Here are a few ideas and details to consider:

1. Number of Guests

When looking for an alternative wedding ceremony layout option, it is always important to keep the number of guests and, therefore, chairs in mind. If you are expecting 200 or more guests, a single chair spiral like the one featured below isn’t a viable option.

2. Location & Sound

A common problem that guests complain about at weddings is being unable to hear the exchange of vows. Believe it or not, guests do want to hear what is said and share the special moments of your ceremony, inability to hear truly dampens the whole experience. So when considering an alternative wedding ceremony layout, consider your environment and check for placements that may decrease the chances of sound carrying. A circular arrangement can help improve sound issues and stand out for their gorgeous look.

3. View

The view is also a major concern for guests, and your photographer. It’s important to be cognizant of the sight line of each guest and especially of how the aisle may or may not limit the ability of your photographer to capture great photos. So make sure that the chairs are placed with great views in various directions. You definitely don’t want a column or a huge flower arrangement to ruin the experience of a guest or limit your chances for amazing photos. For an alternative wedding ceremony layout, the four quadrant formation is great for views from all directions and allows the photographer plenty of space to move around and take photos. Additional bonus, there is less of a chance for guests to be in the background of your photos.

4. Wedding Party Size

When there is a large wedding party to consider, it may be difficult to opt for a more close and intimate chair arrangement without crowding. For a smaller wedding party, almost any alternative wedding ceremony layout is possible, but for a larger group, a semi-circle or traditional formation may be more ideal.

As you see, there are many factors to consider when playing with layout details, but no need to fret we can help you with all your questions and needs. For more inspiration, check out our “Circle Ceremonies” and “Style For Your Aisle” boards on Pinterest.

~Blog contributed via Audra Jones

The post Alternative Wedding Ceremony Layouts: The Scoop appeared first on downtheaisle.

For weeks, the buzz has been all about the new, bold and modern cinemagraphic take on the classic American novel, The Great Gatsby. Since the first whisper of the movie’s production, the wedding world has gone wild with fantastic ideas and inspiration for Gatsby themed wedding décor, and it’s easy to say that we’ve caught a little bit of the Gatsby fever. Gatsby themed style shoots are everywhere and brides across the county are falling in love with the unique headpieces, the slim silhouettes of the gowns, and the all around glamour of a 20s inspired wedding. All the décor and excitement is a breath of fresh air, but today we are swooning over the retro, art deco inspired cakes that this new trend has brought our way.

Gatsby Themed Wedding Decor: The Wedding Cake

Of course, an ultra 20s inspired wedding of flash and pomp may not be for you, but there are so many ways to take elements of this very versatile look and make it completely yours by incorporating modern and unique twists. This is exactly what brides are doing everywhere, but the newest 20s inspired cakes are what really stand out as combining the best of modern techniques and roaring 20s edge.

To see what we mean, check out our top five picks for this week. We guarantee you will not be disappointed with these Gatsby themed wedding decor fabulous cakes.

What’s not to love about this striking art deco cake? The color combination is eye-catching and the unique styling makes it stand out instantly. We love how this cake is glamorous, beautiful, and modern, but with a great 20s flare.

This cake is fun because it doesn’t instantly make you think of Gatsby themed wedding decor, but has elements that speak to the age. The square shape and the geometric pattern are edgy and show that glamour can be subtle.

Vibrant gold palettes are most often associated with the 20s era, but this cake stands out in silver. We can’t get enough of the pearl and diamond details!

This cake speaks the time without over the top flash and details. The great textures and the pop of color show that a cake can be glamorous without sparkle.

Details, details, details in this Gatsby themed wedding decor! We can’t get enough of the fabulous details of this 20s inspired cake. From the peals to the feathers and geometric shapes, this cake embodied the era with great color and character.

For more ways to pull together your Gatsby themed wedding decor, contact us today! We’ll chat solutions free of charge!

~Blog contributed by Audra Jones

The post Gatsby Themed Wedding Decor: The Wedding Cake appeared first on downtheaisle.

