Company: Jessie Holloway Photography

I’m Known for: Creating whimsical dream-like images with a rustic flair.

What I do for fun (when not working): I’m an Pinteresting junkie. When I’m not scouring photo/fashion/creative awesomeness via the site, I’m all about crafting and making pretty things to wear. Writing is also a passion of mine, and nothing beats a good journaling session with a cup of joe. It just warms my soul!

Favorite Nashville Area Hang: I just moved here in June, so I am still fairly new to the Nashville scene. I’ve fallen in  love with the Frothy Monkey and Fido’s. As you can imagine, anywhere where I can put in my headphones and edit is number one in my heart.

What got you in to photography? And what interested you in shooting weddings? I actually started shooting after I graduated from college in 2008. After getting a journalism/pr degree, I scoured the job market only to find slim pickings. I picked up my camera as a hobby, and slowly it kind of became a huge passion for me and I decided to pursue it as a career. I still feel so blessed that people actually want me to take their photos! I still feel like the same girl who was shooting her friends in a field on her starter camera. It has been such a great journey so far.

My decision to pursue wedding photography stemmed from my love for working with couples. It really is such an awesome thing to be able to document lovebirds and their walk down the aisle. It never ceases to amaze me how many different relationships and kinds of love there are out there.

What should a couple look for in a wedding photographer?  I think couples should look for someone they feel comfortable with and who they really have a great connection with. Being able to be yourself in front of your photographer definitely shows in the photos!

Do you have any advice for brides and grooms who are uncomfortable in front of the camera? It is so nerve wracking being in front of the camera! Even I get a little squeamish when it’s time to take some new bio photos for my website. My best advice is to just be yourself. I know it sounds cliché, but being able to let loose in front of the camera allows your photographer to catch some awesome candids of you and your beau. So, when you feeling like laughing – let loose. Don’t worry about the outcome of the photos – it’s your photographer’s job to make the pictures look great! Just have fun and the rest will turn out awesome.

If all else fails and you’re still feeling jittery, have a glass of vino.

We have seen a lot of great location shoots for engagement pictures lately. How do you find the perfect setting for your couples? I have to say engagement sessions are some of my very favorites to shoot. I really get to know my couples during these, and the locations are always fun to get to discover.  I am open to traveling, so I have moseyed all over the place to get to photograph couples at their chosen location.

I actually request that couples ask friends or family if they have any land we can use. Requesting that clients do this helps to make sure every session is unique and different. It’s so important to me that everyone’s session is all their own- this is a once in a lifetime experience!

You have shot twice at CJ’s Off the Square now. What are your top 5 favorite shots?

My website: http://www.jessieholloway.com

My blog: http://www.jessiehollowayphotoblog.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jessiehollowayphoto

Twitter: @jessiekholloway

Phone: 931-267-4647

The Company:  Nashville Wedding Guitarist

Name:  Rob Higginbotham

I’m Known for: Solo Classical Guitar versions of almost every song imaginable

What I do for fun (when not working):  Come up with songs to our favorite children’s stories with my 7 year old daughter Bella: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLBkdxJYYjQ&feature=channel&list=UL

Favorite Nashville Area Hang: Barista Parlor, Dose, Franklin Theater, the Ryman, Schermerhorn Symphony Hall

Favorite Music: Punch Brothers, just about anything that Edgar Meyer, Chris Thiele or Yo-Yo Ma is involved in, Bela Fleck, Arvo Pärt, Sufjan Stevens, Manuel Barrueco, Steve Reich, The Civil Wars, The Arcade Fire, Sigur Ros, Stevie Wonder, Frou Frou/Imogen Heap, Adele, Andrew Bird, the list goes on…

What do you enjoy about doing weddings?  I love playing classical guitar, and, specifically for weddings, I love adding the emotional element to the ceremony, leading up to the passion and excitement of the bride’s entrance.  I get to be the soundtrack, the film score, of this great event in people’s lives.  It’s always an honor.

What should every couple think about when choosing a musician for their ceremony?

