So after my blog post introducing myself a little bit I thought that it was only right that I go on to tell you all exactly what it is that I do.


Yes, I’m a luxury wedding photographer, but I am so much more than that! When couples choose to work with me, not only are they guaranteeing themselves a perfectly captured story but they have my undivided attention and access to all the knowledge and connections I have within the Wedding industry. Now that is priceless.


To give my brides an idea of what I can offer alongside the obvious ( wedding photography ) I have put together The Smart Brides Guide which they can subscribe to via my website or Facebook page Love Photography 13. 

This is a 10 part guide that covers everything from how to rock your engagement shoot right through to making your own wedding rings with a fully qualified bespoke jewellery designer.


The idea behind the guide is that, I know from experience that planning a wedding can be a stressful time! By putting together the SBG I can offer you advice on styling your engagement shoot and capturing the perfect Save the Date cards, hints and tips on how to find your ideal photographer as well as the more photography related subjects such as posing to enhance your shape. We also have some amazing wedding vendors on board who have co-written articles depending on their area of expertise.


It’s probably at this point that I should give all these amazing people a shout out and say a little about what they do, as a teaser until you download your FREE guide!


Natalie Boland is a qualified MUA based in the Midlands. I have had the pleasure of working with Natalie on numerous occasions and I’m always astounded by the amount of time and effort she commits to each project. She has a great wealth of knowledge and has shared her 5 favourite tips on wedding make up…catch her in Part 6 of the guide! 

​Gurtlamorous is a sensational dress designer that has been featured on the catwalks of many bridal fayres this season. His hand made dresses are the next level in luxury and sophistication. Imagine your dream dress….it doesn’t need to remain a dream! With the expert advice and support from Gurtlamorous you can create your dream gown and then some. Check out his top 5 tips in part 8 of the Smart Brides Guide or check out his page

Lacey Loves Lingerie is an amazing lingerie designer that creates made to measure lingerie for your special day. What would be more empowering and confidence boosting on your wedding day than to strut down the aisle knowing you are wearing custom designed handmade knickers! In part 9 of the SBG Lacey Loves Lingerie gives their advice on how to design the perfect lingerie for your wedding day. Take a look at their Facebook page for more ideas.


​

​Kate Bajic runs The Wedding Ring Workshop  in Leicestershire. This talented jewellery designer offers couples the opportunity come along for a whole day and together with her guidance create each other’s wedding rings. How personal and unique is that? Why have a wedding ring that 10,000 other people have when you can create your own with tender love and care. Each and every time you look at your wedding ring you will not only see the commitment for life but it will also remind you that the gift you are wearing was handmade, especially for you by your life partner. Kate will be sharing her expertise with you in Part 10 of the guide but keep an eye on the blog….I will be paying Kate a visit soon and cannot wait to share with you guys what I  get up to!

Remember that you can book a FREE no obligation quote for either your engagement shoot or wedding photography on my webiste www.lovephotography13.com

Or why not head over to the Smart Brides Support Network over on Facebook?


Until the next time…Estelle

​So far Ive not covered anything cake related so to ease you all in I just had to share this amazing company with you!

​Custom Cookies was created and is solely ran by Polish born Emilia who moved to the UK 8 years ago. After deciding that she craved independance, freedom and job creatitivity she decided to open Custom Cookies 2 years ago and has never looked back.


Here Emilia explains in her own words!

​Baking was my interested already as a teenager. I loved to study the recipes and experiment. Most I learned from my mother. Hobby turned into a passion.


Cookies absorbed me completely. I started to bake for my friends ... then friends of friends. A bunch of interested expanded. Friends asked me: ''Why do not do this on a larger scale?''
I thought, “ I can! Why not to try?? ''

​My cookies are homemade, are hand crafted. I use fresh ingredients of good quality. Biscuits are flavoured with vanilla, chocolate, lemon, almond and gingerbread.


Most popular are cookies in the shape of hearts and oval cookies with pattern on it. I have a lot of patterns, cookies are very personalized. I am open to suggestions from customers. Always together we discuss the pattern.


