Dance The Night Away (in comfortable shoes, of course)

Today's post is courtesy of guest blogger - Christine.  As a male photographer, sometimes it's best to just shut up and take the pictures!!  When it comes to women's shoes, I'm clueless.  So take it away Christine..

Steve thinks the wedding photographer’s job is grueling?  He’s obviously never been a bridesmaid!

 

Brides-to-be, the girlfriends you ask to stand with you on this important day have a special place in your heart  - and they’ll be standing (literally) all day!  When it’s finally time to let loose, let them kick off those gorgeous heels and dance the night away in something more comfortable.

Some brides provide flip-flops, not only for the bridesmaids, but for the female guests, too.  

Personally, I can’t dance in flip-flops so I’d prefer something like Dr. Scholl’s For Her Fast Flats – a pair of light, thin, rollable ballerina slippers, packaged in a gold wristlet bag for about $12.  I saw these at Walgreens - they are so cute and would make great bridesmaid gifts. Available in three sizes but only in black.  Perfect for a club-hopping bachelorette party!  If black won’t do, don’t despair.  Many online sites sell silver, gold, and white flats for a comparable price. Just Google  “rollable flats” to find them.

Show your bridesmaids how much you care.  Give their feet a treat!

Writing Your Own Wedding Vows

As a wedding photographer who has photographed everything from solemn church weddings to candle lit ceremonies in small halls to large outdoor venues, I have heard many different types of wedding vows.

I personally suggest having vows that reflect the type of ceremony you are having.  If you are modeling your wedding after the royal wedding, then write your vows to reflect that.  A rock star wedding on the beach with a trash the dress session scheduled for the next day should adress that unique ceremony as well.

I'm of the belief that having "fun wedding vows" doesn't make you any less elegant, just as traditional vows do not make you any less fun.  These are all just my opinions as I'm just the photographer.  Please consult with your family and your officiator for best practices.

I would like to point you to a few sites and articles that may help you with your wedding vows. For many different styles (along with user ratings), check out My Wedding Vows.

  

For an in depth article, visit The Knot's 20 Tips For Writing Your Own Wedding Vows.

To find some really elegant vows, visit Elegant Vows.  This site has paid and free vows available for you to use.

For a lighthearted gesture of love to your spouse on your wedding day, check out the Wedding Vows Den.

As wedding season approaches (my first assignments are in April), I hope you find this post useful.  I look forward to hearing your vows - rock star or traditional - as I photograph your ceremony this year!!

 

Wedding Venue Spotlight: Dewey Cannon Winery in Three Oaks, MI

My latest clients Janine and Michael just turned me on to a great venue for weddings in Three Oaks Michigan.  The Dewey Cannon Winery looks to be a wonderful location and it's just a short drive from Northwest Indiana.

I plan on visiting the winery as soon as the weather breaks and will report back with some images.  From the Dewey Cannon Winery website....

Our upscale, yet comfortable and romantic winery blends an Old World French Country ambiance surrounded by French oak wine barrels, antique chandeliers, exceptional art, leather club chairs, European wall fountains, 25’ tasting bar and wonderful restaurant.

Included in one of the packages is the use of a vintage Rolls Royce Silver Shadow.  I can't wait to take some wedding photos of the happy couple in this retro classic!! 

Our bride Janine will be getting ready at the winery and the ceremony and reception will be held there as well.  As the wedding photographer, I love these one stop wedding destinations.  I plan on photos in all areas of the winery in downtown Three Oaks, Michigan.  We want the wedding book to have a variety of backgrounds so the couple and family can enjoy their wedding photos for years to come and not be bored with the same backgrounds in every image.

If you are looking for something a bit different and would like a little upscale atmosphere to your wedding reception, check out Dewey Cannon Winery in Three Oaks.  Subscribe to the RSS feed here on the Merrillville Wedding Journal page and look for an update when I visit the winery this Spring.  Of course, look for Janine and Michael's wedding photos in July as well.

Largest Bridal Show in Northwest Indiana

Billed as "the largest bridal show in Northwest Indiana", the event at Wicker Park Social Center on January 30th in Highland, Indiana promises to be extraordinary. I will be there spreading the gospel about Region Weddings and SBV Photography.  I will also be raffling off a complimentary Chicago Sessions Engagement Package!!  So be sure to fill out the contact form and drop it into our raffle box.  The winner will be announced that evening right here on the Merrillville Wedding Photographer Journal.

This event is sponsored by Brides Guide Magazine and will have 100's of vendors along with special discounts, prizes and tastings.

Recap:

  • Bridal Fair on Sunday, January 30th, 2011 from 12pm - 4pm.
  • Located at The Wicker Park Social Center on Ridge Road and Indianapolis Blvd.
  • Tickets $20 from Brides Guide (219) 662-9245
  • Featured raffle: Complimentary Chicago Sessions Engagement Package.

To receive a free copy of Brides Guide Magazine, fill out the contact form and let me know.  I have plenty to pass around.  Hope to see you at the bridal fair!!