Wedding celebrations go personalized in 2016

As personalization influences every aspect of the wedding celebration, in 2016, the wedding industry will find new avenues to create one-of-a-kind ceremonies for couples on their big days.

Creative themes and decorIn wedding planner Geeta Samuel's opinion, this year, the boundaries of innovation will be pushed further by exploring unconventional themes such as a Sufi theme with a white and cream decor palette. "If your guests can't afford a destination do, bring the destination to them! Elements of the Amadeus Opera can be incorporated in the decor structurally and aesthetically adding to the grandeur of the celebration." Besides this, Samuel expects to see a rise in the bling quotient in wedding decor with black, crimson, cerulean, teal and sunset hues.

Currently, guilded mirrors, wall lights and candles with drapes in warm tones are popular choices.Floral installations and chandeliers are in demand as they not only emit a natural fragrance, but also add drama to the venue. As if this weren't enough, wedding decor will get even bigger this season, as Gayatri Sekhri, Creative Head, Pomegranate Event Decor adds, "Think personalised lobbies created with fountains and sculptures, and grand entrances to set the mood. At cocktail parties, expect to see long bars with carvings that extend up to 60 feet as a central feature adding colour and vibrancy."

CuisineChef Japvir Vohra, Executive Chef, Double Tree by Hilton, Pune, discusses the top food trends for the wedding season.

Small portions in trendy cook ware - This approach adds a sense of style and sophisticationFamily-style meals - As compared to sit-down meals, these are more intimate and enjoyable.Mini foods - Loads of flavour served up in a single mouthful is a trend that will continue to stay strong.Seasonal vegetables- The use of local produce will gain momentum as there is no substitute for fresh wholesome food.Liquid nitrogen - This is often used at an ice cream station to wow guests.Inno vative food station - Re placing the traditional banquet fare, a live food station is inter active and fun.

PhotographyDramatic and live visuals, Reflecting on the highlights for 2016, Monisha Ajgaonkar, Founder and Director, The Photo Diary, states.

Live edit: A live edit is the screening of your entire wed ding celebration on the last day or at the reception. It gives families and friends a chance to relive the moments, bringing to mind the excitement and emotions.Video booth - A play on the photo booth, a video booth in ites guests to spontaneously shoot short videos--approximately two-to-three minutes long--complete with props and songs.Pre-wedding videos: Couples prefer to shoot short videos to send out as save-the-date invites and to convey details about the event. Such videos can be easily sent via WhatsApp and other social media platforms, while saving on the hassle of printing cards.Drone - A favourite at destination weddings, drone photography captures an aeria l view of the event and of course, the destination.

Announce it in styleAnkita Asthana and Akash Agarwal, Co-founders, WeddingNama sum up the big trend in photography in one word: online! The duo share, "Guests don't stay in the same city or the same country anymore. They are spread across the globe and the best way to reach out to them is through social media. Couples cannot get enough of it because it offers creative freedom and the result is beautiful. For instance, for a couple who loved to travel, we offered to go to a destination and shoot their journey. We travelled to Cappadocia, Turkey and had a lovely time capturing their moments. With the advent of Instagram, WhatsApp and other social media, couples have found a new platform to share their story--from getting married in style, to now wanting to announce it in style as well!"

InvitationsRavish Kapoor of Ravish Kapoor Wedding Invitations feels that the invitation is of utmost importance as it sets the tone for y our wedding. While speaking about the trends in invitations, Kapoor elaborates.

Sleek and simple - While people prefer simplicity in design, they want the invite to wow their guests.Retro - We have received requests, especially from younger couples, to add a retro touch to the invitations. Bold colours in different shades, print-on-print, retro art deco patterns are all fun ways to make it unique.

Themed - Most couples plan their invitation and celebrations to reflect the same colour palette and design. Recently, for a destination wedding, we sketched different scenes of the bride and groom in a beach set ting. Keepsake: Everyone wants to have an unforgettable element in their wedding celebration. Piano finish boxes with crystal inlay are very popular. Other options are invitations that can double up as a jewellery box or a picture frame. Colours: Ochre with crimson red is the trend for this season. Favour If you're having trouble selecting the right wedding favour for you, stick to the tried and tested. According to wedding planner Candice Pereira of Marry Me Weddings, personalised items, perishable goods or stationery will continue to reign as favourites! She adds, "Favours will continue to be something that is special to the couple-whether it's their favourite brand of chocolates sourced from Belgium, or a Parisianinspired photo frame with a copy of their love story. The underlying message is clear: every detail of the wedding must tell a story!" Floral engagementAs flowers continue to be an integral aspect of wedding decor, we find out the trends in types, colours, styles and themes. Lalita Raghav, Vice President, FNP Weddings states, "In terms of structures, floral mandaps or super-sized flower walls are still going to be big in the wedding circuit. In flowers, in addition to marigold and the like, we have been using orchids and hydrangeas as well. Now, we offer a mix of organic, artificial and fresh flowers to achieve that perfect look." While fresh flowers look lovely and emit a natural scent, they can add to the overall expense and are often cast away.To overcome this challenge, Raghav recommends renting floral arrangements. She adds, "In artificial setups, a trend that has really caught on is cherry blossom trees. Real cherry blossoms are delicate pink flowers native to Japan.So instead of the natural flowers, artificial trees are used to create spectacular displays."
Source: Wedding celebrations go personalized in 2016

Israeli photographer shot Indian wedding photos on an iPhone

Can't imagine Indian wedding photography without DSLRs and expensive gear? Then, this may change your perception. An Israeli photographer Sephi Bergerson has captured a big fat Indian wedding using an iPhone and the result is simply spectacular. He has shot the wedding of Ayushi Bhandari and Abhishek Singh using the iPhone 6s Plus.

The couple had initial apprehensions, but after seeing his work, went ahead with the idea for the big day, Bergerson told The Huffington Post. The grand three-day wedding took place in Udaipur, India in November last year. The photos look brilliant and some of them have a painting-like look to them. Talking about shooting with the iPhone, he told the news site, the smartphone does have its limitations, especially when it comes to dim light shooting.Take a look at some of the shots below:

Shooting a wedding on an iPhone has been on his mind for a long time, the Goa-based photographer told Mashable.

