In my next life I think I will come back as a wedding photographer. It would be nice; people have suggested it to me and I might actually have what it takes… Especially when it comes to identifying – or even helping to create – the moments that will be treasured for a lifetime.

There’s no debating that we live in a DIY world: Technology has made many things possible. It seems that everything is readily available, more affordable, and of comparable quality. This is somewhat true. Nevertheless, I must point out that: 1) knowledge and experience remain indispensable, and 2) you get what you pay for.

What to do with that wedding disc:

Many couples opt to receive a disk – typically a DVD – in lieu of a traditional wedding album. Now what? For those content to view the images on your computers or television screens, this tip is not for you. However, if you’re traditional and appreciate the nostalgic aspect of wedding portraiture you will be interested to in this pro tip – courtesy of Reed Photo:

Print on quality photographic paper.
“This means professional paper. Not the over contrasty, over saturated non- neutral stuff you get from drug stores, discount marts, warehouse/membership stores. This means use a good pro lab. Not Costco, not Wal Mart, not Walgreens, not Drug Emporium, etc etc etc.

The papers you get from consumer mini-labs are purposely manufactured to NOT have accurate color. Yep, they make it screwy on purpose. You see, Joe Consumer likes prints with colors that aren’t real. They want more saturation and contrast for that extra snap. In most cases, their photos benefit from that assistance to help the snap-shot look a bit more appealing to the eye.

Professional paper is manufactured to very exacting standards to achieve neutral balance, neutral saturation and excellent skin tones. Pro papers will handle extra saturation if you really need it for your “look”, so add it if you wish, but at least you have the option. And get this, just by using pro papers, you get an additional stop of shadow detail! The missing shadow range in the consumer papers is another reason they look so “snappy”. A properly exposed, correctly white balanced image with great composition that is printed on professional photographic paper won’t need the false extra punch to look good.” -by John Harris, ReedPhoto.com

Timing is everything

Speaking from experience, you can never have too much time scheduled for wedding photos. Plan on extra time, and then add more. Why? Because you have no control over time. Anything can happen: Limo gets a flat, grandma and grandpa get lost, flower girl is crying, bridesmaid zipper fail, flowers arrive late, unexpected rain – are you starting to get the picture? The trick to this timing thing is adding (using) the extra time in a way where your guests won’t be affected.

I found a great blog post written by Traci Turchin describing a variety of wedding photography timelines – including modern and traditional scenarios.

The Reveal (aka First Look)

I love this one! Many of our couples have done this and all have been thrilled with the outcome! A number of them even commented that it’s a tension reliever. One of the benefits I like most is that it makes for amazingly unscripted candid shots. From the perspective of the couple it is especially romantic, and they can be more intimate and relaxed since they are not surrounded by dozens of guests. This is how we typically stage it: We lead the groom to a place that is semi private, and he is turned away from the direction of the bride’s entrance. The bride walks toward the groom, and taps him on the shoulder to signal him to turn around and face. (sigh!) It’s so cool to watch this special moment unfold! Sure, it’s a break from tradition but wedding photography has evolved so much in the 20 – 50 plus years since your parents and grandparents were married.

Ultimately, the choice is yours so discuss the pros and cons ahead of time. I sincerely believe that you should be open to any approach that reduces pressure or stress on the wedding day. In my experience, the private reveal / first look works particularly well if the wedding and reception are at the same location – such as a hotel, B&B or country club. It is most definitely (in my Martha Stewart voice) “a good thing”.

© 2011 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

Photos from Holly & Jesus’  wedding at Isleworth Country Club – February 2011.

Orlando-based newlyweds Holly and Jesus tied the knot at Isleworth Country Club in February. Their memorable celebration included many festive Mexican and Latin touches, designed to give their families and friends the feeling of an authentic fiesta.

An array of Mexican and Latin touches made this celebration memorable…

Their wedding began with an outdoor ceremony, followed by a delightful cocktail reception where guests enjoyed Sangria and delicious hors d’oeuvres. Then, guests entered the ballroom to the music of a Spanish guitar, and were seated at tables named for Mexican cities.

Live entertainment included flamenco guitar music and dancers. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal plus a themed dessert bar featuring churros and tres leches, and everyone danced and partied into the night with music by Solis Productions.

