Something Blue Collective

I Took the Cheap Photographer Route..

2010-04-22T16:39:00.000-04:00

Today I was perusing the "Every Last Detail" blog that provides inspiration, ideas and insight for brides and came upon a great article written by a past bride and her experience with her wedding photographer. Lauren gave some great advice what to consider when choosing your wedding photographer and I had to pass it along to all of you.

I Took The Cheap Photographer Route…

Hi, my name is Lauren, and I took the cheap photographer route. And I’m here to prevent you from doing the same!

Last week there was a blog post going around Twitter that caused quite a bit of hoopla among photographers and wedding professionals. If you haven’t seen it, in a nutshell, a new bride wrote a post on her personal blog regarding her search for a photographer and the cost associated with photography. Right now, there are over 100 comments on the post. I’m sure she wasn’t expecting such a response, but nonetheless, I highly recommend reading some of the responses. It’s incredibly educational, and says just about everything that I always try to say about photography.

An example of a GOOD photo, by Studio 222 Photography

One of the reasons why I’m always talking about the importance of quality photography is because I made a mistake that I hope to prevent other brides from making. I took the cheap photographer route. I attribute this to the fact that when I was planning my wedding, I had no clue. The only resources I used were The Knot and Brides.com, because that’s all I knew about. However, when using their budget recommendations (which was all I had to go off of), their recommended photography percentage was way below what I was realistically seeing for photographer pricing. I didn’t have anyone to tell me what the “norm” pricing was for a good photographer. I was counting on those resources to help me, and they didn’t. So, while we wait for these resources to catch up to 2010, this is my warning!

I’m in no way a photographer, but I want to pass along some tidbits that I wish I had known as a bride. One of the first things that I tell new brides is the normal cost for decent photography, because I myself had no idea. Here in Florida, photography packages usually start at $2000, and that’s that bare minimum. It varies everywhere, and of course it also varies with the photographers and their experience. Keep in mind that photographers are not just taking photos of you on your wedding day. They also have to edit the photos (which can take up to 30 hours), design the album, answer your emails and phone calls, and carry out all of the other administrative duties that owning a business entails. (There is so much more, but I’ll leave that to the photographers to explain!) Most of all, bottom line: you get what you pay for. It really can’t be said any differently.

And another example of a GOOD photo, by Ashley Brockinton Photography

Needless to say, I’m still pretty heartbroken about my lack of knowledge when I chose my photographer. I wish I had known about so many things when I was planning my wedding. Now that I look at amazing work from photographers every day, I know that my photos could have been so much better. But you live and you learn, right? There’s always our vow renewals to make up for it!

[Disclaimer: Don't get me wrong when I say "cheap photographer". I paid more than what would normally be considered "cheap". But when you consider what was included in the price (my 12 hour wedding day, engagement session, bridal session, album and prints), and then when you see the pretty much unedited images, then yes, it was indeed cheap.]

If you have any questions about choosing your photographer, please ask! I don’t want anyone else to feel the way that I do, and this is one of the many reasons why I write this blog and why I entered the wedding industry. I want to help everyone have the absolute best wedding possible!

Lauren

Here are a few examples from our Something Blue Collective Photographers who would be a great choice for your wedding:

Amy Shepherd Photography

Deanna Kaye Photography

Lighting His World Photography

Kriech-Higdon Photogarphy

Robert Burge Photography

Todd Nichols Photography

SBC Interview with Tera and Lauren from the Couture Closet

2010-04-13T19:22:00.004-04:00

Something Blue Collective is excited to bring to you a recent interview with the fabulous ladies Tera and Lauren that own the Couture Closet. The Couture Closet is a bridal boutique located just outside of Louisville in LaGrange, KY. After reading the interview please watch their SBC video were they give great tips and advice on how to choose the perfect dress for your special day.

SBC: What inspired you two to open a bridal boutique?

We met in college at Sullivan University while we were working on a Degree in Event Management. One of the classes we took included a week long trip to Mexico to see how a resort is run. One night at dinner in Mexico a bunch of us were talking about where we wanted to be after graduation. The two of pretty much had the same dream of being a Wedding Coordinator. Nearly a year after graduation there were some phone falls made, meetings, ideas, research, and then after thinking long and hard, we realized that both of us loved special events but we had backgrounds in retail. It just seemed natural that we would open a bridal boutique.

We are very fortunate to have found each other the way we did because we both have the same passion about customer service (which is definitely hard to find now a days). It took us nearly a year and half to get everything together before we opened our doors. Our mission is to provide an experience to the bride and her family that she won’t soon forget in an environment that is cozy and charming! Offering designers that are committed to quality workmanship and giving our brides that uniqueness that they are looking for on their wedding day.

We chose our La Grange location for a couple reasons. First being that we wanted our boutique to be a memorable experience, so we chose this quaint little town that actually has a train that comes down the middle of the street!! There are great shops, tasty cafes, and just a relaxing atmosphere for a fun memorable day of shopping. The second reason is we wanted stop to tiresome trek to Cincinnati that a lot of brides tend to make to look for their wedding gown. Here you will get service that is unparalleled to that of Cincinnati as well as the same designers at the same price (minus the gas money).

SBC: Tera your wedding is approaching, without giving away too many details of your dress, what designer did you choose?

Tera: I chose an Augusta Jones dress. We were at the New York Bridal Market in October 2009 and I watched it go down the runway and I looked at Lauren and Brooke (our intern at the time) and said “I think that is my dress!” Sure enough they let me try it on after the show and I loved it from what I could see….but there was no mirrors. Augusta Jones sent it in to me over Thanksgiving to try it on, and the rest is history!

SBC: Lauren, can you describe the dress you chose for your wedding?

Lauren: Oh my, I chose a beautiful ivory silk brocade gown that had a mocha colored charmeuse band at the waist that tied like a Kimono in the back. The dress had a low back and a sweetheart neckline and love it just as much now as I did 3 years ago!!

SBC: What are the current trends in wedding dress design?