Also available are gift boxes for the bridesmaids, parents, bride and groom.

​So what makes my cookies so special?
- They are are unique…who would think of giving cookies as a wedding gift?
- They are personalized. Each cookie is handmade and crafted so I can personalise them for the recipient.
- They taste amazing. All ingredients are of the highest quality.
- A wonderful gift. Who doesn’t like cookies right?
- Are great decoration for the wedding tables. Cookies can be personalised with names and make great place settings and double up as a tasty treat too!
- Guests feel special.


Cookies can be made to order and so we can create a gift that is perfect and made just for your loved one!

​My cookies are like a cherry on top of cake, You cannot miss them!


So there you have it...who needs regular place settings when you can have edible ones! Win Win!


I hope you have all enjoyed and found inspiration from this fantastic guest blogger...keep an eye out for next weeks guest blogger, Sam of SC MUA showing you all how to create flawless vintage wedding make up. And if you cannot wait til then why not head over to the facebook page and check out our latest wedding photography offers! 


Estelle X

So I hope you have all had an amazing weekend? To ease you into Monday, I would like to introduce this weeks guest blogger Charlotte Olsen Bauer of Style Fleur. ​

​After a heavy weekend why not sit back and indulge yourselves with this fab article on selecting your perfect wedding dress from your own personal stylist! 


HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT WEDDING GOWN FOR YOU
Secrets from a Stylist


Sometimes finding the perfect wedding dress can be a little tricky and sometimes a tad overwhelming and who needs that?! I am here today to share with you a few easy to follow tips and tricks, to help you start the process of finding the perfect gown for you.
Not long after receiving that sparkly rock on your finger, a bride to be is desperate to start wedding dress shopping. I mean of course…who doesn’t want to start trying on the most beautiful gowns you have been dreaming of since you started playing dress up, way back when?!! You want to be the most beautiful bride; special and unique, totally you, right?


But how do you get started? What should you do first? How do you know which style, designer will be the right one for you? Should you be worried about current bridal trends?


Well, here is my quick 5 step process to help you get started;


1. Before you even start shopping the first thing to do, is have both a venue and date chosen. Why? It will make it so much easier for you to choose a gown, if you know the time of year/season and what sort of style will suit the venue. Is it in a formal setting in a stately home, on a beach with a boho vibe, in a church, and onto a grand hotel? Try to have these important details nailed down first..it will make such a difference in how you go in and picture what will be a good fit for both you and the surroundings.

​2. Now it is time to have fun perusing the bridal designer websites, flip through magazines and create a Pinterest board. Try and be very open minded wit this process and just clip, pin what makes you go “wow” or say, “this is so me” and at this point do not worry about trends. But remember to focus on your basic style principles too; is it a style that will flatter your positives and hide the negatives, do you like strapless, sleeves, tulle, lace, beading etc. and know that this could all change, once you actually start trying on dresses in reality.


3. Budget. If you have one, be realistic and try and stick to it, even when you are doing your research. There are absolutely gorgeous gowns at “every” price point and do keep in mind that alterations will be on top of the gown cost.


4. Finding the right wedding boutique for you, that carries the designers, styles that are in alignment with you. Do you want the complete elegant white glove treatment, a more relaxed, cool, hip vibe, or a walk in and buy off the rack? Again, do your homework but remember the stores that you book an appointment with, will make it such an unforgettable experience for you. They will have an expert stylist to work with you 1 x1, and give you the best possible service imaginable. I would also look at who you bring with you. I would advise only one or two of your most trusted people. A huge group of people will all come with a variety of opinions, thoughts and this can sometimes be confusing and overwhelming for the bride.


5. There are no rules to finding the perfect dress for you but an expert will help you immensely; they will listen to your thoughts, concerns, and vision. They will get an overall feel for your style, shape and help you find the perfect dress for you, your personality, style and within budget. So do your homework, plan accordingly and communicate! But more than anything, listen to your inner voice..trust me, when you are in “THE DRESS” you will know, this is the one for YOU!


