Tag Archive for: ideas

,

26 Ways to Commemorate Absent Loved Ones at Your Wedding

Photo with waving grandad

How to Commemorate Absent Loved Ones at Your Wedding

As an Adelaide based wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to witness the magic of countless weddings across our stunning city and our country. Over the years, I’ve seen so many couples find beautiful ways to commemorate loved ones who couldn’t make it to their special day. Today, I’d love to share these heartwarming ideas with you!

Absent Loved Ones Memory Table

Ah, the memory table! What a timeless way to honour those we miss. Perhaps the most common way to commemorate absent loved ones is to put together a beautifully decorated table filled with framed photos, letters, and trinkets belonging to the couple’s loved ones. It was not just a spot for quiet reflection but becomes a gathering point where guests shared stories and reminisce.

Walking past it, the aroma of fresh lilies (Grandma’s favourite) from the Adelaide Central Market would whisk you away. Every element on the table told a story, making it a unique, personal tribute.

Guests pictures

Wedding Program Tributes

Printing a touching tribute in the wedding program is a subtle, yet significant nod to loved ones. An Adelaide couple I photographed in Glenelg had heartfelt notes dedicated to family members alongside their pictures. Guests would read and remember as the ceremony went on.

Often, these tributes add depth to the ceremony, making everyone feel the presence of those dearly missed.

Wedding program

Photographic Memorials

Nothing captures a memory like a photograph, right? Photographic memorials can be done in a range of different ways, perhaps a charm tied to a bouquet, or a wall adorned with printouts of a person’s life.

Even the groom can wear cufflinks with miniature images of his late father, or perhaps a lapel pin. Such gestures ensure that though absent, loved ones are right there in every frame.

Photos on bouquet

Lighting a Candle

A common sight at weddings is a memorial candle, often lit during the ceremony with the celebrant mentioning what it’s for, the flickering flame stands as a beacon, reminding everyone of the spirit of those not with them.

Many believe that lighting a candle allows the spirit to shine bright amidst the celebrations, and it surely adds a soft glow to your wedding photos!

Guests lighting wedding candles

Memorial Jewelry

Jewellery has a way of becoming a part of us. I remember once at a wedding in the Adelaide Hills, the bride wore a locket with a tiny note from her late sister. Every time she touched it, you could feel the bond they shared.

Whether it’s a piece passed down or something new, memorial jewellery is like holding a piece of your loved one close, all day.

bridal jewellery

Using Heirlooms in the Ceremony

One of the most touching weddings in Adelaide I covered showcased a bride wearing her grandmother’s veil. She told tales of her grandma getting it stitched from a boutique in Rundle Mall decades ago.

Incorporating heirlooms can be a beautiful nod to family history and the legacy of love that precedes you.

Bridal veil flying around the couple

Creating a Memory Garden

If your venue has the room, setting up a memory garden filled with potted plants that your lvoed one used to enjoy having aorund is a nice way to honour them. Each plant can symbolise a loved one, and perhaps adorn each with a photo. Guests could stroll, reminisce, or simply sit and reflect amidst nature.

This living tribute not only honours loved ones but also thrives and grows as a testament to enduring love.

Succulant

Reserving a Seat

An empty chair can speak volumes. I remember guests tearing up at a beach wedding in Henley, where a single rose adorned an unoccupied chair with a framed photo, representing the groom’s late mother.

Such gestures, though simple, resonate deeply, ensuring those absent are given their special place.

Chair

Reserving a Seat at the reception

Beyond the traditional empty chair at the ceremony, an empty seat at the reception with the name of a late family member. Flanked by fresh flowers, is a poignant reminder of their presence.

Dedicating such spaces at a reception holds profound significance. It’s a tangible affirmation that, even in their absence, our loved ones still occupy a distinct and honoured place during our most precious moments. In the midst of the joy and festivities, these reserved spots serve as grounding points, offering moments of reflection and deep connection.

guests who could not attend reception

Video or Audio Tributes

One wedding that I fondly remember was the wedding of Michaela & Paddy in Mclaren Vale where the reception featured a video of well wishes from guests all around the world who could not make it. The reactions from Michaela seeing the faces of loved ones talking to her via video was a beautiful addition to the day. The room was filled with laughter and tears as his witty anecdotes and blessings filled the air.