The decision whether or not to serve alcohol at your wedding reception can be a difficult decision to make. And once you make up your mind, the more questions that follow: “Are we killing the fun of the reception?” “What kind of drink options should we serve?” “Can we afford a bar?” “What will the guests think?”

His and Hers Wedding Reception Cocktails

Needless to say, making the call to serve alcohol is a tough one, but if you do make the decision to serve drinks at the reception, there are plenty of different options. A personal favorite of ours is to serve his and hers wedding reception cocktails. That’s right, your favorite cocktail and his favorite cocktail. Not only do you get to enjoy your favorite personal drink during the reception, the choice to serve only his and hers wedding reception cocktails can be beneficial in so many ways.

Cut Down On Your Cost

As always, cost is a major factor in any wedding planning decision. Serving alcohol can be very expensive, especially when you offer many options or have a large wedding. Serving his and hers wedding reception cocktails can cut down on the expense by cutting the need for various types of alcohol and ingredients. With personalized cocktails, you can offer two options and cut down on cost without it being blatantly obvious that you wanted to limit the size and scope of the bar. Nobody will notice if it appears to be just a special element of the reception and it will help cut down on those guests that tend to over indulge.

 Show Your Personality

An additional benefit is that his and hers wedding reception cocktails give you another outlet for incorporating your personalities into the event. Guests will love that they can enjoy your favorite drink and learn more about each of you during the reception. Plus, his and her cocktails can allow you to get really creative! From adorable drink stations to delicious and surprising drink combinations, the room for adding creative details to your signature drink is endless.

So get creative, start experimenting, and find your signature cocktail for your wedding reception. There is only fun to be had in the process!  Can’t get your creative juices flowing? We can help! Contact Us for ideas!
~Audra

The post His and Hers Wedding Reception Cocktails appeared first on downtheaisle.

The guests at your wedding are pivotal to your wedding celebration, and they should not leave hungry. Here are some unique wedding foods to serve that will surely wow them, and also keep them satiated.

Pre Ceremony: While They Wait    

We have had weddings where guests have arrived an hour before, while we’re still setting up (eeek!), so they do arrive early! So why not intrigue them with an unexpected beverage or snack why they are waiting? For a Fall or Winter wedding, serve donut holes and warm cider or hot chocolate with Vandermint mint chocolate liqueur. During the Spring and Summer, serve peach-mint fresh iced tea or mango punch with berry skewers. Visit here for some lovely beverage selections to concoct.

Pass The…Unique Wedding Foods

The cocktail hour is time to let loose, as the ceremony is over, you’re newly married and guests are eager to meet and mingle with each other. As the bar gets packed, have staff pass unique wedding foods as hors d’oeuvres. Anything that’s easily edible (not requiring a fork or could drip all over clothes) or on a stick is a sure bet. Seasonal lettuce wraps, sliders or sweet potato crisps.

The Main Course

What are your favorite types of foods? Gourmet “street foods” (tacos and fried clams) and comfort foods (sliders and BLT’s) are fast becoming guests’ favorites. Where do you find yourselves going to most often on dates? Love middle-Eastern foods? Find a dish to serve family style. Love foccacia? Serve it as a station to get guests up and discussing what unique wedding foods you’re offering. Be sure to incorporate you and select foods that reflect your personal tastes—it’s one of the best ways beyond the “prettiness” and décor, to really show your personality.

Beyond The Wedding Cake: Serve The Unexpected Before The Party Ends

Sure, wedding cake is traditional, but it’s also expected. Why not go with a smaller cake, and add unique wedding foods as part of the dessert experience. Offer a build-your-own S’mores station, grab-and take cheesecake pops, serve passed desserts on the dance floor, or have your valet place a treat in their car for a surprise nibble on the road home.

Certainly, you have a budget or other limitations to factor-in, but when it comes to planning your menu, anything that’s common or expected will come across as generic. Be sure to speak to your head chef, caterer, or contact us about ways to show your distinctive style within your budget. Your guests will feel wined and dined, and won’t stop talking about your unique day!

