"Why can't I hire my Uncle?" "My friend is going to let us borrow her camera and set it up in the back!" "I found a great deal on someone who is building their portfolio!"

Technology has come such a long way since the time our parents were getting married, making cameras that produce beautiful images more accessible than ever. So why hire a professional wedding videographer when your Uncle or friend who owns a nice camera can film your wedding? If you are on the fence about hiring a professional, here are three reasons I encourage you to consider before making your final decision. 

1) LEGACY

One picture I love painting for people's minds as they start discussing options is to place yourself in the shoes of your grandparents. What value do you think your grandparents would place on having a professional film of the most important day of their life? To be able to see themselves as young adults professing their love in front of their family and friends who may no longer be around. To watch them hold their loved ones in their arms, dance and celebrate? To hear their best friends share stories and well wishes to them as newly weds? If you are able to ask them, I'm sure they would say that film would be priceless. This film will be more than something you share on Facebook or watch on your anniversary, it will become the legacy you leave for your family.

2) EXPERTISE

You hire a professional for their experience! Professional videographers have filmed dozens of weddings and this is not their first rodeo! We are trained to be in the right place at the right time, so you will have peace of mind knowing we will not miss a moment. In addition, we know how a wedding day itinerary should flow and can make adjustments as needed to keep your day running smoothly while getting all of the coverage and shots that you value! That also includes directing large groups of people! (aka your bridal party and families!) It takes a special person to be able to direct and hold the attention of a large group while simultaneously giving you prompts that will inspire REAL smiles and laughs along the way.

3) QUALITY

You only get one chance to choose who you hire to capture your wedding. The saying "you get what you pay for" absolutely applies! Professional videographers invest in the highest quality equipment to deliver the highest quality films. You do not get a second chance to record your vows or the toasts at your reception or reframe your first kiss as husband and wife. Put your trust in a trained professional who has the appropriate gear and creative technique to do the job right! After your wedding, your videographer spends dozens of hours thoughtfully editing together a perfectly crafted film that tells your unique wedding day. You have already spent thousands of dollars planning your perfect day, so why wouldn't you also invest in the professional who will capture it?  

These are just a few of the many reasons it is essential to hire a professional wedding videographer for your big day! If you found yourself agreeing with the points above, I would love to continue that conversation with you! Which is another reason! Professional wedding videographers LOVE what we do! This job is my passion and I see every wedding I film as a privilege to be apart of!

Until next time,

Xoxo Sabrina

I've said it before and I'll say it again, there is something so special about capturing a couple's wedding day after a military deployment. Aaron and Mallory are two of the sweetest people and it was such a blessing to serve them on their special day! This was my third wedding filmed at Grace Presbyterian Church with the same family/friend group which is such a compliment! I love when a couple gets referred to me from a previous couple I have worked with and especially when it involves filming at their beautiful church again! (Thank you Josh and Kathleen!)

Aaron and Mallory's day was filled with so much love, Jesus and joy! One of my favorite moments from their day was their "first touch". In lieu of a first look, Aaron and Mallory stood back to back before the ceremony, exchanged hand-written letters and prayed together. It was such a sweet moment and a privilege to have captured for them to relive for years to come!

Another favorite moment from their day was the father of the bride speech at the reception! Mallory's father totally crushed it! It was a perfect mix of laughter, story telling and wise advice. Film is such a powerful medium, solely for the audio aspect! How amazing that Aaron and Mallory will be able to relive to their best friends and family well wishes on the most special day of their life?

Finally, I want to wish Aaron and Mallory an amazing first year of marriage in their new home in New York! These two love birds moved on the first of the year to begin their new lives as husband and wife and we are all so excited for them! Wishing you all the love and happiness as you make this new place your home! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Frey!

Films: Teaser, Highlight, Full Length Film

THANK YOU to the amazing vendors who made Aaron and Mallory's dream wedding come to life!

