Weddings can be as novel or traditional as couples prefer. Couples who go the traditional route will undoubtedly include certain spotlight dances in the reception. The father-daughter dance is a staple of a wedding reception. According to the experts at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, the history of father-daughter dances can be traced back decades. The dance once was one last nod to Dad before the bride’s husband became the most important man in her life. Now it’s more symbolic of general love and affection. Times have certainly changed from the first father-daughter dances and this tradition no longer carries the same meaning. In fact, despite what the name may imply, father-daughter dances needn’t take place with a father at all, especially if he passed away or is not in the bride’s life. She can choose any special person, whether a father figure, uncle, brother, mentor, etc. to honor during the dance. Traditionally the father-daughter dance (and mother-son dance) takes place immediately following the newlyweds’ first dance together. However, some opt to have it after the toasts or before the cake cutting. Couples can make their preferences known prior to the reception and schedule these dances any time they desire, especially since they are frequently preceded by a special announcement. While many brides prefer to dance to a slow-paced, heartfelt song, this needn’t always be the case. In recent years, some daddy-daughter duos have opted to put on shows with humorous dances or even entertaining showcases of fancy footwork to songs of all types. The song should match the vibe of the wedding. That said, certain songs seem tailor-made for the times during the reception when love and gratitude are expressed during these bittersweet dances. Country • “The Man Who Loves You the Most,” Zac Brown Band • “My Little Girl,” Tim McGraw • “Just Fishin’,” Trace Adkins Big Band • “Unforgettable,” Nat King Cole • “The Way You Look Tonight,” Frank Sinatra • “Swinging on a Star,” Bing Crosby Indie/Singer-Songwriter • “You’ve Got a Friend,” James Taylor • “Let it Be Me,” Ray LaMontagne • “Father and Daughter,” Paul Simon • “Wildflowers,” Tom Petty • “Constellations,” Jack Johnson Rock • “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” Guns N’ Roses • “When You Need Me,” Bruce Springsteen • “Scarlet Begonias,” Grateful Dead R&B • “Ain’t that Love,” Ray Charles • “Daddy,” Beyoncé • “Dance with My Father,” Luther Vandross • “Love of My Life,” Brian McKnight Tried and True • “Butterfly Kisses,” Bob Carlisle • “Wonderful World,” Louis Armstrong • “Hero,” Mariah Carey • “You Are So Beautiful,” Joe Cocker • “Lullabye (Goodnight My Angel),” Billy Joel BR237095 .
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The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been far-reaching. People from all walks of life have had to confront the pandemic and the changes it wrought, and many of those changes could have some staying power. Wedding industry experts note that one of the more noticeable and potentially long-lasting effects of the pandemic has been the rise of microweddings. The 2020 Real Weddings Study (COVID-19 Edition) found that 58 percent of couples who planned to get married in 2020 ended up reducing their guest list by a significant percentage. The average reduction was 41 percent, and some suspect small ceremonies may be the new normal in the years ahead. Microweddings Microweddings are not necessarily a new trend, as couples have always had the option of getting married with only a small number of family and friends in attendance. However, microweddings could be an emerging trend, and cost may have a lot to do with that. The Wedding Planner Institute notes that microweddings cost anywhere from $1,600 to $10,000, though the group notes that most microweddings fall somewhere in the middle of that range. A 2020 survey from TD Ameritrade found that 47 percent of respondents felt that cost of living was the biggest threat to their financial security and long-term investments. Engaged couples confronting the well-documented post-pandemic increase in cost of living, including an unprecedented rise in housing costs, could see expensive weddings as luxuries they simply can’t afford. Microweddings could be viewed as a cost-effective way to combat the rising cost of living that still allows couples to share their big day with their closest friends and family members. The WPI has urged wedding planners to offer microwedding packages in an effort to capitalize on this emerging trend. Data from The Wedding Report indicated that the total number of weddings would rise to 2.77 million in 2021, an increase of roughly 650,000 over the yearly average. Even if only a fraction of couples who tie the knot in 2022 opt for a microwedding, a preexisting microwedding package can help wedding planners secure their business. Couples who opt for microweddings may do so to save money, but also to avoid the effort and save the time required to plan more lavish affairs. Such couples may be especially excited to work with wedding planners who can plan their weddings regardless of how small the affair may be. What goes into a microwedding Nothing should be off the table when planning a microwedding. The fewer the people who will be there, the more freedom planners and couples may have. The