"I keep telling my clients that it is not about who was at the wedding but how you felt at that moment. When you look at them later on you should be able to relive the feeling. What I like about the iPhone is it helps me get much closer to the subject and have eye contact. With DSLR, the camera comes between me and the subject, " Bergerson further told Mashable.

You can view the complete album here.

Image Source: Sephi Bergerson

Tags: Indian wedding photographer, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s photography, iPhone 6s Plus Photography, Sephi Bergerson, Wedding Photography

Source: Israeli photographer shot Indian wedding photos on an iPhone

WATCH: Israeli Photographer Shoots An Indian Shaadi On His iPhone. The Result Is Magic.

Israeli photographer Sephi Bergerson has been shooting Indian weddings since he first moved to the country in 2007. After publishing a book featuring weddings across communities in India, he decided to take an alternative approach for his next assignment by swapping his heavy equipment with a simple iPhone 6.

After managing to convince an 'apprehensive' family (with the help of a trusting bride), Bergerson, along with a team of six, including noted French photographer Christophe Viseux, set out for Udaipur in November where the wedding was taking place.

"The mehendi was at the Oberoi Udaivillas, sangeet at the Zanana Mahal of the City Palace, and the wedding and reception at Jagminder," he said in an interview with HuffPost India. "It was a huge wedding, and this experiment with the iPhone has never been done before. I had been waiting to do something like this, and knew it was possible with the iPhone 6s camera."

Instead of special lighting, Bergerson claims he mostly worked with the available light. Only for the dance floor did he use a hand-held LED light. "The selection and post-production were also completely done on my phone using two apps: Snapseed and Mextures. I also use FaceTune at times," he said.

Calling himself an Apple guy, Bergerson claimed that there are no special tips when it comes to shooting with a phone camera. "Photography is a language… if you have something to say, your pictures will be interesting," he said. However, he did find it quite a challenge to shoot a full wedding on the phone, although the results received a lot of praise. "I am honoured to have gained the family's trust to such an extent that they allowed me to work this way," he said, also adding that a huge advantage was the almost immediate sharing of the pictures that the phone allowed him to do. "This is not something to be taken at all for granted."

Bergerson, who is currently working on his next book based on Kenya, has already won first prize at the latest IPPAWARDS (iPhone photography awards) for this experiment, and plans to conduct many more in the future.

Check out his stunning photos below:

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"I know this is bad for my health...It may even shorten my life- span but I do hope to witness the revival of our Kashmiri art in the years ahead..."

We haven't slept; nobody has gone home since yesterday; we don't have anything to do now. We had been working on an order for a year and yesterday it was cancelled rather suddenly. The buyer refused to take it." I promptly asked why and how such a thing could happen. He answered, "I don't understand...he said he will sell machine- made shawls from Amritsar now, as he can get them in two days and earn lakhs with them."

"Weaving a carpet is a very cumbersome task...it takes ages. I used to help my husband in preparing the warp before he got a spinal problem. He used to sit and weave for at least sixteen hours a day. Now he can't weave...he is disabled. I take care of everything now: my husband, children, household and my work. I manage to earn two hundred rupees a day although an ordinary labourer earns at least four hundred rupees a day. I am fifty now and I can't sit for more than twelve hours a day on the loom. I work very hard for my family's survival," says Sharifa.

"I can't understand why girls these days don't show any interest in this. Why don't they try to learn this craft? Then when they get married they fight with their husbands over money. My husband and I work together and we earn happily for our family and ourselves. Although both of us work very hard to support our family, I don't know why I am being paid less than what my husband is paid for the same shawl," asks Sajida.

"Why are you taking my picture? I will show you some beautiful colourful shawls; click them!" As Ghulam Rasool was about to take the support of his walking aid, I interrupted, "No...I want to take your photograph; you make those masterpieces." Asking me to sit across him on a weaving bench he said, "My picture is on the shawl I weave for months. The shawl I weave is my companion; every day I spend almost fourteen hours on it. It absorbs my day's emotions into its colors. I am 90 years old and have been working for eighty- one years now. For me my life is my work, my prayers to God and weaving a shawl 'sincerely' is a medium t o offer those prayers."

"Musical instruments are very powerful... When they are played, they mesmerise everyone. I am one among many who have become prey to them. This profession is riveted with my soul now. One has to carve out the rabab from a solid block of wood. One cannot use a handsaw to cut it. It has to be done with love. When it gets moulded and when one begins to play, it can just leave one's heart pierced."

"Our house was washed away by the recent floods. We have managed to make this temporary shelter by selling five gold bangles, which we had saved for our daughter's marriage. We have to work very hard now. My daughters have already started helping us..."

"What can one do and how can one contribute if one becomes most knowledgeable about this craft without any practice? One cannot do anything unless people come and show interest in learning this craft. Nobody wants to be an artisan anymore, not even my grandchildren..."

"There was a woodcarving workshop opposite our home. I remember sitting on the windowsill, observing craftsmen work with their tools. I come from a very poor family. I never went to school. When I was eight years old, my father asked me what I wanted to do and how I could work to support our family. Since then I have been working and Alhamdulillah (thanks to the Almighty), I am satisfied as I got what I wanted. My daughter has her exams tomorrow so I have to leave. I have to buy some stationary for her..."

"I know the value of this craft. I lost my son when he was twenty-seven. He was innocent. He went out to the market to buy some yarn for his unfinished shawl. There was an encounter between the army and the militants and my son was shot dead in the crossfire. Now if I get any pleasure from anything in this world, it is only from my work. I spend most of my day in this workshop. My work is my life...I won't let this craft die, not at least by my doings. Sometimes I don't have money to buy morning bread for my family, but my conscience doesn't allow me to deceive. I don't use fake material. I know what it means to lose one's identity," re minisces Mohammad Subhan.

Source: WATCH: Israeli Photographer Shoots An Indian Shaadi On His iPhone. The Result Is Magic.

Speculation about James Packer and Mariah Carey's wedding plans goes into overdrive

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Replay video James Packer and Mariah Carey engaged

Media mogul James Packer popped the question to singer Mariah Carey, presenting her with a 35-carat diamond ring - and she said yes.