Lately our designers have been designing simpler dresses with one aspect that stands out or has a twist! Whether it is a simple A-line gown with a fabulous crystal embellished belt, or a beautiful mermaid silhouette with a big dramatic flower, it is the classic timeless look that has been the hot trend. This allows you to be more adventurous with the accessories and headpieces.

Tip: Don’t let a dress wear you, you need to be wearing the dress. You need to feel comfortable and beautiful in your wedding gown. Even if everyone agrees you look great in the dress, but your hips or your back or your bust still bother you than that is not the dress for you. And the best advice is: if you love it and it makes you feel like a bride and maybe everyone else does not agree, that is okay. There is no reason to not get the dress you love!

SBC: Can each of you suggest the perfect dress for a bride getting married this spring with an indoor evening ceremony?

Tera: There are so many options that the list is nearly endless. As far as a fabric the bride could wear; she could do organza which is very much associated with Spring and Summer time weddings. Taffeta which is great all year long and can be formal or informal. Lace is simply romantic. There are dainty laces and ones with more substance. Satin is a heavier material and lends itself to a more formal wedding, but you see the fabric options go on forever! If I had to pick a dress that is currently in the store that screams Spring I would say Eze by Reverie. For a bit more formal look I would suggest Verde by Junko Yoshioka or Maeve by Vineyard Collection (just shown on the cover of Louisville Bride)

Eze by Reverie

Verde by Junko Yoshioka

Maeve by Vineyard Collection

Lauren: For a Spring wedding with an evening indoor ceremony I would probably pick something with a fuller skirt. Not necessarily a ball own but something with a little bit of pouf. And maybe because it is an evening wedding I would spice it up a little bit with a little sparkle. In our shop right now would suggest the Connie dress by Augusta Jones, it is a beaded lace ball gown with a satin sash, and a little tulle at the neck line. Or I would go with Carter by Vineyard Collection, Carter is a strapless mermaid gown with buttons all the way down the back. Both gowns would be ideal for a Spring wedding.

Connie by Augusta Jones

Carter by Vineyard Collection

SBC: Can each of you please list your top three designers currently?

Our favorite designers are Vineyard Collection, Augusta Jones, and Robert Bullock Bride. Augusta Jones offers a look that is more traditional but adds a modern twist. She builds a lace up corset inside her dresses that is sure to make you feel nice and secure all night long! Vineyard Collection embodies the classic bride with a bit more of a statement! Robert Bullock Bride offers an amazingly constructed dress at a price point that brides LOVE!!!! If you are going to spends several hundred or a couple thousand, you need to be buying a dress that is well constructed and does not feel like plastic. We have search and searched and tried VERY hard to get designers in a price point that you can feel comfortable with and that give you the craftsmanship you deserve to be wearing on your big day! Come check them out!

SBC: What accessories can brides find at the Couture Closet?

We carry shoes, veils, hair pieces, jewelry and garters. As far as the undergarments we have Spanx, Cleavage Cupcakes (breast enhancers), and fashion tape. We also sell little gifty items such as wedding planner books, Bridesmaid Survival Kits, and Tank Tops that say Bride, The Maids, Newlywed, (and our favorite) Wifey.

SBC: Is an appt required or suggested for brides looking to visit you boutique?

Bridal Appointments are VERY highly recommended. When we opened our boutique we promised ourselves that we wanted to make our shop an experience unlike any other bridal boutique around. We don’t want to compromise that experience for anyone so when you come to a Couture Closet appointment you are sure to get one on one attention, yummy treats and drinks, and a quite atmosphere. If we had more than one bride at a time we wouldn’t be able to accomplish this experience. So you really need to call and schedule your time at The Couture Closet. If you walked in off the street with out an appointment we won’t turn you away, if we don’t have a bride already there we will be happy to accommodate you but if a bride is already there or both of us are occupied with customers we wont be able give you the assistance you deserve.

Also, the only two people that work at The Couture Closet are the two of us! Because we are the owners you are getting the best assistance there is because we care about your wedding gown just as much as you do! When you schedule your appointment you don’t just get an hour and a half of dresses, you get the owner of the shop as a personal assistant that will help you through the purchasing process, finding the perfect accessories, bridesmaid dresses, mother of the bride attire, and even dress steaming the week of you wedding!

SBC: If a bride’s choice of dress is not carried in your store, can that dress be ordered?

As long as the gown chosen is a designer we carry in the boutique, a bride can order it and/or we can get a sample dress sent in for the bride to try on. We are only legally aloud to sell dresses from the designers we are authorized to carry so if the dress is by a designer we don’t currently have in our shop we won’t be able to get the dress. However, if you love a dress from a certain designer we can probably find you a dress very similar from a designer we do carry!

SBC: What is the first word you think of when I say “lace”?

Romance!!

Special thanks to Deanna Kaye Photography for the great pics!

Everything a Bride Could Ask For

2010-04-11T23:21:00.002-04:00

Today, Something Blue Collective promoted our great site and our elite vendors at the Whitehall Bridal Show. Brides were invited to tour the house and gardens while meeting wedding vendors. Whitehall is a Something Blue Collective venue and is the perfect setting for an indoor intimate wedding ceremony or a picturesque outdoor garden ceremony with a reception to follow under a grand tent. Merrill Simmons, the executive director of Whitehall, was the perfect host of the bridal event. Check out Whitehall's SBC video were Merrill gives you a personal tour and explains what you can expect from renting Whitehall House and Gardens for your special event.

SBC elite wedding vendor Highland Chamber Players were in the garden entertaining visitors with their beautiful music. Jane Halliday, a violinist with Highland, gives great advice in their SBC video on what to expect when hiring a live music ensemble for your wedding and gives suggestions on sound reinforcement.

Choosing the Highland Chamber Players for your wedding adds a touch of class and sophistication to your ceremony and reception. The Highland Chamber Players have been performing at weddings since 1982. Visit their website to hear samples of suggested music selections. Ray Weaver is available to schedule a consultation at your convenience.

