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Fairy Tales Come True With A Summer Wedding At The Reeds At Shelter Haven

February 15, 2016 Blog, The Reeds

After weeks of frigid weather, it’s nice to escape to warmer days for a minute. And this beautiful summer wedding at The Reeds At Shelter Haven is sure to warm your heart right up!

Jacqueline and Brian’s wedding in Stone Harbor, NJ was practically flawless, with a ceremony by the water that was like something out of a fairy tale.

Allure Films truly enjoyed capturing every last detail, from the beautiful floral designs, to the touching photographs of family members on their wedding days tied to the bride’s bouquet.

Summer Wedding At The Reeds At Shelter Haven

Jacqueline and Brian had fun in the sun with all their family and friends all day long. The gentle breeze throughout the day helped keep everyone cool, and made for some breathtaking videography shots!

After their waterside ceremony, guests gathered for an evening of dancing and dining inside The Reeds. This was the perfect location to celebrate such an amazing day! Congrats to our newlyweds!

Rachel Pearlman Photography |EBE Monte Carlo | The Reeds at Shelter Haven

A Dazzling Wedding At The Down Town Club In Philadelphia

February 1, 2016 Blog, Down Town Club, Jewish, Wedding Films

Cescaphe Event Group Down Town Club Wedding for Sarah and Shmuel

A wedding with Cescaphe Event Group is sure to be one to remember. Sarah and Shmuel decided to plan their wedding at the Down Town Club. This glamorous venue was the perfect pick for the happy couple. The tall windows within the ballroom overlook Old City and the Delaware River. In addition to the views, the inside is equally as stunning. Marble floors and wood panelling create an elegant atmosphere for weddings. Paired with decor from Evantine Design, Sarah and Shmuel had the perfect set up for their big day.

The First Look

Before their ceremony, Sarah and Shmuel met outside for a touching first look. Sarah’s face immediately lit up when Shmuel tapped her shoulder. The love between them shone through with every smile. It was such a touching moment for our Allure Films team to capture. Our friends from Philip Gabriel Photography also joined us in capturing their big day though photography.

A Down Town Club Wedding Ceremony

After meeting, the two headed inside for a traditional Jewish ceremony. Under the beautifully decorated chuppah, Sarah and Shmuel became husband and wife. After the ceremonial smashing of the glass, everyone cheered and shouted “mazel tov!” to the newlyweds. Then, they made their way back up the aisle, and into the reception area.

Reception

The Down Town Club ballroom was beautifully decorated with large glass vases, white and pink flowers, and soft white candles. The romantic decor paired with the Down Town Club’s elegant scenery created a gorgeous reception venue. BVT Live’s Jellyroll joined in at the reception to provide great entertainment. All of the guests danced and sang along to the music all night.

Heartfelt Speeches

As the speeches started, Sarah’s father summed it up best for the two. Life should not be filled with complications, but simply only the best things. He said, “May you lead the life you always imagined: surrounded my friends, family, and most especially,  love.”

Both families were so excited for the couple to marry. Through many congratulations and well wishes, you could feel the genuine compassion in the room. Sarah’s sister said, “Shmuel has a beautiful heart. The love that our family feels for him is immeasurable. He is a gift from God. He is just perfect for my sister and more than I deserve for a brother.” It was such a touching sentiment to hear the kindness between families as they became one. Sarah’s father also stated that he always wanted a son.

The night continued on with more laughter, dancing, and love. It was a perfect day for Sarah and Shmuel to begin their lives together.

Wow. The bride and groom couldn’t have picked a better venue to celebrate their big day!

Sarah and Shmuel celebrated a dazzling day at the Down Town Club in Philadelphia. Among family and friends, our bride and groom shared memorable moments and traditions as they exchanged vows.

It quickly became obvious how much both families cherish this adoring couple. Their kind and touching words about Sarah and Shmuel will certainly be something to remember, and the Allure Films team was pleased to capture it all on film!