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James Packer might want to re-think his long held aversion to media scrutiny as his soon-to-be third wife, pop star Mariah Carey relishes in the spotlight their engagement has brought upon them.

US showbiz media has been slavishly churning out highly-detailed coverage on everything from how the casino billionaire proposed to the cut and clarity of the $10 million-plus 35 carat diamond ring which now adorns Carey's left hand.

James Packer and Erica Baxter's wedding ceremony.

Quoting unnamed "close sources" to Carey, new details are now emerging of what sort of wedding Carey is planning, with expectations it could happen in the coming northern hemisphere summer in America.

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However there is also speculation it may take place in Australia, possibly on Hayman Island. Another theory is that the couple's love of Italy may play a factor in where they wed, though with a fleet of private jets and superyachts at their disposal, they clearly have a wide selection of venues around the world to choose from.

"Mariah was always a hopeless romantic," a source close to the singer tells America's People magazine in this week's issue. "She deserves the dream and I am sure James will give her just that."

Engaged: Mariah Carey and James Packer. Photo: Dimex

On Thursday it was being reported that Carey has already started to look at wedding dresses, including one creation featuring 14 carat gold threat and hundreds of hand sewn butterflies by Los Angeles fashion student, 17-year-old Sabrina DeSage.

It was only two years ago when Carey renewed her vows to her second husband Nick Cannon. Carey dressed as Cinderella and shut down Disneyland to use it as her exclusive reception venue.

Packer will no doubt be keen to go one better than Cannon, who reportedly dressed in matching Prince and Princess costumes with his wife. Carey, who arrived with their daughter Monroe in a horse-drawn Crystal Carriage from a Dream Suite inside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, was paraded down the theme park's famous Main Street to meet Cannon and son Moroccan at Sleeping Beauty Castle, for the vow renewals.

Erica Baxter walks down the aisle for her wedding to James Packer in 2007.

Six months later the couple called it quits on their marriage.

Packer himself has enjoyed two similarly lavish weddings with more traditional "themes".

His first wedding in 1999 to former bikini model Jodhi Meares was held at the Packer family's expansive compound Cairnton in Bellevue Hill, where huge marquees were erected, Elton John took on the role of wedding singer and guests left with gold mementos commemorating the union.

James Packer and bride Jodie Meares on their wedding day Photo: The Australian Women's Weekly

But the happy memories were not to last with Meares and Packer splitting after just two years of marriage.

Packer then married former model Erica Baxter at another lavish wedding in 2007 held at the exclusive Hotel du Cap on the French Riviera where the likes of Tom Cruise and his then wife Katie Holmes as well as Rupert Murdoch and his former wife Wendi Deng witnessed the couple tie the knot. Baxter wore a haute couture gown from Christian Dior which reportedly cost more than $250,000, while the four-day wedding itself was estimated to have cost more than $6million.

It would appear that a simple registry office will not suffice for their third trip to the altar.

Source: Speculation about James Packer and Mariah Carey's wedding plans goes into overdrive

Colorado Wedding Photographer Shea McGrath Featured in Midwest Bride Magazine

Denver, CO, January 27, 2016 --(PR.com)-- Shea McGrath Photography was featured in Midwest Bride, a bridal magazine that offers a daily dose of pretty inspiration for brides, couples, and industry pros within the heartland of the United States. Midwest Bride featured one of McGrath's weddings from last spring, photographed in Des Moines, IA. The feature was entitled, "Spring Pastel Iowa Wedding" and includes several photos taken by McGrath at a homemade backyard wedding. McGrath was featured on January 18th, 2016. You can find the feature here: http://www.midwestbride.com/2016/01/18/spring-pastel-iowa-wedding/

About Midwest Bride:On the pages of Midwest Bride you will find real weddings, engagements, styled shoots, boudoir, bridal showers, DIY projects, free printables, and much more inspiration by creatives of the Midwest region. Midwest Bride understands how hard planning a dream wedding is, that is why we offer a vendor guide like no other, which allows brides to connect t o local vendors and make their planning as easy as wedding cake.

Shea McGrath Photography recently located to Colorado last fall and only has a few dates open for 2016 weddings. McGrath, has extensively travelled Eastern and Western Europe, including France, Ireland, Germany, and Turkey. McGrath, who is bilingual in Spanish, resided in Madrid, Spain where she first started her photography business.

About Shea McGrath Photography:Shea McGrath Photography is developing a reputation as an intuitive and kinesthetic photographic artist. McGrath is often asked to photograph for personal events, such as weddings, as well as for the health & beauty, and fashion industries. According to McGrath, "What started as a hobby and avocation in college has quickly turned into a passion and profession. Invited to be part of those special moments in people's lives is joyful and it allows me to capture pure happiness. Clients feel comfortable and have a great time when on one of the se photo shoots. Many clients have shared they had so much fun during the session, they forgot there was a camera around."

Shea McGrath Photography (www.sheamcgrath.com) is a professional photography company specializing in wedding photography helping people to celebrate life events such as weddings, graduations, engagements, and all lifestyle celebrations. Her work style is quickly gaining attention for product, fashion, and beauty photography as well. McGrath is now recognized worldwide as a portrait, nature, and industry photographer for over a decade. Follow Shea McGrath Photography on Twitter @shea_mcgrath, like on Facebook at facebook.com/sheamcgrathphotography, or Instagram @sheamcgrathphotography.

Source: Colorado Wedding Photographer Shea McGrath Featured in Midwest Bride Magazine

Raveena Tandon shares photo from daughter Chhaya's wedding

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By A Correspondent |Posted 2 hours

Chhaya -- the younger of the two daughters adopted by Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon -- tied the knot in Goa on January 25. Raveena Tandon took to Twitter to share a photo from the wedding festivities.

According to a source close to the 'Mohra' actress, it was a Hindu-Catholic wedding in Goa as the groom is based in the state.

Earlier in 2011, Raveena had got her older adopted daughter Pooja married. She had adopted the two girls as a single mother back in the 1990s.

Raveena is married to film distributor Anil Thadani. Together, they have a daughter named Rasha and son named Ranbir.

