Blog

Dilworth Park In Philadelphia Is Open For Weddings!

Philadelphia is notable for its rich history, distinct architecture, endless charm and constant innovation, making it a one of the most iconic hot spots in the country for your wedding!  

A recent post by Philadelphia Business Journal shared that the first full wedding was held at the newly renovated and modernized Dilworth Park. The venue is centrally located in Center City, adjacent to the historic City Hall

The park is a stunning location that offers many unique film and photo opportunities!

The Design

Sleek and simplistic, the park presents you with so many options! It allows you to play with different colors schemes when it comes to décor and lighting.

Adding a pop of color allows your videographer to mix color and black-and-white footage. This timeless film style adds glamor without feeling stuffy.

The Fountain

The Fountain at Dilworth is a water sculpture set in motion! Elegant streams of water spout at random intervals and create a lively accent to your festivities. The fountain jets can also be custom-programmed to add more entertainment.

Water creates great texture and depth to your film and photos. Fluid-motion techniques can be applied to capture the “soft, dreamy flow” of the water streams.

The Great Lawn

The Great Lawn provides a splash of greenery in the city’s most vibrant new park. This green space surrounded by seating areas offers guests extra space to hangout at your Dilworth Park wedding.

Having extra mingling areas creates endless ways for your videographer and photographer to capture candid moments of your guests and wedding party.

Contact Allure Films today for more information on our Philadelphia wedding videography packages!

Now it’s your turn to weigh in: Leave a comment and tell us what you think about this new Philadelphia venue! 

Trend Alert: A Creative Wedding “First Look”

Superstition aside, many couples are forgoing the tradition of avoiding each other before the wedding and instead electing for a “First Look” reveal.

Modern couples love it because this intimate moment leads to powerful, emotional footage and gives them a few precious minutes of solitude before wedding begins.

Some ceremony locations will often restrict the video/photo team from the altar area which can make getting a first-reaction shot of the groom difficult. A First Look reveal is the perfect solution!

Get inspired for your own first-look shoot by checking out our favorite ideas!

Bridesmaids Reveal

This is such a fun idea if most of your bridesmaids have not seen you in your dress yet. They’ve been there for you through thick and thin, and on your wedding day, your girls will be there once again to ooh and ahh!

With Dad

…or Grandpa, Mom, a special loved one, or even your pet! Take some extra time to stage a memorable First Look with them.

Make It Personal

Stage a fun background, handwrite a note to your partner or try different poses before the big reveal! This will amplify the moment, allowing more emotions to be captured. 

Different Dresses

Having a separate dress for the First Look is a great alternative if you still want to the have the traditional walk-down-the-aisle look.

This allows the bride to reveal her hair/makeup first as a lead up to the big wow moment. And since you will be in your wedding dress for most of the day, switching it up is a fun way to add variety to your shots. 

First Touch

While the “First Look” is a fairly new trend in the world of weddings, some couples are already innovating the idea . The “First Touch” concept involves couples hold hands around some form of partition or the bide putting her hands on the grooms shoulder before the big reveal. 

One of the best parts about capturing a wedding are the amazing First Look moments – the reactions, expressions, and words are extraordinary. Check out how the First Look was shot and integrated into Remy and Brett’s wedding video!

Contact Allure Films today for more information on wedding videography for your big day!

Now it’s your turn to weigh in: Leave a comment and tell us whether you’re doing a First Look or choosing to wait until after the ceremony!

Sweetness In Store In This Philadelphia Wedding At Vie!

A Chocolate fountain, candy buffet, and the sweetest bride and groom…

Remy and Brett’s Philadelphia wedding at Cescaphe’s Vie was as sweet as can be. Our team was thrilled to be a part of this big day. Our good friends at Philip Gabriel Photography were also on the scene capturing stunning photographs.

Our bride and groom took in the sites and sounds of the city of brotherly love as we documented some scenes before their ceremony. Family and friends gathered at Vie to watch Remy and Brett exchange vows.

We were blown away by the incredible decor by Jamie Rothstein Floral & Event (seriously, you just have to see for yourself!)

Soon after becoming husband and wife, Vie was transformed into a breathtaking reception area. The transformation process is always amazing to watch. You can see a sneak peek of it in Remy and Brett’s preview.

The evening held tons of sweet treats in store, including the amazing cake, a chocolate fountain, and even a candy buffet! We also can’t forget about the sweetness of our bride and groom. They shared a truly amazing day with us. Congrats Remy and Brett!

Planning your own sweet wedding? Contact Allure Films and make sure those special moments are captured forever!

Philip Gabriel Photography | Vie | EBE – Dreamtime | Jamie Rothstein Floral & Event

The Must-Capture Getting Ready Moments For Your Wedding

You’ve invested a lot of time and energy finding perfect wedding videographer and photographer to shoot your wedding day – now you have to decide which moments you want captured!

