6 Ideas for a Vintage Inspired Wedding | Pittsburgh Wedding Photography
6 Ideas for a Vintage Inspired Wedding
Today's blog post is from a guest blogger, Angela Berry. Angela is from Sydney, Austrailia, and is a big advocate of healthy life, wedding, travel, lifestyle, which her articles demonstrate the best. Angela loves to read interesting articles, because every new experience broadens her horizons. That's how she found me. She contacted me with the following message, "I love your style! I am here to share my experiences with others, and to help them open their eyes for the advantages of healthy lifestyle. I do that by blogging about it in my spare time. I would like to collaborate with you, as a guest blogger." I read several of her acticles and was impressed. I decided to collaborate with Angela and am happy to post her article on vintage inspired weddings in it's entirety. Although I generally focus on newborn children and famiy photography, I began my photography career as a wedding photographer and love scheduling a few weddings each year.
Guest blog post by Angela Berry from Ripped.me
So, you met the right one, fell in love and decided to get married. Congratulations! But planning a wedding can be tiresome, especially if you don’t have a specific idea (or if you are too much in love and don’t care if you get married in the middle of a field). What next?
Well, Sydney, being the metropolis that it is, offers great opportunities for you to make your wedding the most memorable event of your life. How about a vintage wedding? It never goes out of date, plus it is not every day you get married, so you can afford to do things in a grand manner. Here is some advice we can offer:
Vintage wedding invitations
Is there a better way to kick things off? Let everyone know from the start what to expect. They are elegant, artistic, charming and some designs are simply stunning. In addition, they convey a message that your upcoming nuptials are special and add a touch of romance. Besides, your guests might keep them as a reminder of your joyous day.
Lace and then some more lace
Lace is a must-have as it can be used for anything from dresses to decorations. And let’s face it – what girl does not like lace? It is not something you would normally wear, but for a vintage wedding, this is an indispensable item. It can be a part of the invitations and even flower decorations. But, its main use would be the dresses – any bride or bridesmaid would be thrilled to wear it. Also, it can be used as a delicate hair accessory. Is there a material better suited for elegant weddings?
Consider renting a modern luxurious “carriage”
Well, we must not forget the groom. What man does not admire cars? What about a Rolls Royce? He will not notice the flower decorations, but this will catch his eye. And not just his - everyone’s. You are bound to draw attention wherever you go. Believe it or not, you can find these eye-catching luxurious wedding cars in Sydney with ease. They also have two more qualities that cannot be omitted – they are extremely comfortable and they offer an experience you don’t get to go through every day. What girl does not wish to walk out of an awe-inspiring car and then walk down the aisle? Almost like a fairytale - a modern, vintage fairytale.
Eating and drinking with style
Ok, we have already talked about lace and agreed to make it a part of some decorations but there are other things we need to consider. People need to eat and drink and therefore all they use would have to be vintage as not to ruin the overall atmosphere. Therefore, let us ask you this – have you considered serving tea? Using those tiny beautiful tea cups and a matching teapot to completely leave your guests spellbound is the way to go. You can also serve little cupcakes on a tray, the old-fashioned English way, and make sure that your wedding will be the talk of the year!
Choose music that will match the atmosphere
It would be nice to have music that matches this mood but as some people might not like it, feel free to find a more subdued alternative. Sydney has a lot of less-known bands that play any type of music so you can easily find the one that would be able to please most musical tastes. However, please keep in mind that the more classical the music is - the more authentic your wedding will be.
Ladies and gentlemen…
Do not forget that, in order to pull this type of wedding off, you will need your guests’ full cooperation. You can always remind them about the proper etiquette for this sort of thing, but it is best to show an example of the “proper” behavior and they will follow suit.
We hope that these tips helped steer you in the right direction. Keep in mind that this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience which means you deserve this kind of a modern fairy tale experience. Best of luck!
You can read more from Angela on her site, ripped me.
Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like beautiful portraits of your newborn baby, to update your child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
A Beautiful Family Portrait Session in Mellon Park | Pittsburgh Family Photographer
A Beautiful Family Portrait Session in Mellon Park | Pittsburgh Family Photographer
Being a photographer comes with many perks, at the top of the list is meeting new familes from around Pittsburgh and getting to photograph them! I love capturing and preserving people's story on camera. Please read this great family's story that I recently met at the walled garden at Mellon Park.
How did your mom and dad meet?
My Mom worked at a pool that my Dad frequented and they were eventually introduced by a mutual friend.
How many children are in your family?
There are three children in our family.
What area of Pittsburgh do you call home?
Squirrel Hill
Write 3 adjectives that describe your family.
Our family is funny, crazy and close.
What are your family's favorite things to do in and around Pittsburgh?