(With inputs from agencies)

Source: Raveena Tandon shares photo from daughter Chhaya's wedding

Spotlight On 2016 Bridal, Beauty Trends

Whether you're planning a wedding or simply want to stay current on the latest beauty and fashion trends, this week's special Bridal & Makeup Issue of the Northern Express - sister publication of The Ticker - has you covered for looking your best in 2016.

From GoPro cameras on wedding party members to aerial photography by drones to smartphone apps that notify guests when the cake cutting and dancing is happening, learn how technology is reshaping today's wedding ceremonies. Couples can now DJ their own receptions with their iPhones, source planning ideas from Pinterest and Instagram and use hashtags to consolidate their guests' photos and memories online. Wedding traditions are also getting a modern and more personalized update, whether it's bonfires in place of rehearsal dinners, signature cocktails in place of full bars or smaller cakes or treats in place of one large wedding cake.

Even if you're not planning (or attending) a wedding this year, you can still look fabulous with Northern Express' visual guides to hair and makeup trends in 2016, as well as a primer on the growing popularity of airbrush makeup services. If you prefer more natural beauty solutions, don't miss the handy overview of organic beauty products, including tips for ingredients and brands to seek out.

This week's issue also features an in-depth preview of the upcoming Michigan Snowmobile Festival in Gaylord Jan. 29-30, a Q&A with Creed frontman Scott Stapp - performing Feb. 5 at Traverse City's Ground Zero - and much more! Check out the Northern Express online, or pick up a free copy at one of more than 600 distribution spots across 13 counties. And, stay connected throughout the week on Facebook and Twitter.

Source: Spotlight On 2016 Bridal, Beauty Trends

From the endless wait between ceremony and reception, to being stuck at the 'singles' table: The annoying wedding traditions that brides and grooms are ditching in 2016

Bridal coach and photographer Rachael Bentick shared her tips

She revealed the five most annoying traditions as weddings

These included all weddings feeling the same and outdated dining options

Daggy DJs, gift registries and time delays for photos are also annoying

She said many couples were moving away from tradition

Their priorities have shifted to focus on their guests' enjoyment 

By Lauren Grounsell For Daily Mail Australia

Published: 23:57 EST, 23 January 2016 | Updated: 03:52 EST, 24 January 2016

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An excruciatingly long wait between the ceremony and reception, being stuck at the 'singles table' and cringe-worthy love songs: chances are you have been to an 'annoying' wedding.

But times are changing, according to bridal coach and Inlighten Photography director Rachael Bentick.

The Sydney photographer told Daily Mail Australia there has been a shift away from dull wedding traditions with couples instead placing priority on their guests' enjoyment.

And while poor time management is irritating, it's also the little things that get on peoples' nerves.

Annoyed by weddings? Bridal coach and Inlighten Photography director Rachael Bentick has named the most annoying wedding traditions from long waits to terrible DJs

Focus on fun: Luckily, Ms Bentick said there had been a shift away from tra dition with couples focused on their guests enjoyment in 2016

'For me an RSVP card I have to put in the mail drives me nuts,' Ms Bentick told Daily Mail Australia.

'I just don't go to the post office anymore.

'If you don't want to be annoying, the number one wedding don't is to not talk about your wedding too much.'

Here Ms Bentick shared with FEMAIL the top five wedding traditions that irritate guests, and why weddings are no longer the agonizing events that they used to be.

1: ALL WEDDINGS ARE THE SAME

It might feel like if you have been to one wedding, you've been to them all.

'Wedding tradition has been the name of the game since, well, forever,' Ms Bentick said.

'From the speeches to the vows, the first dance to the dress, for centuries couples have abided by a set of rules that dictate every diminutive constituent of their big day.

Day of tradition: From the speeches to vows, wedding traditions can make every event feel the same - but couples are now placing a higher priority on their guests' enjoyment

Personal touch: Couples are stepping away from tradition to make their days unique and memorable for guests

She said in recent years she had seen a shift away from tradition in favour of 'no rules' weddings where couples placed a priority on having a good time.

'With the rise of social media everyone wants their weddings to be spoken about in a great way and shared and talked about for many years to come,' Ms Bentick said.

'There's no sticking to tradition, you need to make it your own to make it memorable and a real reflection o f who you are as a couple.'

'Kiss the generic hotel-package wedding goodbye': Unique locations such as private estates, museums and observatories are rising in popularity

Move it along: Gone are the long, dull speeches - couples are keeping it short and snappy so their guests can hit the dance floor

In 2016 she said you could 'kiss the generic hotel-package wedding goodbye' in favour of unique locations such as private estates, museums and observatories.

'It's even becoming more and more popular for modern couples to skip the custom-style ceremony altogether, instead hosting a more intimate party or celebration with all of their friends,' she said.

Another time sap can be speeches, that can go for 'well over an hour'.

'I think the longest speeches are often when females speak as wel l,' Ms Bentick said.

2: YOU SPEND MOST OF THE DAY WAITING AROUND

A destination wedding might seem the ideal location to tie the knot, but with such ample photo opportunities, the time guests spend waiting for the happy couple can increase.

Ms Bentick said the 'most extreme' case she has seen was a wedding in tropical north Queensland were guests waited hours while the photos were taken.

'Because it's a destination wedding, it's not like the guests could go home and fill in the day with a couple of chores,' she said.

'The guests were stuck at that point, let's just say there was a higher than average booze consumption.' 

Tedious: Ms Bentick said one wedding, held in tropical North Queensland, saw guests wait for hours while the couple had photos taken

New tradition: To save time, couples are having their photographs taken before the ceremony, and photographs can still capture the first moment the groom lays eyes on his bride

But much to the relief of wedding-goers, the endless periods of waiting around are becoming on the way out.

'One way couples are making the day more seamless is by arranging the bridal shoot pre-wedding,' Ms Bentick said.

'Grooms are seeing their bride before the wedding ceremony even starts. 

'Professional photographers are now frequently asked to capture the moment he lays eyes on his bride, and not only does it make for stellar wedding photos, it means guests are taken directly from the ceremony to the reception, because the party should never stop.'

