Thursday, August 13, 2015

Behind the scenes at the royal wedding: Touching new photo shows Charles and Diana sharing champagne after their marriage

  • The newly released photograph is part of a collection being auctioned off in Boston next month
  • Image shows the Prince of Wales and Princess Diana enjoying champagne at their wedding reception
  • Another dozen photos, all thought to have been taken by Lord Robert Litchfield, were released earlier this week
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    It should have been the start of a happy life together but as the following years would reveal, the marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana proved anything but joyful.

    But at their wedding, in July 1981, the heartbreak was still to come and now a new, previously unseen photo, has revealed just how close the royal couple once were.

    Standing in an anteroom at Buckingham Palace, the grainy picture shows a smiling Diana resplendent in her ivory taffeta Elizabeth Emanuel gown standing beside a clearly delighted Charles, who clutches a glass of champagne in his hand.

    Scroll down for video 

    Happy couple: Prince Charles and Princess Diana are pictured enjoying their wedding reception at Buckingham Palace in July 1981

    The image is part of a collection of dozens of previously unpublished snaps that are thought to have been taken by Lord Patrick Lichfield, who was given unrestricted access to the reception.

    Lord Lichfield's photographs had been due to be returned to the royals for inclusion in a family wedding album but not all made the cut - among them the ones in his personal collection.

    Due to go under the hammer next month, the striking pictures include a touching shot of Diana reassuring five-year-old bridesmaid Clementine Hambro while walking through the palace with the Queen.

    Another candid shot shows Her Majesty beaming while peering at a television showing images of the cheering crowds celebrating the wedding outside on Pall Mall.

    More still show Diana, who died in a car accident in Paris in 1997, arranging the 25ft taffeta and lace train of her gown while waiting for the formal wedding photograph to be taken.

    Also featured in the collection, which will be sold off by RR Auctions in Boston on September 24, are Princesses Anne and Margaret, Prince Andrew and the late Queen Mother. 

    Grand: The princess' veil can be seen as she stands next to her new husband, the Prince of Wales, as royals gather in the Throne Room

    Iconic: With thousands of pearls and a 25ft train, Diana's wedding dress is carefully maneuvered into position for an official photograph

    Celebration: Wearing a turquiose hat, the Queen is seen in front of a television broadcasting the scenes outside Buckingham Palace

    Festivities: Her Majesty is seen in front of a television broadcasting the scenes on the Mall, where thousands of well-wishers gathered

    Captivating: This behind-the-scenes shot shows the royal couple stepping out on to the balcony to greet thousands of well-wishers

    Reception: The newly-married couple stop to speak to their page boys and bridesmaids as the Queen Mother (right) looks on< /p>

    Intimate: Princess Diana is seen holding five-year-old Clementine Hambro, her youngest bridesmaid, as the Queen walks by her side

    Stunning: Led by a page boy, Princess Diana carries a young Clementine through Buckingham Palace, the Queen walking by her side

    Ornate: Even in her wedding gown, Princess Diana is able to bend over to set down Clementine as they make their way through the palace

    Tender: Prince Andrew leans down to talk to Clementine as Prince Charles speaks to a page boy (right) and the princess smiles


    Source: Behind the scenes at the royal wedding: Touching new photo shows Charles and Diana sharing champagne after their marriage

    Wednesday, August 12, 2015

    Picture-perfect moments from Indian weddings!

    What makes an Indian wedding so colourful and memorable? Find out!

    A traditional Indian wedding is nothing short of an elaborate festival.

    Colourful clothes, interesting rituals, dramatic expressions -- the wedding has it all.

    Here, Delhi-based photographers Anish and Noopur Bhatia, founder, Happy Flashbacks share some of their favourite images that capture all the drama, madness and emotions from Indian weddings.

    A Colourful Bouquet

    Our bride, Tushi is looking like a princess.

    All the bridesmaids are sitting right next to her as her support and strength.

    This one is Noopur's favourite as it shows the girl power and the colourful outfits of the ladies add life to the picture.

    Looks like a colourful bouquet of different roses. Doesn't it?

    The Dance of Life

    This picture is a lifetime memory for the couple to remember the dance of their life when they were on the top of the world, dancing on the song of love and everybody is watching them.