Down Town Club Wedding Videography - Sarah & Shmuel

After their touching traditional Jewish ceremony, the newlyweds wandered down to the reception hall, where they were stunned by the beauty of the space!

The Down Town Club is both modern and luxurious, a perfect fit for Sarah & Shmuel’s wedding celebration. It offers panoramic views of the city for all to enjoy.

The guests had a blast celebrating with the happy couple. We’ve never seen so many people out on the dance floor! The decorations were stunning, the food was quickly devoured, and the band kept the party going all night long.

Great choice Sarah and Shmuel! And a big thank you for allowing us to be a part of your big day!

Click here for more information on Allure Films’ comprehensive wedding videography packages.

How to Comfortably Capture The Best Winter Wedding Video

January 20, 2016 Blog, Wedding Films

winter wedding video

If you’re planning a winter wedding, there’s no doubt that you’ve had stunning visions of magical moments caught on camera as you and your loved ones enjoy a snowy sunset or lighthearted snowball fight.

However, with these opportunities comes the risk of wintry weather creating a whole host of problems.

Your Wedding Winter Wonderland could quickly be transformed into a mess of mud, slush, and shivering guests with the slightest shift in weather patterns!

But wait! Before you pack up shop and move your festivities indoors, the experts at Allure Films have a few tips for keeping your guests warm and happy while ensuring you capture the moments you’ve envisioned.

After all, you don’t get a second shot to live in the moment!

Plan First

Before you head out into the rain, snow, sleet, or cold temperatures, it’s important to have a plan first!

Find out in advance which settings or backdrops you want, and who should be in each shot. Try to arrange a sequence of footage that require the same people so they can knock out all of their shots at once without waiting around in the cold.

For those who aren’t needed at any particular time, let them wait inside and enjoy the warmth!

Dress Warmly

When selecting your wedding party’s attire, think about the season and weather!

Choose long dresses for your bridesmaids and consider gifting them a wrap, coat, faux fur shrug, or boots to wear as part of your winter theme. For the groomsmen, put them in wintry suits or tuxedos that are seasonally appropriate.

Use Props

Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Colorful mittens, matching scarves, or mugs of hot cocoa are fun ways to add personality to your wedding while also adding some real-life warmth.

Take Breaks

When any particular member of your wedding party is not needed, let them wait where it’s warm!

If your location isn’t close to an indoor spot, consider renting a heater or building a small fire where guests can stay toasty. Another easy option is to keep a few cars parked close by with the heat on.

Teamwork

Since you have a plan, it should be easy to get the right people positioned just as you have envisioned.

Communicate your plan with your videographer and photographer so they know your expectations and can work cohesively. Don’t waste time fussing over who goes where while you’re waiting in the cold.

Finally, be sure to instruct your team to capture as many shots as possible during the candid moments. Waiting for everyone to look at the camera and smile perfectly will only take longer and limit the footage you desire.

Check out this highlight video of some of the most memorable winter moments filmed by Allure Films!

Are you planning a winter wedding that will require outdoor footage? Let us know your thoughts and concerns in the comments below!

Click here to speak with an Allure Films representative about hiring our expert videographers to capture your special winter wedding moments!

Commemorating 10 Years of Love With Vow Renewal Videography

January 19, 2016 Blog, The Union League

​For more than 20 years, I have had the distinct honor of documenting countless wonderful weddings with some of the most amazing brides and grooms.

During this time, the Allure Films team and I have also had the opportunity to work with so many talented industry professionals throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.

Recently, my good friends Dawn and Gabe Fredericks celebrated their 10-year anniversary in grand fashion. They shared a beautiful vow renewal, and had an awesome celebration at The Union League of Philadelphia. Dawn looked as stunning as she did on her wedding day, and we’re pretty sure we saw Gabe shed a tear or two when he saw her walking down the aisle!