Welcome Lavendar Hill Florals!!

2010-04-07T21:16:00.000-04:00

I would like to welcome Lavender Hill Florals as a new member of Something Blue Collective. Carolyn Minutillo is an elite wedding vendor who's lovely shop is located just across the bridge in Jeffersonville, IN on Spring Street. Recently, I visited the shop and was warmly welcomed by Carolyn, Jessica (a floral designer) and Lulu (the cat). I was surprised to find not only beautiful delicate flowers but also art, gifts and jewelry.

Carolyn not only designs brides gorgeous bouquets and floral arrangements, but she also assists brides with their coordinating and offers rental items and invitations. View her portfolio of decor and real weddings on her website (click here) and become inspired!

Please check back for Lavender Hill Florals Something Blue Collective video to be posted at the end of May. In the meantime call to schedule a consultation with Carolyn or better yet visit her lovely shop.

Meet Carlos Morales with Midnight Magic DJ's

2010-03-31T00:10:00.000-04:00

Midnight Magic DJ’s is a DJ company based in Louisville, KY specializing in wedding reception entertainment. With more than 25 years of combined mobile DJ entertainment experience, Midnight Magic prides itself on customizing each and every reception to fit the style and attitude of the bride & groom. Our staff is comprised of professional DJ’s and MC’s and many of our staff DJ’s can also be heard on local radio stations. Owner Carlos Morales spent 10 years in the radio industry in Idaho, Arizona, Florida and most recently on Louisville’s 98.9 Kiss FM. We look forward to making your wedding "Magical"!

Carlos graciously took time out to do an interview with Something Blue Collective. Thanks Carlos!!

SBC: What was the first CD you ever bought?
Carlos: George Strait “Pure Country”
SBC: Your favorite CD at this time?
Carlos: The Black Eyed Peas “The E.N.D”
SBC: What are the top 5 dance songs your couples request to be played at their reception?
1. Journey- Don’t Stop Believin’
2. AC/DC- You Shook Me All Night Long
3. Justin Timberlake- Sexyback
4. Beyonce- Single Ladies
5. Def Leppard- Pour Some Sugar On Me
SBC: What is the number one “Do not play” song that your couples request?
Carlos: The Chicken Dance by far! A close second is the Marcarena. Although with these songs even if they are not on the couples do not play list we will not play one unless they are specifically requested by either the bride or the groom;-)
SBC: What is your best advice for brides and grooms on how to choose their DJ?
Carlos: Meet with them! Not every DJ is right for you. A DJ has to have the right personality for your reception. When you are meeting with a DJ company make sure that you ask to meet with the DJ/MC who will be working your event.
SBC: Why did you choose “Midnight Magic” as the name of your company?
Carlos: Midnight Magic was a company I looked up to when I started my business in Emmett, Idaho 13 years ago. Midnight Magic was the company you thought of when you thought of elegance, fun & professionalism. Owner Rick Steele was my mentor in my first years of my career and taught me much of what I know and use today. Midnight Magic no longer operates in Idaho and I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to have a constant reminder of excellence in my business.
SBC: Describe one of your most memorable receptions?
Carlos: I did a reception for a comic book store owner in Cocoa Beach, FL in 2004. Memorable doesn’t even come close to describing this reception. The groom was dressed as Spiderman the bride was dressed as Buffy. The wedding cake was a giant building with Spiderman scaling the building. The costumes didn’t end with the bridal party either. All of the guests were invited to dress up as well. I can say this was definitely not a black tie affair!
SBC: What is one of the most unusual first dance songs you were requested to play?
Carlos: Have not seen it before or since. We did a reception in New Albany in 2008 for a couple who was both into the rock scene. Their first dance was “Crazy Bitch” by Buckcherry
SBC: What song did Carrie and you chose to dance to for your first dance?
Carlos: This is funny Carrie and I were to be married in March of 2007, because of insurance reasons we got married in secret in August of 2006. 3 months later we finally told everyone and just never got to the proper wedding and reception. We do have a song though it’s Rascal Flatts “Bless The Broken Road”. And finally we are going to have the reception we never did in August of 2011 for our 5^th anniversary.
SBC: What is the first thing that comes to mind when I say “IPOD”?
Carlos: 90’s! That’s what mine is packed with;-)

Applied Cosmetic Services

2010-03-22T20:41:00.000-04:00

Don't leave your picture perfect look for your wedding day to the girl behind the cosmetic counter or your local hair dresser that squeezes you into her busy saturday schedule. Instead, choose a professional make-up artist and hair stylist that will travel to your wedding location and make sure your picture perfect look lasts from the first picture until the last dance.

Meet Ana Crane-Simpson with Applied Cosmetic Services. Ana resides in Lexington but because of her popularity you can find her in Louisville almost as much as Lexington. Ana meets with clients before the big day to discuss their desired look and does a trial run to ensure the bride is satisfied. When your wedding day arrives you can be assured that you will look fabulous!!

Before watching Ana's Something Blue Collective video, meet Ana in the following brief SBC interview.

SBC: What are the current trends in make-up and hair for weddings for this upcoming spring and summer?
Ana: Here are the beauty trends for brides in 2010: BOLD and BRIGHT colors. A perfect pouty pink lip partnered up with a bold black lined eye is for a modern bride. A more traditional bride may opt for a brown/coppery eye with a muted glossy pink lip. A huge trend this season is a vintage look... you can go for soft and dewy, or bold and matte. A glamour look is just as popular on the runways! Long dark lashes, a winged eye, and matte red lips.

SBC: What make-up do you use on your brides?Ana: I really love using MAC cosmetics on brides. The foundation, eye shadows, and eye lashes photograph beautifully and are not heavy looking. There primers are amazing and really keep the eye shadows and foundation looking fresh and bright. For those brides that are concerned about their oily skin type, MAC has an amazing blot powder! I leave all my brides with blot powder and a touch-up lip pallette to use throughout the wedding, when needed.