    The Unusual Jodi

    Some moments become really special and we recall them through pictures.

    A common myth is that a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law can never be friends, they never gel up well.

    However, this jodi of the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law was fabulous.

    They loved each other like mother and daughter.

    This picture is one of my favourites.

    A Perfect Family 

    This picture may look more like a pose, but trust me this is a perfect family picture that anyone would want.

    This is one of our favourites because this was on special request from our bride's dad on his daughter's wedding to get a picture perfect family photo which he can get framed as one of the memories from the wedding. But it came out pretty well.

    This is an aesthetically pleasing picture showcasing how both the daughters are the strength of the father sitting in the centre as the core of the family and the mother standing above showering her love on all the three.

    This picture does not need any description as no one can describe in words how a mother feels on the day of her princess' wedding.

    The overflowing emotions simply says it all that her blessings are always there for her daughter.

    I feel fortunate to have captured this moment as this will forever remain in the wedding album for the daughter to see how her mother felt at the time of vidai.

    It will also be important for the mother to always remember those precious moments of her daughter leaving at the time of vidai.

    ALSO SEE

    CHECK OUT: Amazing photographs from Indian weddings!

    CANDID PHOTOS: Unforgettable wedding moments caught on camera


    Source: Picture-perfect moments from Indian weddings!

    Tuesday, August 11, 2015

    Unpublished wedding photos of Charles and Diana up for sale

    Boston: More than a dozen unpublished behind-the-scenes photographs of the wedding reception of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer at Buckingham Palace may fetch at least USD 18,000 at an auction here.

    The 14 original candid images are from the wedding reception at Buckingham Palace on July 29, 1981. None of the photos have ever been published and only very few people have ever laid eyes on them.

    More than a dozen unpublished behind-the-scenes photographs of the wedding reception of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer at Buckingham Palace may fetch at least USD 18,000 at an auction here.

    They originate from the collection of an assistant to English photographer Patrick Lichfield. The present collection, consisting of seven black-and-white glossy photos and seven colour satin-finish photos, will go on sale at RR Auction in Boston on September 24.

    Six of the larger photos depict Princess Diana wearing her gorgeous wedding dress with members of her family and wedding party, including Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, Princess Ann, Princess Margaret, and Prince Andrew.

    Three show Princess Diana holding the five-year-old Clementine Hambro, her youngest bridesmaid; one shows her setting Clementine down; and another shows her smiling as Prince Andrew leans over to talk to Clementine.

    Queen Elizabeth is clearly visible walking alongside Princess Diana in four of the images, and the Queen Mother is seen in two.

    Prince Charles is also in two of these photographs. One striking photo depicts Princess Diana and Prince Charles from behind on the famous balcony overlooking the massive crowds gathered on the Mall in front of Buckingham Palace.

    The colour photos bear official Lichfield labels (asserting copyright) affixed to the reverse and show various interior scenes.

    The first image pictures Princess Diana and Prince Charles standing beside one another, seemingly beaming with happiness and two show Queen Elizabeth watching a small television broadcasting images of the massive crowd outside.

    One photo shows Princess Diana in the Throne Room as her dress designers Elizabeth and David Emanuel arrange the trainin preparation for the formal photographs. Another image depicts Princess Michael of Kent from behind in her turquoise dress and two show the Royal Family gathering for the formal photographs, with Mark Philips, Prince Andrew, Princess Diana, Prince Charles, Earl Spencer, the Duke and Duchess of York, and Baroness Fellows present.

    "These never-before-seen photographs capture the candid and unrehearsed moments of the fairytale wedding," Bobby Livingston, executive VP at RR Auction, was quoted as saying by the 'Daily Express'.

    Two years ago his company sold a pre-marriage photo of Diana with a male friend for USD 18,000.

    "I think this collection will go for at least that price, personally I think more. In the States there is still great interest in Princess Diana," he said.