First of all , I would decide on the ensemble.  You want to reflect the tone of your ceremony,  whether it is relaxed and contemporary, traditional and elaborate, or somewhere in between.

For the fanciest setting, it’s hard to beat a string quartet or trio, or a string trio with trumpet.  A good quartet will run about $800-$1,000, and will have a very set repertoire (song list).  Any unusual additions (like your favorite Lady Gaga song) can be difficult and expensive to incorporate (up to $100 per song for arranging) and might not work very well, so best to stick to traditional choices here.

If you are looking for something a little simpler, a solo musician, guitar or violin, will cost around $200-$250 for a ceremony.  Harpists are usually more expensive as they are heavy and difficult to transport.  Piano is another option, and electric pianos sound pretty good nowadays, and are much more portable than their acoustic counterparts, which would have a cartage  fee.

In between the quartet and solo musician would be a duo, for example guitar and violin.  With both the solo and duo options, you have a lot more choices available for songs.  Contemporary songs like “I’m Yours” and “Lucky” by Jason Mraz sound more at home on guitar than they would with a string trio, but Canon in D and the Bridal March both sound equally suited for classical guitar as well.  I usually charge between $10 and $25 for unusual songs (like ‘You and I’ by Lady Gaga, a recent request), but since I’ve been doing this awhile, I have hundreds of songs already in repertoire that wouldn’t have an extra fee.

What advice can you share to help couples pick the right kinds of songs for their special ceremony moments?

First off, I would think about how hands on you want to be.  If the idea of picking songs for your ceremony stresses you out, just leave it to the musicians.  I have a short recommendation list with the traditional and some contemporary songs on it that all work well, so it makes it easy if you want to stay on the beaten path.

If you want to be adventurous, there are a few things I would recommend.  YouTube is a great resource for finding guitar arrangements of popular songs.  If you want to hear how a certain songs sounds on solo guitar, search YouTube for “Solo guitar version of …” and chances are you’ll find something!  This can give you a rough idea of how the song will sound.

For the ceremony, you will typically have four or five songs, one for each of these events:

Seating of parents and grandparents, (followed by groom, groomsmen and officiant taking their place at the altar)

Wedding Party (Bridesmaids – sometimes escorted by groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearers)

Bride’s Entrance

Unity Ceremony

Recessional

Keep in mind that the songs will have different lengths.  The song for the parents can be longer, three minutes or so.  If you have a song that you want sung, this is a great place for it.

The song for the bridesmaids will be shorter, one and a half to two minutes usually, although flower girls occasionally have their own opinion on how long they should take to walk down the aisle.

The bridal entrance usually last forty-five seconds.  If you are picking your own song, make sure it has a good stopping place within that time. You really want the song to wrap up in a logical place when the bride arrives at the altar.

For the unity candle or sand ceremony, again, a very short song is called for, 30-45 seconds.  Some couples choose to have sung songs in this place, which honestly feels a little awkward.  I think the attention should be on the bride and groom during the ceremony.  If a three minute song is played, the bride and groom spend thirty seconds lighting the candle, then stand around for two and a half minutes while the song plays out.  I personally prefer a short song that simply underscores the candle lighting or sand pouring.

The recessional lasts a few minutes and should be upbeat and happy.  I’m always on the lookout for a good recessional song.  This seems like one of the hardest parts to fill.  The traditional ‘Wedding March’ by Mendelssohn is a good choice, as is ‘Ode to Joy.’  ’All You Need is Love’ by the Beatles is a very popular choice as well.

Contact info:

http://nashvilleweddingguitarist.com

info@nashvilleweddingguitarist.com

(615) 336-6413

Company: Paul Rowland Photography

I’m Known for: A creative blend of photojournalistic wedding day coverage.  I’m also really tall (6’6″).

What I do for fun (when not working): We just had our first child (6 months old now) – so I’m loving the time I get to spend with him.   I also love to travel.  Those 2 things are currently at the top of my list.

Favorite Nashville Area Hang: Tin Angel and / or Flying Saucer.  Any place that serves great (locally produced) food and beer is awesome.