The post Shake Things Up! 4 Unique Ways To Offer Food To Wedding Guests appeared first on downtheaisle.

Working with light-weight linens doesn’t have to be just “tulle”. Using charmeuse, chiffon, and some types of lace, will give detailing in the back without adding bulk. Some have an illusion-back, a light sheer fabric adorned with crystals, beads or pearls that appear to be “floating”. Fluffy, full layered skirts, peplums, lace and organza, and my personal fav include the detailed back wedding dress. Here are some of my fav’s:

Jenny Packham

Jenny Packham always steals my breath and the hearts of many brides. Her vintage-style presents dazzle with glam details, flowing silhouettes, and of course the detailed back wedding dress.

Jenny Packham Mimosa’ | Image by OneWed.com

Jenny Packham Glittery Draped-Back Gown |  Image by Brides.com

Jenny Packham ‘Dentelle’ | Image by OneWed.com

Jenny Packham Spring/ Summer 2013 ‘Rapunzel’ | Image by OneWed.com

Detailed Lace-Back

The intricate lace on this Marina K Couture gown is luxury beyond sophistication, and this stellar gown by AniA Collection is quite a masterpiece. British designer Sassi Holford knows her detailed back wedding dress.

Sheer Lace Back by Marina K Couture | Image by Facebook

Lace-Back by AniA Collection | Image by The Wedding Chicks

Sheer Lace-Back by Demetrios | Image by Pinterest

Sassi Holford gown | Image by Tumblr

Pnina Tornai

This Israeli designer, Pnina Tornai, made a name for herself on the TV show ‘Say Yes To The Dress”. Her gowns are anything but ordinary…quite daring, actually!

Corset-back Pnina Tornai gown | Image by Pinterest

Pnina Tormai | Image by Examiner.com

Pnina Tormai | Image by Examiner.com

Claire Pettibone 

Known for her intimately intricate bohemian-style gowns, American fashion designer Claire Pettibone creates the most whimsical and utterly beautiful sheer lace-back gowns.. To quote her, “a wedding gown has to be the most beautiful dress in a woman’s life, make her look and feel amazing, and capture her essence” (courtesy of Hannelores.com). I know I’d feel like a woodland-nymph bride in one of her couture gowns…just exquisite!

Claire Pettibone ‘Viola’ Fall 2012 | Image by Clairepettibone.com

Claire Pettibone ‘Beauty’ | Image by Guy Toley via Instagram

Claire Pettibone ‘Willow’ | Image by Facebook

Claire Pettibone ‘Devotion’ | Image by Bridalmusings.com

Why not add a little visual interest for guests to stare at while walking down the aisle and taking your vows with a detailed back wedding dress? For more inspiration, visit our “Weddings – Detailed Backs” Pinterest board.

The post My Obsession: The Detailed Back Wedding Dress appeared first on downtheaisle.

What Is A Wedding Hotel Room Block? 

Is It Necessary To Block Hotel Rooms? 
It’s an extra effort, yes, but having rooms planned-out in advance for your guests is one of the most considerate things you can do for guests. If guests are traveling a distance to attend your wedding, they would most likely not make the drive back home afterwards, then a room is a necessary for these guests. Another benefit of the room block, is for those guests who have children and are not bringing the children along to the wedding—the caregiver can stay with them at the hotel. Lastly, guests who want to see you the next day, not want to worry about driving afterwards, or just want an enjoyable evening out with their spouse, will all appreciate and reserve a room from your wedding hotel room block. The other perk, is what’s in it for YOU! Sometimes the hotel will give you a reduced rate for your wedding-night room, a free room upgrade, a even a free room altogether.

How Far In Advance Should I Reserve The Rooms? 
I always tell my couples, the earlier the better (which means that they’d have to have their guest list in order). The further in advance, the better, preferably around the 8-9 month. If the wedding falls on a holiday weekend, you’ll want to give yourself longer, about a year. There are only a limited amount of hotel rooms in an area, so booking early reduces the risk of your guests not having a room available, or worse—paying double or triple for a room.