3: CHICKEN, BEEF OR FISH? 

Chicken or fish? Tradition sees guests allocated to certain tables with single friends grouped together 

Almost worse than being assigned to the 'singles' table is being given a meal you don't want to eat.

But Ms Bentick said there has been a shift away from the alternate-drop method of dining to smorgasbords of food and share platters available at long, rectangular tables.

'I think as well as the average age of brides increases the brides expectation of quality food and wine is increasing as well,' she said.

Musical chairs: Ms Bentick said she had seen a shift towards long, rectangular tables

Help yourself: There has been a shift away from chicken, beef or fish options with smorgasbord and share platter style dining

'Thanks to the huge spike in shared meals and communal seating, unsightly centrepieces are a thing of the past.'

She said the long banquet style tables also made guests feel like they're at the same level.

'It doesn't work for every venue, but who wants to be stuck at the singles table?

'It's like a social indicator.'

4: YOU MUST GIVE A GIFT

No presents: Gift registries are outdated and annoying for guests who have to set time aside before the wedding day

Put simply, gift registries are painful.

Ms Bentick said society's 'weird relationship' with money had kept the outdated tradition alive, but giving a gift of towels is not always necessary.

'Guests still find themselves in the awkward position of selecting gifts they don't particularly wish to buy, and couples still find themselves with a surplus of useless 'stu ff',' she said.

Just give cash: 'They are more than equipped with everything they need to make a home and Williams Sonoma doesn't excite them like it used it,' Ms Bentick said

Gifts for the house were rife in the '70s when is was more common for couples to have not lived together before they were married, but in 2016, times have changed.

'They are more than equipped with everything they need to make a home and Williams Sonoma doesn't excite them like it used it,' Ms Bentick said.

She said a gift registry also took up guests time before the wedding.

'I want to see the couple have a fantastic life together,' she said.

'Weddings are expensive, contributing cash helps them and it's certainly a lot easier.'

5: THE DJ IS ALWAYS DAGGY 

Bad DJs are out: Daggy DJs who don't play to their audience, or play the music too loud, are on the out

Ms Bentick said: 'one upon a time it was all about the dress' and brides would happily skimp on music or catering in favour of their dream gown.

She said the worst DJs she had seen were ones that could not pick their crowd.

'Sometimes let's be honest, a little bit of daggy '80s music can get the party started,' she said.

'But don't keep it on too long.'

She said DJs who played the wrong genre of music for their audience, or music that was too loud, were also deal breakers.

Fun and games: Couples are placing more focus on entertainment with live bands, interactive stations and outdoor games

Day to remember: '2016 will see a greater focus on the 'party vibe' of weddings, and everyone will benefit,' she said

'You don't want to be blasting techno dance music during the meals,' she said.

She said couples are now less focused on their own appearances and more concerned about their guests.

'Weddings are getting smaller and couples are now better able to splash out on the important things, including a variety of high-quality entertainment such as live bands to unique interactive stations and outdoor games,' she said.

'2016 will see a greater focus on the 'party vibe' of weddings, and everyone will benefit.' 

Ms Bentick, who has more than ten year's experience, hosts bridal coaching sessions for brides-to-be to share their experiences.

Source: From the endless wait between ceremony and reception, to being stuck at the 'singles' table: The annoying wedding traditions that brides and grooms are ditching in 2016

Keshia Knight Pulliam confirms marriage to Ed Hartwell, shares wedding photo

Ed Hartwell and Keshia Knight Pulliam (Instagram).

Keshia Knight Pulliam and Ed Hartwell only announced their engagement three weeks ago, and now, they are sharing a wedding photo.

"The most AMAZING day of our life!!! New "Kandidly Keshia" available on play.it/Keshia. Listen as we share our magical wedding day. #IAmOfficiallyMrsHartwell," Pulliam posted alongside a photo of the two of them. She can be seen wearing a veil, and Hartwell is wearing a tux.

The sudden announcements lends credence to the rumor leaked by Big Tigger a few weeks ago that the two of them were already married when they made their engagement announcement.

Source: Keshia Knight Pulliam confirms marriage to Ed Hartwell, shares wedding photo

Teen Mom OG stars Tyler Baltierra and Catelynn Lowell share stunning never-before-seen wedding photo

TEEN Mom OG star Tyler Baltierra has shared a stunning never-before-seen wedding photo of himself and Catelynn Lowell 5 months after their special day.

The MTV couple – who have been together for 10 years – got married in August, and are documenting their wedding day on a special episode of the show that made them famous.

Tyler Baltierra has shared the first picture of his and Catelynn Lowell's wedding [Tyler Baltierra/Instagram]

Tyler posted a romantic picture on Instagram of himself leaning his wife back and kissing her.

Despite the picture being mainly in silhouette, it's obvious how in love he and Catelynn are.

Related article: Farrah Abrahams' daughter makes her cry in trailer for Teen Mom OG

Related article: Teen Mom OG star Gary Shirley marries partner in secret wedding

Along with the snap, Tyler wrote: "Me & @catelynnmtv get MARRIED on the new 90 minute WEDDING episode of #TeenMomOG that premieres THIS MONDAY on @MTV #BaltierraWedding".

Catelynn and Tyler have been together since the 7th grade, and became parents at the age of 16 - to Carly - who they gave up for adoption in 2009 so she could have a better life.

Tyler Baltierra and Catelynn Lowell have been together since 7th grade [Getty]

The couple maintained a strong bond and in January 2015, Catelynn, aged 23, gave birth to their second daughter, Novalee.

Catelynn and Tyler were documenting the build-up to their big day on social media.

Sharing a snap of the couple kissing at the location of the wedding, Tyler wrote: "Getting all the little details figured out for our wedding at @castlefarms!

"I will be marrying my best friend in 3 days, I can't even begin to fathom how blessed I am! #TheLoveOfMyLife #WillNowBeMyWife."

Tyler Baltierra and Catelynn Lowell got married in Aust 2015 [Tyler Baltierra/Instagram]

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Source: Teen Mom OG stars Tyler Baltierra and Catelynn Lowell share stunning never-before-seen wedding photo

Profits Doubled in Bumper Year for Manchester Photographer Shane Webber Photography

Manchester, UK -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/21/2016 -- Manchester-based entrepreneur Shane Webber has cause to celebrate his festive season following a bumper year in 2015 – doubling the profits of his photography business.

