Tag: wedding trend

EverAfter - Wedding Films Earns TheKnot's 'Best of Weddings 2024': A Tradition of Excellence

January 19, 2024
Wedding Films
best of weddings videography
EverAfter
Wedding Films

In the dynamic world of wedding videography, EverAfter – Wedding Films has once again secured its position as a leader, earning TheKnot’s prestigious “Best of Weddings 2024” award. This recognition, received for multiple consecutive years, underscores EverAfter’s unwavering commitment to excellence and the art of capturing love stories. In this article, we’ll explore what sets EverAfter apart, the significance of TheKnot’s accolade, and what this means for couples seeking the best in wedding videography in 2024.

EverAfter – Wedding Films: A Legacy of Excellence

EverAfter – Wedding Films has consistently raised the bar in the wedding videography industry, and the “Best of Weddings 2024” award from TheKnot is a testament to this ongoing commitment to excellence. With a passion for storytelling and an eye for cinematic brilliance, EverAfter has carved out a niche for itself in the competitive landscape of wedding films.

For couples seeking top-tier wedding videography services in 2024, EverAfter – Wedding Films continues to stand out as a trusted and award-winning choice.

TheKnot’s ‘Best of Weddings’: A Seal of Distinction

TheKnot’s “Best of Weddings” award is not just a recognition; it’s a seal of distinction that signifies excellence in the wedding industry. The accolade is bestowed upon a select group of vendors who have consistently garnered rave reviews from couples they’ve worked with. EverAfter’s repeated inclusion in this esteemed list affirms its ability to consistently exceed the expectations of couples, creating timeless wedding films that capture the essence of love.

What This Means for Couples in 2024

For couples embarking on their wedding planning journey in 2024, choosing the right videographer is a pivotal decision. EverAfter’s recognition by TheKnot serves as a valuable guidepost, signaling that this team is not just a vendor but a partner dedicated to turning your wedding day into a cinematic masterpiece.

EverAfter – Wedding Films’ consistent acknowledgment by TheKnot as the ‘Best of Weddings’ reinforces its status as a top choice for couples seeking unparalleled wedding videography services in 2024. Contact Us Today!

Why EverAfter Stands Out

Personalized Approach: EverAfter takes the time to understand each couple’s unique love story, ensuring that every film is a tailored reflection of their personalities and journey.

Cutting-Edge Techniques: With state-of-the-art equipment and innovative techniques, EverAfter creates films that are not just recordings but captivating narratives that unfold with emotion and authenticity.

Experience and Expertise: The team at EverAfter brings years of experience to the table, knowing how to capture those candid moments that make each wedding unique.

Elevating Your Wedding Experience

As EverAfter – Wedding Films adds another accolade to its collection with TheKnot’s “Best of Weddings 2024” award, couples can rest assured that they are choosing a team with a proven track record of excellence. In the ever-evolving landscape of wedding videography, EverAfter continues to shine, elevating the wedding experience and turning moments into cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

To make your wedding day truly unforgettable, consider the award-winning services of EverAfter Wedding Films, recently honored with TheKnot’s ‘Best of Weddings 2024’ accolade.

Navigating the Aisle: Unveiling the Secrets to Perfect Wedding Planning in Chicago for 2024

November 26, 2023
Wedding Films

Introduction

Planning your dream wedding in the enchanting city of Chicago requires a delicate balance of creativity, organization, and financial acumen. As couples gear up for the 2024 wedding season, the age-old debate resurfaces: to hire a wedding planner or go the DIY route. In this guide, we’ll dissect the intricacies of wedding planning, compare the benefits and potential savings of hiring a planner versus doing it yourself, and uncover the secrets to getting the best from your wedding preparations.

Section 1: The Allure of Chicago Weddings

Before delving into the intricacies of planning, let’s first acknowledge the unique charm that Chicago brings to weddings. From the breathtaking skyline views to the diverse array of venues, Chicago is a city that offers couples a canvas on which to paint their love story. Whether you’re envisioning an elegant ballroom affair or a quaint ceremony by the lake, Chicago has it all.

Section 2: The Wedding Planner Advantage

Benefits:

Expertise: A seasoned wedding planner brings invaluable industry knowledge, helping you navigate the vast landscape of Chicago’s wedding scene.