How Many Rooms Will I Need And What Else Should I Consider?  

There are two important “firsts” to consider: 1) keep in mind who will actually be attending—not just invited—the wedding to figure out who would most likely book a room, and 2) consider if there any large events or happenings in the area that would coincide with the date of your wedding. Aside from the obvious ones who are traveling far or out-of state, consider: Family? Friends who like to “party”? Elderly? Guests with children? Then consider what would make it easiest for these guests as far as the location: Do you want the hotel to be close to the ceremony location, the wedding reception venue, near the airport, or all three? Keep in mind, you could potentially have a wedding hotel room block at more than one location, it doesn’t have to be at one hotel. Lastly, consider the amenities: Would a room with a fridge and microwave be convenient to some, or on-site restaurant/bar or pool? Or freebies such as wi-fi, free continental breakfast, or shuttle service?  From there, you will want to narrow down your search of hotel(s), then hop on Tripadvisor for ratings and comments on what others have to say about their stay at that specific hotel(s). Once you have a couple choices narrowed down, you will need to call the hotel, and ask about making a room block. Each hotel has their required room minimum (usually 10, but sometimes 15), and from there, they will be able to guide you with how many rooms you would need to reserve. Be sure to ask about early check-in, late check-out, and if staff would hand-out/deliver your guest welcome bags.

How Do I Inform Guests About The Reserved Rooms/Room Block?  

There are a few ways to inform your guests about this, you can choose to do one or mix the methods together: you can spread it word of mouth, put it on your save-the-dates, include it on your wedding website, or with your wedding invitation. When mailing your invitation, allow ample time (7-10 weeks) and you can insert separate hotel response cards (asking them to select “Yes” or “No” if they will require a room) to those guests who you think would take advantage of the wedding hotel room block, which would then be mailed back to you.  Sample wording would be this:

For your convenience, we have reserved rooms at [insert name] hotel until [insert cut-off date]. Please make sure you call ahead [insert phone number] of this date to reserve your room, and mention [last name bride-last name groom] wedding [or other group code] when you call. After this date, these rooms will be released to the general public, and the discounted rate will no longer apply.

What Happens With The Rooms That Aren’t Reserved?  

If you have requested a “courtesy” room block with the hotel, then the rooms that are not reserved by the pre-arranged cut-off date, would then be released to the general public. You would not be held responsible to pay for the non-reserved rooms, but the downside to this is those guests who failed to reserve their room would have to search for a room on their own, or  would most likely would pay a higher rate (either elsewhere, or at the same hotel you have the room block at) . A “closed” room block is more structured, requiring a contract which legally-binds the hotel to reserve the rooms you’ve requested, and leaving you responsible to pay the rooms that are not reserved (referred to as the “attrition clause”, in legal terms). The “closed” room block makes the most sense for those having a wedding during a holiday-weekend, when the couple are paying for the guests’ accommodations, or when there are con-curring events or conventions taking place at the hotel or surrounding area—I’ve seen this happen with cheerleading and dance competitions, marathons, and the CT Travelers Championship (former GHO).

Having the assistance of a wedding planner to assist in the wedding hotel room block process will cross one more thing off of your “to do” list. Contact us today – we’ll chat options free of charge!

The post The Wedding Hotel Room Block Process In Six Easy Steps appeared first on downtheaisle.

But in the meantime, I thought this blog post by Lori Fradkin—a bride-to-be herself—of Huff Post Weddings was worth the read. With her straight-from-the-hip lingo (that I have to lay out in a legal ‘terms and conditions’ outline at times) laced with humor, I am in-sync with many of her viewpoints, especially that you do not need a long engagement to pull-off the wedding of your dreams, wedding websites are crucial necessity, not a “just for looks” accessory, and of course, that the couple themselves are the reason for the occasion of a wedding, but it’s the presence of one’s closest friends and family that makes it the experience of a wedding.