What got you in to photography? And what interested you in shooting weddings specifically?  My last year of college I started developing my own film and making prints from the negatives.  I was hooked instantly.  The darkroom I was using was in the basement of the college of architecture – there were no windows anywhere on that level, so you really had no concept of time down there.  Many times I would go in at 10pm and come out when the sun was coming up.  That sort of thing is the ultimate indicator on how much you like something. As for weddings, several years ago a friend asked me to bring a camera to his wedding to take a few snapshots of people at the reception.  I loved every minute of it – and it’s something that continues to this day.

What should a couple look for in a wedding photographer?  I think one of the most important things is to make sure you’re comfortable just being around your photographer and click with them on a personal level.  Of all the people you’ll work with – before, during, & after your wedding – there’s a good possibility you’ll spend the most time working with and talking to your photographer.

Do you have any advice for brides and grooms who are uncomfortable in front of the camera? Don’t be. Seriously. For those that do feel awkward / uncomfortable, I find the feeling usually passes quickly because they’re having such a great time spending time with their significant other.

 You really specialize in great engagement sessions. How do you find the perfect setting for your couples?  Thank you!  I would say >75% of the time the couple selects the location – I will make suggestions if they’re not from the area, but I really want the couple to choose the setting that best reflects who they are.

How do you think your style differs visually from other area photographers?  There is so much talent in Nashville.  Where I think I standout is that I feel like I’ve become really good at being able to recognize the not-so-obvious.  I also place a definite emphasis on people & moments.  Mix the two together and it seems to work out really well.

Wedding photography can cost several thousand dollars. What do you suggest to stay on budget but not sacrifice quality?  Decide early on exactly what style & photographer you want.  I can’t stress enough the importance of booking early as the more popular dates get reserved 6 months – 1 year (or more) in advance.

You have shot twice at CJ’s Off the Square so far – what are a few of your favorite shots?

Company contact info

My website: http://paulrowlandphotography.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/paulrowlandphotography

Twitter: @wprowland

Phone: 423.834.3733

The Company: Franklin Marriott Cool Springs

Name: Shannon Worley

We’re Known for: The hotel is perfectly positioned in the heart of Cool Springs, and convenient to Nashville and the city’s top attractions.  Offering full service luxury accommodations, easy access to interstate I-65 and indoor pool. Voted Best of the South by Meetings South Magazine 2 years running.

How long have you been working for Marriott? 18 years in the Nashville area

What services do you typically assist brides, grooms, and their families with in your department? Overnight accommodations, rehearsal dinners, receptions, ceremonies, and bridal luncheons and showers.

What do brides need to be thinking about when booking a hotel for themselves and/or their guests for their wedding? How many of their guests are coming from out of town, how many nights will they be staying, and what they look for when selecting a hotel when they travel.

What is unique the Cool Springs Marriott as an option in the greater Nashville area? Williamson County offers an array of attractions, historic sites, restaurants and shopping for your guests to enjoy during their stay. We offer complimentary shuttle transportation within a 5 mile radius of the hotel and we are located on the Franklin Trolley Line for easy access to the top shopping and dining in the area.

So many of our CJ’s clients have stayed with you over the years. Do you have any feedback from one of them that you can share with our readers about their stay?

Shannon,

I just wanted to take a quick second to drop a line and just say how much Philip and I appreciated all that the Marriott staff did for us for our wedding weekend there in Franklin. We couldn’t have asked for a better weekend or for any friendlier staff! It was all just perfect. Honestly, it couldn’t have gone any better and our family and friends were equally satisfied with thier stay and the service they recieved. I really appreciate all of your help in coordinating all of the reservations and the room blocking process.

Thanks so much,

Jennifer and Philip

Website: www.marriott.com/bnacs

Phone: 615-261-6100

Name: Laura Wall

Company: Southern Events Party Rental Company

We’re known for:

Southern Events offers brides and clients a higher level of assistance when selecting rental items. We continually hear how we provide more selection, inspiration, styling suggestions and overall satisfaction!