Video or audio tributes can be a powerful way to feel their presence, even from afar.

How to include guests

Incorporating Their Favourite Flowers

What’s more intimate than using flowers that your loved one use to love? Every bouquet and centerpiece can be a fragrant reminder of absent loved ones. Taking it one step further, you may even like in infuse any stattionary with a perfume they used to wear?

Choosing flowers linked to memories or loved ones is a beautiful way to infuse personal touches into your decor.

Wedding cake on display during lunch reception

Bouquet and Boutonniere Tributes

Now, speaking of flowers, I once photographed a groom in Norwood who had a dried petal from his grandmother’s garden enclosed in his boutonniere. It can take the idea of using a simple photo charm attached to a bouquet to another level. While not many people other than yourself might know the significance, it’s still lovely to know in your own mind that your absent loved ones are represented in some way.

Heart shaped Bridal bouquet charm bronze

Crafting a DIY Memorial Keepsake

DIY is what makes a wedding personal and unique to you as a person, or couple! One super-creative couple in Port Adelaide designed beautiful memory pins for all their guests, each pin carrying a miniature portrait of a loved one.

Crafting these keepsakes not only serves as a tribute but also involves family and friends in the process, making it even more special.

Single Oval bridal Charm

Including Them in Photo Sessions

Now, this one’s close to my photographer heart! I once suggested to a bride during their engagement shoot to pose with her late mum’s portrait. The emotional photos captured were poignant and touching.

The absent loved ones you’re including in your photoshoot don’t have to be ‘gone’ either, they may simply not be able to attend your wedding for some other reason! Invite them on a family shoot before your big day, the photos you take may be priceless in the future.

It’s also quite common to recieve the request to photoshop in someone who could not attend, then print off the scene to put on display at the reception.

It’s always a pleasure to help couples in Adelaide find innovative ways to make sure that those who are absent still make it to the photo album.

Family sitting on tree trunk

Floating Lantern Releases

Now unfortunately due to fire concerns, this one – while absolutely awesome in every way! – cannot be done – at least in Australia. However the effect can still be achieved with grounded lanterns or candles placed around a wedding venue. Each lantern can represent a departed loved one, creating a spectacle as their memories illuminate the evening.

Wedding table centrepiece

Memory Quilts and Fabrics

There’s something so warm and comforting about quilts. Crafiting a memory quilt using fabrics from clothes of their late family members can be quite an undertaking, but can make an incredibly heartfelt gift to centerpiece to a reception, perhaps draped over a bench, inviting guests to feel its warmth.

These can serve as a patchwork of memories, each square narrating a different tale of love.

Tribute Toasts

Cheers to the ones we miss! It’s always a touching addition to any speech where you offer a toast to an absent loved one’s memory. You may even go so far as serving their favourite wine for the toast, and tell stories about them as you drink to their memory

Tribute toasts are a great way to ensure everyone raises a glass in loving memory.

Chinese cheers

Creating a Memorial Book

At a vintage-themed wedding, there was this ornate memorial book, where guests could pen down their memories of the departed. Located by the entrance in Burnside, this book was brimming with stories and sketches by the end of the day. The book also doubled as the couple’s guest book so that whever they were to look through they would also be reminded of their absent loved one.

It’s a lasting keepsake, giving guests a chance to contribute their memories and sentiments.

Scrap book

Setting up a Digital Memory Wall

Marrying tradition with technology! Setting up a large TV as a digital wall where photos, videos, and messages related to their absent loved ones played on a loop can be a space-effective and interactive way to honour absent loved ones at your wedding.

A modern twist to remembering the old times – and as their photographer, capturing guests’ reactions to these memories was truly heartwarming.

Livestream viewers

Live Stream the Ceremony

With the ever-improving mobile coverage at many wedding venues, you have the fantastic option to live stream your wedding ceremony right from your smartphone. Most contemporary smartphones are equipped with impressive camera features. So, all you need to do is initiate a video call with the absent guest. Instead of pointing the camera at yourself, simply angle it towards the altar, allowing them to immerse themselves in the real-time events of your special day.

