One of the most cherished parts of a wedding is the memories preserved in photos and video. Every bride wishes for a picture-perfect day, but not everyone can afford to hire a professional photographer and videographer. If hiring a pro isn’t in your budget, don’t panic! There are several ways to get those once in a lifetime moments preserved on film.
First off, many of your friends and family members probably own digital cameras. It should be relatively easy to find a couple of people who would be willing to take photos for you on your special day. It could be their wedding gift to you! Since most digital cameras can hold a lot of photos at one time, have your photographers take candid shots of both the bride and groom getting ready beforehand. Also include photos of the wedding party, family members and guests arriving for the ceremony. During the actual ceremony, have someone stationed behind the minister facing the bride and groom. They can be off to the side almost hidden where they won’t disrupt the ceremony, but they will be able to get great shots of the bride and groom as well as members of the wedding party. They should also be in a position to get shots of everyone coming down the aisle. Have another camera located in the back with the wedding party before they go down the aisle. This is a great place to get candid shots before the ceremony begins, and once it does, there will be great opportunities for shots of the entire wedding party and guests as the ceremony commences. Make sure that your photographers know to set their cameras for no flash during the actual ceremony, but using a flash during the posed photos afterward should be fine.
At the reception, in addition to your designated photographers, provide a disposable camera at each table. The guests can take turns taking photos, and since everyone has a different way of seeing things, you will get several unique candid shots. You can even order decorated disposable wedding cameras in bulk that match your wedding theme, colors, etc. Some of the most fun photos will come from these cameras when they are put into the hands of your guests!
Now that you have your still shots covered, what about video? Again, everyone has at least one friend who considers themselves a semi-pro videographer. If you ask around, you will most likely find someone with a nice digital video camera that would be willing to gift you with their services or offer them at a nominal fee. Even though most professionals will use a two camera system, a single camera can produce wonderful video memories. Make sure that your videographer has a sturdy tripod to place the camera on when shooting your ceremony. This camera may be placed in the same area as your still photographer behind and to the side of the minister. You will probably need to invest in a good wireless microphone in order to capture all of the words spoken during the ceremony. If the microphone is placed on the minister, it will pick up the voices of the bride and groom as well.
Before and after the ceremony, ask the videographer to shoot hand-held footage of everyone getting ready, having posed photos taken and of course, the reception. Make sure they “interview” your guests and ask them to give you advice or special messages on camera. These moments are often the most amusing and the most touching. You will also want to be sure that all activities such as cutting the cake, the first dance, throwing the bouquet, etc. are all captured on video. Go over all of the requests with all of your photographers and videographers beforehand, and don’t be afraid to ask for what you want.
If the thought of having amateurs handle your photo and video needs makes you uncomfortable, but you can’t afford the services of a professional, consider checking with local community colleges and audio/video clubs. Many times, you will find students who have a vast amount of knowledge who just need practice in the real world in order to become professionals. They may be willing to offer their services at a very low rate while still providing expertise and professionalism.
At your reception, a wonderful way to provide your guests with a great photo memory is with our “Portraits of Love” Glass Frame and Place Card Holders. A photo of the bride and groom can be provided in each frame, or for a more personlized touch, have pre-made photos of your guests to mark their places.
For a more casual and earth friendly idea, consider our “Natural Impressions” Eco-Friendly Photo Albums. If you are having a beach wedding, our “Four Seasons” Glass Photo Coasters Summer Favors would be the perfect compliment and would be useful long after the wedding day.
Just remember, any photos and videos of your wedding will be special and provide you with a lifetime of wonderful memories. Whether you go with camera toting friends and relatives or with a full-blown professional production, relax and enjoy your day knowing that your photo/video needs will be taken care of.
Tags: wedding photography, wedding photography on a budget, wedding videography
What happens when you combine the happiest place on earth with your happiest day on earth? Something truly magical! If you are looking for the perfect wedding/reception/honeymoon spot, look no further that Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. This much beloved vacation destination is also the home of some of the most diverse and exciting wedding locations in the world. There are so many options available that no two weddings at Disney World are alike.
