First, let me say Live Blogging is HARD!!! I’m trying to Jam to the great bands here and enjoy a glass of vino all while typing at the speed of light and being distracted by all the pretty things and amazing people here.
After browsing and mingling with some of the great vendors here, I wandered upstairs to take in some of the Master Panels (in one of which, I’m flattered to say, I’m participating). I sat in on the FANTASTIC photo panel with some LEGENDS in the wedding photography biz, the previously mentioned Julie Skarratt and Terry Gruber as well as Sarah Merians. It was actually, and I say this as a wedding professional, truly informative. Terry offered up a couple of trends on wedding photography that he’s seen… Apparently ladies, we are influenced more by fashion photography now more than ever before. And, while at the start of his career there was more demand for black and white, now color seems to dominate the request list of brides.
It was fantastic to see how styles differed tremendously, as Julie preferred to take clandestine, totally unobtrusive shots of her brides and grooms, while Sarah preferred a good hour or two to capture some family time with the clients and their near and dear.
All of them however, agreed that despite the ENORMOUS number of people picking up digital cameras and calling themselves wedding photographers, the difference between an amateur and a career pro is not JUST in the price tag…. Sort of like how a cute H&M dress will only look good for a season vs. a fabulous, timeless ,designer little black dress… Somehow the cut and the fabric and all of it just FLOWS with a bit more elegance.
After the photo panel I stayed to hear my buddy, Lisa Hoffman, speak about trends and possibilities in wedding stationery. Lisa is the owner and principal designer of Ceci New York and is herself, Ceci — it’s her childhood nickname. Her biggest tip, and I must say I agree, is to think beyond ecru card stock and not be afraid to be more imaginative with your stationery. While the day is important, that is sort of the calling card for what’s to come.
Finally, I checked back in on Stefanie and her mom, who were attending some of the panels. They both are having a fabulous time and in particular, her mother was saying that the biggest thrill was getting to meet many of the actual owners of the businesses, instead of just a random salesperson. I think she appreciated the personal touch.
I’m supposed to speak next… hopefully someone will care about my topic and be nice enough to sit there and ask me questions. Maybe they’ll show up to learn how to pronounce my name! Fingers crossed.
-The Blogsmaid