Ceremony Venue: Grace Presbyterian Church

Reception Venue: Wildlife Prairie Park

Videographer: Golden Arrow Productions

Photographer: Jessica Rivera Photography

Catering: Wildlife Prairie Park

Cake: Caleri's Cafe and Bakery

Makeup: Bride

Hair: Natalie Desjardins of Flutter Hair and Makeup

Florals and Ceremony Arch: Georgette's Flowers

DJ: Craig Widener

Decor/Rentals: Create a Scene

Bridal Dress: Country Bride

Bridesmaid's Dresses: Azazie

Suits: Seno Formal Wear

Andrew and Kelly are MARRIED! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Mueller! I remember my first conversations with Kelly and it seemed like we just clicked from the very beginning! I am open about my faith on my website and when Kelly mentioned that on one of our first initial phone calls I knew it was just meant to be! I love all of my clients, but being able to connect on a spiritual level as well is so amazing! Two strangers getting to know each other, but already having a strong bond because of our Savior! Such a blessing! 

Andrew and Kelly were my first of three December weddings and I was PUMPED. I absolutely love that Christmas was the inspiration for their wedding day and I could not wait to see Kelly's vision come to life! And boy did it not disappoint! It was the perfect mix of magic, romance and elegance. Kelly executed every detail and it was simply stunning! 

One of my favorite moments of their day was their photo sessions. After their first look, the bridal party traveled to the nearby winery for some beautiful photos and a whole lot of fun which included confetti canons! Talk about a celebration! After the photos and video prompts we made our way inside the winery for a cozy glass of wine. It really looked like the most elegant Christmas dinner party ever and it was only the start of the day!

Some other special moments from their wedding included the heart felt recording played before Kelly walked down the aisle which included special messages to her family, Andrew's family and her groom. Such a sweet gesture and really shows her thoughtful heart! Lastly, Andrew and Kelly introduced their own bridal party into the reception! This is only the second time I've seen a couple do this and it is definitely becoming my favorite! It is so neat hearing why they chose their bridal party and hearing a few fun memories about each of them.

THANK YOU so much Andrew and Kelly for choosing me to capture your perfect day! It was a privilege to celebrate with you all and I am so thrilled you are able to now relive those priceless moments for a lifetime! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Mueller!

Films: Teaser, Highlight, Full Length Film

And a huge shout out to the amazing team of vendors who helped make their day run so smoothly!

Ceremony + Reception Venue: Spruce Street Studios

Videographer: Golden Arrow Productions

Photographer: Brian L Coss Photography

Catering: Neimergs

Cake: Simply Sweet Cakery

Pies: Neimergs

Makeup: Makeup by HayleyK

Hair: Glamour Suites Decatur by Emily Massey

Florals: Wethingtons Fresh Flowers and Gifts

DJ: Creative Souls DJ and Uplighting Services by DJ Chazzy Chaz

Decor: Blooms on Spruce + Spruce Street Studios

Bridal Dress: Michelle's Bridal

Bridesmaid's Dresses: David's Bridal

Maid of Honor Dress: Michelle's Bridal

Suits: Men's Warehouse

Military couples will always have a special place in my heart! Coming together to celebrate a wedding day after a deployment simply speaks volumes of the couple. Isaiah and Alyssa originally reached out to me two years ago when they got engaged! After two years of wedding planning and a deployment for Isaiah, their gorgeous wedding day was definitely a "finally!" kind of moment!

Isaiah and Alyssa could not have asked for more PERFECT weather for their big day. The fall colors were absolutely breathtaking and it was a beautiful sunny fall day to enjoy their outdoor ceremony and portrait sessions. Outdoor weddings, especially that time of year can be such a gamble, but it was totally worth it! The vibrant sunset at the end of the night was just a cherry on top!

