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Sarah & Brad’s Wedding at Lauritzen Gardens

Posted on February 2, 2012 by taylor

Sarah and Brad’s wedding at Lauritzen Gardens fit the concept of a “winter wonderland” wedding to a tee…it was even set on a day when the sky was filled with snowflakes! A forest of poinsettias and Christmas lights surround a miniature village of intricately designed buildings commonly seen around Omaha. A fun, active train weaves over bridges and in between plants, although, make sure to ask the event director to turn it off before the ceremony, otherwise it can prove to be a bit of a distraction.

The groom’s getting-ready-suite was lined with rich mahogany color walls, tables, and sturdy chairs. The bride’s room was less than spacious allowing room for only three to four people to occupy it comfortably. With a grand fireplace in a clearing of abundant plants serving as the vow exchange backdrop, it feels almost as magical as if the wedding were taking place in an actual forest (sans the brisk Nebraska wind). There are plenty of angles for wide and close up shots for videographers/photographers; however, photos in public areas are strictly prohibited before 5pm. That might make a difference in planning your ceremony to allow time for photos of the dress, for instance, in some of the prettiest parts of the gardens.

Walls fitted with double doors line the perimeter of the reception hall. Bartenders ready and willing to pour you a drink, friendly staff, and delightful food compliment the seasonal theme. Tables garnished with led lit trees dangle like chandeliers, playing off the poinsettia bouquets dusted with a shimmer that would make mother-nature proud. The shallow stage and grand dance floor provides an intimate setting for the string quartet that Sarah and Brad had arranged to perform. Lighting was prime, so the first dance photos and videos will turn out crisp. Guest’s tables surrounded the wedding party table (which was placed perpendicular to the stage), but the abundant center pieces can make it difficult for videographers to get a clear shot during the toasts.

Over all, Lauritzen Gardens is an enchanting venue to host your wedding and reception. Make your guests (and yourself) feel caught in a cinematic winter forest with the luxury of a controlled climate.

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Valoree & Aaron’s Wedding at St. Patrick’s in Gretna, NE

Posted on February 2, 2012 by taylor

Valoree and Aaron’s ceremony at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Gretna, NE was
breathtaking. Tall, solid wood doors greeted friends and family to the sky scraping ceilings composing the main chapel. Stained glass windows painted masterpieces on the marbled floors and solid wood beams stretched from floor to ceiling. Rustic, yet refined, this church was traditional with a contemporary design twist.

An enchanting terrace provided a magical scene for Val and Aaron’s first meeting. The snowy staircase surrounded with pine and other seasonal plants enveloped the couple to hold in the romantic moment and seemingly freeze time (allotting plenty of opportunities for photographers/videographers to catch the pre-ceremonial event).

The reception was held at the Embassy Suites in LaVista . A dining hall fit for royalty implemented enough space for invitees to mingle, dine, and view the newly pronounced husband and wife. The wedding party tables were on a raised two tier stage which made it easy for viewing during toasts. The amiable staff wasn’t afraid to strike up a conversation…or refill your drink.

In conclusion, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church is a wonderful place to hold your wedding while honoring your faith and tradition. The up to date sound system will ensure that everyone hears you say “I do” and the Embassy Suites will ensure a happy guest along with a pleased bride and groom.

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Three unique reception ideas to entertain your guests

Posted on January 18, 2012 by taylor

Your ceremony was a hit and your reception is promising, but what are guests to do with all the in between time from the two events? While you’re busy taking pictures, guests will be waiting at the venue and cocktail drinks can only go so far. Lucky for you, we did a little bit of research to help you out. Here are a few ideas to spark your creative imagination:

1. Live Singers/Dancers- An a cappella group or singing waiters during cocktail hour will turn on the charm. There has been a dramatic increase in the usage of live entertainment such as stringed quartets. Hire a group of dancers; choose from belly dancers to Irish jig or salsa dancers who’ll perform before you arrive. Bring in some different music for an hour or so, perhaps a steel drum band, a barbershop quartet, or a mariachi band.

2. Magician- We’re not talking stuffed animals out of a hat here. Card tricks and illusions will create an outstanding atmosphere. Wedding magicians know that the long wait between ceremony and reception can be excruciatingly awkward, so they are there to ease the pain in a fun, yet still adult, process. Bringing people together and creating a light atmosphere…that’s the definition of a reception and a good magician will achieve that. Omaha-based magician Ryan Thomas has frequently performed here in Nebraska as well as Oregon and Southern California. He provides light hearted entertainment to wedding receptions, as well as other functions, in the form of close-up card magic.

3. Watercolor Artist- There are actually wedding watercolor artists who will draw in pastels, or paint in watercolors, the reception as it unfolds. This can be a great gift for the bride and groom, but it’s also some quiet entertainment for guests and especially good for weddings set in great scenery, creating a collage of events like guests dancing outdoors on the sand and the best man’s toast by the water at a beach side bash.

As your guests get comfortable for the evening, any of these functions will be an entertaining way to help keep order. Everyone will be talking about your wedding for a long time and you will have done something different and memorable. Choose wisely, have a great time and congratulations!