Here’s the article.
Enjoy!

The post Passing Along Knowledge: 21 Things I Learned From Attending 21 Weddings appeared first on downtheaisle.

In the past, games were uncommon at weddings. Guests were treated to a fantastic meal and great conversation; time with family or friends and a phenomenal DJ. Their entertainment past that, however, was left to chance.Now,  by providing a variety of games or wedding lawn games at your wedding , you’ll make the day that much more memorable and enjoyable for everyone that attends. It can be difficult to cater to each individual’s entertainment and setting up both well-loved and inventive games will allow even the most stubborn of guests to have a fabulous time. Be sure to mention this on your wedding website or your save-the-dates so guests may wear comfortable clothing, or bring a change of clothing/shoes.

One of the best things about wedding games is that they can be played in a variety of places with a variety of rules and participants. Outdoor wedding lawn games, however, often allow more room for activities and players. Add your own twist to some of our favorite classic outdoor games:

• Hula hoops, soccer, kickball, croquet, horseshoes, tug-o-war, cornhole, badminton
• Giant Jenga-Use larger jenga pieces and an open space
• Twister-Create a bigger board and use different tile pieces such as pictures of the wedding party or the catering menu
• Bowling on the lawn-Find large pins and decorate them with pictures or faces

Now, if you’re aiming for a more closed-in ceremony, there are still many games for you to choose from. Consider games such as:

• Bingo, musical chairs, karaoke
• Video games- You can choose from any video games such as Mario Kart, Guitar Hero, or World of Warcraft. Try to aim for games the whole family can play and enjoy-not the kind that will get your little cousin too attached.
• Rock ‘em Sock ‘em Robots

Planning a wedding is an extremely hectic and stressful process. Obviously, as the host you’re going to worry about your guests’ entertainment. Adding wedding lawn games to the list of events on your special day will allow you to enjoy yourself and the company you keep. So if you’re planning a wedding, don’t leave guest entertainment to chance. Add a simple wedding game or two and watch the memories take shape!

Looking for ways to spice-up your wedding reception with wedding lawn games? We’d love to chat over a cup of joe! Contact us for a complimentary get-acquainted session.

The post Wedding Lawn Games: The Latest and Most Important in the Wedding Trends appeared first on downtheaisle.

Much more than just a “what to pack” list, here are the Top 25 Items That Brides Forget On Their Wedding Day:

1. Marriage Certificate – This one’s important (hence why it tops the list)or else the person legally marrying the two of you, will not be able to officiate the ceremony. It may seem obvious, but I cannot tell you how many times brides forget to bring it, and usually it’s because they’re only thinking of the wedding day itself, and not the day or two before, where they may be staying away from home, and may not have access to it. I always advise my brides to set a reminder in their cell phone at least 2-3 days before the wedding, this way they’ll remember to have it packed in their purse or overnight bag so you can bring it with you to the ceremony rehearsal—some officiants prefer receiving it the day before.

2. The Overnight Bag – Most likely, you and your new hubby will be sharing your first night together as husband and wife in a location that’s not at home…So don’t forget to pack and take an overnight bag. And even if you do plan to return back home after the wedding, it can’t hurt to pack a bag anyways—you never know if you’ll need a change of clothes, or if you’ll be over-partying.

3. Directions From the Ceremony to Reception (if not at the same location) – If you are marrying at a church or other location other than where the reception will be held, it’s so helpful to have directions available (either layed-out in an easily attainable spot or on the back of your program) so guests know where they’re going afterwards. Not everyone has GPS.

4. Something To Put Extra Rings In – Whether it’s due to profession (i.e., manual labor) or by choice, I’ve seen couples choose an “upscale” ring set and a more “traditional” (plain) ring set, and they want both sets blessed by the officiant at the ceremony. If this is the case, be sure that you have a box or cloth bag for each of them and designate someone to hold them for you so they don’t get scratched or lost.

