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How Much Is Enough? Calculating The Appropriate Wedding Gift

We’ve been asked a lot of questions by brides, grooms, and guests alike, yes the most common question we hear is a difficult one to answer.

“What is the appropriate wedding gift?”

There is no right or wrong answer because of the many factors that come into play when deciding on the amount.

However, we did come across a very helpful site which might be able to shed some light onto this age-old question: TheWeddingEnvelope.com.

TWE is an awesome wedding gift calculator site. After sifting through countless hours of wedding data, TWE finally came up with a formula that calculates the appropriate, approximate amount of money you should give a couple for their wedding gift.

A small sampling of the calculator!

TWE takes into account the most important cost factors of a wedding – time of year, location, black tie vs. casual, etc. – and combines them with personal factors (if you brought a guest, how close you are to the bride & groom) to calculate a unique monetary amount that you should give as your wedding gift to the newlyweds.

Have any advice from your own personal experience? Add them in the comments below.

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

Let It Snow! A Magical Philadelphia Winter Wedding

Is there anything more romantic that getting married in a snowy winter wonderland?

With an exquisite ceremony at Hyatt at the Bellevue, and a room full of family & friends, Diane & John were truly surrounded with all the makings of a fabulous Philadelphia winter wedding.

Following the ceremony, guests gathered on the 19th floor for a unique and beautiful reception at XIX Nineteen. From the bride and groom’s first reveal, to the winter wonderland scenery, Diane and John’s day was magical.

We were glad our good friends from Philip Gabriel Photography were also in attendance to capture each moment in photos. Congratulations and best wishes to Diane and John!

Philip Gabriel Photography | Queen of Hearts Wedding Consultants | Eventions Productions | Hyatt at the Bellevue | Eventricity

Top 3 Outdoor Wedding Venues In Greater Philadelphia

When planning your wedding, one of the biggest steps in the process is deciding where and when your special day will take place. Although many couples opt for an indoor ceremony & reception, outdoor celebrations are on the rise. Outdoor weddings provide a naturally beautiful backdrop.

Here are our favorite Philadelphia-area outdoor wedding venues:

1. Greystone Hall (West Chester, PA)

With a breathtaking fountain terrace sitting in front of the wrought iron arbor, this location truly creates a magical scene. The stunning gardens, architecture, and historic-feel truly transport guests to a whole new world.

Greystone Hall offers both indoor and outdoor accommodations, and also has a tent pavilion. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something to match your vision.

2. Four Seasons (Philadelphia, PA)

This gorgeous location offers an outdoor terrace and courtyard that poses as a lovely backdrop. With beautiful greenery and flowing fountains, the Four Seasons is sure to impress.

This outdoor wedding setting also offers unique seating arrangements. Whether you’re going for the traditional centre aisle seating arrangement, or for a round seating arrangement, this locations has it all.

3. Winterthur (Winterthur, DE)

Winterthur offers various outdoor settings to choose from. With a reflecting pool, a stunning meadow, sundial garden, and terrace, this location truly has something for everyone.

Along with setting the scene for the perfect day, this location is also wonderful for wedding photos.

Have a venue to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!

Already have your venue situated? Make sure you have a videographer to capture all the memories! Contact Allure Films for more information today!

Spring Wedding Season Is In Full Bloom!

Grab a tissue and prepare yourself for the father of the bride’s beautiful words during this sweet spring wedding preview!

Stacey and Stuart shared their big day at The Westin Philadelphia. From beginning to end, this lovely day was filled with candid moments and special memories that Stacey and Stuart will be able to cherish for years to come.

We were thrilled to work alongside our good friends from BVT Live! – Jelly Roll, as they kept the dance floor packed and energized throughout the evening!

From the stunning views of Philadelphia outside to the elegant beauty inside the Westin, this spring wedding was filled with the perfect backdrops to mirror the perfect couple. Best wishes to Stacey & Stuart!

We’re looking forward to all of our 2015 spring weddings! It’s not too late to book a videographer for your big day! Contact Allure Films today for more information!

The Westin | BVT Live! – Jelly Roll | Langdon Photography | Carl Alan Floral Design LTD

Romance Abounds At This Center City Philadelphia Wedding!

Join Allyson and Patrick for a preview of their enchanting Hyatt at The Bellevue Center City wedding!

This adoring couple shared a an unforgettable day amongst family and friends. Their upbeat energy and amazing bond made for a fun and exciting day for all.

After their cheerful “I do’s”, Allyson and Patrick celebrated their reception at Hyatt at The Bellevue. This gorgeous Center City location, with decor by Carl Alan Floral Designs, was the perfect backdrop for this lovely couple.

We were thrilled to team up with Philip Gabriel Photography in capturing Allyson and Pat’s big day. Congratulations from the Allure team!

Is your wedding planning underway? Consider professional videography to capture all the important memories! Contact Allure Films for more information.

Philip Gabriel Photography | EBE Talent – L.A. Starz | Carl Alan Floral Designs | Hyatt at The Bellevue

Love Is In Bloom With These 2015 Spring Wedding Trends!

We’re thrilled that spring is finally here!