The day was full of laughter, tears of joy, and fond memories of the past 10 years spent together, as well as well-wishes for the years to come. This time around, Dawn and Gabe were blessed to have their children involved in the celebration!
Vow Renewal Videography - 10 Year Anniversary Film Gabe and I have been working side by side documenting weddings for years, and it was so wonderful to see him on the other side of the camera. Here’s to 100 more years filled with love, health, and happiness! Congrats Dawn & Gabe!

Vow Renewal Videography - DawnGabe2
Enjoy this preview from Dawn & Gabe’s emotional vow renewal:

Click here to speak with an Allure Films representative about our wedding videography packages.

Philip Gabriel Photography | BVTLive! – Sid Miller Dance Band | Petah Bashano Event Design | The Union League of Philadelphia | All About Events | Synergetic Sound & Lighting | Paper Rock Scissors

Wedding Snapshots To Last A Lifetime

January 12, 2016 Blog

Shortly, you shall say a few words that will take you across a threshold of life. And things between you will never quite be the same. For after today, you shall say to the world, “this is my husband”, and “this is my wife”.

Such beautiful words spoken to our lovely bride and groom, Amy and Brice!

The Allure Films team was lucky enough to be a part of this special day in Newtown Square, PA. The weather was perfect, and the scenery at Aronimink Golf Club made a gorgeous backdrop. From the stunning décor, to all the finishing touches, Amy and Brice shared quite an amazing day.

We were able to document many touching moments both before and after the ceremony. It was in these moments that we truly got a glimpse of the love shared between Amy and Brice.

Aronimink Golf Club Wedding Video

One of our favorite moments of the day was when Amy presented her dad with a heartfelt gift. It is something he will cherish for years to come.  It was clear throughout the day how proud and excited both families were about Amy and Brice tying the knot.

Aronimink Golf Club Wedding Video 2

After the ceremony, Amy and Brice shared a fun-filled evening of dancing and dining. Jellyroll kept the dance floor packed as guests danced the night away. Our good friends at Philip Gabriel Photography were also capturing these beautiful moments in photos. We can’t wait to see them!

Congrats Amy and Brice! All the best from the Allure Team.

Click here to speak with an Allure Films representative about our comprehensive wedding videography packages.

Philip Gabriel Photography | BVT Live – Jellyroll | Aronimink Golf Club

What Is An ‘Expression Segment’?

January 8, 2016 Blog, Wedding Films

While you may have never heard of a Wedding Video Expression Segment before, we know you’ll agree that it is a very important part of the final production.

The Expression Segment allows the Allure Films team to capture your formal photo sessions on film. We work with your photographer to ensure that every detail and emotion will not be missed!

Since this is the one time during the day when you’ll have your entire family and wedding party standing still in one place, it is the best opportunity to capture their smiles, tears, hugs, and fun poses as the photographer snaps away.

This Wedding Video Expression Segment varies in length and can be set to the music of your choice.

Want a sample? Enjoy Kasey & Adam’s expression segment below!

Click here to speak with a member of the Allure Films team about our wide selection of wedding videography packages!

Capturing Every Smile From The Suburbs To The City

January 1, 2016 Blog, Church Films

Join Cristine and Brian for a short glimpse of their spectacular Philadelphia wedding! From the suburbs to the city, this couple made the most of every last second of their big day.

Our lovely bride and groom exchanged vows at St. Thomas of Villanova. Their contagious smiles throughout the wedding prep and ceremony kept everyone else smiling, including us! The Allure Films team could feel the excitement as both Cristine and Brian got ready with their wedding party.

Union League Wedding Videography

After the ceremony, Cristine and Brian shared a gorgeous and fun-filled evening of dancing and dining at The Union League of Philadelphia. This elegant venue was the perfect scene to celebrate such a fabulous couple!

It was easy to tell from the heartfelt words of family and friends that these two truly have something special. Congratulations, Cristine and Brian, and thank you for letting Allure Films be a part of your big day!

Click here to speak with an Allure Films representative about our list of available wedding videography packages.

Enjoy this short preview of Cristine and Brian’s big day:

Sweetwater Photography | The Union League of Philadelphia | Synergetic Sounds | Carl Alan Floral Designs

Greek Wedding Traditions: What You Need To Know!