We take walks around town, head to new bars and restaurants, hang at home and endlessly make fun of each other.
What is your family's favorite movie?
The Blues Brothers is our all time favorite.
What is your family's favorite food?
We love Mexican food.
What does your family enjoy doing together?
We enjoy going to the beach, taking walks through town, going to bars/restaurants to hang out and just hanging on the porch
Share a funny family memory.
We've had some crazy family trips with some long drives to places like Disney World and to the beach. Car trips with this family never have a dull moment.
Tell us a little more about family vacations.
They are always rambunctious and crazy. never a dull moment, and never a relaxing moment for mom and dad. Everyone is always trying to get into something that pushes the envelope.
Your family is so much fun and enjoys being together! How did you get so close?
Just through tons of family trips and us sharing a lot of the same humor and interests
Why did you decide to have your family portraits taken by a professional photographer?
It was a Mothers Day gift since we haven't done family photos in so long
How did you decide what to wear to your portrait session?
It was a long tedious process with days and days of group texting but we finally came to a mutual agreement.
What was your favorite portrait from your family session?
Either the rope pull or one where our dad photo bombs a great family picture. It just shows how we are spontaneous and usually know how to ruin the moment.
How did you chose Laura Mares Photography?
Great reviews online and a great looking portfolio!
If any of your personal items were used during the portrait session, where were they from? Target, Pottery Barn, Etsy, etc.
We always do a kids sunglasses picture.
Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like beautiful portraits of your newborn baby, to update your child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Ella and Tutu's Surprise Birthday Party | Pittsburgh Child Photographer
Ella & Tutu's Surprise Birthday Party | Pittsburgh Child Photographer
Story by Anna Mares. Doll by Lenna McGraw. Photography by Laura Mares.
Today is Ella’s 3 1/2 birthday party, and it is a surprise! Ella has no idea that Tutu has been inviting all of her closest friends to the pool party. While Ella is napping, Tutu begins to set everything up.
Tutu has arranged Ella’s favorite foods and decides on using a boho theme for the party decorations.
She has also set up a lot of cute decorations!
When Ella wakes up, she finds her friends and family down at the pool! She can’t believe her eyes!
After swimming, Ella and Tutu wander the yard to admire all of the decorations. They spin under the dream catchers.
They then practice some somersaults!
Ella tries some stylish, new french hairstyles on Tutu.
Soon it starts to rain, so everyone runs inside seeking cover! They decide to dine together in the living room.
As soon as the rain relents, the party goers rush to the sunny sky. Ella needs some help from Daddy to blow out the candles on her strawberry lemonade shortcake.
Ella LOVES the cake, and gobbles it up quick!
She then skips over to try the watermelon, cucumber, mint water.
All of the guests admire the fresh-cut wild flowers.
Everyone gathers together to watch Ella gleefully open her presents.
Ella loves all of her gifts, she can't wait to play with the watermellon sticker and notebook pack!
Mama turns on the chocolate fountain, so Ella and Tutu mosey on down to sample the superb, sweet substance.
All of the children make quite a mess!
Ella sadly bids her guests goodbye, and promises to get together soon.
Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like beautiful portraits of your newborn baby, to update your child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Summer Photo Project | Pittsburgh Family Photographer
Summer Photo Project | Pittsburgh Family Photographer
This year we want to document our family's summer vacation! We enjoy living each day to it's fullest. We love traveling, trying new foods and spending time together. Our goal is to photograph a highlight from each day. While most of our time is spent around Pittsburgh we jump at any opportunity to travel! This post includes photos from June.
6.3.17
While downtown, under the shade of neon floating umbrellas, our ears listen closely to the upbeat Irish music.
6.4.17
We enjoy an afternoon at Pleasant Kingdom, while the children fantasize the possibility of a Midieval time, and the eldest child simply lost in a book.
6.10.17
At Round Hill Farm, Ella and Tutu investigate the snorts of a pink pig, peering through the old wooden boards to catch a glimpse.
6.11.17
Taking a rustic roadside stop, we stretch our legs before continuing our journey to Kentucky.
6.13.17
We learn some old Indian games in the company of a Park Interpreter, fully enjoying our time at Big Bone Lick State Park.
6.12.17
We learn more about the journey of Noah and his family at the Ark Encounter, blown away be the sheer size of it!
6.15.17
Our youngest child prepares a tea party for her friends in her free time at the campground.
6.14.17
It's a great day at the pool with the cousins, playing some games before taking a splash.
6.15.17
Ella experiments with water to create some art on the buddha board, enjoying a sunny summer day.
6.17.17
Taking advantage of our areas diverse culture, we dine on some Loukoumades, bringing smiles to us all.
6.16.17
We reward the family's scholarly success with a night out at Red Robin.