WPI notes that microweddings afford planners and couples the chance to get personal in ways that may not be possible when organizing larger affairs. Planners can focus on small details and allow couples to make their ceremonies and receptions as personal as they would like. Couples who prefer microweddings tend to emphasize minimalism, so keeping things simple is something to keep in mind when planning microweddings. Microweddings are an emerging trend that make for a realistic option for couples and the people they hire to help them plan their big day. Every wedding is different, even if many share some common components. As couples plan their weddings, learning about some popular wedding styles can help them create a ceremony that suits them. Classic wedding Classic weddings are the storybook traditional weddings that many people dream about for years. Key elements include a tuxedo for the groom and a white gown for the bride. Formal attire is reserved for the rest of the wedding party. The ceremony is conducted in a place of worship before everyone retires to a fancy catering hall for the reception. Traditional weddings also may include the time-honored customs like toasts, cake cutting, bouquet toss, and parent-child dances. Beach wedding Beach weddings often are casual, laid back affairs. Dresses may be less structured and flow with sea breezes, while guys may even don shorts with linen shirts or jackets. Guests can expect the party to be much more free-flowing and the traditions of classic weddings may not be part of the celebration. Bohemian wedding Free-spirited individuals may dive head first into a bohemian style wedding. According to wedding planner David Tutera, a boho wedding is casual and comfortable. It tends to come off chic but appears that way with minimal effort. Decor is typically humble and blends harmoniously with nature. A boho wedding may take place outdoors or in another less traditional venue, such as a farmhouse or botanical garden. Wedding party attire may be mismatched and showcase each person’s individual style. Modern wedding Brides and grooms who crave contemporary and current trends may prefer a modern wedding. Graphic color schemes, clean lines and minimalistic flowers might be part of a modern wedding. Attire may be angular and edgy, and the venue may run the gamut from sleek museum to a city rooftop. Destination wedding Couples who love to travel and don’t want to worry about the minutiae of wedding planning may find a destination wedding is a good fit. Destination weddings last more than one day and focus on relaxation, activities and lots of fun. Destination weddings tend to be less formal and less traditional than classic weddings. Due to the remote locations, destination weddings also can be smaller and more intimate, as many invitees may be unable to attend. Yet those who can attend often get to enjoy tropical islands or mountain retreats. Wedding styles are as unique as the people getting married. Choosing a theme that has the right feeling can help couples make the most of their special days. Few things document weddings more effectively than photographs. Carefully curated wedding albums and portraits hung on walls serve as daily reminders of a couple’s special day. Photography is often left in the very qualified hands of professional photographers. However, couples can pitch in to make their photos really pop. These picture pointers from industry insiders can help couples put their best smile forward. Leave ample time A carefully orchestrated timeline can ensure photos are the best they can be. Why? Because a couple who is relaxed and not overwhelmed will notice that attitude translates to their photographs. When planning wedding timelines, couples should leave ample opportunities for getting dressed, chatting with the wedding party and going through various photography settings to grab great photos, advise the experts at Martha Stewart. Put together a short list The photographer will have his or her ideas of which shots to cover, but a couple with specific goals in mind should relay that information to their photographer. For example, if a grandparent is getting up in years, request some solo photos of that person so you can look back on happy times together. Certain couples want to be snapped posing with a beloved pet. Putting that on the list helps ensure it will happen. Enlist a family photo coordinator If the photographer does not have his or her own assistant, recruit someone who is assertive to help wrangle everyone for the family shots. Attempt to get family photos when family members are relaxed but not too far rumpled by dancing or having a good time. Play your style safe A wedding day is not a time for the bride or groom to try a dramatic new style, according to photographer Amanda Lamb. Resist the urge for a daring cut or color. It’s also likely not the place to try out new facial hair or heavy makeup. A couple unaccustomed to the way they look may be shy in front of the camera. Delve into the details Prepare wedding details, like gowns, shoes, accessories, etc., in advance to save time once the photographer arrives, suggests Desi Mendoza, a pro from Dez and Tam Photography. Invest in a beautiful hanger for the wedding gown as well, because you may want to photograph that on its own. Learn to pose Couples can