SBC: Where do you find inspiration for the different looks that you create?
Ana: I find inspiration in everything! From my conversation with the bride I really get a visual of what she can look like. I love hearing about the special details, flower combos, bridesmaid dresses, hair pieces, and of course- the dress! I feel my fashion design background really helps me listen to the bride and execute the perfect look for her. Every wedding is different and so is every bride... that is why I love what I do!! The bride really needs someone that will understand what she is trying to convey on the most photographed day of her life!!

SBC: What is your favorite color of lipstick in your purse right now?
Ana: My favorite lipstick color right now is MAC: Viva Glam 5. It is a gorgeous nude pink that works with every skin tone and shadow color(s). The best part is that 100% of sale price goes to the MAC AIDS Fund, it goes directly to adults and children living with AIDS. As of 2009, there are 6 shades of Viva Glam lipsticks.

SBC: How do you prevent the bride’s make-up from fading on her wedding day?
Ana: The best way to keep the bridal make-up from fading is by preparing the skin with a primer. This helps even out the skin tone, reduces redness, fills in any fine lines and enlarged pores. It also helps reduce the oils in the skin from breaking down the foundation. No foundation is 100% waterproof, so a blot powder is ideal to remove shine hours after initial makeup application.

SBC: Do you have any advice for brides on how to prep their skin for their wedding day?
Ana: The best advice I can give to brides about prepping the skin before the wedding is: DO NOT spray-tan your face or expose your face in a tanning bed!!! You will pay for it later! If you moisturize and exfoliate with a scrub 4 to 7 days prior to the BIG day, your skin will be glowing! If you happen to get a few pimples or small breakout, that is common, do not touch the area and see a dermatologist (in extreme cases a steroid creme can reduce the breakout). Most topical cremes help and of course a good make-up artist can cover anything up.

SBC: What is the one must have for every bride to become picture perfect for their wedding day?
Ana: A must have for a bride to be picture perfect: SMILE ALOT and always have a blot powder and the perfect lipgloss color handy!! It is amazing what a great color can do for ones confidence.

SBC: What is the biggest difference between hiring a professional make-up artist that specializes in working with photographers and a make-up artist found in a local salon or at a make-up counter?
Ana: The biggest difference between hiring a professional makeup artist and going to your local makeup counter is the application time, travel on the day of and the attention to detail. I firmly believe you get what you pay for. If you go to a counter, you may not get a trial and if you do... then there is a chance the artist that did your trial may not be the same person that applies it on the wedding day. Also most counters set aside only 1/2hour for the entire appointment. And let's not forget you have to travel to the mall and hope there are no delays.

When you hire a professional makeup artist, you are ensuring you are going to look exactly as you envisioned on your wedding day. I travel on-location and bring everything with me. I use makeup that is photo-friendly. I do all of my bridal trials and can accomidate bridesmaids and/or mom's. I really get to know my clients and do anything I can to exceed their expectations. When you consider the grand investment a wedding can be, why would you not invest in a "beauty" expert for your BIG day!

SBC: Any quick do’s and don’ts of make-up our brides reading?
Ana: Do's and Don'ts of hiring makeup/hair professional: Do- Research on line,get references, see portfolio of work, set up a trial, ask for touch up kit. Don't- skip an opportunity to see what a professional can offer!

Do's and Don'ts in makeup: Do- moisturize, research what colors work with your skin tone, set up a private makeup class, throw out old makeup, design a day and evening look, clean your brushes regularly. Don't- share makeup with anyone, use sponges, use colors that wash you out, go to sleep without washing your face, use foundation containing mica (reflects light in photography), and don't underestimate the power of beautiful makeup!

SBC: What is the first thing that pops into your mind when I say “false eyelashes”?
Ana: When I hear "false eyelashes", the first thing that pops in my mind is .... a blushing bride!! Eye lashes can look amazing if applied correctly. They can add that extra something to a simple, natural look. Or they can take a dramatic look over the top.

Thanks Ana for all the great tips and advice. Please visit her website www.appliedcosmeticservices.com
to view more of her portfolio and learn about what services she can provide for your wedding day.

Congratulations Julie!

2010-03-16T21:11:00.000-04:00

Julie Nugent is the winner of the three hour videography package from ICVideo. Julie is getting married at the Gillespie this year. Congratulations and thanks to all the brides for registering for our giveaway.

ICVideo specializes in capturing weddings with a level of equipment that is unmatched. ICVideo can give you a movie style production with 12ft camera cranes, Steadicam equipment and other specialized equipment or if preferred a more simple ceremony and reception recording. ICVideo is recognized as producing entertaining highlights that tell the story of the wedding day that reflects each couples unique personalities. Visit their website at www.icvideo.net to view their portfolio or contact them at 502.592.1575 to schedule a meeting to discuss your wedding day.

New Ladyfingers Catering Video

2010-03-10T21:41:00.001-05:00

New video posted by one of Louisville’s best caterers with 20 years of fine catering experience, Ladyfinger’s Catering. I am not the only one who thinks they are the best. In 2008, Louisville voted and WLKY awarded Ladyfinger’s with the “Best of Louisville Caterer” title. Ladyfinger’s specializes in preparing gourmet food for weddings, but are also chosen to caterer some of Louisville’s most elegant events. You can taste their delicious food at the Barnstable-Brown Derby Event, The Dismas Charities Moonlight and the Magnolia Gala.

Donna Brown, the Marketing Director, explains the different dinner services that they offer their brides and grooms on their Something Blue Collective Video. You may be familiar with the formal plated dining service or the large buffets at weddings, but there is a third option for brides and grooms. Watch the video and learn how you can have the best of both worlds!! Visit Something Blue Collective, choose the “dine and décor” category, click on Ladyfinger’s and then the thumbnail in the bottom corner to watch their video.

While visiting the Ladyfinger’s website my appetite grew while perusing their gourmet menu options. So, I took the time to choose my dream wedding menu…just in case my husband wants to marry me all over again.