November 30, 2015 Blog

greek wedding videographyGoing to a Greek wedding? Get ready to celebrate not only the bride and groom, but their entire family as well!

Greek culture is very family-oriented – marriage and children are still the natural ‘next step’ for a serious relationship. While weddings typically focus on the gathering of two families, Greek food, music, dancing, and the wedding ceremony itself are equally important.

Allure Films has compiled a short list of just a few Greek traditions you’ll see at a Greek wedding:

The Preparation

  • On wedding day, the bride traditionally prepares at her house while her family gathers and watches. The bride to-be comes out in front of her family wearing her dress, and the bridesmaids and maid of honor proceed to add accessories.
  • The groom prepares by getting dressed in his tuxedo or very formal suit by the best man. The groom also sits in a chair and best man proceeds to shave his face in what is referred to as “the last shave.”

The Ceremony

  • The betrothal service begins at the door of the church where the priest blesses the rings and puts them on the couples’ fingers three times. During the marriage ceremony, the bride and groom stand together with two candles. (Most things are done three times during the betrothal service, in reverence to the Holy Trinity.)
  • Jordan almonds (called koufeta) are given to the guests to represent the sweetness (sugar coating) and the bitterness (almond) of life. They are given in odd numbers to represent that this new couple being formed is indivisible.

The Reception

  • Modern couples tend to share a home before they get married, so they usually have all the basic house needs covered. For gifts, a fine piece of art or cash is acceptable.
  • Expect a lot of food! Greek brides and grooms are notorious for filling their guests up with traditional Greek dishes, from roasted lamb to suckling pig to famous spinach and feta pies.
  • Greeks do a variation of the money dance where cash is thrown at the musicians and the couple while dancing.
  • Besides hearing opa (a sound of acclamation), you may also hear na zisoun (wishes for a long life), and I Ora I Kali, which means, “Here’s to the good times that are coming.”

Experience it for yourself! Enjoy this wonderful look at Arhodia and Kosmas’ Merion wedding.

Contact Allure Films and make sure your special moments are captured forever through film!

What’s In A Wedding Video Recap?

November 9, 2015 Blog

Want to share and relive the best parts of your wedding day?

A Wedding Day Recap video from Allure Films is a very creative edit of all the memorable moments from your big day. This separately-produced video ranges between 12-15 minutes and is set to songs of your choice.

Since most of your guests will not see your full length video, a recap is a great way to share the special moments with your friends and family.

Want a sample? Enjoy Jessie and Michael’s recap video below.

Ready to coordinate your own wedding video coverage? See all the options from Allure Films now.

Why You Should Add A Glidecam To Your Wedding Video

November 3, 2015 Blog

If you aren’t using a Glidecam for your wedding video, you’re missing out!

Wedding Glidecam

What’s A Glidecam?

A Glidecam is a lightweight, hand-held camcorder stabilizing system that offers fine adjustments and an improved balance system.

The camera stabilization systems works to provide stability during movement for dynamic and subjective camera shots.

It utilizes a balancing system that dampens the user’s body movement, providing a smooth, floating image appearance.

When Is A Glidecam Used?

Allure Films uses it for action shots so that we can smoothly follow your movements!

A Glidecam is also perfect for creative shots that capture the real feel of your guests mingling.

It can essentially be used as a guest’s eye-view as the filmmaker moves among, in and around crowds of people.

A Glidecam can also be used during the processional (if there’s room), during the photoshoot, and the reception.

Why Is It a ‘Must Have’?

Allure Films aims to produce wedding videos that best match your personality and taste, so it is important that we give every wedding video production the utmost attention to detail.

The Glidecam helps us catch those details while creating that cinematic look we all love. This will leave you with a wedding video that allows you to share your love story and the most amazing day of your life with everyone!

Check out some highlights from Alyssa & Isaac’s wedding that were shot with our Glidecam!


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