The 25-year-old Manchester University graduate moved back to the city last year to focus on wedding and event photography and hasn't looked back.

He said: "This last year really has been incredible; I can't quite believe what a great 12 months it has been.

"I moved back to Manchester to focus on my business after spending a number of seasons in Ibiza and I couldn't be more pleased with how well things are going.

"I have doubled my profits compared with last year, and already have a very busy calendar of weddings and events throughout 2016 and even into 2017, which is just brilliant.

"Not only that but I have been nominated for regional awards and am one of just 19 photographers in the whole North West to be a Fearless Photographer which is a directory of the world's best wedding photographers – it's a bit overwhelming."

Shane Webber Photography (http://www.shanewebber.com) has expanded the business outside of the North West with bookings across the UK and abroad in the coming months. Shane has also added a photo booth service for events and weddings following demand from his clients.

"When I started the business, my intention was to focus on the North West but I am receiving more and more enquiries outside of the region – I'm even shooting a destination wedding in Ibiza next year," added Shane.

"Adding a photo booth seemed like a logical next step. I am regularly asked by my clients where they can source one, so it made sense to get my own so that people don't have to worry about finding another supplier."

The talented photographer has recently been shortlisted in the Best Wedding Photographer in the North West at the 2016 Great Northern Wedding Awards and has been featured as one of the re gion's top 100 wedding photographers. He is also a recommended wedding supplier at a number of venues across Manchester and Cheshire.

About Shane Webber PhotographyShane Webber Photography photographs weddings throughout the North West of the United Kindom, covering Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and further afield. 

You can find Shane Webber Photography online at www.shanewebber.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ShaneWebberPhotography

Contact:Annie BrafieldPhone: 07841 848376Email: annie@cartwrightcommunications.co.uk

Source: Profits Doubled in Bumper Year for Manchester Photographer Shane Webber Photography

Wedding photographer viciously attacked by dogs in Waimanalo

WAIMANALO, OAHU (HawaiiNewsNow) -

A wedding photographer says he was attacked by three vicious dogs at Makapuu Beach Park a few months ago and wants to get the word out to the public in hopes it doesn't happen again. The Japanese-speaking cameraman doesn't want his face shown or name released.

"He went into the restroom, and after he used it, and he went out from the restroom, suddenly, those three dogs, big three dogs, attacked him, jumped on him," said his translator.

The photographer said both his calves were mauled by the unleashed dogs. He said no one was around to help because it was around 7:00 a.m. so he had to fight them off until they eventually stopped. He said the attack lasted up to five minutes.

"Maybe ten bites. And then he had to get stitches. Eight stitches on his right leg and four stitches on his left," his translator said.

The issue was brought up to Waimanalo Neighborhood Board Chairman Wilson Ho who listed it as an agenda item at the very next neighborhood board meeting in November.

"I was distressed because he said it was three dogs that attacked him. And there is no defense for one man against three dogs," Ho said.

Ho said a police officer at the meeting told him it happened to another photographer about a week later. Ho said hearing the news really upset him.

"They don't usually take long. Their photography takes about half an hour. So I was distressed that the fact that somebody, could have been my son, it could have been my nephew. But it's just not right," he said.

Honolulu City ordinance states all dogs that are off their owner's property be on a leash no longer than eight feet, that includes public beaches.

"Waimanalo was just voted as the best beach in the nation, ironically. But if we have these kind of things, it just mars it," said Ho.

The photographer was out of work for two weeks while he recovered. He said he is back to work now but stays in his car when he's not filming so he is not an easy target.  

The Humane Society said if someone witnesses a dog attack in progress, it's always best to call 911 for the fastest response.

Copyright 2016 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.

Source: Wedding photographer viciously attacked by dogs in Waimanalo

Wedding in a Week Photography

Wedding in a Week Photography | News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News | WBFF

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By Morning Producer 1453129067000

Joey from Trans4mation Photography and Anna from Red October Photography talk about their involvement with FOX45's "Wedding in a Week," and the latest trends they're seeing in capturing those special memories.

Don't forget to vote for the lucky couple who will win their services!

Source: Wedding in a Week Photography

Blake Shelton & Gwen Stefani Cozy Up For Wedding Photo Booth Pics, Blake Responds On Whether He And Gwen Are Starting A Family Soon

Amidst increasing speculation that Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani are going to tie the knot soon, the famous celebrity couple has been spotted attending a wedding over the weekend. While doing so, Blake and Gwen also took time to pose for some photos at the photo booth during reception! And – spoiler alert – they look absolutely adorable. But of course, everyone knows that by now.

The famous couple attended the wedding of Blake Shelton's stylist Amanda Craig and Joel Borski in Nashville, Tennessee, according to HollywoodLife.com. On Sunday, Craig posted several photos of the guests on her Instagram account, with some of them showing Stefani, 46, and Shelton, 39, cuddling up for the camera.

Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton pose for the camera with the bride in photo booth. [Image via Instagram]

In one photo, Gwen Stefani is seen smiling while Blake Shelton leans close to her while flashing a smile of his own. With them are bride Amanda wearing giant glasses and another guest wearing a Santa hat. Gwen was wearing a black mesh dress while Blake was looking sharp in a black suit. The two The Voice judges looked super giddy in the photos – another good sign that the couple is as happy as ever.

In another photo, Blake can be seen posing with Xenia, a singer who was part of Blake Shelton's team in the first season of The Voice.

Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton sure are bringing on the PDA since news of their relationship became public knowledge last November.

On Saturday, Blake, Gwen, and her three kids had been spotted heading towards Arclight Cinema in Los Angeles, California to see a movie. The two have been sensible enough not to show PDA in front of the kids, butt they had no qualms doing so whenever the three boys are not looking! In one photo, Blake had his arm around Gwen while giving her this cute, lingering gaze. What made the photo even more adorable is that Gwen had little Apollo slung to her waist via a baby carrier at the time.