5. Extra Copy Of The Readers’ Verse And Vows – Whether you think your pal or relative who is doing a reading at the ceremony has it with them, or you’ve practiced rehearsing the personal vows you’ve written, always be sure to carry (or bring along to your rehearsal and leave it there) an extra copy of each—you never know when absentmindedness will set in, or if nervous jitters will keep you from forgetting your vows.

6. Assigning Someone To Secure Wedding Gifts And Mementos – Come the end of the reception, all the gifts, cards, and mementos will need to be secured and sent home with someone. If you will be leaving immediately for your honeymoon, also appoint someone to secure your cash gifts and/or deposit them into your account for you.

7. Leaving A Car To Drive Home After The Reception – You and the groom will most likely not be driving yourself to the ceremony/reception, so be sure you thought-out a plan to either leave a vehicle at the reception site, or secure a ride home from someone in advance.

8. The Garment Bag For Your Gown – For some reason, brides forget this one often. If you are not getting dressed “on location” where you will be married, remember to pack the garment bag (and quality hanger) so that you’ll have it available to place the gown into when you undress out of your gown. Also be mindful that a garment bag—especially a plastic one—should be a short-term solution.

9. Changing Engagement Ring To The Other Hand – Moments before you say “I do”, remember to switch your engagement ring to your right hand (or have someone momentarily wear it if it cannot fit on that hand).

10. Putting The Veil Over The Face Prior To The Ceremony – If you are planning to wear your veil over your face for your walk down the aisle, remember to do so (or ask your maid-of-honor to remind you) right before the ceremony starts.

11. Undergarments For The Dress – Remember your final fitting you had and you looked fabulous? You’ll need to pack (or have readily available) your bra, hosiery, shapewear, and crinoline, to ensure your gown fits properly. If your gown has buttons, a crochet hook may be helpful. And don’t forget your garter!

12. Reserved Seating For Family – You’ve thought long and hard about blocking-off a row or two of seating for family or VIP’s, but did you alert anyone of this? Be sure your ushers and those you wish to be seated there are notified of this, or you may wish to consider giving guests “In The Ribbons” cards.

13. Hair Accessories – Be sure that you pack your hair accessories—fresh flowers, headband, headpiece, tiara—or anything else that you want your hair stylist placed in your hair. If you’re doing your own hair, you’ll need these above stated items, but also remember to pack extra safety pins, hair products, hair straightener or curling iron.

14. Extra Pair Of Shoes – Brides forget that their feet will be aching by the end of the night, so give your feet a much needed break by bringing along a pair of comfortable shoes (we like Toms shoes).

15. Details – Ring Pillow, Flower Girl Basket, Cake Knife, Toasting Flutes, Unity Candle, Card Box, Programs – A few weeks before the wedding, you’ll want to have a large box/container available to begin storing your detail items, then be sure to bring it either to your final appointment at your venue, or ask someone to bring it to the venue for you.

16. Paying The Final Payments / Gratuities – If you have payments that are due on the day-of, or would like to offer someone a gratuity, be sure to bring them along in a sealed envelope, ready to easily distribute. This is a great task for the Best Man.

17. Ask Caterer To Pack A To-Go Bag – Chances are, you will be so busy dancing and mingling with guests, that you may not have a moment long enough to enjoy your entrée. Be sure that you caterer/kitchen-staff pack you a to-go bag for you the two of you to enjoy later, or the following day.

18. Scoring” The Shoes – Before wearing your new shoes, you’ll want to “score” them (with a sharp knife, cut horizontal and vertical cuts into the sole and the heel) or scuff them up really good. If there is a newly waxed dance floor—or any marble floors where the you’ll be taking your vows or photos—this will ensure you don’t have a fall.

19. An Emergency Kit – You will definitely want to bring along an emergency bag packed with any last-minute or in a pinch item that brides forget: pain reliever, mini sewing kit, bobby pins and extra hair accessories, toothbrush and floss, tweezers, double-sided tape, extra pantyhose, spot-removing wipes, eye drops, etc.

