Tag: Wedding

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.

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.

Best Time to Film Your Chicago Wedding: A Guide for Couples

April 27, 2023
Uncategorized, Wedding Films

Chicago is a beautiful city with a variety of scenic locations for wedding celebrations. Choosing the right season to capture your special day is essential for achieving the perfect wedding film. As professional wedding videographers, we at EverAfter – Wedding Films have seen the benefits of filming in different seasons. In this article, we’ll explore the best time to film a wedding in Chicago and why EverAfter – Wedding Films is the perfect option for your wedding film services.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a popular season for weddings in Chicago, as the weather begins to warm up after the winter months. The city’s beautiful gardens and parks are in full bloom, offering stunning backdrops for your wedding film. However, unpredictable weather can make it challenging to plan outdoor shoots. We recommend working with an experienced wedding videographer who can quickly adapt to any changes in weather and lighting.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is a busy time for weddings and for a good reason! The warm weather and long days provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. However, the high temperatures and humidity can make it challenging for the wedding party and guests to stay comfortable. Be sure to choose a wedding venue that offers indoor options for cooling off or a wedding videographer who can creatively film outdoor shots while keeping everyone comfortable.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is arguably the best season for wedding videography in Chicago. The city’s parks and gardens offer stunning foliage, creating a beautiful natural backdrop for your wedding film. The weather is cooler, making it more comfortable for the wedding party and guests to be outside for extended periods. The natural lighting in the fall creates a warm and cozy atmosphere, perfect for capturing intimate moments on film.

Winter (December to February)

While the winter months in Chicago can be cold and snowy, they offer unique and beautiful backdrops for wedding films. The city’s architecture and holiday decorations provide a romantic and festive ambiance. Winter weddings also provide opportunities for creative shots, such as snowfall and ice skating. It’s important to plan for the cold weather and have a plan B for indoor shooting locations.

Why Choose EverAfter – Wedding Films for Your Wedding Videography Services

At EverAfter – Wedding Films, we believe that every couple has a unique story to tell. That’s why we take the time to get to know you and understand your style and personality. Our tailored wedding films reflect your individuality and capture the essence of your love story.

We use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure that your wedding film is of the highest quality. Our team of experienced wedding videographers understands the importance of timing, lighting, and angles to capture the most meaningful moments of your special day.

In addition to our standard wedding videography services, we also offer additional services such as same-day edits and love story films. Our goal is to create a wedding film that exceeds your expectations and becomes a cherished keepsake for years to come.

Conclusion

Choosing the right season to film your Chicago wedding is crucial for capturing the perfect wedding film. Each season has its unique benefits and challenges, and it’s essential to work with an experienced wedding videographer who can adapt to any situation. At EverAfter, we offer tailored wedding film services that reflect your personality and style. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our wedding videography services.

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

Do videographers give raw footage? | Wedding Videography

March 23, 2023
Wedding Films

A wedding video is a keepsake that allows couples to relive their special day for years to come. While the final edited product is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the video, some couples may be interested in receiving the raw footage as well. Raw footage refers to the unedited, unprocessed video files that the videographer captures throughout the day.

Explanation of raw footage

Raw footage provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the wedding day that cannot be captured in the final edited video. It includes everything that the videographer captured, from the pre-ceremony preparations to the post-reception festivities. While raw footage can be less polished and refined than edited video, it can also be a valuable resource for couples who want to revisit certain moments or relive the emotions of the day.

Pros and cons of receiving raw footage from a wedding videographer

Receiving raw footage from a wedding videographer has both pros and cons. One advantage is that couples have access to all the footage captured by the videographer, giving them complete control over how they want to relive their day. Additionally, raw footage can serve as a backup in case the final edited video is lost or damaged.

However, there are also some drawbacks to receiving raw footage. First and foremost, raw footage requires a lot of time and effort to sort through and edit. It may also be less polished and refined than the final edited video, and may not include all the special effects or music that make the final video so memorable. Lastly, not all videographers offer raw footage as part of their package, and those that do may charge an additional fee.

Tips for negotiating raw footage with a wedding videographer

If you are interested in receiving raw footage from your wedding videographer, it is important to discuss this with them early on in the planning process. Some videographers may be willing to include raw footage as part of their package, while others may charge an additional fee. Be sure to clarify the terms and cost upfront to avoid any surprises later on.