We also stay on top of trends in the wedding and events industry to add new items to our inventory. Clients want what they see in magazines and on top wedding blogs! We also specialize in the truly “southern” or “rustic” wedding style… we are in Tennessee after all! We have a Vintage Prop Shoppe full of unique furniture and accessories.

What do you do for fun (when not busy styling events):

I love to shop! Whether it’s buying clothes or decor for myself or hunting for treasures for our Vintage Prop Shoppe! If it were possible to earn a doctorate in shopping, I would likely have it.

Favorite Nashville area hang: Any Mexican restaurant, Mafioza’s, or M.L.Rose with friends or the Nashville Flea Market once a month!

How did you get into event rentals?

I actually met Jill and Chip Cole, Southern Events’ owners, by working part time for CJ’s Off the Square. At the time, the Southern Events showroom was located inside of CJ’s venue. Jill and I really hit it off, and I began working part time on specific projects. I quickly transitioned into a full time position managing client relations and marketing.

Favorite thing about your job:

I love just about everything about my job including who I work with, but I would probably have to say that the job is just a perfect fit for me, making it so fulfilling! It is equal parts left-brain and right-brain. I am an unusual combination of Type-A and creative. With this job, I get to be as detailed and organized as I possibly can, while having an excellent creative outlet when helping clients or diving into the next trend.

What is the most elaborate event you have helped style?

Southern Events just hosted a Grand Re-Opening in our new office which had to be one of the largest events we’ve styled! We utilized one of everything we offer, so it was extremely involved. As for wedding clients, I worked with a lovely Brooklyn bride last fall on her Indian-inspired Southern Soiree at Belle Meade Plantation. It was recently featured on Style Me Pretty’s blog: http://www.stylemepretty.com/2012/03/14/nashville-wedding-by-scobey-photography/

Advice for brides when choosing her rental company:

Think about service and quality first. All rental companies in Nashville have relatively similar pricing. They don’t have similar service levels. At Southern Events, we go beyond to ensure our clients know what they need, know what to expect and receive attention to detail like no other. We also provide the most variety of unique rental options (Vintage Prop Shoppe, Farm Tables, Heirloom China, ModBox Seating, loads of decor such as lanterns, wrought iron accessories and cake plateaus). Our inventory is also top quality. Chairs are cleaned before every event, bars are sanded and re-stained, linens are the best quality available.

Sure, another company may offer you a lower price, but are they cleaning the product or are you? Are they offering you extensive set up options and services such as floor plan assistance, linen installation and order reviews with other vendors such as your caterer?

Make sure you know what level of service you are receiving before you sign a contract! Many clients tell us that our pricing is more competitive, and they also receive more hands-on help and more choices!

How much should a couple plan to budget for their rentals?

Budgeting for rentals all depends on the type of venue the couple chooses. Outdoor weddings, for example, may call for tent(s), tables, chairs and linens as well as things such as a restroom trailer, special catering equipment and warmers, generators, lighting, staging, dance floors and even trash cans. For other events, some venues also provide certain items such as tables and chairs, so clients may only need to rent linens and specialty items. Other venues offer a blank slate for clients to create the event style and set up they choose. Clients have to consider things such as seating all guests versus having a mix-and-mingle style reception where only some guests are seated. While you cannot specifically set a budget up front for rentals, once you’ve given us a good idea of your event venue and style, we can help you determine the options you have and the overall cost to be expected.

What items do you think are worth the splurge?

I personally think that specialty linens are worth the splurge! Our specialty linens allow you to completely transform your tabletop and make a huge visual impact. For approximately $15-25 more per table, you can get texture such as lace, dupioni, brocades, or pintuck. If you can’t afford the full linen, we also have a large variety of specialty runner styles that range from $6 – $10 each.

I also recommend spending more money on the item that you love the most. If it’s Chiavari Chairs, know that they will look amazing in every photo of your ceremony or reception! If it’s Heirloom China, your guests will never forget the unique style of the plates and how they looked on your tabletop or buffet set up. If it’s a lounge full of Vintage Prop Shoppe furniture, the money spent will well pay off in unique photo opportunities and your guests will take full advantage of relaxing amidst your event excitement!