Salad

Strawberry Orange Baby Spring with Mandarin oranges, strawberries, blue cheese, mushrooms and Vidalia raspberry dressing

Main Course

Grilled Filet with Gorgonzola

Grilled Asparagus with Jalapeño Hollandaise

Candied Yams

Maplewood Smoked Bacon Roast Potatoes with Caramelized Onions

Artichoke Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes and Feta

Dessert

While Amaretto Raspberry Torte

Tiramisu

Delicious! I may have gone overboard on the side dishes, but oh well it's my wedding!!

Ladyfinger’s routinely schedules “tastings” so potential clients can sample their catering. Visit www.ladyfingersinc.com to sign up for their Newsletters to be notified of their upcoming events or contact them directly.

Volunteering In Haiti

2010-02-06T22:29:00.002-05:00

Tyler Pelan with Lighting His World Photography has traveled with a team through Edge Outreach to install water purification systems in Haiti. Cassie, Tyler's wife, has been publishing his wonderful photographs in installments on his blog. Below is just a glimpse into his travels so far. Visit his blog to view more from his trip or his engagement and wedding pictures.

Tyler your pictures are wonderful!!

And the Winner is....

2010-02-03T21:49:00.002-05:00

Chandra Williams has won the Deanna Kaye Photography Engagement Session with 8 X 10 print. Chandra will be getting married in September and we are very happy that she chose to visit our website for advise and tips on planning her wedding.

Congratulations Chandra!!! Here are a few pictures from recent engagement sessions that Deanna and her husband Eric shot.

Continue to register on Something Blue Collective for the ICVideo videography package that will be given away on March 15th.

Visit Deanna's blog to view more engagement and wedding pictures.

Film vs. Digital Photography

2010-01-31T21:55:00.000-05:00

Eric and Deanna, the husband and wife team of Deanna Kaye Photography, have recently added the art of using film back into their story-telling photography. As the photographic industry has almost completely moved away from using film, there is a vintage beauty it offers that differentiates it from digital. In Erin and Brian's Cincinnati engagement session this fall, Eric took along his beloved film camera with a few rolls to play with while Deanna continued to photograph digitally. Below are a few examples of the different look offered with each format.

As you are searching for the perfect photographers to tell the story of your wedding day, be sure to call Deanna Kaye Photography! And if this mixture of vintage-style film photographs with the crisp, clean digital images appeals to you, tell Eric and Deanna that you just have to have it!! It will most assuredly enhance the truly unique collections of photographs of your day you are looking for!

At the front of Findlay Market--first the digital image, then the film photograph:

Another great area outside of Findlay Market--first digital, then film:

A gorgeous close up of Erin and Brian.

And at Ault Park, with the beautiful fall colors at sunset--digital first, film next:

Be sure to watch Deanna and Eric's video on Something Blue Collective where they explain the benefits to hiring a husband and wife team to photograph your wedding.

David Blair Photography's Featured Wedding

2010-01-26T22:35:00.008-05:00

Louisville Wedding Photographer David Blair, who regularly has his work featured in bridal magazines, just made the cover of Sophisticated Living Weddings. The magazine is also featuring the wedding which took place at the famous Seelbach Hotel in downtown Louisville. Mike and Becky were a complete joy for David to capture. When Becky exclaimed, “I’m dressed so fancy, it’s like I’m getting married or something today!” everyone laughed, but really everyone was all admiring how gorgeous she looked in that wedding dress. Since they invited friends and family from the East Coast, it made sense to hold the wedding at a hotel to accommodate the out-of-towners and the Seelbach's elegance and history made it a perfect fit.

These guys sure brought some shame to the “usual” dancers in the middle of a circle. Here are some other images from the wedding that did not make it into the magazine.

Becky and her family are Jewish, but Mike and his family are Methodist so their ceremony consisted of traditions from both a Christian and Jewish wedding, as you may have noticed a Rabbi and a Minister. Following Jewish tradition, the couple was wed under a canopy called a Chuppah. Theirs was made from fabric from Becky’s grandmother’s wedding dress. And the table holding the wine for the ceremony was clothed in handkerchiefs from Michael’s great-grandmother.

After the ceremony, they held an open bar cocktail hour in the foyer where they spent much of their time greeting guests while elaborate appetizers were served. This was also a great time for guests to mingle because so often in a arranged seating reception not everyone gets to say hello.

After a fantastic dinner The Kadillacs, the 11-member band, took the stage and was quite entertaining throughout the rest of the night. The energy from a live band really keeps the dance floor full.

The day went off beautifully without a hitch, even including the riding on chairs! You can see more of David Blair's photos from Mike and Becky’s Engagement Session Here.

Meet Me At The Altar Wedding Show

2010-01-26T00:00:00.003-05:00

omething Blue Collective was in attendance for the Meet Me At The Altar Wedding Show at the Crowne Plaza Hotel this Sunday along with a few SBC vendors. The show was a great success and brides were excited to learn about the SBC website as a great new resource.

Chuck Biddle with ICVideo was on hand to discuss wedding videography with all of the soon-to-be brides and grooms. Chuck did write a feature article in the Meet Me At the Altar Bridal Magazine you should check out!

Our friends with Midnight Magic DJs helped MC the event and the very messy cake dive. Congratulations to all the winners!!

Sharon Bell and her daughter displayed some of the many fabulous featured weddings that Sharon's company, Memorable Celebrations, helped plan. Memorable Celebrations not only provides wedding coordinating and event planning but also disc jockey services.

Alex and Paul with Fleur de Lis Events and Design set up a beautiful booth with a huge vase of red roses, sparkling crystals that hung from silver branches, and a few sample centerpieces and bouquets. Alex and Paul always tend to have the busiest booth with all of the wonderful displays they create. Visit their website to see why they were listed on Grace Ormonde's Wedding Style Platinum List in 2009.

You will find Something Blue Collective and many of SBC vendors next Thursday the 28th at the 5th Annual Brown Hotel's Bridal Experience from 5:30-8:30. Visit the Shafox Weddings & Events and website for more details.