From our recent experiences, Allure Films is up-to-date on the latest spring wedding trends for 2015. Whether you’re planning the spring wedding of your dreams, or will be attending a wedding in the coming months, this is a must-read!

Review this helpful list & collages and be prepared for these items this season:

Flowers

This year we’re seeing an increase in tulips, gerber daisies, and garden roses. Pastel colors are in, and they are being accompanied with small pops of lavender and yellow.

The Dress

This spring, many brides are going for dresses with floral lace designs, dresses with decorative bling, and off-the-shoulder necklines.

Décor

One of the big trends we’re seeing in wedding décor this spring is repurposed objects from the home to make rustic decorations.

For example, mason jars are being used to hold flowers, and even to serve drinks. Old window shutters are being repurposed to hold place cards, as backdrops, and to display photos. Wheelbarrows are being used to hold wedding favors and floral arrangements.

Love is in the air this spring, and we’re definitely in love with these gorgeous spring wedding trends for 2015!

Are you planning a spring wedding? Don’t forget to capture all of the greatest moments of your special day! Contact Allure Films for more information on our videography packages!

Emotional Vows – Sandra & Matt’s Westin Wedding

The Westin Philadelphia sits in the heart of the city of brotherly love. With beautiful and historic sites surrounding it, and the elegant environment inside, this location is always a pleasure to film – and Allure Films was thrilled to document Sandra and Matt’s wedding!

Sandra and Matt’s vows were very touching – many were moved to tears. It’s amazing to be a part of such memorable moments as they unfold. As videographers, we are lucky to be a part of one of the happiest days in a couple’s life.

Please enjoy this short preview from this lovely day. Congratulations and best wishes!

Is your wedding in the works? Contact Allure Films today for more information on our videography services!

Cliff Mautner Photography | Eddie Bruce Music | Carl Alan Floral Designs LTD | The Westin Philadelphia

Let Your Vows Be Heard! Capturing Perfect Audio At Your Wedding

It’s amazing how distinct sounds can spark a flood of memories.

Your favorite song or the sound of a loved one’s voice can trigger an avalanche of smiles and tears of joy as you reminisce on happy moments.

At Allure Films, we understand this better than most. That’s why we take special care when capturing the sights and sounds of your wedding.

Filming your vows, toasts from your loved ones, and the music you dance the night away to are all important aspects of documenting your big day.

How can we be certain we’ve captured the perfect audio to accompany the excellent footage?

First, and foremost, we always record with multiple recorders. Technology has come a long way, but we all have experienced times where our electronics have failed us. When capturing your special day, it’s important to always have back up recorders.

Although our cameras have microphones built in, we rarely use the audio from the camera itself. With at least 3 different devices recording at each wedding, we have plenty of options to choose from when selecting the best quality audio for your video.

Using so many pieces at once also provides an added sense of security. It’s always best to have a backup plan, so if one microphone fails, we’re still guaranteed to never miss a moment recording your big day.

One of our favorite pieces of equipment that we use is a lavalier microphone, which is pinned to the groom’s tuxedo. Having a microphone front and center ensures that every last whisper of your vows is recorded for you and your loved ones to cherish for generations to come.

Our team at Allure Films takes pride in our attention to detail. From the music you walk down the aisle to all the way up to the last “I Love You” of the night, you can be sure that we’ve captured all of the best moments from your special day.

If you’re looking for an expert team to capture the best moments of your wedding or upcoming special event, we’re here for you!

Contact Allure Films today and let us help you make memories to last a lifetime!

Keeping Weddings Social With Hashtags!

As a Wedding Filmmaker, it is always fun to see couples find new, clever ideas to engage their guests.

This past weekend, Allure Films captured a beautiful wedding that had been customized by the bride with loads of personal touches!

From fun seating charts to signature drinks (a clever play on the last names of the happy couple), each feature added its own element of fun to the guests’ experience.

One of my favorite elements was a handmade sign encouraging guests to take photos and share them via WedPics or Instagram with a special wedding hashtag.

Now, as they bask on the beach during their honeymoon, the couple can find all of the amazing pictures taken by family and friends in one convenient location!

It is always an honor to capture a beautiful wedding story and preserve the moments and memories forever – that’s why I love my job so much!

Is your wedding in the works? Contact us today and make sure all your special moments are preserved on film!

Warm Up With A Summer Wedding At The Reeds!

Feeling the winter blues? Allure Films is warmin’ up with a flashback from Ruthanne and Jimmy’s June wedding.

This fabulous day was full of sand, sun, and celebration. We were excited when we were asked to document this special day at The Reeds at Shelter Haven. Combine a gorgeous beach-side location and an adoring couple, and you know you’re set for an awesome day.

After exchanging their heartfelt vows, Ruthanne, Jimmy, and their guests enjoyed a fancy & fun outdoor cocktail hour. The celebration continued in the Sweet Grass Ballroom. This open-air concept ballroom offers a stunning view and the perfect atmosphere.

Congratulations to Rudy and Jimmy! Enjoy a preview from their summer wedding below. Is your summer wedding in the works? Contact Allure Films today to make sure all your special moments are preserved forever!