BONUS TIP: Bridal Styles Fall 2016

​There are so many stunning looks that hit the runway for Fall 2016.
Inspiration taken from the 90’s, with lots of spaghetti straps and stunning draped silhouettes reminiscent of the 30’s too.

​Modern, minimalistic understated lines, the versatile two-three piece and lots of layering are not going anywhere.
There were so many romantic 3D floral appliqués with a light ethereal feel blooming from designer to designer.

​But one of my favorites has to be some of the illusion necklines, cut outs in just the right places with delicate lace, to the most stunning beading.
A FEW DESIGNER PICKS: Jenny Packham, Daalarna, Christos and Sarah Seven.




MEET CHARLOTTE OLSSON BAUER


Charlotte is owner and founder of Style Fleur, a Personal Stylist and helps women entrepreneurs worldwide create a signature style they love, both virtually and in person.
She combines her expertise of 20 years worldwide experience in the fashion industry, with her gift of helping women see their beauty, self worth and strength from within.
She gives women the tools and strategies they need to step out into the world with style and confidence.


Charlotte is British hailing from the North West of England. She has lived in London, Brussels, Tokyo, and traveled the world before, settling in the USA with her husband and two children.


Now go find your dream dress ladies!!


And for more bridal tips and inspiration please sign up for the Smart Brides guide here! 

Hey Ladies! I really hope you’re enjoying the wedding photography blog!


This week’s post is going to cover some of the important questions that you should ask your photographer. I know from experience that Brides to be will have so much planning going on that when it comes to speaking to the wedding photographer a lot of important questions may be forgotten. So here’s a breakdown of some important questions. And don’t forget, write these down or leave yourself a voice memo, that way you will have them all to hand when the time comes!


Also included are the response given by Love Photography 13


Is photography your main business? What percentage of your work is composed of weddings?
As a photographer I have spent the last 3 years building a portfolio exploring my own creativity and it is this freedom that has led me to specialising in weddings. Some photographers will shoot nothing else, this does not necessarily mean they will be any better than someone who doesn’t.


Can I see a list of references and/or reviews?
I always take along a portfolio or examples of wedding albums to a consultation, this give the client a chance to see your work. I also make sure I leave them with details of how they can see more of my work and reviews on my services. This will give them peace of mind that you are consistent.

Will you be my photographer on the day of the wedding? What is your plan if you are unable to attend due to illness or unforeseen circumstances?
There is always the remote possibility that something may happen on the day of the wedding. It is important to have a backup plan. I work with an incredible second shooter who is always available as a standby. This is also the reason I have back up equipment!


What do your packages include and what will I have to pay extra for?
All packages include digitally edited hi resolution images on a gift boxed USB. Depending on which package is chosen you can also have framed prints, albums, proof books and slideshows. All packages are explained in my pricelist clearly.

​Are you willing to follow a shot list? I have certain ideas I would like – can you do these?
Yes of course. This is your day and I am there to capture it in a way that you will look back on with fondness forever. The reason I book a consultation is so that I can get a feel for the sort of style you have already so that the images capture you in the most natural way possible. I’ve learnt over my years as a photographer that you can learn a lot about how the shoot will go from the initial meeting. Some couples are very relaxed and happy to have me milling around capturing their most precious moments whereas some couples are more exact in the images they want and so I know that we will need time during the day to achieve the staged shots they require.


What happens if it rains?
I always visit the wedding venue prior to the wedding day so that I can find places that are suitable if it is raining….fingers crossed it doesn’t but always have a backup!

If my event lasts longer than expected, will you stay? Is there an additional charge?
I only ever have 1 booking on the day of a wedding to ensure you have my full attention with no rush to capture your images. If the time we have booked runs over there is an additional charge per hour.


When will I receive a written contract? TIP: Don't book a photographer—or any vendor—who won't provide a written contract.
Once I have met with the couple and completed the consultation I then go home, produce a contract stating the points we discussed throughout the meeting and have this back with the clients within a week. This gives peace of mind to the couple that they now have a written agreement and everyone knows exactly what is what.