Featured Wedding from ICVideo and Deanna Kaye Photography

2010-01-22T22:18:00.002-05:00

ICVideo had the pleasure of teaming up with Deanna Kaye Photography to cover Shellie and Adam's

wedding at the Water Tower. Two great SBC vendors give you an example of how photography and videography work so well together to capture all of the excitement of your wedding for you to treasure.

A video has the ability to tie together so many different facets of the day with the simplest elements. The guitar was used during the ceremony (included in it's entirety on the completed DVD) and added so much to the feeling of the day.

We also get to show the ladies how hard the guys work in trying to prepare. Hours of football. I've heard the term "not fair" more than once, but the guys don't seem to mind at all.

Featured Wedding from Studio e

2010-01-19T21:34:00.004-05:00

Michelle and Shane from Studio e Photography submitted a great wedding to be featured. Their video will be posted this week, but in the meantime please enjoy these fabulous pictures.

Lindsey and John were married on June 5^that the Farnsley-Moremen landing in Louisville. It was a perfect day for an outdoor ceremony and reception!

Lindsey looked radiant in her Allure Couture beaded lace gown and veil edged with beaded lace.

The wedding couple shared a special moment together before the wedding. Taking the photos before the ceremony allowed the couple to enjoy more time together on their wedding day.

Lindsey wiped a tear after she walked down the aisle on the arm of her father in his full “dress blues”.

The ceremony took place at sunset on the great lawn.

It was great to work with other excellent vendors on this wedding. Carol Grisanti did a wonderful job with the planning. As always, Kenny Sauter with Masters of Music helped keep the reception fun and exciting.

Sparklers are a fun way to do a sendoff and a great photo opp!

Style Guide

Colors
Turquoise
Black & White

Wedding Planner
Carol Grisanti Weddings

Ceremony & Reception
The Landings
Farnsley-Moremen

Ceremony Music
SMT String Quartet

Reception Music
Masters of Music

Photographer
Studio E Photography

Caterer
Masterson’s

Florist
Lloyds

Cake
Pam Weixler

Rentals
Reliable / Masterson’s

Invitations
Julie Diamond

Transportation
R & R LimousineCheck back for their great video on Something Blue Collective!

Thanks Michelle and Shane!!!

Meet Me At The Altar Wedding Show

2010-01-19T21:05:00.002-05:00

This Sunday January 24th from 12:00-5:00 Something Blue Collective will have a booth at the "Meet Me At The Altar Bridal Show" held at the new Crown Plaza Hotel near the airport.

The bridal show event includes a fashion show presented by David's Bridal and Men's Wearhouse & Tuxedo at 1:00 and 3:00pm on the main stage.

New to the bridal show this season! Qualified brides will be able to compete for $1000 in prizes and a grand prize worth $3000 in a cake dive. This will be great messy fun!

Brides can get in free by registering on the Meet Me At The Altar website.

Be sure to check out these premier SBC vendors Midnight Magic DJs, Fleur De Lis Events & Design and ICVideo at the show!

Featured Wedding from Kriech-Higdon Photography

2010-01-18T18:58:00.004-05:00

Jessie and Chris from Kriech-Higdon Photography share with us Jacqueline and Kevin's wedding from this past September. Jessie gives us a glimpse into the beautiful wedding on Jacqueline's family farm in LaGrange. Enjoy!

Photos before the ceremony with Jacqueline's horses.

All the wild flowers came from the farm- just lovely and simple!

It was a perfect cloudy fall day. The farm was beautiful and had a ton of great places for photos

The isle was the pasture next to the house. The horses followed Jacqueline and her parents down the isle- it was really an amazing moment.

The ceremony was in the woods near the horse pasture. It was a lovely, small and simple ceremony with music and poetry.

Photos by the horse barn before the reception. The light was just about gone once

we finished the shots- perfect timing for a fall party to start!

The reception was in a tent in a far field. The tent was glowing with candles and lanterns. Family and friends helped to cater the event and everything was delicious. They had a live 10 piece band and they were AMAZING. There was so much energy in that tent and everyone was on the dance floor most of the night.

Things were slowing done by the time we left. While the band took a break family and friends played and sang songs while the couple danced. Great couple- great wedding!

Thanks for sharing Jessie and Chris!

Just Posted to SBC: ShaFox Weddings & Events

2010-01-17T21:47:00.010-05:00

Ellen Fox with ShaFox Weddings & Events gives brides great advice on how to incorporate different elements and themes into their wedding. Having the pleasure of working on many events with Ellen I am always amazed how extravagant and unique each wedding is themed and decorated. Ellen is very talented in making each wedding memorable for all that attend.

One of the first weddings ICVideo worked with Ellen on the bride was Italian and from New York. To incorporated it into the theme they imported cheese and large plates of cookies from New York and after hours of dancing the servers brought out large boxes of pizzas to all the guests while the band played Italian music. The guests loved it!

After watching the video at Something Blue Collective visit Ellen's website here to learn more about her upcoming bridal show at the Brown Hotel on January 28th.

Below are pictures from a past bridal show of Ellen's at the Brown.

Frazier Arms Museum, Boston's Floral Couture and Bella Grace Studios

2010-01-13T22:09:00.007-05:00

New videos Posted!!!

Josh Meredith with Bella Grace Studios gives us insight into how choosing an experienced photographer that shoots not only weddings but also commercial and fashion photography can bring all those influences into your wedding pictures.

You can usually find Josh at his couture loft studio off Story Ave. And, if you are checking out any of the popular national wedding blogs you will often find Bella Grace Studios featured on their sites.

Some of the recent blogs where you can find his photos on include the….

“Little White Book” Josh did a photo shoot for the new Elizabeth Hill Shop in Louisville.

“Grey likes Weddings” Engaged: Kentucky by way of Boston

If you would rather read magazines instead of blogs, you will find a four page spread in Louisville Bride Magazine featuring a wedding Josh shot at 21C in downtown Louisville.