Cake by Isleworth Country Club

Floral and bouquets by Distinctive Creations by Cheryl

Invitations and Programs by A Flair for Affairs

]]> http://www.aflairforaffairs.com/blog/2011/06/09/mexican-destination-wedding-in-orlando/feed/ 0 http://www.aflairforaffairs.com/blog/2010/11/19/a-flair-for-affairs-new-promo-video/ http://www.aflairforaffairs.com/blog/2010/11/19/a-flair-for-affairs-new-promo-video/#comments Fri, 19 Nov 2010 08:29:01 +0000 Elisa http://www.aflairforaffairs.com/blog/?p=1528

This short video is just in time for engagement season! Not only are we looking forward to sharing these stunning images from real weddings with potential clients, we are excited about the message: A wedding is not only a once in a lifetime event, it’s a big investment! Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider the credentials of the person or company you are trusting to fulfill your expectations and manage what oftentimes becomes an overwhelming amount of details.

In the video we touch on these four very important questions:

We hope you enjoy the video!

As President of the Orlando Chapter of Wish Upon a Wedding, I am thrilled to share this exciting news!

Six-month old nonprofit organization Wish Upon a Wedding announced on July 22, 2010 that it will broaden its scope of services, in order to assist more couples in need. Although its primary focus continues to provide weddings for terminally ill individuals regardless of sexual orientation, the organization will soon help those faced with other personal burdens, such as serious emotional, physical or other debilitating issues.

Due to a significant number of requests, Wish Upon a Wedding will now provide a limited number of weddings to inspirational couples that have experienced these catastrophic life-altering circumstances.

Additionally, Wish Upon a Wedding was featured in this wonderful Today Show article

Wish Upon a Wedding is now accepting applications from:

* Couples where at least one individual has terminal diagnosis of less than FIVE years to live

* Couples faced with situations that have caused serious emotional, physical or financial stress (approved on case by case basis)

* Married couples seeking vow renewals, who have faced serious life-altering circumstances including but not limited to terminal illness (approved on a case by case basis)

All applicants must be over the age of 18 and legal U.S. Citizens

Mission Statement:
Wish Upon a Wedding is the world’s first nonprofit wish granting organization, providing weddings and vow renewals for couples facing terminal illness and life altering circumstances, regardless of sexual orientation.

To fill out an application, click this link: Apply for a Wedding Wish

To get involved locally see my post on Upcoming Events! To find the chapter nearest to you, please click here: Chapters

Donations: We are able to take wish granters, airline miles, cash donations, auction donations on our website http://www.wishuponawedding.org – under the tab “how to help” you’ll find listed many ways you can get involved.

Please help us get the news out by forwarding this post via Facebook or Twitter: We are ready to grant wishes today throughout Florida and beyond!

Q & A with Wedding Planners as seen in Orlando Wedding Magazine

Orlando Wedding 2010

The debut issue of Orlando Wedding magazine is absolutely enchanting! I would even go so far as to declare it a ‘must read’ for engaged couples in Central Florida!

Among many terrific articles and features was “Q & A with Wedding Planners” by Megan VanWaus.  Not only was I delighted to be quoted in Megan’s piece, I was elated to be featured alongside fellow Association of Bridal Consultants members Kerline Docteur (Joie de Vie Weddings and Events) and Heather Snively (Weddings Unique). I’m proud to share a common bond with these ladies:  Heather and I are both Senior ABC members, and Kerline and I regularly work together on  ABC meetings and projects geared toward educating local association members and wedding professionals.

Good things come in threes they say, and in this case I certainly agree!

Cara and Jared’s wedding at Mission Inn Resort as featured in Orlando Wedding magazine.

Congratulations to Cara & Jared, our newlyweds whose wedding is featured in the premiere issue of Orlando Wedding magazine!

They were wed in January at Mission Inn Resort – which was the perfect backdrop for their romantic and elegant wedding.  Cara’s vision centered on old world elegance that was glamorous and graceful.  From candles to crystals, and cigars to candy bars – this wedding was an enchanting affair! They even had a sparkler exit! One of my favorite things about this wedding was how they incorporated so many family photos into the reception decor; that was a special touch that really enhanced the nostalgic feel of the evening.

Of course there was also a fabulous vendor team working behind the scenes to make ensure that the day progressed smoothly and that everyone enjoyed a stellar evening. Thanks and applause go to:

Mission Inn Resort & Club – Ceremony & Reception Venue
A Flair for Affairs – Planning and Coordination
Cheryl’s Distinctive Creations - Floral and Decor
Brian Adams – Photography
Cakes by Design – Wedding Cake
Entertainment Concepts – DJ, A/V, Lighting

(c)A Flair for Affairs

WeWed – A Gathering of the Best Wedding Professionals

Elisa Delgardio, Jeannine Kennedy, Kelly McWilliams, Saundra Hadley

(c) sam brockinton

Founder and event organizer Kelly McWilliams describes it this way: “WeWed gatherings are for those who want to continue to build their business and/or become a better business person. It’s about getting motivated, learning how to improve, discussing what our industry is, where its going, and how to stay on top (or get back up there).”