​Ask yourself….

1. Do I feel a connection with this photographer as well as his/her photos? Are our personalities a good match?
   
2. Am I comfortable with this person's work and communication style?
   
3. Has this photographer listened well and addressed all my concerns?
   

I’m sure that by using this extensive list you will feel much more relaxed about your perfect wedding photographer!


For more information on wedding photography packages and to book your FREE consultation please check out the website or Facebook page.




Don’t forget you can also sign up for the Smart Brides Guide HERE and receive weekly updates on all things wedding!

​So last weekend I was out on location once again shooting an amazing bridal set in a beautiful woodland area. 


Joining our creative team for this shoot was the fantastic florist Forget Me Nots of Cheadle who provided a stunning vintage bouquet with woodland accents and vintage lace.

​Now, im just a lowly photographer and the most I know about flowers is what I like in my vases at home so I thought that I would treat you all to a super cute article written by Forget Me Nots on seasonal flowers for your bridal bouquet.


Take it away Tracey!


From mid-April until mid-July is probably my favourite time of the flower seasons. Why? This time of year all Brides want Peonies, renowned for their romantic, sumptuous blousy  petals they bring grandeur to any style of Bridal bouquet, reception arrangements, to huge big urn vases there a staple seasonal flower of late spring, early summer… and what a beauty!  I even get some brides who have booked their wedding date between April and July just so they can have peonies… now that is dedicated to the floral cause!  A beautiful example of the Peonie is one called “Sarah Berndhart ", a pale pink, soft, fluffy show stopper of a flower! I have previously used them alongside soft tones of aquilegia, pale pink blossoms avalanche roses with inserts of grey and plum foliage's adding depth to the bouquet or arrangement. 

​Anyone who falls for the charms of the peony is in luck: there are more than a thousand varieties available in all sorts of shapes and colours. They come with a single row of petals, or with semi-double or double flowers. There is also ample choice in terms of colour: the cheerful peony comes in pale yellow, romantic white, candy pink or dark red and the fragrance of peonies is beautifully sweet!
The peony represents love, happiness and health, amongst other things. It’s a nice bundle of positivity to add to any wedding day!

​Winter days, cold and gloomy. On the surface it would appear to be a bad time to plan a wedding, but this is a very great way to start a brand new year and throw on a fabulous Winter Wedding and become a winter bride. Why not get cosy and bring those colours to life and consider to plan a majestic winter wedding with a blanket of snow. How romantic! Remember the wedding on "Miracle on 34th street?" The mood was romantic and the colour palette was glamorous gold and crystal accents accompanied by majestic reds, twigs, succulents, brunia berries and grey foliage's to compliment. The handle bound with decadent gold lace to match her vintage gown. Lots of candles trees and foliage’s would complement beautifully to create a magical winter wedding.

​So there you go....tips from the top on whats hot this season!


Please check out the website or  facebook page for more wedding bouquets and inspiration.


And dont forget...why not book your FREE wedding Consultation with us at a time that suits you via our online booking system!


For more hints and tips on all things wedding sign up for the Smart Brides Guide and be the 1st to know about all our news! 

​So why book an engagement shoot?
 


Initially this is a perfect opportunity to get to know me as a photographer and also for you to become comfortable in front of the camera. Most people freeze as soon as a camera appears, some people are natural models. For those people that feel more uncomfortable in front of a camera this is a great chance to gain confidence and become use to a stranger being around snapping away.


It’s also a time that as a photographer I can get to know you as a couple and what sort of photography style will suit you. I can check poses that suit and discuss with you exactly the style of photography you require to capture your day perfectly!

​
​Wedding photography is a major investment, it’s actually the most you will spend on personal photography is most couples cases. This is why I always offer an engagement shoot as part of my signature wedding package. It gives me the opportunity to really show you what I can do…see the engagement shoot as a dry run of your wedding day. After seeing the amazing images I can capture this will put your mind at ease even more that I am the photographer for you!