If these photos are any indication, Blake Shelton are really hitting it off with Stefani's kids. For one, they celebrated the holidays together in Oklahoma, according to ET Online. Which begs the question: are Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton considering the idea of starting a family together soon? The rumor going around in the last couple of days suggesting that Stefani is pregnant with a baby girl only bolsters this assumption.

Speculation aside, the best plan, of course is to ask them directly. ET Online did everyone a favor by asking Blake while the country singer was leaving a grocery store in Studio City, California.

"I think it's awfully early to be talking about that, don't you?" the 39-year-old singer responded.

That answer's not much to get excited about, but Shelton did say that he and Gwen are "very happy together."

Since December, Stefani and Shelton have been on frequent trips together. After spending Christmas together in Blake's Oklahoma home, they spent some time getting cozy in Gwen's home in Anaheim, California. They were also spotted watching the Cardinals play the Green Bay Packers in Glendale, Arizona and enjoying a wine-tasting tour in Buellton, California over the holidays.

Blake and Gwen are rooting on the @AZCardinals today in their big showdown with the Packers. #GBvsAZ pic.twitter.com/ubULelYOk4

— NFL (@NFL) December 27, 2015

While it's too early to consider the thought of Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani saying "I do's" together at the altar, things sure seem to be heading in that direction!

Are you excited about the prospect of these two and Gwen's kids being an official family soon? Please tell us in the comments section!

[Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images]

Source: Blake Shelton & Gwen Stefani Cozy Up For Wedding Photo Booth Pics, Blake Responds On Whether He And Gwen Are Starting A Family Soon

Bunny in the City: Nature photography exhibit lures some of Savannah's best and brightest

The Jewish Educational Alliance hosted "Connecting with Nature," a fine art photography exhibit featuring John Alexander on Jan. 7.

Entering the multi-function facility off Abercorn, I immediately see JEA Executive Director Adam Solender down the hall snapping pictures but I hear someone who has a laugh so unique that I know I have found Jessica Ghormley, aka Jessica Savannah.

Holding Ogie — (short for Oglethorpe), a crazy cute miniature French bulldog — Jessica squeals, squeezes and suggests that I meet her this weekend at MUSE Arts Warehouse for an improv show to benefit Savannah Working Against Human Trafficking.

Hmmm — that would be a yes to anything supporting Jessica and SWAHT! Another female who I say yes to anything she asks, does or needs is the most magnificent female in all the land, Paula Kreissler.

After posing Paula with her talented partner Terri Galloway, I attempt to chat with the man of the hour but I hear Adam telling harpist-extraordinaire Leslie Adair that he is leaving so I manage to convince him to pose with yoga queen Dina Jensen and Madam Joan Simmons.

As more people gather, I have a chance to snap pics of Bluffton residents Kelvin, Katherine, Korina and Andretti Archila, event planner Trinity Reed and art expert Bobi Perry with quirky Joanne Morton.

Joanne invites me to a 1st Sunday Brunch that is "an inspiration club for promoting women" but has such a risque name that I can't print it! As she and Bobi pose in front of a red rose abstracts, I see Karen Cooper, the most gorgeous dentist in town, arrive.

With more admirers piling in, I put the camera on Georgia Walters and Connie Polk, introduce vivacious Kelly May to Mike Baier, and pose John Davis and Jennifer Abshire in front of the 20 x 30-inch marsh view painting Jennifer bought.

Another person with magnetism is the most revered breast surgeon on the planet — Dr. Paula DeNitto.

I am sad to say "retired" surgeon, but am super proud to see the savior of countless cancer patients enjoying her yoga-filled retirement while out on the town toasting with survivor Pam Cowart and Deborah Bowen.

Also toasting is "Lady" Shannon Lancaster, new faces Karen and Philip Grainey of Clean Coast, a "nonprofit organization for coastal conservation" and Savannah Christian singles group Nutty Buddies — Lana McCarthy, Dianne Lane, Virginia Love, Melody South and Mike Baier.

I manage to steal John Alexander for an update on his future nature, architecture and wedding photo plans.

The modest Maryland native shrugs off my compliments, smiles when I tease him on his single status and Suzuki Boulevard bike riding before thanking me for attending what is my first photo exhibit in Savannah. Having access to so much art is one more thing to love about this glorious town so go check out John's outstanding exhibit anytime before Jan. 31!

Invite Bunny to your gathering, gala or other social event. Contact Bunny at 912-844-1122 or email her at bunnyware@aol.com.

Source: Bunny in the City: Nature photography exhibit lures some of Savannah's best and brightest

Photographer captures moment service dog calms bride down before vows

A wedding photographer captured the touching moment when a service dog dressed in a pink tutu calmed a bride just moments before she walked down the aisle.

Valerie and Andrew Parrot, who married on Jan. 9 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, were accompanied by their service dog Bella during the ceremony, Fox 25 reported. Bella helps Valerie deal with migraines and panic attacks, and even helped walk her down the aisle at the wedding.

One of the cutest little wedding guests there ever was!

Posted by Mad Photo and Design on Sunday, January 10, 2016

However, before the two ventured down the aisle to meet Andrew, photographer Maddie Peschong of Mad Photo and Design photographed Bella alerting Valerie that her heart rate was elevated by snuggling into her side to calm her down.

Peschong captioned the photo "One of the cutest little wedding guests there ever was!"

The photo has since been viewed more than 1 million times on the sharing site Imgur, Fox 25 reported. 

Source: Photographer captures moment service dog calms bride down before vows

Marni Jameson: How to save on a wedding

Before I say "I do," which is the plan a few weeks from now, I'm saying "I don't." A lot. This is necessary to fend off the posse of prenuptial predators who come after brides, who are mostly (unlike me) young and innocent.

I see right through them. I feel sorry for the uninitiated, who fall for what others tell them they "should" want and "must" have to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars that few can honestly afford.

Take the bridal store. "I'm an older bride getting remarried and don't want to look like a confection," I said as I entered one and tried to set the tone.

The salesladies brushed that notion off like dandruff and threw gowns at me the size of covered wagons.

"Do you have something simpler?" I said from inside the middle of a cupcake.

"Well, you don't want to look like your guests!" they cried.