It is also important to be realistic about the amount of raw footage you will receive. Videographers capture a lot of footage throughout the day, and it can be overwhelming to sort through it all. Consider asking your videographer to focus on capturing the key moments that are most important to you, and to provide additional footage as needed.

In conclusion, receiving raw footage from a wedding videographer can be a valuable resource for reliving the emotions of your special day. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and negotiate the terms upfront to ensure that you are getting the best value for your investment. Check what people think – forum.

Is it Worth it to Have a Videographer at Your Wedding?

March 16, 2023
Wedding Films

Your wedding day is one of the most important and special days of your life, and you want to make sure that every moment is captured to cherish for years to come. While many couples choose to hire a photographer to capture their wedding day, the question of whether it’s worth it to have a videographer at your wedding often arises. In short, the answer is yes. Here’s why.

Importance of Capturing Wedding Memories

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event that you will want to remember forever. While photos are a great way to capture still moments, they don’t always capture the full essence and emotion of the day. A wedding video, on the other hand, allows you to relive your special day, hearing the laughter, vows, and speeches, and seeing the tears and smiles on your loved ones’ faces. A wedding video is a way to preserve and relive your memories for years to come.

Advantages of Having a Wedding Videographer

A professional wedding videographer has the experience and equipment to capture all the important moments of your wedding day. From the pre-ceremony preparations to the reception festivities, a wedding videographer can capture all the important moments in a way that a photographer cannot. They can also edit the footage into a beautiful, cinematic film that tells the story of your day.

Real-life Testimonials from Couples Who Hired a Wedding Videographer

Couples who have hired a wedding videographer consistently say that it was worth the investment. They appreciate being able to relive their special day and see things they may have missed. Many also say that they’ve watched their wedding video more times than they thought they would and that it’s become a cherished family heirloom.

In short, having a wedding videographer is definitely worth the investment. It allows you to relive your special day and cherish the memories for years to come.

Videographer? Yes, of course! - Wedding Videography

February 22, 2023
Wedding Films

A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event that most couples cherish and remember for years to come. Every moment of the big day is precious, and it’s understandable that couples want to capture as much of it as possible. While photographs are an essential part of wedding documentation, there is nothing like a wedding video that can fully capture the emotions, sounds, and movements of the day. This is where a videographer comes in.

A videographer is a professional who specializes in capturing the moments and emotions of a wedding day on film. Hiring a videographer for a wedding is becoming increasingly popular as couples realize the importance of having a visual record of their big day. Here are some reasons why having a videographer is essential for any wedding:

Capturing the Emotions

One of the most significant benefits of having a videographer is that they can capture the emotions of the day. A photograph can only capture a single moment in time, but a video can record the full spectrum of emotions that the couple and their guests experience. From the nervous excitement of the morning preparations to the joyful celebrations of the evening reception, a videographer can capture it all.

Preserving the Memories

A wedding video is not just a record of the day; it is a keepsake that the couple can cherish for years to come. It’s a way of preserving the memories of their special day and sharing them with family and friends who couldn’t be there. A video can bring back all the sights, sounds, and emotions of the day and allow the couple to relive the moments whenever they want.

Adding Production Value

A professional videographer can add a lot of production value to a wedding video. They have the equipment and expertise to capture stunning visuals, record clear audio, and edit the footage into a cohesive and engaging story. A well-produced wedding video can be a beautiful piece of art that the couple can be proud to share with their loved ones.

Including Guests Who Couldn’t Attend

Not everyone can attend a wedding in person, whether it’s due to distance, health issues, or other reasons. A wedding video can be a way to include those guests who couldn’t attend in the celebration. The couple can share the video with them afterward and make them feel like they were a part of the day.

A Different Perspective

A videographer can provide a different perspective on the day than a photographer. While a photographer can capture still moments, a videographer can capture the movement and action of the day. They can record the first dance, speeches, and other special moments that might not translate as well into still photographs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hiring a videographer for a wedding is a worthwhile investment. A wedding video is a beautiful and meaningful way to capture the memories of the day and preserve them for years to come. It allows the couple to relive the emotions of the day and share the celebration with those who couldn’t attend. A professional videographer can add production value to the video and provide a unique perspective on the day. If you’re planning a wedding, consider hiring a videographer to capture the special moments of your big day.