Always wanted to be a princess? Just imagine pulling up to the iconic Cinderella Castle in an exquisite horse-drawn carriage, and walking down the aisle to the sound of a professional string trio while 50 of your closest family and friends look on. It sounds like a fairytale, but thanks to the magic of Disney, it can be a reality. Of course, this scenario will cost you a pretty penny - being a princess isn’t cheap!
If you have a much longer guest list, you can celebrate with up to 300 guests at the Wedding Pavilion in the Seven Seas Lagoon. In this gorgeous non-denominational chapel, you and your guests will have a direct view of the Cinderella Castle as you take your vows. For brides and grooms with an unlimited budget, this is a fairytale come true!
If you are a little more budget conscious, there are numerous locations that provide garden or beach ceremonies. These can be small intimate affairs or larger more elaborate productions. Picture you and your guests walking down a 1940’s inspired boardwalk to a classic garden at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort. For a more whimsical approach, consider having your ceremony on the immaculately manicured Croquet Lawn at the Boardwalk Resort. If the beach is more your style, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort provides a stunning location that incorporates the Cinderella Castle in the view. Or you may prefer a relaxing New England-style ceremony complete with tiki torches, palm trees and the sound of the ocean at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort.
There are also beautiful areas in almost every “country” in Epcot that can host your dream wedding. You can exchange your vows in a quaint German village, an English rose garden, a Japanese pagoda or with a view of the Eiffel Tower in France. These are just a few of the many options available in Epcot.
The wedding experts at Disney have made planning a breeze by offering three basic collections that you can adapt to your own style and budget. These collections are called “Escape”, “Wishes” and “Couture”. One of the nicest things about a Disney wedding is the fact that all of the resources are provided on-site by wedding professionals. Everything is covered including flowers, food & beverages, photography, video, entertainment and transportation. Of course, since everyone has different needs and tastes, all of these areas can be customized for your special day. You can even request a special character guest at your ceremony or reception for an extra fee. Look, there’s a mouse at your table!
Another nice thing about a Disney wedding is the fact that the perfect honeymoon destination is built in. Many couples choose Disney World for their honeymoon, but instead of traveling after the ceremony, you are already there! Newlyweds are also given extra special attention and some surprises at several locations in all of the Disney World parks, resorts and restaurants.
Of course, no magical wedding would be complete without some equally magical wedding favors!
Our “Wish Upon A Star” Bottle Stopper Wedding Favors will be the perfect complement to your fairytale reception. The “Slice Of Style” Stainless Steel High Heel Cake Server is a guaranteed fit for any princess! Or be the “Belle” of the Disney ball with our Frosted Rose Bottle Stoppers.
To complement your garden or beach ceremony, check out our huge selection of appropriately themed favors. From our lovely “White Orchid” Gel Candle Favors to the “Fall For Love” Personalized Wildflower Seed Favors, your garden theme will be beautifully represented. 
For those beach themed ceremonies, check out our whimsical “Castles in the Sand” Sand Castle Tea Light Favors, or delight your guests with our
“Ocean Breeze” Seashell Soap Wedding Favors.
For those who prefer their Disney wedding experience to take place in their favorite Epcot “country”, the list of awesome wedding favors is practically endless and only limited by your imagination.
Our Cherry Blossom Silk Fans Wedding Favors would be the perfect complement to an Asian themed wedding and would provide your guests with a lovely way to keep cool in the Florida heat. For your proper United Kingdom wedding, our TeaTime Heart Tea Infuser Favor in Teatime Gift Box is a bloody good choice!
Whatever your style, may your special day be filled with magic and pixie dust!
Just imagine…..a gentle warm breeze, the sound of waves gently rolling into the shore, a spectacular sunset and the love of your life right next to you in this tropical paradise - oh, and all of your closest friends and family! Beach weddings have become extremely popular over the years, and with good reason. Not only is the setting beautiful and relaxing, it’s economical as well. With the cost of an average traditional wedding somewhere between $20,000 to $30, 000, a beach wedding can save thousands. For the cost of a few tasteful decorations and someone to conduct the ceremony, you can have a picture perfect wedding compliments of mother nature.