One of my favorite moments from their special day was their first look. There are so many butterflies the morning of a wedding and it was so priceless to witness the look on Isaiah's face as he turned around to see his bride. In addition to their first look, Isaiah and Alyssa did a very unique approach to their reception introductions! The newly weds were announced into their reception first, so that they could then introduce their own bridal party! So fun! It was great hearing a little bit about each of the bridal party members and why they were chosen to stand with them on their big day.

At the end of the night the celebration was in full swing. These two know how to throw a party and the dance floor was completely packed with their friends and family! 

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Brown and thank you SO much for choosing Golden Arrow Productions to capture your perfect day! And a huge thank you to the wonderful team of vendors who made their wedding day flow so smoothly!

Films: Teaser, Highlight, Full Length Film

Ceremony + Reception Venue: The Homestead Reception Center

Videographer: Golden Arrow Productions

Photographer: Elouise Photographie

Catering: Turasky's Catering

Cake/Cupcakes: Cake Chick

Donuts/Caramel Apples: Apple Barn

Makeup: Rene's Studio Salon

Hair: Kinleigh Severns

Rentals: Rustic Love Rentals

Florals: Petals & Co

DJ:  Life of the Party

Bridal Dress: White Traditions Bridal House

Bridesmaid's Dresses: Azazie

Suits: Savvi Formalwear

Where to even begin! Katie and Kenzie are married and it was an absolutely breathtaking wedding day! I originally met Katie and Kenzie in high school where we all attended the same summer camp! This was the camp that my husband Aaron and I originally met at as well as where Katie and Kenzie first met! How freaking cute is that?!?! Guess it's a pretty great place to meet your future spouse! 

From our very first phone call, Kenzie knew EXACTLY what she envisioned for their big day. From the style, to the music selection, the vows and decor, she executed every single detail to a tee! And boy was it worth it! The entire day was simply beautiful and so unique to their style. Some of my favorite details included the cut outs of their fur babies and Kenzie's floral leather jacket! When I went to edit their film, I knew it would be a totally different vibe from my other highlights. I loved the challenge and am so thrilled with the results of their romantic, dreamy film they envisioned brought to life!

In addition to the stunning decor, their personal hand-written vows are what videographers dream of. It was such a privilege to witness these brides share their love and hearts to each other and you could tell everyone in attendance was so honored as well. Thank goodness there were plenty of tissues to go around!

Finally, I have to share about one of their very special dances. Katie and Kenzie recognize that not all couples are able to celebrate or express their love openly. They invited anyone and everyone in the LGBTQ+ community including allies onto the dance floor for a very special dance to celebrate their own love in a safe space. The song they chose was "She Keeps Me Warm" by Mary Lambert which happened to be the very first song Katie and Kenzie danced to publicly at their officiant Lindsey's wedding. It was such a full circle and emotional moment and again thank goodness the tissues were always handy! 

THANK YOU so much Katie and Kenzie for entrusting Aaron and I to capture these incredibly raw and important moments. You were both amazing to work with and I am so thrilled you love your films and are able to relive these moments for a lifetime! Another thank you to the amazing team of vendors who helped make their day happen! We couldn't have done it without you! Congratulations Mrs. and Mrs. Stuva!

Films: Teaser, Highlight, Full Length Film

Ceremony + Reception Venue: Exposition Building

Videographer: Golden Arrow Productions

Photographer: Made To Be Mine

Catering: Judy Carriker

Sweets: County Market Bakery

Bridesmaid's and Katie's Makeup: Faelyn Powell

Kenzie's Makeup: Kenzie

Hair: Sarah Allison at Shear Joy Salon

Florals: Hobby Lobby; arranged by Kenzie!

DJ:  Kurt-Bob Williams

Officiant: Lindsey Ballard

Bridal Dress: David's Bridal

Bridal Suit: Twisted Tailor

Brian and Paige had a GORGEOUS fall day for a beautiful October wedding! I originally met Paige last summer when she was the maid of honor for her best friend, Sierra! It is always the biggest compliment to be recommended by past brides and to serve their friends and family! I was thrilled when Paige reached out and was so excited to be apart of her and Brian's big day! It was the cherry on top catching up with Sierra and her husband Kevin at their wedding! Sierra stood up with Paige as one of her bridesmaids and it was so special!