What is your favorite color combination or theme right now?

While soft colors like champagne and textures like burlap are all the rage, I love when clients choose to add color to their table linens. I especially love color when blended with the rustic, burlap and lace themes. Our Aubergine poly looks amazing with our Oatmeal specialty linen. It’s great to use a range of colors also, such as our warm blues: Midnight, Wedgewood and Slate! Play with colors. Don’t feel limited with traditional white, ivory or black. Don’t feel like you have to match your bridesmaids’ dresses to the “T.” Just compliment the color(s) you’ve chosen for them. They may be happy to not match the table linens for once! The overall feel of your wedding can change instantly when color or texture is added to the linens. Don’t be afraid to try!

Tell us about Southern Event’s latest addition – The Vintage Prop Shoppe:

Our Vintage Prop Shoppe is full of unique couches/loveseats, tables, chairs, and accessories like chalk boards, shutters, beverage and fruit crates, bird cages, old books, and suitcases. We even have really unusual accents like Hungarian Baby Baths (think out of the ordinary bottled beverage dispenser) and we have over 400 place settings of vintage mix-match Heirloom China. You can’t find those things anywhere else in Nashville! We are also the only rental company in Nashville to offer gorgeous Farm Tables and Rustic Benches.

Phone: (615) 595-8508

Website: www.southerneventsonline.com

Check out Southern Events Party Rentals on Facebook!

The Company: CJ’s Off the Square/Williamson County Weddings

My Name: Amy Parman

I’m known for: Designer events at CJ’s Off the Square! Our space is so versatile and I love developing a new look and feel for each client that walks in the door.

When you get a break from your busy lifestyle, what do you like to do for fun? I have a home garden that I love tending daily – this year I grew cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, green beans, watermelon, and an enormous herb garden. Besides that I love going for a run in downtown Franklin and doing yoga, reading tons of books (memoirs and biographies are favorites), and traveling, traveling, traveling.

What are some of your favorite restaurants? Wild Ginger for sushi, Bombay Bistro for Indian, and Watermark for special occasions. And for a great night out, The Patterson House!

You started in the music business. What kind of music do you listen to? This list could quickly grow out of control! But always in the mix are John Mayer, Coldplay, Ray Charles, Adele, U2, The Swell Season, Robbie Seay Band, Patty Griffin, The Beatles, Imogen Heap, Breanne Duren, MuteMath, Marc Broussard, and The Script. And Justin Caldwell, who leads our favorite band here at CJ’s – www.thedowntownband.com – has some fantastic solo music as well!

Favorite detail of a wedding? My favorite things are usually tied to the couple’s personality or personal story – for example, our clients Jen & Mike met at work, and their coworkers often called them Pam & Jim from the TV show The Office. So at their wedding, we added the little portrait that Michael Scott painted for Pam & Jim’s wedding right in front of the wedding cake. Hilarious and adorable!

Hiring a wedding planner is expensive. Is it really necessary? That answer entirely depends on what you want YOUR wedding experience to be like. Do you truly have the time to research, narrow down, meet with, and manage vendors? Do you want to be responsible for overseeing the installation and coordination of logistical and creative issues on the big day, while also getting ready, taking pictures, and enjoying your loved ones in the environment you’ve been imagining for months, maybe years? If you want to experience your wedding as a bride and not as a manager, then YES, you need a planner!

You have been here since CJ’s Off the Square opened in 2005. How have things changed? Visually, our venue has undergone a wonderful transformation over the years. The addition of our Event Pavilion in 2010 was fantastic, and the Gardens continue to grow lovelier every year. In addition, over time we have assembled simply the best vendor team in town, in my humble opinion! As a team, we are capable of producing dramatically different events –perhaps a country chic wedding Friday night, a formal and decadent reception on Saturday, and a simple, elegant brunch affair on Sunday morning. We have done it all!

What makes CJ’s Off the Square different from other venues/event planning companies? CJ’s is one of the few thoroughly all-inclusive venues in Middle Tennessee. There is nothing we can’t find and arrange for you, and with hundreds of weddings under our belt, we have narrowed our vendor team down to only the most competent, professional, and pleasant vendors you could hope to work with.