2023 Wedding Stationery - best tips

January 2, 2023
Wedding Films

Wedding stationery creates an atmosphere for your big day. Wedding stationery consists of the most important paper goods that will be used throughout planning the wedding, like invitations, guest lists, menus, seating charts, program planning, music, and many many more. 

Should you skip wedding stationery? – No. But you can choose the items that are genuinely required for you and your Big Day.

Based on our experience and analyzing many weddings and articles for wedding stationery plans, we have created a helpful stationery checklist you will want to include in your wedding planning. 

Before everything begins

Dates, dates, dates.

Lock in your dates. Plan ahead, the general rule of thumb is around 6-8 months before the wedding. Guests don’t like last-minute plans as they need to coordinate the time with their families, around their own plans, and work. It is also important for destination weddings so the guests have enough time to coordinate travel and accommodation plans.  This will also provide enough time for the guests to decide if they will make the wedding.

Bridal Shower Invites

A bridal shower is an event to honor the bride-to-be. This event is usually made for people who are live close by. A few weeks in advance, think about 4-5, should allow those to plan accordingly. Should you mail the invites? – No. Skip it and formulate nice emails out. You can use websites like Evite or Etsy.

Bridesmaids Invites

Your bridesmaids are always ready to come and join the party. Consider asking your folks to stand by your side as soon as possible. We suggest at a minimum of 5-6 months in advance should be enough to give them time to plan accordingly! You may mail the invites out to have some kinesthetic memories for some of them. Check out Canva to design your own invites! Your own design is always better and it will stand out. 

Wedding 

The wedding invitation

Think enough time, 6-8 months before the wedding day should give enough room to people build their plans. What to include? – The invitation should have the names of the newlyweds, the venue and precise location, the date and time, the reception information, and RSVP details. It is important to order those early enough in case there are things to change in the design. Also, when you mail them out, mail them with delivery confirmation.  

RSVP/response card

The RSVP card is mailed with the wedding invitation. Guests will return the card to the couple with their information and intent to attend the Big Day. Nowadays, it is common for couples to opt for a digital RSVP option via the wedding website. Plan to set a deadline to reply 3 – 4 weeks ahead of the wedding to give time for the creation of seating charts and confirming food and beverage headcounts. Zola provides a great article on how to properly RSVP.

Venue & Directions

Oftentimes, venue location is difficult to find. In this case, you should consider sending out a precise location card along with the wedding invitation. Especially when you have multiple wedding locations it is important to have all clear destinations and map pins available to the guests. As an alternate option, you may add such details on the wedding website you have. This will  shrink some printing costs.

Addressed Envelopes

Addressed envelopes – what’s that? The envelope includes the guests’ names and their mailing addresses. Be sure to budget for stamps for the outer envelope. Also the RSVP card envelope.

Day of the Wedding

Wedding Programs

Wedding programs are usually optional. This specifically applies to weddings with short ceremonies. The program consists of a one-page outline of the ceremony times and actions. Some other programs include further details such as the bridal party lineup, ceremony readings, or personal messages from the couple. Wedding programs might be helpful to set the tone for the day and provide guests with a clear outline of where to be and when. However, it is absolutely up to the couple to decide whether they would like to have it or not. 

Seating Chart

Important! These oftentimes get overlooked but when done properly, they will save you tons of time. A seating chart is mandatory if the dinner provided is in a sit-down fashion. Personnel will know who is receiving what and where they sit. The options are endless. Some do a champagne wall, standing frame, mirror, chalkboard, and digital assignee cards.

Place Cards

In addition to the seating chart, you should consider place cards. These cards are usually displayed in the exact seat where guests will be seated. If you do NOT have a seating chart near your entrance, place cards are necessary for guests to know where to go and sit. Consider sites like The Knot and Canva.

Table Numbers

When table numbers are necessary? Well, when you plan to have assigned seating. They both go together. Table signs will guide the guests to the tables. You will avoid any potential chaos and confusion with seating arrangements. This is a simple DIY assignment or Amazon has a variety of options. 

Wedding Menus

Some people say that menus are not needed when budgeting for a wedding. However, we disagree and recommend making table menus. It could be short with the most important set of details; first and second courses, entrees, and desserts, as well as any sides that will be served. You can use Canva to create your own menu design on a budget. 