Paige's vision for her wedding was absolutely stunning and so unique! She incorporated their Scottish heritage, their love for travel and little pieces unique to them as a couple! Some of my favorites included the kitty cats on their cake topper, the little panda on their head table and the delicious family style feast! 

If I had to choose my top favorite moment from their wedding it would have to be their personal vows! There was not a dry eye in the house! Capturing their commitments to each other and the sharing of their hearts in front of their loved ones is such a privilege and allowing them to relive those moments for the rest of their lives through their films is the best job in the world! THANK YOU so much Paige and Brian for entrusting Aaron and I to capture your special day and allowing us to be apart of the celebration! It was a heck of a party and such an amazing experience for our first Chicago wedding! Congratulations again Mr. and Mrs. Kroll!

Films: Teaser, Highlight Film, Full Length Film

And a special thank you to the amazing team of vendors who helped make Brian and Paige's day run so smoothly! It was a pleasure meeting and working with you all!

Ceremony Venue: Matthew Bieszczat Volunteer Resource Center

Reception Venue: Lido's Banquet Hall

Videographer: Golden Arrow Productions

Photographer: Michelle Lytyle Photography

Catering: Lido's Banquet Hall

Cake: Lido's Banquet Hall

Hair & Makeup: Swerve Salon

Florals: Trader Joe's; put together by the bridal party!

DJ: Cage and Aquarium

Wedding Dress: Labella Bridal

Tuxes: Men's Warehouse

Bridesmaid's Dresses: David's Bridal and Azazie

Parker and Alex are married! Their day was full of joy, laughter, happy tears and so much love! Alex is my husband's cousin and I was so thrilled when she reached out to me about filming her special day! Living in different states, I had only met this side of the family a handful of times so I was so elated to get to know Parker and Alex as a couple before the big day as well as hangout with the whole crew for their wedding weekend! 

I carpooled with my husband, sister-in-law and her husband and the drive went so smoothly! We took our time, enjoyed all of the stops along the way and had plenty of road trip snacks! After a long 12+ hour day driving to South Dakota for the first time, I was tired but so ready to film the next day! Arriving at the hotel around 10:30pm we went straight to bed and were up and ready to film the next morning by 9am!

After filming dozens of weddings over the past three years, I am not exaggerating when I say Parker and Alex's day was PERFECT! We made the comment several times throughout the day that everything was going so smoothly! Alex planned every detail and all of her hard work definitely paid off! We ran on schedule and were able to fully enjoy their beautiful wedding day without any stress! 

One of my favorite moments from their day was their letter readings! They wrote letters to each other before their first look and it was such a sweet moment hearing them read them aloud! Another favorite moment was watching their son Noah! He was such a team player with all of the photos and video going on and he was quite the comic relief throughout the day with his Pokemon! Finally, Parker and his mother's surprise choreographed dance was killer! Such a special memory and their guests LOVED it!

THANK YOU so much Parker and Alex for entrusting Aaron and I to capture your special day as well as all of the amazing vendors who helped make it happen!

Films: Teaser, Highlight Film, Full Length Film

Venue: Wilbert's Square Event Center

Photographer: ML Graphic Design & Photography LLC

Catering: EconoLodge Inn and Suites

Cake: Sheana Siegel at Midwest Fresh Catering

Hair: Stephanie Pederson at Studio 117

Makeup: Adam Marten

Florals: Angela Coners at Peapod's

Guest Book Sign: Bob + Vivian Pavek; painted by Holly DuHoux

DJ: The Rat Pack

Wedding Dress: The Bridal Gallery

Tuxes: The Bridal Gallery

Bridesmaid's Dresses: David's Bridal

Here you will find a general overview of the steps involved in the planning process! I used this same method for planning my own special day and it was a LIFE-SAVER! Keep in mind that it's never too early to start planning. Venues, bands, photographers and videographers can be fully booked more than a year in advance! While the planner below can be used as a guide for budgeting your time, the earlier you make arrangements, the better. 