For those who are tech-savvy, consider leveraging platforms like Livestream. By connecting a camera to a computer with internet access, you can broadcast your wedding. The added advantage? many absent guests can join in and witness your joyous moments simultaneously.

This is something SvenStudios offers for free with any wedding we cover as a photographer or videographer.

bride and groom waving to their live stream

Memory Balloon Release

This is another one of those lovely ideas that unfortunately should not be done at a wedding due to littering laws – however you can opt to perhaps fill multiple balloons with helium and release them at your reception hall, to be collected later?

Guests can release balloons with tiny notes attached, sending their wishes skywards for those not with them. The sight of colourful balloons ascending against the sky can be both joyous and emotional.

A simple, yet profound way to send love upwards.

Balloon man

Sewing Tokens into Wedding Attire

Sewing an absent loved one’s handkerchief, or piece of clothing sewn into a wedding dress is a common way to keep a loved one close all throughout a wedding day.

Such gestures are intimate, ensuring that even in the most significant moments, we carry a part of our loved ones with us.

Wedding dress hanging above bridal party

Special Dances in Their Honour

Twirling to tunes that echo memories! I was in awe at a wedding in Prospect where a bride danced to her late father’s favourite song. The DJ played a special setlist commemorating absent loved ones.

The dance floor became a space of remembrance and celebration, making the music even more magical.

Dancing guests

Set up an Audio Reminder

There’s an undeniable power in the human voice. It can evoke memories, feelings, and transport us back to specific moments in time. If the couple had a recording of an absent loved one’s voice perhaps they could set up a telephone that guests could literally pick up the phone and listen to their loved one’s voice.

This can also allow loved ones who are still alive, but not able to attend – be a part of the day by giving them a job to perhaps voice the introduction to an audio guest book, which is a nice way to augent a more traditional guest book with audio of your guests stating their well wishes.

audio guest book

Writing Letters

During a wedding ceremony in the serene Adelaide Park Lands, a groom read aloud a letter to his late best mate. It was filled with shared jokes, promises, and dreams. There wasn’t a dry eye around.

Writing letters provides a voice to the heart’s yearnings, ensuring feelings are shared and acknowledged amidst the wedding joy.

tear jerking

Themed Accessory Stations

A really call bonbonerie idea I’ve come across is a ‘Memory Pin’ station. Guests could pick pins symbolising departed loved ones—like a guitar for a music-loving uncle or a rose for a gardening grandma. It can also be an idea if you’re planning on hosting a photobooth during your reception.

Such stations add a fun, interactive element, allowing guests to wear their memories and spark conversations.

Group using photobooth

Donation Drives

In lieu of gifts, a socially-conscious couple may encourage donations to a charity close to a late relative’s heart, or even perhaps related to cancer if they passed due to cancer (for example). The reception area can showcase a tribute corner with donation details, photos, and stories.

It was a heartening way to transform loss into hope, making a difference in the Adelaide community in the name of their loved one.

Be sure to include a credit card reader too to maximise donations!

Another fun way to do this is have the groomsmen add a secret word into the groom’s speech, or anyone’s speech really, and take ‘bets’ from guests on if they say it or not. Can be a fun way to raise a lot of money 🙂

Speech giver

I hope these ideas inspire all lovebirds to craft a wedding day that is as sentimental as it is celebratory while commemorating absent loved ones. Remember, it’s all about weaving love, memories, and connections into your special day. Cheers to love and the memories we cherish!

,

Bridal Eyewear: Style Tips for the Ultimate Wedding Accessory

Bridal Eyewear

Bridal Eyewear: Style Tips for the Ultimate Wedding Accessory

As wedding photographers, we’ve been exposed to a vast array of wedding trends, many of which have come and gone. But if you’re looking for timeless ways to make your wedding stand out, here’s one: couples who choose the right eyewear accessory often have the most memorable and beautiful photos – after all, your eyes are the focal point of your face, it’s what emotive photography is all about!

Eyewear can be a fabulous way to make a fashion statement that reflects your personal style on your special day and can add a little spice to your overall look. In this article, we’ll be going over some style tips on how to look and feel your best on your special day using bridal eyewear.