After the Wedding

Thank You Cards

Thank you cards are very important to recognize the people who came and the gifts given to the new family. It might be a time-consuming task, but it is proper etiquette to show your gratitude to ALL guests and gift givers, and please don’t forget about your wedding vendors. Please consider writing each guest by their name, and express thanks for attending and the specific gift given. When to send it? – Thank you cards should be sent within 2-3 weeks of receiving the gifts or after the wedding.

With Respect,

CTRL+shot Wedding Videography

ctrlshot.com 

Plan your stress-free wedding

November 21, 2022
Wedding Films

Once you get closer to your Big Day, tension increases. It might become very stressful especially when things go off rails due to different circumstances: delayed vendor requests, venues are booked, planned budget and market prices won’t match, and just getting all the details together.

Let’s look at this from a different perspective. This must be your happiest day. Planning should be a part of making this day the happiest but and the same time it must not be stressful.

CTRL+shot suggests the following few steps to make your planning stress-free wedding. 

First, it is very difficult to plan something if you are not familiar with the industry. So, hiring a professional coordinator will not only help, it will take pressure off you and provide the result. Sometimes, planning coordinators are expensive so do your research and don’t save on this as this will be a core for your wedding. In addition, planning coordinators already work with many “tested” vendors to provide for you to choose from.

Next, when setting a budget, always have some numbers in mind BUT save room to stretch it. Most of the time, it will go over as there are so many options and vendors and it is more likely you will want something extra. This is normal so prepare beforehand. 

Then, don’t underestimate Wedding Videography over other vendors. Many people think they don’t need a videographer until the very last month or a week. Nowadays, motion picture steps on the toes of photography services as you can create a storytelling wedding film that will keep touching your emotions over and over again when you watch it. So contact CTRL+shot Wedding Videography for a free consultation. Let’s chat.

Finally, there are some things that might go off the plan on your Big Day. It is absolutely okay – remember that! Nothing worth making your happiest day to be, an unhappy day. 

Once upon a time, our wedding videography team was filming a wedding in Greater Chicago Area and the couple was so upset as there were many things that went unplanned. So to make it better, we proposed a couple of things. One of them is to improvise! It turned out to be one of the best weddings for us and the couple saved the Big Day for them. We still stay in touch since that time. 

Our team at CTRL+shot wishes you smooth planning and if you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out. We suggest and share our experience for free. 

Things to save on wedding prep to keep it simple and fun

April 1, 2022
Uncategorized, Wedding Films

Keeping your wedding prep simple is a great way to not only represent yourself and your ideas, but also save some money too. Generally, many couples tend to overspend when it comes to their wedding and focus a lot on items that aren’t really necessary. If anything, the most important things for a wedding should be the couple, official, location, date and time, as well as the marriage license. Of course, you will also need a good Chicago videographer for your wedding films as well.

How can you make the right wedding decisions?

The main problem that a lot of couples have is that they want everything to be perfect. Because of that, they want to do everything themselves, just to ensure everything is right. The reality is that you want to take a cold look at all those tasks and features, then see if you really need them. You might be shocked, but more often than not you won’t need a lot of these services and items.

So, how can you figure out what to toss and what to keep? Create a list and then organize everything based on importance. For example, Chicago videography services from CTRL+shot are very important, and those should be on your list. However, expensive centerpieces and decorations aren’t really mandatory. You just have to see what adds value to the wedding and what can be skipped.

Asking someone else for help

You may want to handle the decorations, baking or music yourself, but hiring others or asking friends to help is a lot better. What you will notice is that outsourcing some of these wedding tasks can help you get back on track and worry a lot less. It might not seem that much in the beginning, but results can be great and that’s what matters the most.

Take your time and assess every wedding task, then ensure that you either scrap it, outsource it or move on without that particular thing. It might sound challenging at first, but if you manage to do it right, then nothing will stand in your way, and that’s exactly the need you want to pursue.

Should you focus on keeping your wedding prep simple?

There are people that try to make their wedding grandiose and massive. The reality is that you don’t have to do that. A simple wedding that represents you and who you are is a much better option. Plus, it also helps you save both time and money.

Since wedding planning has its fair share of challenges, you always want to focus on finding ways to keep your wedding simple, yet fun. Cutting down unnecessary tasks from your wedding list is really handy, and it’s definitely going to pay off big time. Just make sure that you take your time, go through all wedding tasks and then choose what works for you. Rest assured that simplifying your wedding can actually make the entire event better, not to mention you can prevent a lot of stress and anxiety!