Vendor Connections: Established planners often have strong relationships with local vendors, potentially securing you discounts and preferred services.

Stress Reduction: A wedding planner acts as your advocate, handling logistics, timelines, and unforeseen challenges, allowing you to focus on the joy of the occasion.

Potential Savings:

Vendor Negotiations: Skilled negotiators, planners can secure competitive rates, potentially saving you money on venue, catering, and other services.

Time Efficiency: Time is money, and a wedding planner’s efficiency can translate into cost savings by avoiding unnecessary delays and complications.

Wedding Pricing and Wedding Planning Chicago

Section 3: The DIY Wedding Planning Approach

Benefits:

Personal Touch: Wedding planning allows for a deeply personal touch, ensuring that every detail reflects your unique style and preferences.

Budget Control: Direct control over the budget enables you to allocate funds according to your priorities and potentially save on certain expenses.

Potential Savings:

Vendor Selection: While planners have connections, diligent research can lead to discovering affordable yet excellent vendors, potentially resulting in savings.

Flexibility: DIY couples have the flexibility to adjust plans and allocate funds where they see fit, potentially optimizing their budget.

Section 4: Maximizing Savings in Chicago

Venue Selection:

Planner: With their connections, a planner might secure discounted rates or additional perks at sought-after venues.

DIY: Thorough research may unveil hidden gems or off-peak times for more affordable venue options.

Catering and Decor:

Planner: Negotiating catering and decor packages may lead to bundled discounts.

DIY: Shopping around for catering and decor services independently allows for more flexibility in selecting cost-effective options.

Striking the Perfect Balance

As you embark on the exciting journey of planning your Chicago wedding in 2024, the decision between hiring a wedding planner and going the DIY route is ultimately a personal one. Consider your priorities, budget, and the level of involvement you desire in the planning process. Striking the perfect balance is key to ensuring a memorable day that not only reflects your love story but also aligns with your financial goals.

Regardless of your choice, remember that Chicago is a city brimming with possibilities, offering a plethora of options for both traditional and unconventional celebrations. So, whether you choose the expertise of a planner or the personal touch of a DIY approach, the key to getting the best from your wedding planning journey is to savor each moment, relish the process, and look forward to saying “I do” against the backdrop of the magnificent Chicago skyline.

Check WeddingWire or The Knot to find your best planner! There are also a lot of great other vendors to make your Big Day special. Good luck with planning!

You always welcome to consider your top wedding videography services – EverAfter – Wedding Films.

Unveiling the Magic: Wedding and Wedding Planning Trends for Charming 2024 Season

November 15, 2023
Wedding Films

Introduction

wedding and wedding planning

The air is filled with love, excitement, and the promise of forever as we step into the much-anticipated wedding season of 2024. Couples across the globe are gearing up to celebrate their love in unique and unforgettable ways. With a myriad of possibilities and trends, wedding and wedding planning have become an art form, and the choices seem endless. In this guide, we will not only answer some essential questions about wedding planning but also highlight the significance of videography in preserving the magic of these once-in-a-lifetime moments. And when it comes to wedding videography, EverAfter – Wedding Films emerges as the top pick, capturing love stories with unparalleled artistry and passion.

How Much Should a Wedding Planner Cost?

Engaging the expertise of a wedding planner is a crucial decision that can greatly influence the smoothness and success of your big day. The cost of a wedding planner can vary significantly based on factors such as location, experience, and the level of service offered.

  • Average Cost: According to The Knot’s 2022 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding planner in the United States was around $2,000.
  • Factors Influencing Wedding and Wedding Planning Cost:
    • Geographical Location: Wedding planners in metropolitan areas may charge more due to higher living costs and demand.
    • Service Level: Full-service wedding planners who handle every detail may cost more than partial or day-of coordinators.

Check The Knot’s 2022 Real Weddings Study

How Much Money Should You Have for a Wedding and Wedding Planning?

The budget is a crucial aspect of wedding planning, determining the scale of your celebration and the services you can afford. The amount you should have largely depends on your personal finances and priorities.

  • Average Wedding and Wedding Planning Cost: The average cost of a wedding in the United States was approximately $33,000 in 2022, as reported by The Knot.
  • Budget Allocation:
    • Venue and Catering: Around 40% of the budget.
    • Photography and Videography: Approximately 10%.
    • Attire, Flowers, and Decor: 15-20%.
    • Entertainment: 10-15%.
    • Check The Knot’s 2022 Real Weddings Study

Keep in mind that the study is from 2022. Going to 2024 photography become old-fashion. Video is coming a new moving picture style where we recommend to budget around 15-20% to get high-class product. 