Be sure to watch Josh’s video here at www.somethingbluecollective.com. Throughout the video you can view wedding photos that Josh shot over this past year. You can find additional information on his website at www. bellagracestudios.com.

In Boston's Floral Couture’s video recently posted, Andrea Glass explains what brides and grooms can expect from their florist during their wedding planning and gives examples of the different elements that are available to work into your décor.

When Andrea was looking for a photographer to capture her brand she chose Josh with Bella Grace. The photos were so unique and striking that it caught the eye of ladies that write the “Style Me Pretty” blog.

A few pics of Andrea's beautiful floral designs.

Watch Andrea's video at www.somethingbluecollective.com and then contact Andrea for a free consultation to discuss your dream wedding. Andrea designs “unusual flowers for unusual people.”

Julie Kreuer showcases the Frazier Arms Museum as an excellent venue choice for an outdoor or indoor wedding. She boost that the Frazier Arms Museum can take the stress out of scheduling an outdoor ceremony when inclement weather may be in the forecast. Watch the video at www.somethingbluecollective.com to learn how.

Frazier’s Rooftop Garden can host 300 guest reception style or seated 100 guest in round tables or 250 seated in rows for a ceremony.

The Fourth Floor Cultural Arts Center can seat 360 guests at round tables.

Frazier does have two other areas for rental, The Great Hall and the First Floor Small Room. To learn more information visit www.fraziermuseum.org or contact Julie to get your own personal tour of the museum.

Busy with Bridal Shows

2010-01-11T01:29:00.002-05:00

Louisville in January is packed with bridal shows every weekend and sometimes several in one day. Chuck and I attended one as ICVideo at Gingerwoods and the Ultimate Bridal Services Winter Wedding Show at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium we promoted Something Blue Collective.

Thursday

We had horrible luck with the weather when the snow storm came through. Attendance at the Gingerwoods show was slower than usual, but we did talk with some great brides early in their planning. SBC vendors included Robert Burge Photography, Deanna Kaye Photography, Couture Closet, Ladyfingers Caterers, and ICVideo.

Robert with Robert Burge Photography helped take some great pictures of the vendors booths. Robert had beautiful photos on display. The picture of the bride pulling up the groom's kilt in the back always makes the moms blush. It's one of my favorites. Watch Robert's video that explains the difference between photojournalistic and portrait style photography.

Deanna and Eric with Deanna Kaye Photography talked with brides about their great albums. In their video they explain what the added benefits are when you chose a husband and wife team to photograph your wedding. Deanna generously donated a free engagement session with 8x10 for our SBC drawing at the end of this month. Be sure to enter on the contact page of the website.

The ladies at Ladyfingers Catering were busy with everyone tasting their delicious food and answering questions. In their SBC video they inform you of the different options of dinner service. One popular service is the partial plated dinner. Watch the video to learn more.

Tera and Lauren with the Couture Closet displayed a few of their fabulous wedding dresses. They give great advice on how to pick your dress to appropriately match the style, time and season of your wedding in their SBC video.

Jane and the members of The Highland Chamber Players were on hand to serenade the bride and grooms. Their SBC video will be posted this week. Jane gave some great advice on what to consider when booking a music ensemble for your wedding.

Sunday

Chuck and I had a previous engagement today but Hallie and Jason represented Something Blue Collective at the Ultimate Bridal Service Winter Bridal Show. I do not have a complete list of SBC vendors yet but I do know that Robert with Robert Burge Photography, Carol with Carol Grisanti Weddings and Kenny Sauters with Masters of Music were all in attendance.

We did get some great feedback from brides that had visited our SBC website. Most brides were curious to know how we could provide such a great resource for free for to all to view. One bride was so excited about the site she admited to having our postcard taped to her monitor so she can visits it often. Carol Grisanti had a bride approach her because she saw her video giving suggestions on the importance of hiring a wedding planner and how they can add to you event. And the best.....one bride informed us that she booked her caterer from our website. This is so great because I know she got a quality vendor along with a lot of great info.

Chuck and I are so pleased that the response from the brides and grooms is overwhelmingly positive. It took a lot of work, but we have created a website that is entertaining with elite vendors educating brides and grooms on how to plan their perfect wedding. This has been a great day!!

Megan

Featured Vendor-Todd Nichols Photography

2010-01-06T21:13:00.005-05:00

Recently added to the Something Blue Collective website is the talented photographer Todd Nichols. Todd specializes in capturing all the great moments that brides and grooms will treasure for a lifetime. Todd will travel for destination weddings and you can often read on his blog about his travels to Atlanta, Florida and New York.

In Todd's SBC video he takes us behind the scenes of a wedding at Whitehall to see how he captures all of his beautiful imagery. ICVideo followed Todd throughout the day recording all of the excitement to give you a glimpse into what you should expect from your photographer on your wedding day.

After viewing his video here please visit his blog and better yet become a fan of Todd Nichols Photography on Facebook. Todd often posts a picture of the day and passes along great wedding ideas. Todd is truely passionate about photography and you will agree once you watch his video. Enjoy!

Here are a few of my favorite pictures of his.

What you should notice is that each of these pictures are actual moments of people enjoying their day. Todd takes a photojournalistic approach to capturing his images. Todd, like most all of the photographers on SBC, recognize that only shooting portraiture photography will not capture the essence of the wedding. Portraiture photography just leads to alot of interruptions throughout the day. A good photographer can capture genuine moments discretely that their clients will love.

Ask the Experts-Louisville Bride Magazine

2010-01-05T23:01:00.001-05:00

Three out of the four vendors featured in the Louisville Bride Magazine's "Ask the Experts" article are members of the Something Blue Collective.

Congrats to Couture Closet, ICVideo and Fleur de lis Events and Design! Check out the articles here.

Paul and Alex with Fleur de lis Events and Design were present at this past weekend's bridal show with a fabulous new design. It was elegant and over the top as always. Their booth was packed continuously with admiring brides
.