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Maiyia & Tung’s wedding in Sioux City, Iowa

Posted on January 12, 2012 by mike

We had a splendid day with Miayia and Tung in Sioux City, Iowa. We began at Saigon Hair, where we filmed Maiyia’s getting-ready coverage. Then, we moved over to Tung’s parents’ house, where we watched him and his wedding party assemble. The ceremony itself was a traditional Vietnamese affair, involving the groom first visiting the bride’s home in a processional to ask for her hand and offer gifts to her family, and then the entire party subsequently moving to the groom’s home to celebrate.

This was followed by an afternoon at Grand View Park, which, if you’re near Sioux City, is a lovely place to have your pictures taken! The rose garden is very green and beautiful in the summertime, with a scenic fountain and Greek pillars for a backdrop. There is also a white amphitheater where we found more great photo/video opportunities.

The reception was held that evening at the Martin Ballroom, a venue in downtown Sioux City. The Martin Ballroom is historic, and was originally part of a hotel (The Martin Hotel) built in 1913. The room itself is a cream color, with ornate white trim and high ceilings, and it looked very elegant with Maiyia and Tung’s black and white wedding colors. A delicious family-style meal was served, and a small, elevated stage offered a space for the first dance, as well as a karaoke stage. This was cute at Maiyia and Tung’s reception, but it may not be the right choice for every couple, especially one that would like a lot of people to join them during or after the first dance. Guests must also walk up a long flight of stairs to enter the hall, but a charming foyer greets them at the top—useful for additional photos, gift placement, and other displays.

We were told that occasionally those in the apartments above and below will complain about noise levels, which is definitely a negative for a couple that wants late-night dancing. While a moderate echo and slightly harsh ceiling lights distracted from the warmth of the room, some adjustments are probably possible to make the lighting more intimate. The ballroom seems like a good option for a couple that appreciates functionality, since there is plenty of space, enough to accommodate many guests and arrange a larger dance floor if so desired. For more information, go to www. martinballroom.com.

Overall, the day was pleasant and memorable, and we’d recommend brides in the Sioux City area check out both of these locations. Congratulations Maiyia and Tung!

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Wedding DVD’s all have unique designs!

Posted on January 9, 2012 by mark

Every wedding is special, so it’s only right that your DVD’s are special too!

Because of our dedication to provide personal wedding videography, we uniquely emblazon each couple’s DVD with a photo from your wedding day. Instead of trying to arrange a photo from a photographer, which would slow down our process and make it take longer to get your DVD’s back, we design something based on our own footage from your special day. Because we shoot everything in HD, it allows us to get a great, print-quality image to use on the outside of your DVD and for your DVD and Blu-ray menu.

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Rachel & Jim’s wedding at St. John’s Church

Posted on December 23, 2011 by mark

Rachel and Jim’s wedding ceremony at St. John’s Church was nothing short of breath-taking. Nestled within Creighton’s campus on 25th & California Street, the church provided an awe inspiring setting. This city landmark has been standing since the late 1800’s and each stone, inside and out, seems to tell a story of the years it has seen

Walking up to St. John’s, you are greeted by a grand staircase with the front of the castle-like building towering high above it. The vibrant flora provides a nice contrast against the pale stone walls, which is always eye catching in photos and video. Staying true to its English Gothic style, an east steeple mirrors the west one garnished with a clock and cross. Two large wooden doors give way to a small foyer perfect for making last preparations before entering through the main double doors of the chapel.

Providing that the church is over 180 feet long in total, the walk down the aisle allowed every guest (and videographer) to catch a glimpse of the beautiful bride. Intricate stained-glass makes each window its own interpretation from various biblical stories. Tall pillars support the detailed painted ceiling which provides acoustics fit to carry the vows throughout the room. They also provide a discrete way for photographers to get up close while staying out of the guest’s view.

Over all, St John’s is a beautiful church to have your ceremony if you desire a traditional chapel feel with an intricately elegant twist.

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Lauren and Kelson’s wedding and reception at Happy Hollow Club

Posted on November 15, 2011 by mark

We had an absolutely charming time filming Lauren and Kelson’s wedding at the Happy Hollow Club, and we felt that the venue and experience added an extra special glow to the evening.

Walking up to Happy Hollow Club, one can’t help but notice the exquisite elegance of the grounds and landscaping. The clubhouse, which opened its doors in 1925, has a beautiful ‘Santa Fe’ feel and a red tile roof, and is garnished with a charming footpath and flower garden out front, which on a clear day proved to be a great element for a video timelapse. The surrounding golf course is also a great backdrop for photography, with trees and a lake, stone retaining walls, and a prim green lawn.

The interior of the clubhouse is elegant in its construction and decor, with vaulted ceilings and richly furnished carpet, upholstery, and finishing, much like you might imagine in a mansion. As we were doing getting-ready coverage, we noticed that the boys had a lavish locker room changing area and gentlemen’s club for lounging (sorry ladies–no girls allowed). This might make it difficult for some female photographers or videographers. While the girls did not have a club and a locker room, their changing area was still comfortable and spacious, with plush couches. The wedding assembly area for Lauren and Kelson was cozy, nestled on a side of the building with giant windows facing out across the golf course. They were married beneath a white lattice covered in flowers, and the ceremony was followed by hors d’oeuvres and drinks in the foyer served by a courteous and well-dressed staff.