What have been some of your favorite weddings over the years and why? How do I even pick?! One of my recent favorites was Beth & Kye this May – they wanted such a unique event. Their entire menu was served in a passed style in multiple courses, and instead of traditional seating we transformed the Pavilion into a lounge. Read all about it here on WedCandy!

What are some of your current favorite wedding trends? My favorite trend in the wedding world is that clients are focused more than ever on guests having a great time, whatever that means to them. Do your loved ones enjoy playing games and taking silly pictures? Great! Let’s set up a cornhole game and a photo booth with fun props! Do you and your friends love trying new cuisines? Fabulous! Let’s create an international menu that introduces them to delicious new ideas!

Do you have any advice for couples for how to choose a venue? A wedding planner? It may sound simple, but before you visit ANY venue, make a real guest list and be honest with yourself about a budget limit. Don’t let yourself go and fall in love with a place that is half the size and twice the cost you need! Also, any venue you can do both your ceremony and reception at is a great choice. This is always nice for your guests, so they don’t have to travel between events. As far as a planner, the personality must fit. You have to enjoy their company and communicate well, because you’ll be talking to that person as much as your fiancée in this process!

Website: http://www.cjsoffthesquare.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CJsOfftheSquare

Twitter: http://twitter.com/cjsoffthesquare

Phone: 615-216-7576

The Company: Jason Middleton Entertainment

I’m Known for: DJing weddings and wedding receptions

What I do for fun (when not working): Boating and water sports with family and friends
Favorite Nashville Area Hang: Ryman Auditorium—I could sit and watch anyone play there.

Favorite Music: Feel good music. Whatever makes me feel good at that moment. I love to dance so I’m a sucker for anything that makes me move—classic or brand new. But if I had to pick one I would say R & B.

How did you get started in DJing? My dad started djing as a side gig in 1983—I used to go with him when he played for the high schools and tell him what to play (I was 13). At 17, I basically took his spot and grew the business from there. Now 80% of our business is weddings.

What do you enjoy about doing weddings? Watching people have a good time. I love to watch people dance. I have the best view in the room! It is such a happy day and I know that my part is important. The guests may not remember what the cake tasted like in 10 years…but they will remember if the music was good and how much everyone danced.

What should every couple think about when choosing a DJ for their event? The DJ is not only the record player…he is the MC of the event and keeps things moving with energy without interruption and breaks.

Keep in mind that anyone can get an MP3 player, speakers and a set of lights and call themselves a professional DJ. Experience is the most important quality. A DJ that knows his/her music library and understands that you will have guests
there from 8 to 80 is a must. I love when a teenager and a great-grandparent come up at the end of the night and tell me they have never had as much fun at a wedding reception.

We’ve all been to weddings with that “bad DJ”, but our clients and their guests always love having you. What is it that you do (or not do!) that makes everyone have such a great time? I prepare for every wedding reception individually and cater the music around the personality of the bride, groom and what they tell me their guests will like. I mix that with the classic and modern feel good music and it’s party time! I never go into a reception with a set play list…every reception is different. What I DON’T do is try to make it MY night. I’m not hanging out on your dance floor and I won’t show up in all of your wedding pics. I play good music…keep things upbeat and moving…it’s a model that has worked for us since 1987.

I ENJOY MY JOB AND IT SHOWS!

Company:
Brandon Chesbro, Wedding Photographer

I’m Known for:
Natural, rustic, sunbathed, outdoor weddings

What I do for fun (when not working):
I love the outdoors! Rock climbing, riding my motorcycle (ahem, it may actually be my wife’s motorcycle), and even an occasional hunting expedition!