One of the greatest things about beach weddings is the fact that you can have your ceremony, reception and honeymoon all in the same location. Your guests will feel like they are on vacation, and everyone tends to be much more relaxed in a beach environment. Of course, you can be as extravagant as you like with a beach wedding, so there are endless possibilities available.
One important thing to remember is to have an alternate plan in case of inclement weather. Most upscale condos and hotels have ballrooms or clubhouses that can be reserved in case of rain. Keep in mind that many tropical locations tend to have afternoon showers and thunderstorms, so plan your wedding time accordingly. Also, plan ahead for things such as tides, wind and insects. Some beaches may require a permit, so make sure to check with your location far in advance. If you are getting married during the day, sunscreen is a must! If you plan your beach wedding through a condo or hotel, they can usually handle these things for you or give you any information you need.
With the ceremony itself covered, it’s time to move on to the reception. This is where it gets really fun! If you prefer to have your reception outdoors, you have the advantage of breathtaking views, unlimited space and a built in area for kids to play. You can go native with tiki torches, a steel drum band and open bar, or have a high class affair with outdoor lighting, fancy hors d’oeuvres and a string quartet. Anything goes at your beach party - be creative and have fun with planning to suit your personality and taste.
Another great thing about beach weddings is the endless number of clever and fun decorations and favors available. Go “green” with Starfish Plantable Seed Place Cards and Bamboo Server Set Favors, or delight your guests with whimsical Flip Flop Photo Frame Favors or Dolphin Bottle Openers.
You can also go nautical with Stylish Sailboat Tealight Wedding Favors and Sailboat Wine Bottle Stoppers . You can find all of these and more at Creative Wedding Favors.
Whatever your budget or taste, a beach wedding is a wonderful option for brides and grooms to be. The possibilities are endless. Just let your imagination run wild, and enjoy your special tropical day!
Tags: beach wedding, destination wedding
As a part of today’s wedding ceremony, traditional vows are often supplemented or even replaced with personal vows written by the bride and groom. The expression of what’s in a bride or groom’s heart comes easy for some, but for others, finding just the right words is like trying to wedge a bowling ball into a teacup. It’s seems to be an impossible task.
But there are ways to overcome that difficulty even for the most unimaginative. How? Let history help.
So many beautiful poems, songs and declarations of love have been written throughout history, and a bit of searching is almost certain to produce words that convey the very soul of what you wish to say. It is no less personal and no less special to search for already penned thoughts than it is to write those thoughts yourself. To hold it against someone for not writing a beautiful thought is to blame him or her for being the person he or she truly is. Some people simply can’t express themselves in the way they wish they could, but the love in their hearts is just as deep as it is for those who write with passionate flair.
As your wedding approaches and you begin to write those vows that are you and you alone, don’t feel hurt if your partner chooses a different path. For who is more in love – the one who writes beautiful, heartfelt vows in a matter of moments or the one who spends days searching for just the right combination of words that says everything he or she wishes to say? The truth is that neither is more in love than the other. Each is simply following his or her own unique path to the same end.
Personal wedding vows should be one thing—from the heart. But that doesn’t mean they have to be original. Whether it’s Shakespeare or Elvis who helps, those wedding vows will always be yours, forever.
Tags: wedding vows
Brides and grooms carry a lot more to the altar than just the bridal bouquet or the wedding rings. They take memories, hopes, dreams and wishes. And what better place for those emotionally charged sentiments to thrive than at the site of a new beginning?
There is so much to think about during the “I Do’s” that much can be forgotten. But brides and grooms don’t want to forget all that is in their hearts and minds.
When people are emotionally in trouble, one proven therapy method calls for writing down bad experiences and ceremonially burying, flushing or burning the writings as a way of banishing the bad feelings associated with them. It is very cathartic and allows a person to move on from a disagreeable experience in his or her life. But the same can be just as true in reverse. Wonderful feelings can be nurtured by writing them down.
