Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/642147
Weddings PHOTOGRAPHY & PLANNING MAKING PHOTOGRAPHIC MEMORIES P hotographer Pearl Angelini is inspired by love. A self-confessed hopeless romantic, she still cries during vows and she loves to be part of the happy day. That day often starts with candid photos that capture the excitement while the bride and bridesmaids are getting ready — and while a second photographer shoots the men in the party. She loves to follow up with a "first look" shoot that lets the bride and groom see each other and take formal photos before the ceremony, which relieves some of the pressure of shooting before the reception, where she'll photograph all the highlights of the celebration. Angelini has several special spots that make ideal backdrops — including near her second home in Jamaica for destination weddings — and she and her husband Frank own Aspire Professional Studios, so there's always a beautiful backup location in case of rain. After the wedding, a "trash the dress" shoot is an opportunity to take additional photos without actually trashing the gown. Photographers can only accommodate one wedding per day, so Angelini advises couples to select photographers whose work they admire, and arrange a meeting well in advance to be sure they click. Discuss your budget, but keep an open mind. Experienced photographers will have fabulous ideas that may surprise and delight you. ❦ BEST-LAID PLANS S tarry-eyed romantics can't wait to share their engagement news with friends and family. But your next call should be to a wedding planner. The creative team at Madeline's Weddings & Events can guide you through any and every stage of the process to ensure smooth sailing all the way, from selecting a venue and designing invitations to tweaking table settings on the big day. Services range from wedding day coordination that lets you can relax with family while your planner handles last-minute details, all the way to full-service planning and coordination — arranging a budget, catering, decor, photography, a rehearsal dinner, assisting with honeymoon planning and even ensuring your DJ has a pre- arranged setlist. Wedding professionals bring passion and expertise — and chances are, they'll even bring your morning coffee to make sure your special day goes off without a hitch! ❦