A Halloween Wedding?

It may be sparkling fireworks, but some couples are planning their fall weddings.  These are some decorating tips that can be used for props, favors, overall theme and colors of your wedding.  If Halloween is your thing, couples have been known to have a fun time with black, white and oranges in their color scheme and backdrops.

You'll find indulgence and elegance compelling places and things such as: rustic barns and milk jugs, spice cakes and pumpkin bisque, maple leaves and grapevines, corn stalks and twinkle lights.

There are many creative ways to stay true to the season and idea of autumn harvest, such as adding varying shades of orange candles on tabletops, or bowls of seasonal fruit such as pomegranates and miniature pumpkins. Consider laying small, frameless mirrors on the tabletops, with candles of various sizes placed upon them. The reflecting light is spectacular, especially at an evening reception.

From pumpkins to fall leaves, the colors create a beautiful backdrop for your special day.  Enjoy some pictures from our Halloween wedding and feel free to share your decorating tips for fall weddings.

Amy and Andrew's Wedding Album

Just finished Amy and Andrew's wedding album design. This couple was a real joy to be with, Andrew is in the Air Force and stationed in Japan, they are so in love that in order for them to be together, they had to be married last year in Japan and hold off for their ceremony and reception with their family and friends until March 12, 2011.
Andrew is a true American Hero, as you know the tragedy that struck Japan on March 10, 2011 just days before the wedding, Andrew was concerned that he would be called back to Japan to join his team in search and rescue efforts for the people of Japan, but as it was there were no flights allowed in or out of Tokyo. Andrew however did join his team shortly afterwards to help in this terrible destruction.
Amy is a graduate of Duquesene University and their beautiful wedding was held in the  chapel and reception was at the Power Center.
Things have somewhat settled down enough for Amy and Andrew to choose the photos for their wedding album.

2011 Wine and Food Classic Event

Photo booths can really add some extra pizzazz to a special evening and we have participated in a number of signature events through The Chamber.

Please join me at the photo booth for a night of wine tastings and food samplings at the Chamber’s 2011 Wine and Food Classic on Thursday, June 23^rd from 5-9 pm at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center located at 3579 Masonic Way Pittsburgh, PA 15237. 

Over a dozen restaurants and gourmet food specialties participate by sampling their food.  Sixteen varieties of wines from around the world are featured at unique wine tasting tables.  The Chocolate Chamber is a decadent dessert den where guests indulge in a variety of chocolate goodies.

This is THE CHAMBER’s premier “foodie” event located in the North Hills.
A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to HEARTH.  For ticket information contact The CHAMBER at 724-934-9700.

URBAN ENGAGEMENT SETTINGS

Last week we talked about using the seasons and the beauty of Mother Nature to create a suburban engagement photo session.  However, Pittsburgh is has much more to offer.  An engagement photo session on the North Shore can provide the backdrop of the city and its beautiful bridges.  A couple that are sports fans can experience pictures at PNC Park, Heinz Field, and Console Energy Center.   Various statues such as Roberto Clemente add dimension to the pictures.

Perhaps a couple met at a university such as Pitt, CMU, Duquesne or Robert Morris.  Each campus has its unique venues such as Heinz Chapel, Peterson Event Center.  That’s part of a couple’s story.

I have shot industrial engagement sessions with warehouse backdrops on the North Shore and in the Strip District.  We all enjoy the feel of the Strip on a busy Saturday, its many nationalities and cultures.  Bring some diversity into your engagement photo shoot.

For some couples their engagement sessions are a combination of urban and suburban settings.  Post your favorite urban backdrop for your engagement shoot.

MY FAVORITE ENGAGEMENT SETTING

Every couple is unique in their story of how they met and those stories lead to some pretty creative engagement photo sessions.   Things that are important to the couple are incorporated into the shoot and used to depict their personalities.  From changes of clothes, bringing pets to using a favorite motorcycle or sports car  ~ no two shoots are alike.

Especially in the fall, Beechwood Farms on Dorseyville Road in Fox Chapel is probably my most favorite place to shoot an engagement session.  Trees along pathway create an archway of color.  A barn with old wood adds texture and depth to a backdrop.  There is a lake with a dock that a couple can sit on.  The couple appears like they are out for a picnic.

South Park has a beautiful lake and a gazebo.  Mother nature provides an array of color to match each season.  However, it’s best to take pictures in early evening when the warmth of the sun creates just the right amount of light.

Check out next week’s blog for my favorite urban and industrial settings.  I’m always looking for new and unique backdrops.  Post your favorite spot.