We just photographed a beautiful wedding at the Cuneo Mansion in Vernon Hills Il. It was such a wonderful location for a event we wanted to share it with you. You can read the history of this special place at their website- Cuneo Museum.

Ring bearers carried the rings in handmade car cases. This added a personal touch that reflected the couples love of old cars. Whenever you can add a bit of your personality to you event it is well worth the effort.

We have all seen the jars of yummy treats put out at the end of the night. Cheryl Clisby Events created this wonderful candy fantasy by arranging the confections like floral. Even the vases used takes the whole look to a new level.

Dancing shots can all look the same.  Now that you know the ugly truth. let's talk about what can make your dance shots look great.  Break it up.  Consider starting the dancing before dinner.  Once the bride and groom are introduced, they can walk into the center of the dance floor and begin their first dance.  This makes a great shot with all the guests watching from the beautiful tables.  After the speeches and serving of salad, follow with the parent dances.  Invite the guests to join in if they choose. After dinner, allow more dancing before the cake is served.  Ethnic background, personal style or a passion for disco can all jazz up the reception and create a unique experience for your guests and great dance shots.  One bride surprised her new German husband by hiring a polka band in full lederhosen.  Another couple wowed their guests by hiring irish dancers.  A cowboy brought in western line dancers to teach the crowd.  One of the most memorable was a Frank Sinatra impersonator who sang during dinner.  A great trade secret is that lighting on the dance floor counts.  Some venues turn the lights so low it's as if the party is in a cave.  Remember, the lighting should be soft and beautiful to achieve truly candid images.

Think of transition shots as a way to create flow to your wedding story.  A great transition shot is the bride and groom leaving the church.  When planned in your timeline, this moment can be an exciting one with great movement.  This real moment in time happens so fast that everyone forgets about the photographer as the cheer the couple on.  Many great candid pictures of guests are captured, as well as the fabulous exit shot.  Your photographer will help you plan the best transitions throughout the day.  Every couple is different; so let your personal style influence these shots by choosing elements that reflect you.  For example, have your guests blow bubbles.  Many clients opt for a bagpiper to lead them out.

Capturing the small details of the special day is as important as any of the other photographs that tell your wedding story. Artistic details have become part of every wedding.  Everything from the table design to the flowers, and even the food can be a work of art.  Some of the most exotic details that the Artist Group have photographed have included a bar carved out of ice, a chandelier made of orchids, and a outdoor lounge room created in garden.  Cheryl Clisby of Cheryl Clisby Events created the beautiful details seen below.

Many of our weddings are chosen to be featured in magazines. This one I'm sure stood out for it's unique charm. Cowboy boots and wedding apparel with plenty of long horn scottish cattle looking on.

Service is an invisible element in an event to a wedding. Everyone focuses on the cake, dress ,venue, flowers and somehow this elusive subject rarely makes the conscience level. We photographers are the silent witnesses to the event. Great service can be almost magic. The difference between a long boring dinner and a night of pure bliss can be in the hands of the people in the background. Have I put this consideration at the top of your list yet? This photo shot at a wedding at Bacchus always reminds me of taking service to an art level.

Many florists can take simple materials and create one of a kind pieces for the girls to carry. These beautiful cones made of wallpaper and french ribbon make a beautiful statement.