Favorite Nashville Area Hang: Nashville? Has to be Crema, an amazing little coffee joint

What got you in to photography? And what interested you in shooting weddings?
I’ve always loved taking photos. My mom gave me an old Canon camera when I was about 12 and I never stopped clicking! I still have that camera. By the time I was out of high school I had framed photos of my friends all over my walls, and I knew I wanted to do something with photos for a living! I went to college for video and film, had some (really) odd jobs for a few years, and ended up touring with a band doing their video and photos. But whenever I was home, it was photographing weddings, and I loved it! Ultimately the desire to shoot weddings won out over touring, and I quit with the band to stay home with my wife and focus on wedding photography. I love seeing couples in love. I love seeing that intimacy in a couple. I love the excitement leading up to the wedding, and of course the bliss on the day of the event. And I love the perfect blend of fashion, journalism and lifestyle that wedding photography offers.

What should a couple look for in a wedding photographer?
That’s always a funny question for me, because the way I see it, it’s the other way around! I want to be the right photographer for my client. So in the interview process, I think of it as me interviewing my bride and groom rather than them interviewing me! The couple needs to not only love the work of the photographer, but also make sure their wedding lines up with the type of weddings the photographer shoots. For example, you wouldn’t hire a photographer who specializes in flash and major post processing if you want a very natural, organic type wedding. Unless that’s what you want!

Do you have any advice for brides and grooms who are uncomfortable in front of the camera?
Well the generic answer is “pretend I’m not there”, which is pretty hard to do. So I try my best to have some trick to get the couple loosened up. Once that happens, I get to see the couple get lost in each other, which is always one of my favorite moments to shooting!

Where is the most unique location you have shot a wedding?
Haha, well while this isn’t my usual location style, some dear friends of mine got married at the Titan’s stadium! Definitely stands out! It was part of an awesome Christian weekend event there.

We have seen a lot of great location shoots for engagement pictures lately. How do you find the perfect setting for your couples?
As with most of my work, it is really important to me that the location, the wardrobe, and the lighting reflect my couples personalities. So it varies. I tend to lean to the outdoors most often, but a special place to them will usually bring out the best emotions for photos.

You also have experience in cinematography. What advice do you have for couples considering video services for their wedding?
The video question. I think every couple is different, but from my own personal experience, I am so glad we had a video of our wedding! I think when a video is artfully done the right way, it is just as important as the photos. Just make sure you are absolutely in love with the work. If you are, don’t hesitate and you won’t regret it!

Wedding photography can cost several thousand dollars. What do you suggest to stay on budget but not sacrifice quality?
Go for a photographer who offers a la carte. That way, you can purchase prints and books at a later time. For now, I offer my photos on a disc, which gives the bride and groom and option to print their photos when it’s financially smart!

You have shot multiple times at CJ’s Off the Square. What are your top 3 favorite shots?

My website: www.BrandonChesbro.com

My blog: http://brandonchesbrophotography.tumblr.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brandon-Chesbro-Wedding-Photographer/206561352724511

Twitter: @branchesbro

Phone: 615-419-5578

Company:

With This Ring Wedding Films

Name:

Brian Johnson, owner and lead filmmaker

We’re Known for:

In the last couple years, we’ve gotten a lot of really great feedback on our unique teaser videos.  They’re fun, punchy, and injected with tons of our couples’ personality.  These sneak peeks are ready to share only a week after your wedding day!

What we do for fun (when not working):

I love to travel.  Caught the bug a few years ago and haven’t been able to sit still since!  Check out the blog post about our trip to Vietntiane and Luang Prabang, Laos this summer.  There’s nothing like spending the 4th of July in a communist country to make you appreciate home all the more.

Favorite Nashville Area Hang:

Right now I’m digging Bella Napoli in Cool Springs.  True Italian-style pizza in Tennessee?  Yep!  I also frequent Dai Viet Restaurant in Nashville.  If you haven’t had a hot bowl of pho on a cool fall night you don’t know what you’re missing!

Favorite Music:

I’m a child of the 80s and 90s, so I’d have to say the theme songs for Transformers, Smurfs, Gummi Bears and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.  I’m kidding of course, but you’ve gotta admit they don’t make cartoons like they used to.

How did you get started in Cinematography?