There are several must-have moments suggested for your video keepsake and lots of fun options to make your wedding video unique.

The ‘getting ready’ portion of the wedding videos and photos are well-known for producing the most beautiful film and images of the bride and groom. They also allow couples to share the part of their special day where they were apart.

Check out these six must-capture getting ready moments that you will want to remember forever!

1) Primping

Your wedding day will probably be the most photographed day of your life. It is the preparation for your once-in-a-lifetime day and last moments of being single. Capture all the pampering and primping that went into your look!

2) Putting On The Dress

This is a classic and timeless tradition that holds so much meaning and should be remembered forever! Be sure to capture its intricacies in a close-up as well as your team in action helping you get into your gown. 

3) Shoes

We all know that the shoes are just as important as the dress and deserve just as much attention!

Get a good shot of your shoes before you hit the dance floor. Strapping on your heels is also a great way to get shots of your bridal hair. 

4) Rings

The rings chosen for the wedding carries such significance of the couples love and commitment.
Classic or creative – there are many ways to get detailed shots that comprise the first chapter
of your wedding story!

5) Cheers

It’s never too early to celebrate your last few moments with the wedding party before the ceremony! Make sure you get an off-beat group shot with friends!

6) Let Loose

Candid or posed, capturing the girls getting ready is fun you’ll never forget. These are the moments
when the wedding party to unleashes their fun side and an opportunity to capture happy vibes! 

 

 

These monumental moments will come and go quickly – make sure it is documented by a professional. At Allure Films, we understand this better than most. That’s why we take special care when capturing your big day.

Contact Allure Films today for more information on our wedding videography packages!

The Final Touches For Your Big Day

No detail went unnoticed in Ashley and Mark’s recent wedding at The Four Seasons. Their big day was filled with plenty of exciting moments, stunning décor by Lamsback, and plenty of love to go around.

We enjoyed documenting Ashley and Mark’s special day, and totally loved all of the personal touches they put in (yes, of course we noticed!).

Ashley’s customized “Bride” robe was the perfect wardrobe as she prepared during hair and make up. The personalized initials on the dance floor and customized sunglasses were also two favorites. Mark was sporting the words “Yes dear” underneath his shoes.

All of these little touches added up to make it a fabulous and fun occasion.

Please enjoy a preview from Ashley and Mark’s big day below.

Cliff Mautner Photography | Lamsback Floral Decorators | Jodi Moraru – Evoke

How To Prepare For Your Wedding Vows

Your wedding is one brief day in time, and although your vows are spoken in a matter of minutes, they are promises that will last a lifetime.

This moment is the anchor that holds your past and your future together. Since it represents your public declaration of your love and marriage promises, it is important to be emotionally prepared.

Why Vows Are Important

Throughout your relationship, you have been many things to one another – acquaintance, friend, companion, lover, dancing partner, and even teacher. And now, you get to add “spouse” to this ever-growing list.

During your time together, you have both learned that good company and friendship count for more than wealth, looks, power, or position. You have realized that the journey of marriage is a path that is best gone through with a great companion.

The symbolic vows that you make are a way of acknowledging every promise you have made and and every hope or dream you’ve shared, and those you will make and share together for years to come.

Writing Your Own Vows

It is always a nice touch when couples write their own vows. It’s the best way to bring personality into your wedding ceremony, and a great way to engage the audience. Expressing your love on paper may seem daunting, but it’s easier than you’d think.

Take the time to consider the things you love about your partner and write down a few memories that come to mind. Think about the promises that you’ve made and include them in the vows. At the end, remember to include your goals, aspirations, and qualities you want to embrace as a couple in the future.

Check Lauren and Tony’s unique custom vow exchange for some inspiration!

Captured by Allure Films at the The Ashford Estate. 

Traditional Vows

Many couples choose to use standard wedding vows. Traditional marriage vows symbolize your love and commitment and show regard for a tradition or religion. They can also evokes a sense of respect to marriage as a sacred institution that deserves to be revered by your guest.

Capturing The Moment

This monumental moment will come and go quickly – make sure it is documented by a professional. At Allure Films, we understand this better than most. That’s why we take special care when capturing the sights and sounds of your big day.

Contact Allure Films today for more information on our wedding videography packages!

Why the Down Town Club Was Perfect For This Couple

A couple’s wedding day is a perfect reflection of their personalities, both as individuals and as a couple.

Allure Films was fortunate enough to join a lovely couple, Heather & Seth, on one of their most important days: the day they both said “I do”.

Heather and Seth celebrated both their ceremony and reception at a Philly hot spot, The Down Town Club. Here’s why this gorgeous location was the perfect fit for our bride and groom:

Location & Scenery

The Down Town Club is just one block from Philadelphia’s historic district, which features famous landmarks such as Independence Hall, The Liberty Bell, and The National Constitution Center.