The chair covers were accented with fresh roses.

Strands of crystals rained down on the table reflecting the light with a glimmer. As centerpieces purple orchids floated in glass with spotlights of LED lights.

My favorite was the couture bouquet Alex and Paul designed with purple carnations and pink tulips accented with deep dark features.

Check out Fleur de Lis Events and Design's video on SBC where Alex and Paul give you tips on how to get the most out of your decor budget but still wow your guests.

Our Big Debut

2010-01-04T22:13:00.001-05:00

Saturday was the big debut of our new website at the Perfect Wedding Guide Bridal and Groom Wedding Show and it was a success! The brides were very receptive and excited to having a free resource of tips and information on how to plan their wedding from experience, reputable, elite wedding vendors. What's great is that they don't have to read a bunch of boring text. Instead, it's entertaining videos that allows them to meet the vendors before they even schedule the first meeting.

A few of our fellow "Something Blue Collective" vendors were present for the show.

Carlos from Midnight Magic looked very handsome in his tux. Carlos has lots of experience entertaining people. Just to mention one....being a disc jockey for the 98.9 Kiss FM radio station. You will probably recognize his voice instantly. Check out his video on SBC. He gives great advice on how to develop your DJs playlist.

Steven from Sound Specialist DJ Entertainment video will be posted shortly. He gives brides options on decor lighting.

And we were lucky to have Tyler Pelan with Lighting His World Photography as our booth mate. Tyler does incredible work and in his SBC video he gives brides advice on what to consider when choosing your photographer.

I was blown away with how beautiful Tyler's photo albums are. His books range in sizes and designs to give brides more options for their book to reflect their personality.

The book above has a textured glass cover to give that extra wow factor.

His images are striking. Watch his video and give him a call.

Megan

Quick update

2009-12-08T23:40:00.011-05:00

Just want to mention that while blog postings have been slow, editing has had a feverish pace. Stay tuned for videos from In Bloom Again, Glassworks, Shafox Weddings, and more.

Every video placed on Something Blue Collective is a piece of the puzzle called your wedding. Every video can help you plan your day. With information straight from the vendors who know not only their specialty, but what a wedding day can be for a well prepared bride.

Enjoy.

Chuck

and...as Jasmin Star would say "every post is better with a picture."

While perusing the Style me Pretty Blog I noticed this featured program. One of our ICVideo brides this year designed a great wedding program that listed each bridal party member along with a brief description of how they were related to the bride and groom. I thought that was great!! I knew exactly who was out of town guests from New York, who was asked to be in the wedding because they were related and who was their long time college roommate. When I saw the above program it was perfect, all the info....along with pictures.

Be creative with you wedding!!

Make sure it is uniquely you!!

Megan

Ladyfingers Catering

2009-12-02T21:34:00.002-05:00

tay tuned for a new video tomorrow. Ladyfingers Catering, which has an incredibly delectable array of foods, has a video that really breaks down the types of services that are options for a bride. While many think the choice is either buffet or seated, Donna walks you through a third option that is the perfect solution.

With numerous food choices, homemade sauces, and so many incredible meat selections (as well as fish, poultry, and vegetarian options), Ladyfingers should be a first choice for any discerning bride.

Keep checking back as Something Blue Collective adds more videos from Louisville's elite vendors.

Carol Grisanti and the Blog Roll

2009-11-30T23:11:00.001-05:00

Just added a great video from Carol Grisanti. She's an established wedding planner with an eye for detail and insight to make any event unique to the couple. Carol has had numerous weddings featured in "The Voice Tribune" and from the snapshots in her video (courtesy of Amy Shepherd, Studio e, Todd Pellowe, Tom Gnadinger, and Leigh Photography) you can see a few of the smiling faces and beautiful places that she has had the pleasure to work with.
/ / / As a side note, a few years ago when Megan and I wed, Megan sought out Carol for her custom tiara. Carol's custom veils, tiara, jewelry, and headpieces are handmade and one of a kind.

Examples here: Classic Veils by Carol

Also be sure to check out the Blog Roll below. If your looking for quick access to blogs from Something Blue Collective vendors, below is your answer. The blog roll updates automatically so check often for the latest and greatest from the areas top vendors.

Featured Vendor - Amy Shepherd

2009-11-29T12:13:00.005-05:00

Featured topics are wide and varied on Something Blue Collective. With a quickly growing roster and insight from the regions top vendors you can expect sound advice, excellent direction in planning your day, and ideas to make your day happen as you envision it.

Professional lighting versus by Amy Shepherd

Amy speaks in depth about how, as a new bride-to-be, looking at one set of pictures that's flat and boring can understand what a professional brings to the table above a nice camera. Often this is the result of your photographer knowing how to use lighting and making the pictures pop and every shadow fall perfectly. It's not an accident and Amy's answers can put you one step closer to finding a professional that has the look you want.

A few more photos to complement the video at Something Blue Collective

Contrast and beautiful imagery don't happen by accident.
Let Amy tell you how and why.

Chuck Biddle
SBC Site Editor

Something Blue Collective is here!!!

2009-11-27T11:50:00.000-05:00

It's official! Something Blue Collective is live and ready to give brides what they've been waiting for... Answers.

Answers to all the overwhelming questions about what to do when planning your wedding. SBC has everything from photographers and videographers to wedding planners and venues. The one place to learn what makes a professional photographer's work stand out from a friend who's "shot a couple of weddings". The one place to learn about the difference between a true DJ and the always disappointing "IPOD DJ" with just a play list and no people skills.

Something Blue Collective is professionally crafted videos that let you see first hand vendors that can make your dream wedding a reality.

Welcome to SBC and welcome to all the vendors who have signed on. Over the next couple of months more and more videos and vendors will be added. Educating and entertaining you, the bride to be, about what you should expect from Kentuckiana's wedding elite.

Stay tuned and watch for new videos, new ideas, new trends, and maybe some advice on the what your "Something Blue" should be.

www.somethingbluecollective.com

Enjoy.