​My aim as your wedding photographer is to make your day as stress free as possible as this will result in the most amazing images for you to look back on. By reinforcing what you already know from looking at my portfolio you will be able to relax knowing that your wedding photography is one thing you do not have to worry about!


Before your engagement shoot we will discuss a number of things.  Location, clothing and styling are all things we can discuss in your online consultation which you can book online and is FREE with no obligation. It’s during this consultation that you will discover exactly what I can offer you. 


Your engagement shoot should represent you as a couple. If you love the outdoors then a romantic shoot in a secluded field would be perfect, whereas if you are more of a traditional loving couple then why not have a formal studio shoot? The choice is yours and I can guide you through these choices as I get to know you more via our consultation.

​Styling should also represent the personalities of the couple. If you are laid back and enjoy the great outdoors then why not opt for a cute shoot in the woods with you both wrapped up in warm clothes and each other’s arms. Or maybe you would prefer something more sophisticated? How about a few shots in a local cocktail bar followed by some images of you both against a city scape? It’s entirely your choice. I would recommend wearing complimenting clothing and something you are comfortable in as this will show in your images. We can also add in any props that make your images unique to you, this is not a problem! 


The images from your engagement shoot will be ready to view within a week. I will even send you a few screen grabs if you really can’t wait that long! I totally understand what an exciting time planning your wedding can be and I know that seeing your engagement images will just add to the anticipation. Once you have your images we can discuss what’s next…..some couples like to use the images on save the date cards. If this is something you are interested in we can discuss exactly what your requirements are. I can manage the whole design process right through to hand delivering your cards back to you.




So, there’s a breakdown of what engagement shoots are and what I have to offer you. I hope that this has answered any questions you have about an engagement shoot but please feel free to add any questions or comments below.


You can also book your FREE consultation by clicking here.


For more hints and tips on all things wedding please sign up for our Smart Brides Guide here.

​So last week I had the great pleasure of going along to Wedding Ring work shop to meet the lovely Kate. After discovering her workshop I couldn’t wait to go along and see exactly how this all works!


Kate offers a package where the bride to be and her partner can go along and make each other’s wedding rings…..and when I say make I mean literally!


Deciding to make your own wedding rings gives an intimate and personal note to your special day. What better way to celebrate the uniqueness of your relationship? Your wedding rings are a sign of your commitment to each other and will be with you for a lifetime, a bit like your wedding photographs!

​So I arrived with my heavily pregnant ‘partner‘ for the day, at the home of Kate in Wymeswold Loughborough to be welcomed by Kate and her lovely pooch! We were show up the winding country garden path to a secluded and enchanting looking lodge. Once inside I was amazed at the homely little space that Kate uses as her workshop. Alongside her work area were 2 smaller workstations for the couples.


We began by selecting the metal I wanted my ring to be made from and slowly over the next 2 hours we created something amazing (when I say We, I mean my friend Danielle, I was too busy taking photographs!)


You can see in the gallery images the step by step process from my ring being a piece of metal to being a handcrafted one of a kind piece of jewellery.

When deciding on which style of wedding ring you want, it important to consider a few things.
Budget, metal and style.


Ok, so we all have a dream ring don’t we? Diamonds are a girl’s best friend right? Well the 1st thing to consider is your budget. For couples on a lower budget, gold is a good choice. This can vary in karat and colour such as white, yellow and rose gold. Gold tends to be quite a soft metal and so is incorporated with other metals to enhance its durability. Platinum is a more luxury metal and is much rarer than gold hence the price tag. The style of your wedding ring should flatter and compliment your engagement ring. Some rings can be designed specifically and cut in such a way that they sit perfectly together. Your wedding ring can be a traditional band or you can opt for something more modern with a precious stone detailing. A diamond set engagement ring can look simply stunning next to a diamond set wedding ring.


The most favoured wedding rings are gold and on average a couple will spend over £1,100. With Kates workshop starting from just £295 (excluding metals) you would be mad to miss out!




Check out more of Kates work on the website 


To sign up to the Smart Brides Guide or to book your FREE Wedding Photography Consultation please go to www.lovephotography13.com