenny Giallanza
Sun City Roseville

It’s about quality - not quantity, says Jenny Giallanza from Sun City Roseville. “It’s not about the number of weddings a facility caters each year, but the quality of the weddings that have occurred. Your wedding should be one of the happiest and most exciting times of your life.” Doing only one wedding per day is what sets Sun City Roseville apart from others in the business, adds Giallanza. “Our focus is not on how many brides we can shuffle in and out, but how we can create an experience you can be proud of. We’ll be with you every step of the way - from the first day you visit us, to when you drive away as a married couple.” So when you’re shopping for a wedding venue, don’t ask how many weddings they’ve done, but how many will occur on YOUR wedding day. You should be the focus for the day!
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DESIGNER LIGHTING MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
Matt Brys
Extreme Productions Entertainment
Want to create that WOW factor for your wedding? Matt Brys from Extreme Productions Entertainment, LLC suggests calling on a professional event lighting and production company to create a lighting design for your event that can add pizzazz, elegance and fun. “Lighting has been extremely popular at celebrations in the past few years and new design approaches make it even easier to include in your wedding! From the elegance and simplicity of projecting your initials or ‘monogram’ in light, to enhancing the features of your event site, or even transforming your wedding to take your guests on a journey to Tuscany, Paris or other romantic and fun destinations - professional lighting productions will enhance your celebration and create the look and feel you desire.”
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PORTRAIT PLANNING
Janine Mapurunga
Mapurunga Photography
“Formal group portraits can be one of the most stressful and time consuming parts of a wedding. Sometimes it is like herding cats!” Janine Mapurunga of Mapurunga Photography recommends that you create a list of group formals to ensure that everyone is included. Also keep in mind that your photographer doesn’t know your family and closest friends. With this in mind, she suggests that you assign someone to aid your photographer in organizing your family members and friends during the photos. This way the process can run smoothly and everyone can get partying sooner.
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LET LOCATION BE YOUR GUIDE
Fearon Mulqueen
Arden Hills Resort Club and Spa
Finding the perfect location for your wedding is what can also help you in finding the right theme, color scheme and design, says Fearon Mulqueen of Arden Hills Resort Club and Spa. “Take a look around your reception site to inspire the perfect wedding theme. It can be an entry way lined with palm trees, creative architectural details, beautiful artwork hanging in the lobby, or an amazing view. You can then carry the theme from your “save the date” cards all the way to your thank-you notes. Can’t decide what color your bridesmaids should wear Pulling colors from the location can help with tying everything in together. Also, take in the atmosphere of your location when designing your centerpieces and décor. If your reception is in a ballroom with gorgeous chandeliers, then use lots of crystals and sparkle to add even more glamour. Your reception site can spark a lot of great ideas for your wedding - so when looking for the perfect location, keep your eyes open and ideas flowing!”
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GET READY TO COCKTAIL PARTY!
Monty Montgomery
All Seasons All Reasons Catering
Monty Montgomery of All Seasons All Reasons Catering has some ideas for brides looking to take up the latest bridal trend: cocktail party receptions. “This is a great way to create a less formal and traditional environment, while still providing an upscale, contemporary atmosphere in which your guests can mingle. Probably the biggest fear brides have is that the guests won’t have enough to eat; but assuring that no one will walk away from a wedding looking for the nearest fast food establishment is quite easy! Pick a few more substantial menu items, and then build on it with lighter, more refined fare.” Montgomery also suggests alternating tray-passed hors d’oeuvres with several stations around the venue that feature heartier fare. Also, keep food available for a longer period and your family and friends will have as much, if not more, to eat - with more interesting choices than they would at an everyday buffet or plated dinner.
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GETTING ORGANIZED
Gail Shoop-Lamy
Quintessence Photographic Art
Want to keep your wedding on track and on time? Gail Shoop-Lamy of Quintessence Photographic Art has a suggestion for you. “Once you have selected a photographer that will photograph in the style you love and has a personality that you are comfortable with, make sure you discuss everything that is scheduled on your special day at your pre-wedding planning session. A detailed agenda, which includes rough times for various photographs before and after the wedding, as well as all of your other events (such as dinner, the toast, cake, any special or unusual happenings, etc.), will ensure that the day goes more smoothly and your photographer captures the images that you want. Don’t worry if everything doesn’t go exactly according to schedule; just having an agenda you provide to the bridal party and family members will make everyone more aware of what to expect and where they need to be.”
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SETTING THE MOOD WITH MUSIC
Pamela Pamperin
The music you select for your celebration sets the mood and tone for the day. “Harp Lady” Pamela Pamperin offers the gift of beautiful music to you and your friends and family who gather to share in the joy of your wedding. A professional harpist who has played for hundreds of weddings, Pamela knows the power of live music. “But the beauty of live music is not the only reason to engage a professional musician; there are practical reasons as well,” says Pamperin. “For example, professional musicians are able to time their music precisely to the pace of the ceremony and respond to unexpected delays with additional musical selections when necessary. Most importantly, professional musicians who specialize in weddings have a personal interest in making your ceremony a complete success.”