    Source: Unpublished wedding photos of Charles and Diana up for sale

    Sunday, August 9, 2015

    The rise of 'Big Fake Weddings': How bride and grooms-to-be are paying $25 to attend pretend ceremonies where they can test drive everything from dresses to cocktails

  • $25 ticket gives couples chance to check out 30 local vendors during night that features ceremony and reception
  • Wedding photographer Callie Murray started The Big Fake Wedding in 2008 to make planning fun 
  • Company said the goal is to inspire brides and grooms and support small businesses
  • The wedding may be fake but each couple picked to walk down the aisle are actually renewing their vows 
  • There are 31 Big Fake Weddings a year in 25 cities that attract more than 6,000 guests and 1,000 vendors
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    Couples in the midst of wedding planning now have the chance to test drive the details that go into their big day - whether it's the venues, flowers or even cake - thanks to The Big Fake Wedding. 

    Wedding photographer Callie Murray started The Big Fake Wedding in 2008 as a fun way for engaged couples to plan their weddings by actually going to one. 

    A $25 ticket per guest gives couples the chance to check out 30 local vendors in action during a night that features everything from the ceremony and cocktail hour to the dinner and late-night dance party reception.

    This may look like a wedding, but the bride and groom are actually renewing their vows - and the guests are engaged couples attending what has become known as The Big Fake Wedding 

    Wedding photographer Callie Murray started The Big Fake Wedding in 2008 as a fun way for engaged couples to plan their weddings by actually going to one

    A $25 ticket per guest gives couples the chance to check out 30 local vendors in action during a night that features everything from the ceremony and cocktail hour to the dinner and late-night dance party reception

    'For brides and grooms, the event serves as a source of inspiration,' reads the company's website. 

    'A resource in finding trusted wedding vendors and an emotional reminder to plan for what comes after a wedding: a marriage!'

    The wedding for each event is fake - but the couples picked to walk the aisle are very real.

    In fact, they're already married - and using the ceremony as a chance to renew their vows.

    Marketing director LaBruce Trammell said the company has three goals. 

    Everything at the wedding - right up to the gown and bridesmaid dresses - are provided by 30 trusted local vendors 

    Some categories also feature more than one vendor, giving soon-to-be brides and grooms a variety of ideas for their big day 

    Vendors at the events range from the basics - the flowers, food and music - to quirky touches, such as a Popsicle or snow cone carts

    'Inspire brides and grooms to do something different, support small businesses, and encourage a solid and committed marriage,' she told Yahoo! 

    The parties aren't meant to serve as a complete wedding-in-a-box, but rather as an opportunity for couples to see the many directions they could take while planning their big day.  

    Vendors at the events range from the basics - the dress, food and music - to quirky touches, such as a Popsicle  or snow cone carts and party favors in the form of potted seeds. 

    Some categories also feature more than one vendor, giving soon-to-be brides and grooms a variety of ideas.

    Marketing director LaBruce Trammell said the event is meant to inspire brides and grooms to 'do something different' 

    The company also wants to help support small businesses while encouraging a 'solid and committed marriage' 

    The parties aren't meant to serve as a complete wedding-in-a-box, but rather as an opportunity for couples to see the many directions they could take while planning their big day

    'You see things that aren't on Pinterest yet, because we encourage vendors to really push the creative envelope,' Trammell said. 

    'We're here to inspire, hands down.' 

    Vendors are only required to stick to the night's theme, receiving a PDF inspiration board from the company that also includes the wedding's color scheme and a couple of pictures to help illustrate the desired atmosphere.  

    There are 31 Big Fake Weddings a year in 25 cities that attract more than 6,000 guests and 1,000 vendors.   

    Vendors are only required to stick to the night's theme, receiving a PDF inspiration board from the company that also includes the wedding's color scheme and a couple of pictures to help illustrate the desired atmosphere

    There are 31 Big Fake Weddings a year in 25 cities that attract more than 6,000 guests and 1,000 vendors


    Source: The rise of 'Big Fake Weddings': How bride and grooms-to-be are paying $25 to attend pretend ceremonies where they can test drive everything from dresses to cocktails

    Saturday, August 8, 2015

    Hi-Tech Wedding Gifts Tops the List Says Denver Shea McGrath, Denver Wedding Photographer

    Hi-Tech Wedding Gifts Tops the List Says Denver Shea McGrath, Denver Wedding Photographer

    Denver, CO, August 08, 2015 --(PR.com)-- Shea McGrath, Denver Wedding Photographer, agrees with Best Buy's survey from Wakefield Research, which sees a growing increase with technology requests for wedding registries. According to a survey of brides and grooms, 74% of those married within the last five years consider requesting hi-tech gifts (such as flat-screen television, camera or video camera, a tablet, smart thermostat, or wireless sound system) acceptable on a wedding registry.