Bride at the end of hallway

Match your bridal eyewear to your dress

Whether you’re a day-to-day glasses wearer or you simply want to add a chic edge to your wedding day look, it’s a good idea to match your dress to your eyewear. Accessories can often make or break your outfit, so here are some suggestions.

Planning a June wedding a la Hollywood sweetheart Alexandra Daddario, who stunned in her Danielle Frankel pleated silk gown? Top off the look with something sleek and vintage like Versace’s Biggie frames. If you’ll be walking down the aisle in a silhouette similar to Nicola Peltz-Beckham’s Valentino gown, opt for subtle eyewear like Prada’s Catwalk frames.

Wedding dress hanging at Al-Ru Wedding

Select something unique

Accessorising your bridal look with eyewear is an opportunity to flaunt your personality. Brides looking to exude a sweet, romantic vibe can opt for styles like Eyebuydirect’s Nebulous frames in Clear Brown. More fashion-forward brides can choose eyewear in bolder styles similar to Burberry’s Vanessa sunglasses.

In the case of couples wanting a stronger, sportier look, Oakley’s range of eyeglasses are famous for being designed with performance in mind. They recently collaborated with football superstar Kylian Mbappé and came out with an eye-catching collection, including one with geometric arms called the Kylian Mbappé Signature Series HSTN, that can make your photos look quirky and exciting.

bridal couple under the trees and sun

 

Wear his and hers frames

Choosing matching eyewear for the bride and groom will make for darling photos. Capture your wedding’s dreamy energy during your photography session with matching elegant frames like Ray-Ban’s Aviator Optics. However, if you and your husband-to-be are not glasses wearers, you can instead choose matching sunglasses. Emulate celebrity couples like Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck or newlyweds Cole and Barbara Sprouse with Hollywood staples like the New Wayfarer Classics.

Guest with MrMr glasses

Get your wedding party involved in the fun

Weddings are a celebration of the bride and groom. However, your lovingly selected wedding party should also be able to look and feel their best. Take notes from fashion icon and supermodel Kendall Jenner, who is often spotted wearing minimal yet cool frames. Have your bridesmaids don timeless sunglasses like the Round Metal frames from Ray-Ban. Meanwhile, the groomsmen are sure to look dashing in Clubmaster Classics, also by Ray-Ban.

bridal party on Mt Lofty House fountain

There are so many cute and memorable ways to set your wedding apart. Accessorising with fashionable eyewear is not only trendy, but it’s a practical memorabilia for you to have and to hold even when the festivities are over.

, ,

What makes wedding photography special?

Bride looking stunning in white bay window

What makes wedding photography special?

 

Throughout our lives, there will be many moments that we’ll want to capture on camera. One of the most special of those is the day that we get married, the memories of which most of us hope to treasure forever. It goes without saying that this makes our wedding photography extra special – ahead, we delve into some of the reasons why.

Having been in the wedding photography business for 17-odd years, we have amassed a wealth of experience that enables us to capture these moments in the most special way possible. We know a thing or two about what makes wedding photography special!

Candid moments

Your wedding day is one of the happiest days of your life, so of course, there’s going to be plenty of fun, candid moments to capture – from romantic glances exchanged across the aisle, to frivolous dancing at the reception.

Rarely in life do we find that someone constantly has their eyes on us in order to take these sorts of unplanned photos. This is different on your wedding day, with a professional there each step of the way ensuring that not a moment is missed. The best part about this is everybody looks and feels good at a wedding, so the photos are guaranteed to meet expectations – unlike many of the candid photos we’re used to capturing ourselves.

Laughing bridesmaids

Generational photography

It’s not often that you get every member of your family in one place – and it’s less often still that it happens in the presence of a professional photographer. Most couples find that with this opportunity to capture the eldest and youngest generations together, their wedding photos become extra meaningful – and make for the kind of stills that multiple generations will look back on with fondness for years to come.

Your wedding photographer will likely be able to capture sweet moments between your loved ones even when you’re not present – perhaps when you’re freshening up, or making your rounds at the reception. Because of this, you can relax as the day progresses knowing that your photographer will be around to capture any moments that you happen to miss.

Bridal approach with parents

Capturing the finer details

There’s a whole lot that goes into making your wedding day perfect, and that includes plenty of small details – from place settings, to aisle decorations, to invitations. None of these details are any less important than the other, and many of them will be ones that you want to remember through your wedding photos – particularly if they’ve taken a lot of time, money or creativity to get just right.