What Are the Steps to Planning a Wedding?

Planning a wedding involves a series of steps to ensure a seamless and memorable event. Here’s a simplified guide:

1. Set a Budget:

  • Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your wedding.

2. Create a Guest List:

  • Decide on the number of guests to guide venue choices and budgeting.

3. Choose a Date and Venue:

  • Consider the season, availability, and theme.

4. Hire Vendors:

5. Design Your Event:

  • Plan the decor, flowers, and overall theme.

6. Select Attire:

  • Choose wedding attire for both the couple and the bridal party.

7. Send Invitations:

  • Design and send out invitations well in advance.

8. Plan the Ceremony and Reception:

  • Organize details like music, vows, and speeches.

9. Coordinate Logistics:

  • Confirm details with vendors, create a timeline, and plan for contingencies.

10. Capture the Memories:

  • Prioritize photography and videography to immortalize the day.

Example: Couples often overlook the significance of hiring a professional videographer until it’s too late. EverAfter – Wedding Films specializes in capturing the essence of your wedding day, ensuring that every tear, smile, and dance move is forever preserved. We get a lot of inquiries end of the season or during a pick of the season when we are already booked. We don’t work with volume, we allow up to 2 wedding per weekend to focus on quality.

wedding and wedding

How Long Before Your Wedding Should You Start Planning?

The timeline for your wedding and wedding planning can vary depending on the complexity of your celebration. However, a general guideline is to start the planning process about 12 to 18 months before the big day.

12-18 Months Before:

  • Set a date and budget.
  • Start researching venues and vendors.
  • Begin creating a guest list.

8-12 Months Before:

  • Book the venue and essential vendors.
  • Design the overall theme and style of the wedding.
  • Choose the wedding party.

6-8 Months Before:

  • Order attire for the couple and the bridal party.
  • Finalize guest accommodations.
  • Plan the ceremony and reception details.

4-6 Months Before:

  • Send out invitations.
  • Confirm details with vendors.
  • Plan the honeymoon.

2-4 Months Before:

  • Finalize all details.
  • Have dress fittings.
  • Confirm the timeline with vendors.

1 Month Before:

  • Confirm final details with all vendors.
  • Create a day-of timeline.
  • Pack for the honeymoon.

Check The Knot’s Wedding Planning Timeline

EverAfter – Wedding Films: Capturing Timeless Memories

Amidst the myriad of decisions involved in wedding planning, choosing the right videographer is paramount. EverAfter – Wedding Films has emerged as a leading force in the world of wedding videography, offering couples an opportunity to immortalize their love story with unparalleled artistry and passion.

– Tailored Wedding Films: EverAfter takes a personalized approach, understanding each couple’s unique story and vision for their wedding day. Their films are not just recordings but carefully crafted narratives that unfold with emotion and authenticity.

– Top-Notch Equipment and Techniques: EverAfter invests in cutting-edge equipment and creative techniques to ensure that every frame is a work of art. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in the quality of their films.

– Unmatched Expertise: With a team of experienced videographers, EverAfter knows how to anticipate and capture those candid moments that make your wedding unique. Their films become a time capsule of genuine emotions that you can revisit anytime you want.

In conclusion, as we embark on the 2024 wedding season, couples are presented with a myriad of possibilities to make their celebration truly magical. Wedding and Wedding planning involves careful consideration of budget, timelines, and, most importantly, the choice of services that will preserve the memories for a lifetime. EverAfter – Wedding Films stands as a testament to the evolution of wedding videography, offering couples the opportunity to relive their special day with cinematic brilliance. As you plan your wedding for the 2024 season, remember that the magic lies not only in the celebration itself but in the timeless memories captured by professionals who understand the art of love and storytelling.

Top 5 Wedding Venues in Chicago for Your Dream Wedding

April 21, 2023
Wedding Films

When it comes to planning a dream wedding, choosing the perfect venue is crucial. Chicago has some of the most beautiful and iconic wedding venues in the country, each with its unique charm and character. In this article, we’ve handpicked the top 5 wedding venues in Chicago to help you find the perfect location for your special day.

