These three are like ‘three peas in a pod’.  They looked perfectly in synch when they pulled up for their portrait shoot.  They have great smiles, are simple and fun.  Congrats to another year…

Here’s to another great couple celebrating an anniversary.  Jessica and Mike are always a pleasure to see…sweet, kind and funny.

We have had the joy of photographing Les and Amy since their engagement.  We observed them exchange their vows, captured Amy’s growing belly, and now their ‘little avatar.’  He is the cutest thing on two legs.  Congratulations…to a wonderful family.

Loretta and Caleb met at a friend’s wedding just two years ago.  Love was definitely in the air because they dated long distance until Loretta relocated to Portland in the Winter.  There is something so sweet and innocent about this couple…it came out perfectly in the images.

They had a beautiful, simple wedding.  The ceremony was at a small, old church called Bethlehem Methodist Church with the reception following at Forest Park in Noblesville.  Along with wedding planner (and sister , Jen Barnette they created a perfect summer wedding.

Special thanks to Leah with The Mill Top for letting us ‘stop in’ to let Loretta get dressed.  We cannot wait to see the venue once the construction is complete.

Congratulations Loretta and Caleb!  Enjoy…

How sweet of our buddy, Bob Ridge of IndyVisual, to catch a few images of us in action.  Didn’t know he was even taking stills until he sent these.  He is tricky like that!

Love everything about Lindsay and Ryan.  They are so cool, sweet, and fun!  They were just married last year so they truly were celebrating their FIRST anniversary.  Congrats!

We say it over and over again…but we just love seeing our past brides and grooms.  We love especially seeing their families as they grow.  Jeana and Justin are no exception.  Happy Anniversary!

Welcome to our second guest blogger, Lisa Sauce of Blonde Entertainment. Lisa represents some of the most talented and collaborative bands in the Midwest, including:  Flying Toasters, Living Proof, Zanna-Doo, and Toy Factory.  We always know an event is going to rock when one of her bands is booked.

Typically, when we meet with our clients, we inquire about their vision for their wedding reception.  Most are very clear…they want a band or they want a DJ.  But there are others that are still debating which is right for them.  We asked Lisa the following questions in order to help those that are still wavering.

…….

How has live music at weddings changed over the years?
It seems as if more and more brides are choosing DJs presently. This is possibly due to the economy. However, one trend we are seeing is that couples are adding DJs at the end of the night after the band finishes their final set. Other than that, it seems that live bands at weddings are still going strong.

Why do you think live music is critical to a wedding?
Live music can make or break a wedding. It gives the guests a chance to get involved with the night. It personalizes your wedding. It gets the crowd to call and answer back on songs. Live bands can be spontaneous which makes for an eventful and memorable night.

Do you think the vibe of an event is different if there is live music vs a DJ?
Yes because musicians playing instruments live brings you in. There is a sense of being in the moment with a band.

How do you handle playlists with clients that are particular about the songs played?
My bands don’t follow set lists. They are not considered “canned”, “sequenced” or corporate bands. They follow the crowd, not a list. However, they do take requests and favorites.

How do you collaborate with other vendors throughout the event?
Usually we talk a week or two prior to the wedding just to get on the same page.

What have been some of your fondest and most unexpected moments that you have witnessed?
Watching those tearful parent bride/ groom moments during a speech, dance, or toast….always priceless.

If someone thinks th ey cannot afford a live band, what options do they have?
My bands range from $500 to $5000..there is always an option!

How do you meet both the needs of the parents and the couple when selecting music?
Both generations will pick favorite songs and most of my bands cross the generations. Starting off with older, slower muusic usually works and then add in livlier, newer stuff as the night goes on.