practice posing in front of mirrors to get a feel for body positions that put them in their best light. A photographer’s advice in regard to posture is invaluable as well. Create space between arms and the body and learn how to angle the body so you look your best. Photos will capture wedding day memories forever. Couples can put themselves in the best positions for success by following some photography guidelines. Weddings are among the most complex events many people will ever plan. Couples often try to go the extra mile in an effort to make the day memorable for themselves and their guests. That pressure can make a wedding day feel a little frenzied. Thankfully, there are various ways to ensure the vibe of the big day is happy and not hectic. Hire a wedding planner/coordinator Leaving the nitty gritty to a professional wedding planner takes a lot of pressure off of couples. The renowned wedding resource The Knot says wedding planners are clued into everything there is to know about a wedding and they can be tapped to take care of just about anything on couples’ to-do list. Consider a package deal All-inclusive resorts are popular vacation spots because variables like entertainment, lodging, food, drinks, and more is all taken care of, leaving vacationers with little to do other than show up and relax. Couples can apply that same approach on their wedding day. Host the ceremony and reception at the same site, which takes the potentially problematic issue of getting guests to and fro out of the equation. Some venues may even provide in-house vendors like photographers and florists. Such vendors’ familiarity with the venue reduces the risk of surprises that can derail wedding day schedules. Pick your priorities Avoid getting bogged down on a million details by making a list of your priorities when planning. Couples can revisit this list a couple of days before their wedding so they remember what’s most important to them on the big day. This refresher can ensure couples don’t get too concerned if minor issues arise during their big day, helping them remain calm and keeping a focus on all the fun to be had during the day. It’s easy for couples to feel a little overwhelmed on their wedding day. Some simple strategies can take the hectic out of couples’ wedding day and ensure they keep their focus on one another and their loved ones. Are you fearful of damaging your photography business? It doesn’t really matter if you are starting with newborn photography or ten years deep into professional wedding photography, you’ll want to know how to stay safe when using your computer equipment. You’ll use this for various reasons, from emailing clients to editing photos.
You can find the best tips to run a safe and secure photography business using this guide. Use a VPN AND a firewallWhen it comes to vpn vs firewall, the clear difference is how they function. A VPN is used to secure a connection, making your life safer. Meanwhile, a firewall works to track and prevent bad traffic from entering your system. Using both is very wise. Don’t be fooled into thinking that having one is enough without the other. It doesn’t work like that. If you have both, you’ll be double-secured. Backing up your stuffIt doesn’t matter if you are getting started with no experience or highly experienced. It is important to back up your files. Make sure you have a plan to backup your digital photos and files. Use a cloud storage solution like Dropbox or OneDrive. Store them on an external hard drive, or use a redundant backup solution to keep your photos safe in case of hardware failure or accidental deletion. It’s that simple! Store and transfer the right wayUse secure storage and transfer methods. Use encryption for your files. When you transfer photos, use secure methods, such as encrypted cloud storage or secure file transfer protocols (SFTP). Don't use unsecured Wi-Fi networks to transfer files. Securing your devicesSecure your cameras, computers, and mobile devices with strong passwords, biometric authentication, and security software. Install reputable AV software to protect your devices from getting hacked or contracting malware online or by connecting your smartphone to a public charging station. Watermarks are wiseAdding a watermark or a copyright notice to your images will help you protect your work, by allowing you to immediately identify it. You should place your watermarks in such a way that they don’t diminish the beauty of your photos but can still prevent unauthorized people from stealing your work. The monitoring of the internetConstantly watch the online platforms and social media channels to control the usage that is not authorized or the attack on your image. You can also use stock photo websites to help you fight your rights, as you will have determined the unlawful usage of your images and know how to take it on. Contracts and model releasesUse written contracts and model releases for client projects. Contracts of any kind are created to provide clarity and rights if it is ever necessary to enforce them. Always have your client projects listed back to you in an email or online estimate. With the details, there is a clear understanding of the people and dates of the photoshoots. Now, you can be sure to be savvier and better shielded as a photographer. Worry? Worry, be gone! Hey there, lovebirds!