NINE MONTHS BEFORE OR EARLIER

O Plan get-together for families to meet, celebrate, and discuss wedding plans

O Create blog or website to post wedding news, information, pictures etc. or sign up at a wedding site to do the same, as well as to get ideas from other brides and to have access to wedding tools and information

O Discuss budget- with each other and family (include both families in talks if both families will be sharing the costs)

O Create inspiration notebook/folder, or use a website such as Pinterest, and start gathering ideas for a theme, venue, etc.

O Select a date- and alternative ones to ensure flexibility when it comes to the availability of a venue or professional you want to hire

O Choose and ask attendants for the bridal party

O Put together guest list

O Book site for ceremony

O Book site for reception

O Book officiant

O Book caterer

O Hire band/DJ for ceremony and reception

O Order dress and veil/headpiece

SIX TO NINE MONTHS BEFORE

O Book photographer

O Book videographer

O Book florist

O Select and order attendants' dresses and accessories

O Reserve rental equipment including tent, tables, chairs, linens, china, etc.

O Meet with caterer to plan menu and schedule tasting

O Order invitations and other wedding stationary

O Send save-the-dates

O Make arrangements with hotel to hold block of rooms for out-of-town guests

O Book room for wedding night

O Investigate honeymoon destinations and travel arrangements

O Register for wedding gifts

FOUR TO SIX MONTHS BEFORE

O Start any DIY planning

O Make final honeymoon reservations

O Purchase/order/make favors

O Schedule time for ceremony rehearsal

O Plan rehearsal dinner (whether this involves making the arrangements yourself or discussing the event with the groom's family)

O Purchase tuxedo/suit, or reserve rental (groom and groomsmen)

O Meet with florist to discuss and decide upon bouquets, arrangements, etc.

O Order wedding cake

O Purchase/order/make gifts for bridal party

O Purchase bridal shoes and other accessories

O Have invitations addressed

O Plan Bridal Shower and Bachelorette Party

TWO TO FOUR MONTHS BEFORE

O Investigate local requirements for obtaining marriage license

O Book/arrange for transportation for bride, groom, attendants, and immediate family on wedding day

O Meet with officiant to discuss service

O If writing your own vows, begin doing so now

O Select readings/songs for ceremony; ask those you want to read/perform if they will do the honor

O Make selections for ceremony music

O Select songs for the major highlights of reception (first dance, cake-cutting, bouquet toss, etc.)

O Purchase appropriate undergarments for wedding dress, and bring to first fitting

O Purchase wedding bands

O Select gift for groom, if you two are exchanging presents

O Select thank-you gifts for parents

O Mail invitations (this should be done six to eight weeks before wedding)

O Do trial runs with makeup artist and hairstylist and schedule beauty appointments for the wedding day

O Host bridal shower and bachelorette party

FOUR TO SIX WEEKS BEFORE

O Obtain marriage license

O Create/order ceremony programs

O Put together welcome baskets for out-of-town guests

O Give list of songs you want (and don't want) played to band/DJ

O Have final dress fitting

O Pick up ordered tuxedo/suit, if purchasing (groom and groomsmen)

O Start arranging seating plan

O Pick up wedding bands

TWO WEEKS BEFORE

O Give caterer final head count

O Finalize seating plan; write place cards

O Send shot lists to photographer and videographer

O Compose toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception

O Make a detailed schedule fo the wedding reception events (times for cocktails, first dance, dinner, cake-cutting, etc.) to give to all applicable service providers

O Break in shoes and scuff bottoms to add traction

ONE WEEK BEFORE

O Pick up dress, if not being delivered

O Pick up tuxedo, if renting (groom and groomsmen)

O Confirm reservations for wedding night and honeymoon

O Get crisp bills from bank for gratuities; put tips in labeled envelopes and seal