20. Itinerary & Point Person – Whether you are working with a day-of coordinator or have designated a point person, be sure that an itinerary has been prepared, outlining the days’ events and vendor arrival times (and phone numbers). Not only does this help to keep everyone on time, it also allows your bridal party and family members to know where and when they need to be.

21. Wearing A Button Down Shirt To The Salon – When stepping out to go have your hair and make-up done, be sure you wear a button-down shirt that will easily come off before you step into your gown.

22. Medication – Be sure that you have refilled and picked up any necessary medications that you will be needing on the day-of, and for the duration of the honeymoon.

23. Wedding Gift – If you plan to exchange wedding gifts with your new spouse, make sure it is wrapped and packed with your overnight bag.

24. Giving Your Photographer A List Of Detail Shots To Capture – On this once in a lifetime occasion, you’ll want to consider ahead of time, what pictures you want captured from your photographer. In order that the desired photos are taken, provide your photographer with a “must have” photography shots. If there are certain guests to get, also inform him/her of what table they are to be seated at.

25. The “Obvious” – Someone to feed your pet while you’re out of town, holding the mail, shutting off your water (in the cold months, pipes can freeze), updating your outgoing voice mail message(s), assigning someone to return the tuxes, and asking someone to take your gown to be preserved.

Brides forget that even if one of these items above is forgotten on the day, I always remind them of one thing: at least they didn’t forget the groom! Really—that’s all that’s important!
For more ways we can help you become “less forgetful” for your wedding detailing and planning, contact us to schedule a complimentary get acquainted session.

The post Tips From A Professional Wedding Planner: The Top 25 Things Brides Forget On Their Wedding Day appeared first on downtheaisle.

Michelle Wade

Greetings! I’d like to introduce you to a talented photographer, Michelle of Michelle Wade Photography. Coincidentally, Michelle and I didn’t meet working together at a wedding, we met at the gym Core Studio that we belong to. While we were shaking out butts off in a Zumba class one day (also my “side” job, teaching Zumba on occasion), we started chatting and learned that we both were passionate about weddings and owning our own businesses doing what we love. Michelle was selected as the photographer to take all the photos to display on Core’s newly-updated website, and hence has landed a lot of weddings and boudoir sessions (more on that in a moment!) from fellow gym-mates. Being around ladies who were happy with their wedding photographer—like pal Angela who just got married this past November, and had killer details at her winter wedding—always gets my attention, so I just had to  getting to know Michelle on a professional level and sit and chat with her about what she does…And my goodness, her photos speak for themselves, they are just gorgeous!

Angela and Mike/Aqua Turf

It was so nice chatting together Michelle, and look forward to the day we can work together at a wedding to make our couple’s vision come true!

Q: How did you get started as a Photographer?
A: In 2002 I graduated school yet I really had no idea what my “niche” was in the  going to be but I knew 3 things.. I had a passion for photography (specifically fashion), I love working with people, and by the standards of Hallmark Institute of Photography I was considered a professional. At 19 years old and not knowing which direction I was going to take with my photography career  I was asked to shoot my first wedding! Despite my initial thoughts on what a wedding photographer was (that old guy with the camera taking pictures of  brides groom in cheesy poses with terrible lighting) I decided to take the job and soon learned would be my true forte—my calling.

Bee and Thistle Inn

Q: What Do You Love About Weddings?
A: “I love telling the story of  my couples wedding day from start to finish. As a bride, I know the day flies by, so as a photographer, to be able to “stop time” to capture the moments of their wedding day is an indescribable feeling.  Many of my brides say “I don’t even remember that!” My photography has become a huge part of who I am, it’s my passion,  not just my job. And it’s the only thing I’ve done for work.

Q: What Makes What You Do Unique—How is Michelle Wade Photography Set Apart From Others?
A: What sets me apart is the ability to create the vision that I know the bride has booked me for.