The reception was in the adjoining hall, with striking bouquets of flowers in silver vases, candles, fireplaces lining the walls, and a spacious dance floor with a stage. The lighting was subdued, but sufficient and comfortable. Lauren and Kelson’s wedding was accompanied by a live band and a DJ, and the ambiance and layout of the hall provided an extra kick to an already joyful celebration.

Overall, we would recommend Happy Hollow to any couple who wants excellent service from a caring staff, lush accommodations, and a delightful and magical venue to combine their ceremony and reception. It left us with a feeling of lavish splendor that is hard to find in a venue, and we think it’ll leave you feeling the same way.

Find out more at: http://www.happyhollowclub.com/

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Jamie and Tyler’s wedding at Wilderness Ridge

Posted on October 26, 2011 by mark

We had a great time at Jamie and Tyler’s wedding. They had both their ceremony and reception at Wilderness Ridge golf course in Lincoln. Their Wedding Island is truly a unique place to have a wedding ceremony. It’s technically more of a peninsula but I’m going to go ahead and agree that “Wedding Island” is a much better name. While it’s a bit of a walk from the parking, the golf course provided carts that the usher’s used to transport elderly family members and friends to their seating. We also made use of one to bring our gear back and forth a few times, as otherwise we might have missed some between the ceremony and reception moments because of the distance.

The choice of a stringed quartet for the music of the ceremony made it feel like we were somewhere far, far away, and the weather could not have been more beautiful.

The The Lodge reception venue at the Wilderness Ridge clubhouse felt like a rustic getaway in the mountains. There is a giant chandelier hanging from the high open ceiling made out of antlers and the brown wood just made it feel like home even though it’s a large venue. Most importantly, it was clear everyone had a fun time.

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Wedding and reception at A View in Fontenelle

Posted on July 21, 2011 by mark

We were honored to be guests (and videographers!) at Tony and Lisa’s wedding at A View in Fontenelle Hills in June.

A View in Fontenelle Hills delivers, as its name suggests, a truly majestic vista above Fontenelle Hills golf course—so much so that you feel as if you could leap out onto the green. With a charming rustic exterior and a modern interior, A View in Fontenelle Hills offers a nice mix of serene and festive that is certain to leave guests enchanted.

When you have your wedding at A View, you get to choose between two colorful light choices for ambient lighting, which look lovely when they’re in the background of a shot and out of focus, such as during dances or other reception events. Also, the large window faces to the northeast, which means the sun doesn’t shine directly in. It provides soft light which is ideal for photo or video. Because of the large outdoor veranda and attached reception hall, A View is great for outdoor weddings with the reception in the same venue. The reception hall is semi-separated from the head table and dance floor, in that the hall is built in a U-shape, but this is creatively remedied by the use of video cameras and large LCD TV’s to display what is happening on the opposite side of the hall.

Make sure to give your wedding guests good directions, though, it can be tricky to find since the most common route takes travelers a mile through residential streets to find it.

Overall it’s a fantastic place to have your wedding, and one of the highest rated in the Omaha metro area.

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Love story shoot with Grace and Klint

Posted on July 17, 2011 by mark

Grace and Klint played this love story video at their wedding reception last night at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Omaha. It was so much fun to get to watch with everyone, I’ve never heard such a roar of laughter from wedding guests! It felt good to be able to create something that provided so much entertainment.

It takes three hours or less to shoot a love story. The first hour is interviews. We take about half an hour with the bride and half an hour with the groom. You can tell the stories sitting together if you prefer, but a lot of times there are better editing opportunities when we film the bride and groom separately so you don’t hear what the other said.

The interviewer draws out stories with questions and everything is highly edited so there’s no pressure about “messing up.” In fact, it all goes best when nothing is memorized and everything is off the cuff (although a little prep and reminiscing is beneficial!). We send the questions beforehand so there aren’t really any surprises.

The next two hours are filled with creative shots in various poses and situations. Some of these are candid and others are completely staged, but in the end it all looks natural. These clips are edited, stylized, and used as the intro, transitions, and outro for the video. We layer your favorite love songs over them to grab your wedding guests attention and just make the video feel fully connected and complete.

The location to shoot a love story varies a lot. We recommend choosing a place that has some kind of meaning or fits into one of your stories somehow. For instance, with Grace and Klint we filmed at the house they were building to move into when they got married. It was partially finished, so that made for pretty cool backgrounds. It also has significance because it’s where Klint proposed to Grace, and you can even see Grace point to the very spot he got down on his knees!

We know it will be a fun memento to look back on after they are married for many years, remembering when they were still working so hard to build their home, and also the great stories about their first date, first kiss, and proposal.

We find that love stories are always a big hit at receptions and make for amazing, long-lasting memories. Subscribe to our Youtube channel to see when we post new ones!

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