It offers many prime formal photo settings, such as Washington Square Park and The First & Second Banks of the United States. We were able to capture several historic settings on Heather and Seth’s big day.

Modern & Luxurious

The building itself is a perfect duet between modern and colonial styling. The classic architecture includes elegant amenities that suited the bride and groom perfectly. The marble floors and hand-carved moldings really give The Down Town Club its own unique style.

Staying Put

Another big bonus for Heather and Seth was that they were able to share their ceremony and reception with family and friends in one spot.

The Down Town Club does an incredible job transforming from a classic formal ceremony site to a modern and exciting reception area, all while maintaining its elegance! This means that Heather and Seth didn’t have to gather their wedding party and guests to head to another location (which can also add a whole new level of stress for some).

Sometimes it’s nice to just “stay put” in one spot and let the professionals transform the location to meet your visions. Please check out a preview from their big day below:

We are so glad this venue turned out to be the perfect fit for Heather and Seth. Congratulations again, and thank you for allowing us to document your special day!

Planning your own wedding at The Down Town Club? Contact Allure Films today and make sure all those special moments are preserved forever on video!

Sarah Merians Photography | Carl Alan Floral Designs LTD | EBE – Milan 77 | Cescaphe Event Group – Down Town Club

Ali Meltzer’s Bat Mitzvah

Allure Films | Susan Beard Design Photography | Evantine Design | All Around Entertainment – Romeo | Green Valley Cou

How To Get Your Bridesmaids To Say “I Do”

Congratulations!

You’ve recently accepted a marriage proposal. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation. Now the wedding planning panic is about to set in.

First, it’s time to get your bridesmaids to say “I do” to you! Here are 5 ideas for “proposing” to your future bridesmaids:

1. Something Sweet

Cookies, cupcakes, brownies…You name it, they’ll love it! Head over to your local bakery and customize a delicious treat. Your bridesmaids will not be able to resist this sweet idea!

2. Something Fun

Customize a wine or champagne label with your bridesmaid-to-be’s name on it. This makes for a wonderful souvenir that can be enjoyed as well. Don’t forget to include the date of your big day!

3. Something Personal

Create a personalized box for each bridesmaid. Fill it with photos, memories, a card, and maybe even a personalized wine glass. This box will certainly be a winner, and a keepsake for years to come.

4. Something Wearable

They weren’t kidding when they said jewelry is a girl’s best friend. You can get a necklace or bracelet hand stamped with a message, or choose something they will love and include a unique note.

5. Something Treasurable

Personalized picture frames are a wonderful way to ask the question. They are also great because the bridesmaid can add her favorite photo from your big day!

Whichever way you choose, we wish you the best of luck with popping “the big question” to your bridesmaids. Best of luck with the planning process and congratulations from the Allure Films team!

Planning Your Father-Daughter Dance

It’s almost Father’s Day!
This special day, dedicated to celebrating dad, is the perfect time to plan out the moment during your wedding when you celebrate with your dad: the father-daughter dance!

Allure Films knows that there are many ways to make this moment fun, personal, and memorable. When planning your father-daughter dance, be sure to keep the following in mind:

The Emotions

The father-daughter dance can be moving and emotional, both for the two of you and for everyone watching.  Dads will often shed a tear at the thought of his little girl growing up and starting a new life. With a little thought, practice, and planning, you can help make this dance a moment to cherish.

The Tradition

The dance itself is a long-standing custom.  Traditionally, the father danced with the bride first, and then presented her to the groom to dance, symbolizing their steps towards a new life.  It was a beautiful way to express the tender relationship between the bride and the two most important men in her life.

The Song

Some brides chose songs that they have a strong emotional connection with; one that spurs memories of growing up with her father by her side.

If you don’t have a song like this, then there are many favorites to choose from. Search the internet for lists of top father-daughter dance songs, or speak with your dance instructor, DJ, or band leader to ask for suggestions.

Your choice of music can be serious and touching or lighthearted and fun, classic or contemporary… whatever you feel defines your relationship with dad!

The Dancing

Dance lessons will make this tradition so much easier, and can even add to the fun of it!

It is totally normal for the father to be bit nervous regarding this upcoming public display of affection, or regarding their personal dance skills. After just one lesson, everyone is more self-assured and relaxed. Plus, dance lessons offer an excellent bonding experience for you to enjoy with your dad!

The Video

Professional videography is a great way to capture the dance itself as well as the sentiment between the father and daughter.

The moment will pass by very quickly, but an effective videographer won’t miss a second of emotion! Having a video will allow you to relive that special moment with dad for years to come.

Have any additional ideas or advice? Add them to the comments below!

Contact Allure Films today for more information on capturing every special moment of your big day on film!