O Organize final payments for service providers who need to be paid on wedding day

O Pack for honeymoon

O Make list of everything you need to bring to wedding, and gather all necessary items together

O Confirm final details with all service providers 

O Arrange for mail to be held at post office during honeymoon

O Call stores where you're registered to hold deliveries

ONE DAY BEFORE

O Drop off welcome baskets for out-of-town guests at hotel (or ask attendant to do so)

O Get manicure and pedicure

O Have rehearsal; hand out gifts to wedding party if you haven't already done so

O Assign tasks and duties to wedding party for next day

O Give attendants anything they need to execute said duties

O Attend rehearsal dinner

Easy right? Wedding planning can be very overwhelming and sometimes it's hard to know where to even begin! I hope this timeline relieves a bit of the stress and helps you execute your exact wedding vision! At the end of the day, this season of engagement FLIES BY and you are marrying the love of your life! Remember to enjoy the process and this special time!

Until next time,

Xoxo Sabrina

I am so excited to share extra details and fun moments from filming Blake and Christina's wedding day! I first learned about this couple through Blake's sister (Hi Lauren!). Lauren was a photographer at a wedding I filmed a couple seasons ago and when she reached out to me I was thrilled to work with her family! It is always such a HUGE compliment to be recommended by someone else in the business who works with other vendors all the time!

When I arrived at The Landing Barn I was blown away! The grounds were beautiful! It was my first time shooting at this venue and it was so much fun to explore! What really set the venue apart though was Christina's personal touch. Her wedding vision was inspired by the beach and it turned out absolutely beautiful! From the tropical color palette, to the sand mixing ceremony, and the pineapple cups it was so unique and fun!

My favorite moments of the day were by far the couple's photo session. Both Blake and Christina were so easy going and up for any creative idea that popped into my head! Not to mention, the chemistry between these two are what photographers and videographers dream of! Another favorite moment was Blake talking to the camera before seeing his bride. I give all of my couple's the opporutnity to share their emotions before seeing each other and it is so special to look back on!

Thank you so much Blake and Christina for being incredible to work with and congratulations!

Films: Teaser, Highlight Film, Full Length Film

Venue: The Landing Barn

Photographer: April Mateer Photography

Cake: Rachel West

Hair/Makeup: Alisha Henderson

Florals: DIY

DJ: AADJ Productions

Wedding Dress: Elite Bridal

Bridesmaid's Dresses: David's Bridal

Regardless of the vendors you book individually, I see us as a team working together to make your day absolutely perfect! I personally reach out to your vendors to discuss your wedding game plan, guaranteeing we are all able to execute the job we were hired to do! Below are vendors I have LOVED working with and would encourage you to explore!

Photographers

Brian L. Coss Photography

Elouise Photographie

Brenna Pherigo Photography

Sharon Guillotte Photography

Kyann Raye Photography

Haley Foster Photography

Lauren Anderson Photography

Sheet Photography

Planners/Event Coordinators

Coda's Events LLC

The Savvy Bride

Altar'd Events

Chloe' & Company Events

Florals

Petals & Co

Roses + Mint

Casey's Garden Shop and Florist

Wethingtons Fresh Flowers and Gifts

Georgette's Flowers

Sweets

Three Twigs Bakery

Sweet Temptations Cupcake

Caleri's Cafe and Bakery

 Simply Sweet Cakery

Cake Chick

DJ/Music

Abell DJ Company

Party On Productions

Audio Dimensions

Complete Weddings & Events

Creative Souls DJ and Uplighting Services

 Cage and Aquarium

Jessica reached out to me back in July of 2018. She was so organized and easy to work with from the very beginning! After adding the couple on Facebook, I came to realize her fiancé Matthew was one of the groomsmen in Jordan & Markie's wedding two summers ago! I was so excited to work with this group of friends again at the same stunning venue.