I’ve always loved movies, and even made a few of my own as a kid.   I studied television and film production at The University of Alabama, and the rest of my crew graduated from local film programs like Watkins and MTSU.
Why the wedding industry? There are many roads a pro videographer can take, but few offer the diversity and opportunity for creativity of weddings.  Of the 40 or so we shoot each year, no two are exactly the same – and that’s probably what I love the most!

How do you describe your style?

Modern.  Cinematic.  Photojournalistic.

What is unique about your services?

With This Ring offers full HD cinematic wedding films at an affordable price.  We shoot entirely with DSLR cameras, a labor intensive workflow that’s usually accompanied by a hefty price tag.  Brides love our movie-like look and feel…and that we don’t break the bank.

Many couples still view Videography as a luxury in their roster of wedding services. What are they missing out on, and what tips can you give them to keep their Videography budget manageable?

The most common thing we hear from the friends and family of our couples is “Wow!  Amazing video!  I wish we hired a videographer for our wedding!”

Photography is quite often a “must have” and can capture many special moments during your wedding day.  Videography is different.  Imagine your kids laughing as they watch mom toss her bouquet, sitting in silence to hear your vows, or being embarrassed when dad shakes a tailfeather at your reception.  Photos are great, but video captures movement, sound, and the emotions of the moment.

Approach videography in a way that will please your budget by prioritizing what parts of your wedding day are the most important to you.  Our 5 hour package is perfect for capturing your ceremony and reception.   8 or 12 hours would afford a broader look at your wedding day activities.  Be sure to ask about customization options if you don’t fall into one of the pre-designed packages.

Website: www.withthisringvideo.com

Phone: 615.828.3669

My blog: www.withthisringvideo.com/blog

Twitter: @WTRFilms

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WithThisRingWeddingFilms

I am: Amy Lynn Larwig

I’m Known For: makeup and hair fabulousness

Website: www.amylynnlarwig.com

What I do for fun (when I’m not doing a wedding): My husband and I cook a lot, and we watch a ton of sitcoms and documentaries.

Favorite Nashville Area Hang: El Sombrero. Chips & Salsa. Outdoor patio. And $1.25 Dos Equis! Yessss……

What should a bride look for in a hair/makeup artist? The hair/makeup artist that you choose for your wedding day should be someone that meets your needs in a few ways. First of all, you have to like their work. If you’re into
soft natural looks and their portfolio only has hot pink and electric blue, they may not be the best fit for you. Also, you need to like them! This is the person you are going to start your wedding day process with, so if they get on your nerves, choose someone else. You want your day to be filled with joy and peacefulness and some excitement, not awkwardness or drama. Choose someone whose personality is a good fit for you.

How far in advance should a bride secure her beauty services? You need to start considering what beauty services you’ll need about 6 months in advance. Some dates are very popular and are booked a year ahead of time, others not so much. But on average, about 6 months out you should start looking into artists.

Do recommend that brides have an aesthetic services done leading up to her wedding? What and when?   If you plan to have any facials, peels, laser treatments, etc done pre-wedding, do it EARLY. Plan your first treatment
several months in advance to observe how your skin reacts. Never have anything done less than 2 weeks before the day. Heaven forbid, you had a reaction, you would need the time for it to clear up. Facials are fantastic and can address
certain skin issues. I recommend a good exfoliating facial if you are having a spring/summer wedding to make sure you get all the winter gunk off.

How do you help a bride decide what the right look is for her wedding day? We take into account lots of details about your wedding and how you normally do your hair and makeup everyday. After talking about the dress, the colors, the location, and the time of day, we consider your normal routine and how pieces of that can play into the wedding day look. I also encourage all of my ladies to bring in pictures from magazines or online that they like.

What are some of your favorite looks you’ve done for our CJ’s brides?

Sarah – those eyes! She only needed a little bit to make her face dazzle. And she has fantastic skin, so a glowy finish was perfect.

Britney – This bride was so hot. She had striking blue eyes which we played up with coppers and a dark liner. And those cheekbones were to die for!

Beth – Her hair was one of my favs. Low, classic, and sure to sustain all the heat, hugs, and dancing.