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LET THERE BE LIGHT
Beth Baugher
True Love Photography
For photographs that you’ll love, take a tip from Beth Baugher of True Love Photography. “Let your photographer help you with your timeline so you can get the best lighting for your photos. If you are having an evening wedding, consider seeing each other prior to the ceremony - those natural light photos are often the best!” And because Mother Nature doesn’t wait for anyone, Baugher urges bridal parties to keep to a schedule. “Make sure family and friends know what time and where they are supposed to be for photos. Having the subjects there and ready will really save time.”
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THE SECRET TO GOOD PHOTOS
Larry Labrot
Photography by Labrot
Larry Labrot of Photography by Labrot encourages his brides to take it easy on the big day. “For me, there’s one thing that makes for a great wedding and really only one thing that can make a wedding a nightmare. The Bride! A bride who is relaxed and ready to have fun, no matter what little problems come up (and they will!), sets the tone for everyone else to follow. It’s with these brides that I know I’m going to be getting amazing, spontaneous pictures! When everyone around the bride sees how happy and poised she is they will let loose, relax and have a great time. On the other hand, a bride who can be rattled by the small annoyances, which can be part of any beautiful wedding, has an unpleasant effect on all those around her. If your budget will allow, hire a wedding coordinator. A coordinator can help shelter you from problems that arise. Regardless, remember that your wedding is a once and a lifetime event. Enjoy every moment!”
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DE-STRESS BEFORE THE BIG DAY
Karen Heinz and Debra Sullivan
Just Relax and Experience the Art of Massage
Keeping wedding planning stress free is important, says Karen Heinz of Just Relax and Debra Sullivan of Experience the Art of Massage. “Experts estimate that 90% of all disease is stress related, and nothing ages us faster. While eliminating stress altogether is idealistic, regular massage can help you manage it, improving your vitality and state of mind.” The benefits of massage compound when utilized as a frequent therapy, adds Heinz. “Budgeting time and money for massage at consistent intervals is an investment in your health. Just because it feels like pampering doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan and work with your practitioner to establish a schedule that best meets your needs.”
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DON’T FORGET THE FORMAL PHOTOS!
Nicholas Nizich
Nicholas Nizich Photography
“As a photographer living in South Lake Tahoe, I find it surprising that most brides are not interested in taking the time do formal portraits with scenic Lake Tahoe as a backdrop. Everyone is into the ‘photojournalistic’ style,” notes Nicholas Nizich of Nicholas Nizich Photography. “I’ll bet in twenty years they’ll will wish they had taken the time to do a posed portrait. I advise brides to remember to plan fifteen minutes to have that heirloom photo taken on your wedding day....it won’t break your budget.”
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FLOWER POWER
Shannon Cosgrove-Rivas
Flourish Designs
Every bride wants a picture perfect wedding. Shannon Cosgrove-Rivas of Flourish Designs has some ideas to help you achieve that goal. “To get the most of your floral budget, spend your money where there will be photo opportunities. The most important areas for décor are often the most photographed. Personal flowers (like your bouquets and boutonnieres), ceremony flowers, table centerpieces, and the cake flowers will be the most photographed, and therefore the most remembered, décor at your wedding.”
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I DREAM IN COLOR
Gaby & Mimi
Mimi & Co. Luxury Linens and Specialty Chair Covers
Gaby & Mimi of Mimi & Co. Luxury Linens and Specialty Chair Covers offers the following advice to brides struggling with their wedding colors. “Some colors have become wedding staples over the years. So, even if your friend who got married before you used those colors, or the colors you’ve always wanted are not in style any more – don’t worry. Every wedding has its own inspiration. We advise our brides not to let this be a reason to change the colors that they had envisioned for their own wedding. Linen and chair cover companies are excitingly creative. Each color is now available in several different fabrics, hues, textures, and patterns – so you can create whatever unique look you desire. This, along with all the other details that make your love special, is sure to make your wedding a day both you and your guests will remember forever.”
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PETAL PUSHING: GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR FLOWERS
Audrey Chaney
Botanica Floral Designs
If you are planning on making a grand impression with your flowers for your ceremony, consider working them into your reception as well, says Audrey Chaney of Botanica Floral Designs. “Having your floral designer provide vases for you and your bridesmaids’ bouquets allows you to showcase the flowers that you walked down the aisle with, and get the most out of your dollar. I like to accent the head table or cocktail tables around the room with these to add decor. Relocating your arch flowers to the head table or utilizing large arrangements used in the ceremony to frame the entrance of your venue will continue your floral theme throughout your reception as well. Inquire with your floral designer to see if this is a service they can offer you.”
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