I know what each bride has hired me to do, and I keep my style consistent throughout each wedding. I have the ability to not only tell the story of my clients’ wedding day as it unfolds, but also to direct my subjects to they look their best in a natural way. I  make sure to capture all of the details, for instance, many of my brides will say “I didn’t even know you were setting up my perfume bottle, my earrings, veil” so I enjoy being a “stylist” as well. I try to make the details look like it’s straight out of a catalog. Because I’ve been doing his for a decade, I’m seasoned, I’m not just a “weekend warrior” who freelances on the side. I’ve gone through different phases of technology (film, etc)”. I also love when a bride becomes my friend! I often times remain the “family photographer” and maintain amazing relationships with my clients as their families grow photographing maternity and newborn sessions.

Notice the deer (left) that joined them?

Q:Is There Anything In Particular You Specialize In? 
A: In addition to weddings, I also do Boudoir portraits. It’s an experience on its own—it’s a sexy but classy “Victoria Secret”-style photography. Perfect for a bedside table book gift for your hubby-to-be. Many of my brides do this and give it to their hubby-to-be the night before or morning of the wedding. Depending on the look someone is after, we can do it at the studio, or at your home, using natural light. Not only do you get great images of yourself, but you’ll look AND feel like a model. It’s like a make-over. We serve champagne, strawberries, and we provide professional make-up as well. We’ve done this with all ages and all figures! Real women!

Q: What Brides Are A Good Match For You?
A: I want a bride who wants to be around me. The brides that I’ve worked with have similar interests.  I would say a “Michelle Wade Photography bride” is one that has an understanding for my vision and also my personality, I’m into fashion, modern-day details, and appreciation for high quality imagery, my work reflects all of this.

Q: How Do You Stay Current In The Industry?
A:  One thing I know I never want to be is dated! I try to keep up with the times and continue my photography education with  attending many conferences, seminars and try to stay current with the latest products, albums, and technology/equipment.

I have a great network of many other vendors  in my area within the wedding industry so I’m always reminded on the latest trends in hair make up, colors pallets, designs and of course wedding dresses! I have a boutique style studio in right outside of Hartford in Newington Ct and I photograph between 25-30 weddings per year,  I want my brides to not only have the best quality in photography, but also have an experience they have to tell their friends about!

Michelle (on Right) attends Boudoir Show at Salon Alexander

Q:  How Do You Ensure Photos Are Not Vanished Or Erased?
A: I back-up everything on location, and always have an assistant with me on the day-of the wedding. When there is down-time during the wedding, we download images to a computer to ensure that they’re backed-up. When I get to my studio, I download to additional hard-drives and an off-site separate server so that the photos are protected, even if my studio were to “burn down”, let’s say.

Q: I Know I Feel This Way – Are There Any Questions That You Wish Brides Would Ask You Before Considering Hiring You?
A: Definitely! I wish couples  would inquire on ” how many hours of coverage do you provide?”, ” Do you offer Engagement sessions?”, ” Do you have a 2nd photographer?” and “Do you offer ‘set’ packages?”. Here’s how I would answer:

Engagement Session

I shoot only one wedding a day and I feel a full day is typically 8-10 hours. I highly recommend booking an engagement session, as it’s a great way to establish a relationship with your wedding photographer. Personally, I think having two shooters is better than one, so I always come to a wedding with an assistant, I feel it’s best to have an extra set of hands with my equipment. A 2nd shooter can be added to any wedding collection. As far as packages, I have a set starting cost however I always create custom collections based on my clients needs!

Q: How Do You Recommend Others Getting In Touch With You To Learn More About Your Services?

Check out my BLOG,  via web, Facebook, or shoot me an email, Michelle@michellewadephotography.com. I’m also around to answer any question over the phone! 860 882 8059 don’t be shy, I love meeting new brides!

~Thanks to Michelle of  for being a feature on our Blog! 

The post Vendor In Spotlight: Michelle Wade Photography appeared first on downtheaisle.