I think one of the first words that come to mind for anyone who attended Matthew and Jessica's wedding is family. Jessica had so many family members travel from all over attending her special day. From her grandfather giving the blessing during the ceremony, the first look with her Dad, her nephews and fur baby walking the rings down the aisle, and her sister's touching matron of honor speech, there was so much love and support for the happy couple!

The first looks were easily my favorite moments to capture from their day. From her girls seeing her in the dress for the first time, her Dad seeing his daughter as a stunning bride and finally Matthew seeing the love of his life on their wedding day, it was a complete honor to film.

I am so thrilled the weather cooperated with us and we were able to have an absolutely beautiful outdoor photo session before the ceremony. Although it was quite humid once the clouds disappeared, the results are well worth it! Thank you Matthew, Jessica and the entire bridal party for being such team players!

Both their teaser, highlight film and full length film were so much fun to put together! Congratulations newly weds!

Venue: The Pillars Event Center

Photography: Brian L. Coss Photography

DJ: Neil Hohenstein from Audio Dimensions

Catering: Angelos

Cake: Bailey Hancock

Donuts: Three Twigs Bakery

Flowers: Petals and Company

Dress: Clarice's Bridal Fashions

Hair/Makeup: Amenities On Main

As both a bride and wedding videographer, my goal for our wedding (logistically) was staying on-time! Your wedding day is easily the most anxious and happiest day of your life. By following these tips, it will help alleviate the potential stress of running behind and allow you to fully enjoy your day!

1) ITINERARY

Itinerary is number one for a reason. As your big day approaches, sit down with your wedding planner, photographer or coordinator to really nail down a solid time-line. These professionals have experienced dozens of weddings and understand how much time to allow for the day’s events. Next, share your finalized itinerary including times and locations with your bridal party, family and vendors! The last thing you need on your wedding day is someone asking you what time the ceremony starts or where to meet up for family photos. Finally, include your maid of honor and best man’s contact information so if there are any questions, they are not directed to you!

2) HAIR/MAKEUP ORDER

The order in which your bridal party gets their hair/makeup completed MATTERS. My suggestion is to have the individuals that will be helping you into your dress go first. These individuals are most likely your mom and maid of honor. Schedule your hair/makeup next with the rest of the bridesmaids to follow. Following this order guarantees that if hair/makeup is running late, you can still get into your dress/start bridal portraits on time!

3) PRE-CEREMONY BUFFER

Starting the ceremony on-time is a priority. It’s the reason you are all there and you also want to value your guests’ time! A great way to set yourself up for a prompt ceremony arrival is by scheduling 30 minutes of buffer time. This time is perfect for relaxing with your bridesmaids, staying hidden from arriving guests, grabbing a bite to eat and doing any final touch-ups. Having this time already scheduled into your itinerary allows you to catch a breath before you say “i do!”

4) PEOPLE ARE SLOW

This one is pretty simple. People are slow! When creating your itinerary, keep in mind the amount of time it takes for people to move. This includes a receding line (if you choose to do one), travel time from the ceremony to reception site and transitioning guests from cocktail hour and finding their reception seats. A safe amount of time to allow is 20 minutes per transition.

5) EXIT STRATEGY

There are so many cute photographic send-offs ideas! From sparklers, to lanterns, to fireworks, Pinterest has inspired so many creative ways to say goodnight to the newly weds. But what time should you schedule it? If you expect a significant amount of guests to leave early in the night, you want to schedule it sooner. The last thing you want is to have only a handful of guests left at the end of the night to send you off! Secondly, consider how late you have your vendors. Most photographers and videographers work hourly so make sure you schedule it into their coverage if capturing the send-off is important to you! Aaron and I chose to do an earlier send-off at 9pm and then went back inside to party! This allowed all of guests to feel included and we got some of my favorite shots of the night from our photographer and videographer!

I’m sure there are other ways to help stay on-time during your wedding day, but in my experience as both a bride and wedding videographer, these are the best! I hope these help and happy planning!