If you're on the hunt for the perfect photographer to capture your special moments, look no further. Crystal Image Photography is here to guide you through the top 10 best photographers in Danville, VA, each with their own unique style and expertise. Whether you're planning a traditional wedding, an intimate elopement, or a vibrant LGBTQ celebration, we've got you covered. Get ready to meet your match made in photography heaven! Looking for a wedding photographer to capture your special day? Look no further! Our expert photography team specializes in natural, non-intrusive photography, ensuring we capture all those candid moments that make your day truly special. We have extensive experience working with LGBTQ couples and understand the importance of creating a comfortable and inclusive environment for all. Contact us today for a free quote, and let us preserve your precious memories in the most beautiful way possible! choosing the right photographer for your wedding is crucial, as they will be responsible for capturing and preserving your special day. The top photographers in Danville, VA, offer natural, non-intrusive, and spontaneous styles, ensuring that every candid moment is beautifully immortalized. Crystal Image Photography stands out with its expertise in working with LGBTQ couples, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Contact today for a free quote and entrust your precious memories to skilled professionals who understand the significance of your special day. Hey there soon-to-be newlyweds! Are you seeking a wedding photographer in Charlottesville, VA who can capture your special day with a natural, non-intrusive, and spontaneous style? Look no further! Crystal Image Photography is your go-to for stunning wedding photos that truly reflect the love and joy of your big day. Our team values inclusivity and is experienced in capturing the unique love stories of LGBTQ couples. Let's chat about how we can make your wedding day unforgettable! Why Crystal Image Photography Stands Out as the Top Choice for Couples in Charlottesville, VAWith over ten years of experience capturing love stories in Charlottesville, we've gained a deep understanding of the area's unique dynamics and beauty. We take pride in our ability to seamlessly blend into the background, skillfully documenting genuine moments of joy and emotion. Our team's deep appreciation for diversity drives us to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all couples. By combining artistic flair with technical expertise, we consistently deliver breathtaking images that encapsulate the essence of each couple's relationship, creating timeless memories to be cherished. Frequently Asked QuestionsDoes Crystal Image Photography offer customizable wedding photography packages?Yes, our photography packages are fully customizable, and designed to perfectly fit your unique needs and preferences. Our goal is to ensure that your love story is captured in the most authentic and beautiful way possible, providing you with a personalized experience. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, we offer flexible options to accommodate various wedding styles and sizes. Understanding that every couple is different, we are dedicated to crafting a package that aligns perfectly with your vision for the perfect day. ConclusionIn conclusion, Crystal Image Photography has solidified itself as the premier choice for couples in Charlottesville, VA due to its decade-long expertise in capturing the local area's distinct charm. Their seamless ability to blend into the background and skillfully capture genuine moments reflects their commitment to delivering a personalized and inclusive experience for all couples. With a harmonious blend of artistry and technical skill, they consistently produce stunning images that encapsulate the true essence of each couple's unique bond, resulting in timeless memories that will be cherished for years to come. Vendors may be in the background during a wedding, but the roles they play are vital to making ceremonies and receptions memorable for couples and their guests. It’s customary to tip wedding vendors who provide great service. The wedding experts at The Knot note that the following guidelines can help couples determine how much to tip the unsung heroes who make their weddings so memorable. • Photographer/videographer: Photographers and videographers are unique among wedding vendors because their work will be looked at for decades to come. The Knot notes that it’s not necessary to tip wedding photographers and videographers who own their own studios. Their fees are all the compensation they need. However, many photographers and videographers do not own their own studios, and the efforts of such professionals are worthy of a little something extra at the end of the night. The Knot notes that a tip between $100 and $200 is standard for these professionals, and that tip can be given at the end of the reception. • Reception staff: The reception staff works as hard as anyone during the wedding, and those efforts merit a good tip. Many reception venues include gratuities in their food and drink fees, and couples can check to see if they have already tipped staff and if they think the mandatory gratuity is sufficient. A tip between 15 and 20 percent of the food and drink fee is standard. Maître d’ fees also may be built into the wedding contract. If not, a tip between $200 and $300 is standard and can be delivered at the end of the night. • Band/DJ: Music features prominently at many wedding receptions. Bands and/or DJs can set the tone for a fun night couples and their guests will remember for years to come. Tipping musicians is optional, but it’s the norm to do so when they provide exceptional service. Couples who have a band playing can tip between $25 and $35 per musician, while DJs generally receive a tip between $50 and $150. • Drivers: Many transportation firms also include gratuities in their contracts, so couples should check to see if they’ve already tipped limo or bus drivers before paying them a little extra. If the tip is not included and the drivers arrive on time and get guests to the wedding on time, then a tip that’s between 15 and 20 percent of the total bill is standard. • Delivery personnel: Individuals who deliver items like cakes and flowers are typically given a gratuity upon delivery. A tip between $5 and $10 per person is standard, though individuals who deliver items like tables, chairs and portable restroom facilities and then set those items up may be deserving of a little extra. • Officiants: Officiants who are affiliated with a church or synagogue where the ceremony will take place are not typically given a gratuity. However, The Knot notes that a donation to the place of worship between $100 and $500 is standard. Couples who still want to give the officiant a little extra can tip between $50 and $100. Independent officiants who receive fees directly from the couple need not be tipped. These figures can serve as guidelines, but couples also can give a little extra if they feel their vendors have gone above and beyond. Is a Valentine’s Day proposal right for you?
Valentine’s Day is a special day when thoughts turn to love and romance. Couples contemplating tying the knot may feel like Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to pop the question and begin their journeys toward marriage. Even though Valentine’s Day is a very popular day to propose, it’s tricky to keep such a proposal from becoming a cliché. By considering some dos and don’ts, Valentine’s Day proposals can be unique. DO ensure that you’re both on the same page. It’s one thing for couples who have already been talking about marriage to build on the romance of Valentine’s Day with a proposal. But it’s quite another if this is a push to wow him or her and you don’t have the same goals; it may not go according to plan. Couples are urged to have honest conversations about key topics (i.e., children, compatibility, finances, living arrangements) to see if marriage is a desire they both share. DON’T overlook the element of surprise for the proposal. Sure it is easy to have a waiter bring the ring after a meal at a favorite restaurant, but it can be even more special to catch your sweetheart off guard. Why not propose before you get to the restaurant, such as in front of where you first met, and then you can enjoy your meal without butterflies? DO consider your sweetheart’s personality before the proposal. A shy person may not like the attention of a crowd. However, someone who loves to be the center of attention may feel that more is merrier. DON’T go overboard with the details. One or two big surprises is all it takes. The more details, the more things that can potentially go wrong, which can adversely affect the overall proposal. DO get input from friends and family, but do not feel pressured to do it exactly as they say. A close friend can help select a ring or contribute to the surprise by keeping the special someone unaware of the plans at hand. Having a helper can make the proposal go more smoothly. DON’T feel pressured to propose on Valentine’s Day or a birthday, Christmas, or other big holiday because it’s “what you’re supposed to do.” A proposal and a marriage are unique to each couple, and individuals should abide by their preferences when making such important decisions. Only propose when it feels completely right. Valentine’s Day can be a perfect day to propose if the timing and planning is right. |
About CrystalCrystal Vandegrift is a wedding photographer covering Virginia, D.C. NC and Maryland. Interested in being a guest blogger on our site? Contact us below!
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Pictures were one of my top priorities for my wedding. I spent a lot of time reading through photographers and even contacting some. I was also pretty nervous, I had never been professionally photographed before. Crystal and her team were SO easy to work with and immediately took away the nerves. I trusted her completely and I am so happy I did. Cannot recommend enough! Ellen - Yorktown VA
If you're looking for an amazing photographer who is relaxed, has experience, and knowledge look no further. Crystal took our engagement and wedding photos. Not only were her photos amazing, but she is extremely responsive to messages and will even help you when planning your big day. It was important to us to work with a photographer who has experience with same sex couples, and Crystal and Casey did a great job capturing everything for my wife and I. We couldn't have asked for a better experience. - Emily - Nellysford, VA
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