Professional photographers are used to documenting these sorts of small but important details. In fact, they know that such photos look stunning paired next to your wedding portraits, and always help to paint the overall picture of your day.

Engagement ring propped up in autumn colours

Photos treasured for a lifetime

Wedding photos are meaningful, and as such, we want them to last forever. Usually, they’ll make it into a special album, or take the front and centre spot on our mantlepiece – just one way that we tend to demonstrate our love for wedding photos over other kinds of photography. We want to be able to look at these photos when we’re old, as well as at other key moments throughout our lives – perhaps the birth of a child, or a special anniversary.

Groom leading bride on clifftop

When you recognise what makes wedding photography special, you make plenty of time to plan and prepare the perfect shots with your photographer – so that you can relieve such significant moments for years to come.

, ,

The Audio Guest Book: Adelaide’s New Wedding Must-Have!

audio guest book

Introducing the Audio Guest Book: Adelaide’s Latest Wedding Trend!

Hey there, lovely brides and grooms-to-be of Adelaide! Ever thought about how you can make your wedding day even more special? Well, let me spill the beans on the latest trend that’s taking Adelaide’s wedding scene by storm: the audio guest book! And trust me, it’s absolutely fabulous!

 

BOOK AN AUDIO GUEST BOOK NOW!

 

What’s an Audio Guest Book, Anyway?

An audio guest book is like your traditional guest book, but with a twist. Instead of written messages, your guests can leave voice recordings, sharing their love, blessings, and fun anecdotes. Imagine listening to your bestie’s giggly message or your grandpa’s heartfelt wishes. It’s like receiving a bouquet of emotions, wrapped in voices!

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But I love the classic guest books!” And I get it. There’s something special about handwritten notes. But with an audio guest book, you get to capture the tone, the laughter, the pauses – all those little nuances that make a message truly special.

leave a message

Combine with a Photo Booth!

If you thought the audio guest book was the ultimate game-changer, wait till you pair it with our photo booth!

Imagine this: guests leaving you a heartfelt voice message and then heading straight to the photo booth to snap some fun, candid moments. It’s like capturing their entire essence – from their words to their playful poses.

And for those who adore a touch of rustic charm, we also offer optional hand-made wooden guest books. These artisanal beauties are perfect for jotting down notes or sticking those photo booth pictures. It’s the perfect blend of modern innovation and timeless elegance. Your wedding will be the talk of Adelaide!

Photobooth fun
photobooth guestbooks

Why It’s Perfect for Weddings

Think about those guests who might be a tad shy to hit the dance floor. You know the ones I’m talking about – maybe it’s your introverted cousin, your childhood friend who’s always been a bit reserved, or that colleague who’s more comfortable behind the scenes. While they might hesitate to showcase their dance moves, they have a world of love, stories, and well-wishes to share.

The audio guest book becomes their safe space, a platform where they can express freely without the spotlight directly on them. It’s a beautiful way to make them feel included, valued, and special, ensuring that their voice, filled with genuine emotions, becomes a part of your cherished memories.

And then, of course, we have our stars – the life of the party, the ones who never shy away from the limelight. Those charismatic friends and family members who are always up for a toast, a story, or a hearty laugh. For them, the audio guest book is yet another stage, another opportunity to shine, to share, and to leave an imprint of their vibrant personalities on your big day. It’s a win-win for everyone, making your wedding an inclusive celebration of love and voices from all walks of life!

Guests looking at phone together

Making Memories Last Forever

Weddings are a whirlwind of emotions. And amidst all the fun and frolic, many moments get lost in the hustle. But with an audio guest book, you’re creating a timeless keepsake. Every anniversary, you can relive the joy of your big day, hearing the voices of the people who made it special.

And here’s the cherry on top: combine it with a photo booth! First, guests can leave a message, and then head over to the photo booth for some fun snaps. It’s like creating a multi-sensory album of love and laughter.