Before your wedding day, write down everything that matters to you—the dreams you have for your future as a couple, a message to the children you will someday have, a remembrance of a lost loved one, or the fantasy wish you’ve always held closest to your heart. Then tuck this personal life blueprint into a secret pocket and carry it with you throughout your wedding day.
Every wedding gown and every suit or tuxedo has room for a tiny pocket that can hold your wishes and desires. But instead of banishing bad experiences, you will be giving future wonderful experiences the wings to fly. Holding your dreams close on such a pivotal moment in your life makes them real.
So go ahead. Have that small pocket discreetly sewn into the hem, the bodice, the waist or the lining of the gown. Have one tuxedo pocket selected to be “the one.” Then fill those secret pockets with whatever matters most. No one will know they are there but you. And that’s all that counts.
Tags: Personalize Your Wedding, Unique Wedding Ideas, wedding day preparation
Creative Wedding Favors is offering a brand new way to save even more money on your favorite wedding favors and party favors with our new “Deal of the Day” sale! Every day we will spotlight a fun, festive favor at an unbeatable , discounted price for a twenty-four hour period. Chosen for its functionality, price, and quality, the Deal of the Day favor will be on sale for just that day, so you will need to act fast to take advantage of the amazing savings.
Our first Deal of the Day Favor is the “Fleur de Lis” Elegant Chrome Bottle Stopper Wedding Favors. Save 15% on this favor by entering the coupon code DEAL during checkout. The coupon code will expire tonight at midnight. Every day a different wedding favor will be on sale, so be sure to check back often. Each day you will be able to find the new Deal of the Day favor on our home page - Creative Wedding Favors.
Tags: cheap wedding favors, Deal of the Day, discounted wedding favors, wedding favors on sale
Let’s face it. Your man could care less about what boutonniere you slap on his wedding suit lapel. He won’t have an opinion about color or shape or size. The same is probably true about his tie, his socks, and even his underwear. Expecting your groom to give a fig about such details will set you up for disappointment. That’s why you need to give your groom’s flowers and his other guy adornments some dedicated attention.
More and more brides are discovering that black or white ties are not the only option to turn a groom into a striking figure at the altar. Ties of color and those with elegant patterns can transform the groom and groomsmen from living replicas of cake top figurines into centerfold model material. In spite of common perception, the wedding is not all about the bride’s appearance, and it’s perfectly okay for the groom to demand a little attention of his own.
Contemplating how different ties can completely alter the appearance of a suit or tuxedo is a good place to start. There are a world of fashionable expressions out there, and no doubt one of them fits your groom to a “T.”
After the attire is finalized it’s time to choose the flowers. Bearing in mind that men like things bold, try not to subject him to only a scrawny sprig of violets and a fluff of baby’s breath. Give him a boutonniere that matches his personality. Surely there is one flower in your blooming arsenal that will stand out and suit both you and your groom. The boutonniere should absolutely sing along side the tie you’ve chosen. Complementing the tie with the flower can create something jaw-dropping, and your groom will appreciate the looks of approval from you and your guests.
Man flowers and ties deserve more consideration than they usually receive, and paying attention can surely add an unexpected stroke of delight to your wedding day.
Be sure to take a look at some of our Fall Wedding Favors and our most Unique Wedding and Shower Favors
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Tags: Fall Wedding Favors, groom's flowers, groom's tux, Unique Wedding Favors
Weddings are by nature occasions of beauty. Breathtaking gowns, glamorous make-up, intricate, frothy cakes and spectacular decorations all contribute to the sheer loveliness of the wedding day. Each component does its part to set a memorable scene for the wedding couple’s most important event, but there is one endeavor that transcends the ordinary and transforms the day into living art – the celebration of a floral theme.
It’s impossible to think of flowers without thinking “pretty”. There is no such thing as an ugly flower. One may please you more than another, but all flowers tickle the senses and evoke emotion. Choosing a favorite flower theme to weave throughout the wedding day results in a stunning visual masterpiece.