6.18.17
The family bids farewell to Anna as she leaves for her weeklong mission's trip to Louisville, Kentucky.
6.20.17
We expirement a new summer haircut with my middle child, a mohawk!
6.21.17
While the eldest begins her first day of her missionary trip, we set way to the movies to view Cars 3 with the cousins.
6.22.17
We have been enjoying redecorating the porch, now we have a terrarium as the new center piece.
Anna returns from an eventful mission trip in Louisville, KY, with fond memories of her time serving at the Salvation Army.
6.24,17
This morning our little one woke up too early and put herself back to "bed."
6.25.17
We spend the afternoon at the Children's Museum in the North Side of Pittsburgh. We love viewing and experiencing all of the artist exhibits. First the kids make silk screen masterpieces in the studio.
After a delicious lunch on the patio, we headed over to the Makeshop. The room is filled with recycled materials and examples of beautiful artwork for inspiration. The children make flowers and experiment with electricity. As a right brained mother, I love this room, it gives me ideas on how to create a space in our own home to let our children express themselves creatively. We never want to leave this amazing place!
The top floor houses water play. We weren't prepared for getting wet, but a little water won't hurt us.
Scurrying around like mice, two of our children fill the museum with giggles as they race around the huge vertical maze.
We love the colorful houses of the Mexican War Houses and stop to take a few photos.
My husband jokingly said that the highlight of his past 20 years was this musical night spent outside with dear friends. It encourages us to throw an outdoor party ourselves.
As the light fades and the air turns colder, our children borrow sweatshirts from our generous hosts to brave the cold.
Summer school in our living room.
Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like beautiful portraits of your newborn baby, to update your child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Ella and Tutu's Amazing Camping Trip | Pittsburgh Child Photographer
Ella & Tutu's Amazing Camping Trip | Pittsburgh Child Photographer
Story by Anna Mares. Doll by Lenna McGraw. Photography by Laura Mares.
This week, Ella and Tutu have the amazing opportunity to set up camp in Kentucky! Now sadly the drive wasn’t always smiles and sunflowers because they had to endure a seven-hour-long car ride…that was rough for all involved! Luckily, they take a brief rest in a covered bridge near Amish country. Ella is frightened when they find themselves in the dark, and has to grip Tutu close.
They successfully cross the forbidden trail of darkness and sit down together, sharing plans for the upcoming night. Hopefully, they involve s’mores, a campfire, and the scratchy Mexican blanket they are currently cuddled on.
Excitement obviously shows on their glowing faces.
Ella graciously shares some of her favorite cookie with Tutu. Maple icing sandwiched between two crunchy cookies that are in the shape of a maple leaf. Yummm!
No picnic is complete without skipping stones, so of course they partake in the ceremonious act.
Tutu swears she hears a bullfrog croaking, but Elena has her doubts. They lean in close to hopefully catch the fading song that has escaped from its speckled green throat.
It’s time to continue on, for they are close to the campground, and the light is fading. They say good-bye to the lush forest and rickety bridge.
Ella and Tutu are excited to arrive at camp. They wander into their wooded campsite. Organizing their belongings, the girls prepare for a week of adventure.
While the rest of the family continues to set up camp, the girls race off to the nearby camp fire s'more social. The crickets sing and the fireflies dance as the two friends roast a few marshmallows. They patiently wait while munching on some Oreos.
Ella creates a special s’more that has a banana in it, and Tutu leans in for a bite.
They sit hand in hand, watching the sun seep into the earth, as though melting. Colors swirl as the goo from their late night snack melts gently onto their little fingers.
In the morning they start off with some mini golf.
Suspiciously, Ella gets a hole-in-one EVERY time!
It is Tutu’s idea to dip into some tie-dye next.
They end up with a true masterpiece! Van Gogh would be proud indeed.
They finish off their day with a Bohemian Tea Party.
First, they give each other bracelets as a sign of their friendship.
Tutu decides to wear it on her head of all places!
Ella gives her a kiss on the forehead to seal it all.
A great hostess, Ella patiently serves all her guests some tea.
They dance awhile, until they feel dizzy.
They slam down onto the blanket waiting for them, out of breath. They smile throughly enjoying their last moments together in the great State of Kentucky!
Laura Mares is an experienced photographer specializing in capturing timeless family keepsakes. Laura works on location and in her fully equipped home studio, located in Mt. Lebanon, eight miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Laura’s style is creative, natural, and timeless. Would you like beautiful portraits of your newborn baby, to update your child and family portraits or to document a milestone in your life such as a wedding, graduation, birthday or reunion? If you are interested in high quality, timeless photographs, book your session today, call (412) 654-3367 or email [email protected]. To view a wide range of gorgeous portraits and to get great tips, advice and beautiful inspiration follow us on Instagram and Facebook.