"I sort of do," I said.

They exchanged disappointed glances, and moved to the bridesmaid rack, where it became clear, the main job of a bridesmaid dress is to look like a backdrop and not upstage the bride. They're boring. Besides every time I see a bridesmaid dress, I think: "Someday that will make a nice Christmas tree skirt."

I ditched the bridal shops, and found a lovely dress at a department store.

I then encountered the wedding photographers, who have two tiers of pricing: Weddings and Not Weddings. If you're going to hire a photographer for your wedding, the trick is to say it's not a wedding. You will save thousands.

"The price includes 200 photos on a CD," one photographer told me.

"I don't want 200 photos," I said. (What sicko wants to look through hundreds of pictures of himself?) "I only want a dozen." He was offended.

A photographer friend I've worked with pointed me to a young, talented photographer who hadn't yet started tripling her fees because the occasion was a wedding. She's hired.

"Is it just me?" I asked wedding consultant Jennifer Durbin, author of "Party Tips for the Clueless Chick," (Sourced Media, 2013). "Or is there a conspiracy to dupe couples into shelling out the equivalent of a house down payment on a wedding?"

"When I first meet with couples, I remind them that this is going to be a wonderful, wonderful day, but it is just a day," said Durbin. "They don't want to end it with a mountain of debt."

Once she puts the day in perspective, "couples suddenly care a lot less that they don't have 10 passed hors d'oeuvres and only have three," said Durbin, who lives Raleigh, N.C., and doesn't plan weddings but rather helps couples plan weddings themselves.

She helped me come up with these 10 don'ts to consider before saying I do:

•Don't say the "W" word unless you have to. "Many professionals up their rates when they hear 'wedding,' " Dubrin said. "I've seen hairdressers who normally charge $50 for an updo, charge $150 when it's for a bride."

•Don't feel you need a wedding planner. "A good wedding planner can make the day flawless," Dubrin said. "Just know that if you use one, you are committing to a much costlier wedding." Do, however, hire a wedding coordinator who will help with flow, as in telling the bridal party when to walk down the aisle.

•Don't sign up for a location without knowing the restrictions. Many venues restrict you to their approved list of vendors. "You may love a beautiful barn setting for your wedding, only to find out you're required to hire the $6,000 photographer that goes with it," Dubrin said. Also don't just go for low price. Some venues are less expensive, but are plain. By the time you bring in the flowers, balloons and arches you'll need to add character, you might as well have paid for the more expensive location with built-in ambiance. 

•Don't feel obligated to invite strangers or kids. "If you invite unknown guests, the occasion can turn into a free for all," warned my stationery consultant, who gave me permission to not write "and guest" on the invitations of my single unattached friends. "It's also fine not to invite kids," added Dubrin, "just let families with children know ahead of time."

•Don't have your photographer the whole time. Find a photographer who charges by the hour, and have him arrive the hour before the wedding and leave at the beginning of the reception, when guests stop looking their best.

•Don't feel you need a fancy rehearsal dinner. A casual, relaxed get together the evening before can be a welcome relief for guests, Dubrin said. You can even have the dinner in your home; bring in food, and hire some local college kids to help serve and clean up.

•Don't have your wedding and reception in separate places. Having both in one place will save time, inconvenience, and probably money, if your vendors charge by the hour and for travel.

•Don't feel obligated by tradition. "There's nothing you have to do," Dubrin said. "If you don't like cake, you don't have to have one."

•Don't fall for too many flowers. Repurpose bouquets and flowers from the ceremony at the reception. Put bouquets on the cake table, and altar florals by the gifts. Bouquets are very expensive, Dubrin said. Consider carrying a few long stem roses instead.

•Don't choose outsized invitations. Oversize, odd shaped or bulky invitations can cost as much as $2 each to mail. Ask your stationer before you order about mailing costs, or take an invitation sample to the post office to weigh your options.

"As long as you're having the time of your life, and showing guests that the wedding is exactly what you wanted, no one will think you skimped on anything," Dubrin said.

Syndicated columnist Marni Jameson is the author of two home and lifestyle books, and Downsizing the Family Home – What to Save, What to Let Go, out this month from Sterling Publishing.

Source: Marni Jameson: How to save on a wedding

Pre-wedding Photo: Check out this couple's one-of-a-kind wedding shoot

Pre-wedding PhotoCheck out this couple's one-of-a-kind wedding shoot

From hanging on cliffs to levitating brides, these photos that turn up every now and then will never cease to amaze wedding lovers

Published: 1 minute ago

Oge Okonkwo

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Wedding photo

(LIB)
Source: Pre-wedding Photo: Check out this couple's one-of-a-kind wedding shoot

This showy Chinese wedding is attracting jealous comments online

What's This?

By Victoria Ho2016-01-13 02:37:14 UTC

Chinese netizens are pretty used to garish shows of wealth, but this lavish wedding is still managing to raise eyebrows on Weibo.

Pictures of a southern Chinese wedding are going viral on Chinese social media. The story started circulating after Bob Lam, a popular Hong Kong TV host, posted this photo of the bride with her jewellery. Lam was hired by the couple to host the wedding.

TV host Bob Lam with the bride with gold bracelets around her neck.

According to a report by the Southern Metropolis Daily [link in Chinese], the bride's dowry was worth several million yuan. This is a picture of the money and gold bracelets stacked:

The bride's dowry worth millions of yuan.

The report did not disclose what the groom's family's source of income is, but just said the family runs its own business.

Luxury cars at the wedding.

Since pictures started circulating, the story has largely drawn ire and jealous comments.

One netizen said: "Is this a wedding or Qin Shi Huang's funeral?" The latter was the emperor of China that unified the country in 221 BC from its fragmented warring states.

This commenter said: "If I had the money, I'd rather have a romantic wedding on a lawn or beach. This couple has money but is shameful."

"This wedding was put on as an outward show (of wealth)," said a Weibo user.

But some users were ambivalent. This user said he felt the couple was free to display their wealth at the wedding if they pleased, and that the negative reactions were unnecessary.

Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.

Topics: china, Photography, Watercooler, Sex & Love, weibo
Source: This showy Chinese wedding is attracting jealous comments online