One of the most radiant presentations comes from the gentle cherry blossom. A perfect bloom that represents the circle of life and stands for heart and prosperity, the cherry blossom lends its magnificence to your wedding day in a way that will make your guests feel as if they’ve just walked into a fairytale. Fresh or silk cherry blossom decorations, elegant cherry blossom favors and frosted cherry blossoms blooming upon a tiered cake create a magical vision from which you’ll never want to look away.
Whether it’s cherry blossoms, tulips, roses or any other flower that speaks to you, adorning your ceremony and reception with a garden of blooms will insure a wedding day you will never forget. Keepsake favors and photos will bless the flowers with eternal life, and each time you look upon the mementos, you’ll find yourself so immersed in the memories that you’ll swear you can still smell their scent.
An inspired floral theme provides more than just great decorations and great favors. It turns a joyful wedding day into a portrait of living beauty.
A wonderful way to celebrate your floral theme is to give your guests beautiful garden and flower wedding favors. Cherry blossom coaster wedding favors are beautiful and useful for anyone’s home. A rose themed wedding might include our rose ball candle favors which your guests will love to light to remember your day. Daisy seeds cards favors are a special daisy themed favor your friends and family can plant and remember you when they walk by. Find wedding favors for any theme you choose at Creative Wedding Favors!
Tags: cherry blossom favors, daisy favors, flower themed wedding, flower wedding favors, garden themed wedding, rose wedding favors
Could there be any more glorious sound than that which is produced by water in motion? There’s just something extraordinarily soothing about the sound of the sea lapping the shore, the rain tickling a tin roof or a waterfall splashing into the serene pool beneath it. Why not bring that moving and beautiful ambiance to your wedding reception?
Water fountains come in many styles and sizes and offer a world of decorating possibilities. From large floor models to tabletop varieties, water fountains can transform your reception into a truly magical experience. You may select floor fountains that feature a whimsical Cupid, a majestic tree filled with lovebirds, a Romanesque maiden tipping an earthen jug or even dancing waters. Or the perfect choice may be tabletop fountains with bamboo, clasping hands, candles, a cross or even an enchanted forest.
Depending upon your budget, you can rent a single floor fountain to welcome your guests to the reception with the sound of nature’s elegance, or you may use two fountains to bookend the head table or four to ring the dance floor. For smaller touches, use tabletop fountains on the guest book, gift or cake table. Or choose battery-operated fountains, accented with a floral or greenery wreath at the base, for guest tables. You can use just one or two fountains or employ a whole room full. That’s the beauty of these wonderful additions. There can never be too many or too few.
Water means life. What better symbolic accent for your wedding reception than one that represents life itself? Flowing water adds a lovely and unique element that cannot be experienced any other way, and a wedding reception graced with the gentle gurgle of water trickling over polished stones or carved statuary is a wedding reception that will never be forgotten.
Have fun shopping for wedding favors at www.creativeweddingfavors.com. You will find the best selection of wedding favors and bridal shower favors anywhere. It will be hard to choose just one!
Tags: Wedding Planning, Wedding Reception Ideas, Wedding Water Fountains
Having blistered or sore feet on your wedding day is like icing a cake with garlic. It just takes the joy right out of the treat. The trick is to break in those wedding day shoes without making them look worn. Wear a very thin pair of socks, not hose, to prep your shoes for the big day. Slip your covered feet into your shoes then grab a pair of slipper socks, the kind with non-skid bottoms, and pull those on over your shoes. Now you can safely walk around for a few hours at a time without worrying that your special shoes are going to get scuffed or stained. Even the soles will stay pristine. Happy feet are every bride’s wedding day friend!
We are adding new wedding favors to Creative Wedding Favors everyday! If you are looking for unique and stylish wedding favors, be sure to visit to www.CreativeWeddingFavors.com. We would love to help you plan your perfect wedding day.
Tags: wedding day preparation