    "I think it is mainly because we are from the millennial generation. We were raised on technology as small children and have adapted our lives around the conveniences of technology," noted McGrath. "Additionally, I see technology gifts are more common than traditional gifts such as chinaware," added McGrath.

    "Technology is of course ever present today and couples are really starting to include these tools in their weddings – including their gift registries," said Wendy Fritz, head of gi fting registry for Best Buy, which began its own registry in February. "It's no longer about a fancy china place setting, it's about a flat screen TV for a new home or a digital camera for the honeymoon."

    Most of those surveyed (74%) said they would prefer a useful gift such as a tech product over a sentimental gift. For Best Buy's survey, Wakefield Research got input about wedding gifts from more than 1,000 brides and 1,000 grooms from May 29 to June 12, 2015. Half the respondents were married five years ago or less, the other half 20 years ago or more.

    Shea McGrath Photography is relocating to Denver, Colorado and is now accepting bookings for weddings, engagements, and lifestyle portraits starting in September 2015.

    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 allows me to capture happiness. Clients feel comfortable and have a great time when on one of these 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 natural light photography helping people to celebrate life events such as weddings, graduations, engagements, Bar Mitzvahs & Bat Mitzvahs, Quinceañeras, 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: Hi-Tech Wedding Gifts Tops the List Says Denver Shea McGrath, Denver Wedding Photographer

    Friday, August 7, 2015

    Wedding Photographer Shea McGrath Impressed with Aspen Colorado Best Place to Be Married List

    Wedding Photographer Shea McGrath Impressed with Aspen Colorado Best Place to Be Married List

    Frommers.com recently released the best places for couples in love to get married in each state. Shea McGrath, Denver wedding photographer commented, "I find the selections quite beautiful and most agreeable."

    Denver, CO, August 07, 2015 --(PR.com)-- Frommers.com recently released the best places for couples in love to get married in each state. Shea McGrath, Denver wedding photographer commented, "I find the selections quite beautiful and most agreeable. Aspen does provide a great backdrop to tie the knot. Too bad there could not be more as I am a bit bias to Colorado and can think of many places that serve as a stunningly romantic place for a wedding."

    According to Frommers.com. "Although it's known as a playground for the fabulously wealthy, Aspen was founded as a mining camp during the Colorado Silver Boom. Things have come a long way since those humble beginnings; now the silver is found in shops like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Dior—just to name a few. For similar glitz, couples can say "I do" before the backdrop of the Elk Mountain Range at Aspen's only five-star, five-diamond hotel, The Little Nell."

    The choices range from traditional venues like the Thorncrow n Chapel, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, to wild places like Cannon Beach in Oregon. Some involve activities — a windjammer cruise in Maine, a hot-air balloon ride in Albuquerque, New Mexico, while others suggest world-famous landmarks like the Empire State Building in New York City and Arizona's Grand Canyon, where the National Park Service offers several locations for small gatherings.

    Shea McGrath Photography is relocating to Denver, Colorado and is now accepting bookings for weddings, engagements, and lifestyle portraits starting in September 2015.

    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 s pecial moments in people's lives is joyful and allows me to capture happiness. Clients feel comfortable and have a great time when on one of these 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 natural light photography helping people to celebrate life events such as weddings, graduations, engagements, Bar Mitzvahs & Bat Mitzvahs, Quinceañeras, 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: Wedding Photographer Shea McGrath Impressed with Aspen Colorado Best Place to Be Married List

    Thursday, August 6, 2015

    These real life couples decided to spice up their wedding photos and how!

    Be it hanging upside down from a cliff or getting married in the air or the harsh smoke of wildfire, couples are now going a bit too far for their perfect wedding click! While we agree that wedding photography is the most exciting part of a marriage, but in some cases it is a matter of life and death!

    Don't believe us? Well, here we bring to you some of the jaw dropping wedding photographs of couples that will race your heartbeat and leave you astonished! 


    Source: These real life couples decided to spice up their wedding photos and how!