All down a dirt road...

Good Morning friends! It is so good to be back and blogging. Last week was a mix of driving, weddings galore and a smidge of family time. I had two weddings back in Arkansas and both of them were amazing!

I have been extremely blessed with this business and even more blessed with beautiful and outstanding brides. I have yet to be around a "bridezilla" or a bride that I don't mesh with. The wedding this past weekend did teach me a few new lessons so I thought it was time for another round of lessons of a videographer, part deux.

Photo Source: Danielle Davis Photography/Art

1. You may have to travel on dirt roads. When Nikki first contacted me about her wedding I was beyond thrilled. I had seen her engagement photos and thought I want to film that wedding. Nikki grew up in a small town and had a vision for her wedding. The wedding was to take place at her family's "deer camp." I use the term deer camp lightly because it was hardly that. Their home on the Arkansas River was stunning. I mean just gorgeous. Their ceremony was held on a dock on the river and the reception at a big lodge nearby. This wedding was stunning. I cannot wait to share the footage with you. With all this being said I never thought I would have to drive on gravel roads to get to my location. I am very glad that I did though because who would have thought this gem of an area would be tucked away in the woods.

2. They may get rowdy. I am 100% for guests having a good time at wedding receptions especially if that is what the bride and groom had in mind for their guests. Personally, loosened up guests make for the best footage. I even captured my first guests doing the worm this weekend. Score! The thing about weddings and an open bar is that by the end of the night guests see the camera as their own documentary and not the bride and grooms. For example, I had one guest pelvic thrust into my lens which let me assure you is not enjoyable. As a vendor on a mission, just politely smile, make note to stay away from that guest and continue your job.

3. Ooooi the ceremony. Each bride has a different ceremony. I have done a total of 5 weddings now and no ceremony has been the same. I have shot at a rustic barn, two churches, a back patio overlooking a river and a dock on the river. With being a videographer or any vendor you have to be prepared for everything. When you show up the day of the ceremony make sure you have enough time to scout out the ceremony venue. You want your camera in the perfect place but that doesn't always mean it will happen. For example, I shot a church wedding a few weekends ago that the priest had very strict orders on where a camera could be placed in the sanctuary. He asked me to have it to where no guests could see the camera. That is a tad difficult but I managed. It is important to respect those around you and always check with the bride. The ceremony is the most stressful time for me. It is a one time only deal unlike the day of getting ready or the reception of dancing.

4. Say no to drinking. This one may surprise you but I cannot tell you how many times people or brides offer me a drink. It is a thoughtful gesture but I kindly say no. I am a working woman! I know this may seem silly to some of you but I am being paid to produce quality video and that is my focus. I am grateful for every bride that takes me in and treats me like family. I have been blessed!

5. From sweating to freezing. I have to have pockets. At any given time of the day I have two microphones, cords, tapes and batteries shoved into my pockets. Since bulky pants pockets are not very trendy (I haven't found the perfect solution and refuse to wear a fanny pack) I always try to wear a cute and dressy top. No matter what time I show up to start filming I am dressed for the wedding and reception. Wearing comfortable and lightweight clothing + supporting shoes is a must. I also try to remember to have a thin coat nearby for needed occasions.

6. Make her feel special. Yes I am a videographer but I am also so much more than that. I fix hair, hold trains and veils, wipe lipstick off teeth, catch fly away hairs, wrangle kids, hold bouquets, crawl on the ground, speak calming words and the list goes on. I want every bride to be pleased with my services, my hospitality and me. She deserves a perfect day and I will do everything I can to make it happen. This past weekend the vocalist didn't show up for the ceremony. She was to sing during the unity candle. I quickly spoke with the accompanist minutes before the wedding began and they came up with a short arrangement to play. That is why you hire professionals. Prime example.

Just thought I would share a few tips/things I have learned with you all on this lovely Monday. I love that I have a job that allows me to learn, be creative and meet wonderful people!

P.S. The photo at the top of the page is from the wedding this past weekend. The guys were great and entertaining! For more photos of the wedding by Danielle Davis Art/Photography, click here.