  1. The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned museum that also offers an iconic venue for weddings. With its elegant Beaux-Arts architecture and stunning views of Lake Michigan, it’s the perfect setting for a timeless and romantic wedding. The venue offers several spaces, including the Modern Wing, the Grand Staircase, and the stunning South Garden.

  1. The Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is another iconic wedding venue in Chicago. With its stunning Tiffany glass dome and marble staircase, it’s one of the city’s most historic and elegant spaces. The venue offers several event spaces, including the Preston Bradley Hall, the GAR Rotunda, and the Sidney R. Yates Gallery.

  1. The Rookery Building

The Rookery Building is a Chicago landmark that has been restored to its original splendor. With its stunning Frank Lloyd Wright-designed light court and ornate details, it’s a breathtaking wedding venue. The venue offers several spaces, including the Light Court, the Burnham Ballroom, and the Skydeck.

  1. The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel

The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel is a stunning venue that blends history and modern luxury. With its stunning architecture and stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, it’s the perfect location for a chic and sophisticated wedding. The venue offers several spaces, including the White City Ballroom, the Tank Event Space, and the Game Room.

  1. The Drake Hotel

The Drake Hotel is a Chicago icon that has hosted some of the city’s most elegant weddings. With its stunning Grand Ballroom and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, it’s a dream location for any couple. The venue offers several event spaces, including the Gold Coast Room, the French Room, and the Palm Court.

In conclusion, Chicago has some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the country, each with its unique charm and character. Whether you’re looking for a timeless and romantic setting or a chic and modern space, there’s a venue that will suit your style and needs. We hope this article has helped you find the perfect wedding venue in Chicago.

Links to the wedding venues:

  1. The Art Institute of Chicago: https://www.artic.edu/events/rent-event-spaces
  2. The Chicago Cultural Center: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_culturalcenterrentalevents.html
  3. The Rookery Building: https://www.therookerybuilding.com/
  4. The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel: https://www.chicagoathletichotel.com/meetings-and-events
  5. The Drake Hotel: https://www.thedrakehotel.com/meetings-events/weddings

Videography editing

March 24, 2023
Uncategorized, Wedding Films

Does videography include editing? When it comes to wedding videography, many couples may wonder if the service includes videography editing. In short, the answer is yes, most professional wedding videographers offer editing services as part of their package. In this article, we’ll explore what wedding videography editing entails, the benefits of having edited wedding videography, and some examples of edited wedding films by CTRL+shot.

Explanation of wedding videography editing services

Wedding videography editing involves the post-production process of taking the raw footage captured on the wedding day and turning it into a cohesive and visually appealing final product. This process can include tasks such as color grading, audio mixing, adding music, transitions, and visual effects, among other techniques. The goal of editing is to create a polished and cinematic wedding film that tells the story of the couple’s special day.

Advantages of having edited wedding videography

Having edited wedding videography offers several benefits over unedited footage. First, edited footage tells a story and captures the emotions of the day, creating a more meaningful and memorable experience for the couple and their loved ones. Second, professional editing can enhance the visual and audio quality of the footage, resulting in a more polished and cinematic final product. Finally, having a professionally edited wedding film allows couples to share their special day with friends and family who were unable to attend the wedding.

Real-life examples of wedding videography editing services

CTRL+shot is a wedding videography company that offers unique wedding art film and documentary-style services, including editing. Their team of expert editors turns wedding footage into storytelling wedding films that capture the emotions, moments, and memories of the couple’s special day. CTRL+shot’s love story films are a prime example of their editing skills, weaving together interviews, voiceovers, and footage from the wedding day to create a personalized and intimate film that tells the couple’s unique love story.

In addition, top CTRL+shot wedding film examples show the power of wedding videography editing. These examples are a cinematic and emotional journey through the couple’s wedding day, capturing the beauty and magic of the day in a way that still photos cannot. From getting ready for the ceremony to the reception, the film tells a complete story that the couple will cherish for years to come.

In conclusion, wedding videography does include editing, and it’s a crucial part of the process that can elevate the final product to a whole new level. By choosing a professional wedding videographer who offers editing services, couples can ensure that their special day is captured and presented in the best possible way. CTRL+shot provides unique and personalized wedding videography services, including expert editing, to create storytelling wedding films that couples will treasure forever.