When Kelly offered the first WeWed Brunch at the award-winning Miromar Lakes Beach & Golf Club I knew I must attend! It was such a fun and educational experience that I cleared my calendar to attend the second event at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. This year, I was honored to be asked to speak at WeWed Summer 2010 which was hosted by the new and uniquely luxurious Resort at Marina Village. Not to mention that I was in the incredible company of Saundra Hadley, Jeannine Kennedy and Kelly McWilliams (of course).

My presentation centered on Time Management techniques and strategies. I basically discussed that there are many options available to us, but the important thing is to find the system or method “that works best for you”. Sometimes a combination of techniques works the best. It’s all about trying new things and taking the time to evaluate what’s working and what’s not.

Left: Opening powerpoint slide

I was thrilled that I also got to enjoy the other speaker’s presentations, and I met so many wonderful people. I returned to Orlando feeling very motivated!

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Save the Date!

Browse through hundreds of exquisite name brand and designer wedding gowns donated by manufacturers, retailers, salons and individuals – some valued at up to $8,000!  With prices starting at just $99 you’re sure to find an incredible deal!!

In addition to gowns, you will also find deeply discounted bridal jewelry, head pieces, veils and accessories!

VIP Night: Friday, March 12th 6-9pm Get VIP tickets & have first access to gowns!!

General Sale, Free Admission: Saturday March 13th 10-6pm and Sunday March 14th 10-2pm

Organized by: Association of Bridal Consultants | Location: University Club – 150 E. Central Blvd, Orlando

Pre-register today!
www.BridesAgainstBreastCancer.org

Elisa, the Countess of Confectionery?

Today I was a kid in a candy shop – literally!

In honor of Valentine’s Day we visited Farris and Foster’s Famous Chocolate Factory in Orlando. Holy peanut-butter cups! – if you love chocolate this is the place to be!

While I could go on and on about our chocolate factory adventure, and how much fun we had, and how delicious everything was, I won’t (because you’ll be jealous!). {wink}

Instead, I’ll tell you about what a great event venue it is for parties. I mean, who wouldn’t want to come to a ‘make your own chocolate’ party? And the team at Farris and Foster’s is ready to accommodate groups of up to 36. Children’s parties, Girls Night Out, Date Night, Bridal Showers and Teambuilding events are so much sweeter when chocolate is involved!

On the other hand, if you’re just looking for Orlando’s finest handmade chocolates, Farris and Foster’s is known as ‘your neighborhood confectioner’. Almost all of their candies are made fresh daily right in their shop and some of the recipes go back generations! Stop in anytime you’re craving a sweet treat or in search of a memorable gift (except Sundays).

Something for everyone!

Fresh chocolate strawberries

Farris and Fosters’ gift shop has something for everyone and every occasion – from holiday novelties, to boxes of assorted chocolates, to gift baskets!

They also make scrumptious truffles which are ideal as favors for parties and receptions. And please don’t forget to try the fresh dipped strawberries!

Foster, Farris and Fosters

Owner Foster Lanenga holding today’s Orlando Sentinel, where his picture appeared on the front page.

© 2010 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

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Rose, Carnation Aisle Pomander

I love, love, love pomander balls! For starters, they are incredibly versatile! Pomander balls (also known as kissing balls) can be used as aisle decor, table decor, personal flowers, cake toppers and accent decor.

Pomanders begin with a styrofoam or oasis sphere: oasis is used for floral pomanders because it can be saturated with water and styrofoam can be used for any other style which is does not require water or moisture (such as silk, tissue paper, etc.).

Flower Girl

Pomanders can be constructed in a varety of sizes – it all depends on the size of the sphere that’s used for the base. And don’t forget: once you cover the sphere completely, it’s size will grow significantly – anywhere form 4″ to 6″ on average!

While somewhat fragile (due to their construction), they can easily be moved and reused throughout the day if handled with care.

Rose Pomander Centerpiece

Rose Pomander Centerpiece

There’s no disputing the fact that pomanders deliver a lot of look! While they can be quite pricey when constructed with roses -due to the shear number of blooms required to give a fully rounded look- the cost can be controlled if careful attention is given to the overall size and design.

Beachy Carnation Pomander - brides.com

Tissue Paper Pomander

For example, hydrangeas are an economical alternative to roses or carnations. Pomanders constructed from non-organic flowers (silks) may offer some savings, be made in advance (if it’s a DIY project) and can also be re-used. Or, you may want to try paper pomanders! Pomanders constructed from tissue paper are extremely affordable and deliver colorful & stylish impact equal to that of it’s floral counterpart.

© 2009 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

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