Bright sunlight illuminating bride and groom

FAQs on the Audio Guest Book

  • How does the audio guestbook work? Super easy! Guests pick up the vintage styled phone and pour their hearts out after hearing the bride and groom greet them as though they missed them on a call. Later, the bride and groom will receive a compilation of all these lovely messages.
  • Do people still use guest books at weddings? Absolutely! Traditional guest books are still a hit. But the audio version? It’s like the stylish new kid on the block!
  • How much would the audio guest book cost? Prices are currently at a very resonable $330 for the audio guest book hire! You can even combine with our photo booth for a discounted $990! If you’re also having us cover your wedding photography or videography, we may even be able to work something out even sweeter 😉
, ,

The Science Behind “Happy Wife, Happy Life” Is it true?

Wedding rings perched in tree

The Science Behind “Happy Wife, Happy Life”

As an experienced wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless moments of joy, love, and celebration. I’ve also heard more best man speeches and parental advice than I can count. One phrase that seems to pop up time and again is “happy wife, happy life”. It’s often delivered with a knowing nod and a chuckle, as if it’s the secret key to a successful marriage.

But it got me thinking – is there any truth to this saying? Is a happy wife really the magic ingredient to a happy life? Intrigued, I decided to delve a little deeper and find out what science has to say about it.

Bride and groom in autumn leaves

Unraveling the Saying “Happy Wife, Happy Life”

“Happy wife, happy life” – a phrase we’ve all heard, and some of us may have even used. But what does it really mean? Is there any truth to it? And what does science have to say about it? Let’s dive in and explore these questions.

The saying “happy wife, happy life” is often used to express the idea that if the wife in a family is happy, it leads to an overall happier life for everyone involved, including the husband. It’s a phrase that’s been around for a while, with its origins somewhat unclear. Some believe it first appeared in a rhyme by the United States Political group “The Work and Wages Party” in 1903, while others suggest it was used in a real estate ad in Abilene, Texas in 1958.

The idea behind it being the somewhat outdated gender norm of when it comes to gender roles in a family, the woman rules the home, and the husband brings money to be used. The woman’s moods need to be good to enable the family’s happiness.

Regardless of its origins, it has become a widely accepted idiom in our society.

Laughing bridal couple under veil

The Science of Happiness in Marriage

A study from the University of Alberta, which analyzed over 50,000 relationship satisfaction reports, challenges the stereotype of “happy wife, happy life”. The research found that both men’s and women’s satisfaction levels were strong predictors of short- and long-term happiness for themselves and their partners. This suggests that the happiness of both partners is equally important in predicting their future happiness together.

The study drew on data from 10 Canadian, American, and German studies involving 901 mixed-gender couples daily for up to 21 days and 3,405 mixed-gender couples assessed annually for five years. It is the first comprehensive study to rigorously test a general theory from the 1970s about gender differences in relationship communication.

The results dispel the notion that women have unique diagnostic abilities in relationships and highlight the equal ability and shared responsibility of both partners in directing the course of their relationship.

Happy groom

The Dangers of the Saying

While the saying may seem harmless, it can have negative implications. It can lead to a dynamic where the wife’s happiness becomes the sole responsibility of the husband, which can put undue pressure on both parties. It can also perpetuate gender stereotypes, suggesting that the woman’s mood dictates the family’s happiness and that the man’s role is primarily to keep his wife happy.

Moreover, the saying can be detrimental to a marriage if it’s used as an excuse for selfish behavior or if it leads to resentment or unhappiness. It’s important for individuals to take responsibility for their own happiness instead of relying solely on their spouse. A successful partnership is built on respect, communication, equality, and shared responsibility.

bride and groom in middle of Grenfell St

Building a Strong Marriage

So, what does it take to build a strong marriage? Healthy communication, gratitude, trust-building, acceptance of disagreements, and forgiveness are all crucial elements. When things are going well in a relationship, it’s important to capitalize on it; when things aren’t good, taking action is crucial. Being reflective and intentional about directing the relationship can lead to more success and less heartache.

Bride lifting groom under full moon

“Happy spouse, Happy house”

While the saying may be catchy, and can evoke a bit of a cheap cackle from the crowd at a wedding, it’s not entirely accurate. A happy life is not solely dependent on a happy wife. Both partners play an equal role in creating a happy and fulfilling life together. So perhaps it’s time we updated the saying to “happy spouse, happy house”.