Is it better to have a photographer or videographer for a wedding?

March 18, 2023
Wedding Films

Wedding photography and videography are both important aspects of capturing a couple’s special day. While wedding photography is focused on still images, wedding videography captures the moving moments of the event. But when it comes to deciding between the two, which one should you choose? In this section, we will explore the differences between wedding photography and videography, the advantages of having both, and ultimately why videography is an essential investment.

Differences between wedding photography and videography

Wedding photography captures still images that showcase the beauty and emotion of the day. Photographs can be hung on walls, placed in albums, and shared with family and friends. Wedding videography, on the other hand, captures the moving moments of the event. It captures the voices, the music, the laughter, and the tears. A wedding video allows you to relive the day in a way that photography cannot.

Advantages of having both a photographer and videographer

Having both a wedding photographer and videographer can provide a comprehensive record of the day. Photographs can capture the still moments, such as the first kiss, the exchange of vows, and the cutting of the cake. Meanwhile, a wedding video can capture the moving moments, such as the first dance, the speeches, and the reactions of the guests. Together, they can provide a complete memory of the wedding day that can be cherished for a lifetime.

Real-life examples of wedding photography and videography

Many couples choose to have both a photographer and videographer for their wedding day. A photographer can capture stunning images of the bride and groom, the wedding party, and the guests. Meanwhile, a videographer can capture the events of the day as they unfold, providing a unique perspective on the day’s events. These two mediums work hand in hand to create a comprehensive memory of the day.

When it comes to deciding between a photographer and a videographer, it’s important to remember that they offer two different things. Photography captures still images, while videography captures moving moments. Ultimately, having a wedding videographer is an essential investment. A wedding video allows you to relive the day in a way that photography cannot. With a wedding video, you can hear the voices, the music, and the laughter, allowing you to experience the emotions of the day all over again.

Investing in a professional wedding videographer from CTRL+shot company is a wise decision for couples who want to cherish their wedding memories for a lifetime.

Wedding invitation design trends for 2023

April 1, 2022
Wedding Films

Over the past few years, more and more trends have changed the way wedding invitations look and feel. New fonts, styles, and ideas come to the front all the time, which really helps push the experience to the next level. That makes you wonder, what wedding invitation trends can we follow in 2022? Let’s find out.

A true focus on safety

Due to the pandemic, a lot of wedding invitations these days have social distancing measures and safety guidelines imprinted on them. It’s a sign of the days we live in, and it’s certainly going to continue at least during the year.

Old school designs

These days we see a lot of neutral colors in invitations, and also a rather old school style photos for wedding invitations. Even Art Deco invitations are continuing to appear and expand, which is great because these look amazing and truly bring in front a wonderful experience and unique set of visuals.

Eco-friendly designs

After you choose the right videographer such as CTRL+shot, you also want an invitation that really makes you stand out. The eco-friendly designs, as well as digital ones, really stand out, and they also help protect the environment even a little bit.

Minimalistic approach

A lot of people choose to go towards the minimalist route and it’s a great idea because these invitations look great and they do convey an amazing value. The best part about minimalistic invitations is that they still get to showcase your ideas but in a clever and innovative manner.

QR codes

We live in the digital world, so having QR codes on wedding invitations stating a lot more information is something rather normal these days. What you need to keep in mind is that not everyone is tech-savvy, so you do want to have an alternative method to access all that information.

Popular wedding invitation colors

For 2022, the most popular color is Very Pery, which has a dreamy blue with violet and red undertones. It does look amazing, and it fits the wedding theme quite nicely. However, there are some other styles and colors to choose for wedding invitations as well. Bright and fun colors, as well as natural colors, are great and really help bring in front a very rewarding and engaging experience.

You can find lots of great options simply by shopping at Amazon.

Wedding invitation fonts

What fonts are the most common for the 2022 wedding invitations? Retro fonts are making a huge comeback, and we also have bold and loud fonts too. Other fonts like handwriting or traditional cursive are just as appealing and common.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many different wedding invitation trends you can follow in 2022. There are plenty of options to choose from, so it’s a good idea to create a list of the things you like and enjoy. Take your time and pick the right wedding invitation style and theme that suits your ideas. At the end of the day, you want your wedding invitation to express your excitement for the wedding, while also being stylish and appealing!