Until next time,

Xoxo Sabrina

I cannot believe Aaron and I will be celebrating our first wedding anniversary in just a few weeks. It seems so crazy to me! This past year has been filled with so much joy, collaboration, laughter, tears, blessings and love. I know these years and anniversaries will FLY by so I want just a moment to slow things down and reminiscence. So here is 12 favorite moments in our first 12 months of marriage.

1) THE HONEYMOON (DUH!) #justmaui-ed

Our honeymoon was an absolute DREAM. We enjoyed 7 days in Maui, Hawaii. Some of the highlights included snorkeling with wild sea turtles, sleeping to the sound of crashing waves, the Road to Hana (highly recommend) and a sunset dinner cruise.

We took this photo at our hotel's luau. We joked about how it looks like this photo has been hanging in our house for at least 20 years haha. Not pictured, myself being pulled up on stage to demonstrate my best hula after one too many Mai Tai's. 

2) WEDDING SEASON

The week we returned from our honeymoon, I spent the next 5 consecutive weeks filming 6 weddings! Talk about getting back to reality! It was an insane busy season, but it was an absolute blast! These were some of the first weddings Aaron worked as my second shooter and through the long film days, and hours and hours of editing, he was my ROCK and my number one supporter.

3) THE ARCH MAN

Archie, Archie-kins, the Arch Man, Archibald. Whatever we choose to call him, he was and is a purrrfect addition to the Moore clan.

One of the first photos vs. most recent photo

4) ED SHEERAN

Our first dance at our wedding was a choreographed dance to "Tight Rope" from the Greatest Showman. If it wouldn't have been that, Ed Sheeran's "Perfect" was our next pick! Hearing him perform live was always a bucket list item for us and last minute nose bleed seats did the trick! 

5) HALLOWEEN COSTUME

If you know us at all, you know we take Halloween costumes VERY seriously. This may have been one of our favorites. It earned us second place in Wild Country's Costume Contest, but I think it's pretty clear who the true winners were.

6) HOMEMADE GNOCCHI

In November, I flew to Naples, Italy with my big sister and aunt for a culinary tour! It was incredible to say the least. When I returned home, I prepared a four course authentic Italian meal for my honey to show him a little bit of what I learned.

7) WATCHING OUR WEDDING FILM

Cue the tears. As a wedding videographer, you can imagine my extreme anticipation leading up to viewing my OWN wedding film. It was beautiful. My friend and mentor Ingrid from White Lily Productions did a phenomenal job. It was such an emotional experience viewing it for the first time and I cried tears of joy the entire time! (Thank you, Ingrid!)

8) MAKEUP TUTORIAL

This one's a good one haha. Aaron's extended family does a Christmas talent show every year. With it being our first Christmas as a married couple, I figured it's about time I make my debut by demonstrating my makeup skills on none other than my lovely hubby ;)

9) SNOWBALL FIGHT

Next to our first apartment was a massive soccer field. During the snow-pocalypse, Aaron rallied up a handful of our friends for a 3 HOUR SNOWBALL FIGHT. I'm talking forts, referees and snowball stock piles. It was epic.

10) DATE NIGHTS

Sushi is easily one of my favorite foods and my favorite date night. My grandparents gifted me a sushi set this past year and it ROCKS. If you're looking for a fun cheap date-night in, homemade sushi is the way to go!

11) PEACH

Peachy-girl, Peachy-pie, Peach-anator, Peach-asaurus Rex. Again, whatever we choose to call her, we are happy to have her as apart of the family! (I don't know why we have so many nicknames for our pets, but I love it)

12) HOME

And last, but certainly not least, moving into our first house! We've been here just a little over a month and we feel so at home. This is the first place that feels like equally both Aaron and I's in every way.

I am so thankful for this season of life with the love of my life. Happy first anniversary, babe! Here is to many, many more anniversaries and favorite moments!

Until next time,

Xoxo Sabrina