Drum Roll Please…BEAUTIFUL wedding ceremony and reception vendor

It’s been a couple weeks…since I posed this question…but I finally have an answer for you.  And, really, it’s a beauty.

A month or two ago, Scott of Gervasi, contacted us to do some photography for their website and brochures.  After following Gervasi on Facebook for a while I expected it to be nice.  But, I had no idea how nice.  If you are searching for the perfect place to get married (or a date night out for that matter) look no further.  Gervasi Vineyard & Italian Bistro is a new winery, restaurant, and wedding venue this year.  And, I am not exaggerating when I say it is GORGEOUS.

The Piazza.  Everytime I have seen the patio open it’s been packed with people.  You can sip wine and eat while gazing out upon the water, playing a game of bocce, or sitting out on the lawn.

Here is the wedding pavilion.  It is lovely on the outside…and the inside…it’s breathtaking.

I will have more to share at a later date…but trust me when I say that it is just lovely.  See them on our new preferred vendor page.

Gray & Yellow {Steve & Angela’s Wedding Photography}

It seems impossible but they kept their relationship strong for over five years of distance.  She was in Ohio and he in Indiana, but isn’t that what love does?  The impossible?  Love asks things of us that we’d never sign up on our own.

Angela had headed out to Indiana to visit some friends.  She had no intention of meeting a guy there.  She lived in Columbus and was just hoping to catch up with friends.  But, despite the distance between them, she and Steve did meet and she got a call from him a few weeks later.  I don’ t think she was disappointed though.  ;)  I think either one of them would have driven much further to be together.

On a trip last year to San Diego, Steve surprised Angela by proposing. The dream was realized this July in Barberton, Ohio (Angela’s home town).  After years of traveling to get there I imagine if feels good to finally just be together.

Some of the wonderful people and places who made their day possible:

Colors: Gray & Yellow

Ceremony Location: Prince of Peace Catholic Church

Reception Location: Prime

Florist: A Blooming Hart

Bakery: Leach’s Meats & Sweets

Gown Boutique: Cincinnati Bridal and Formal

DJ: DJ Crew

Hair Stylist: Erin’s Studio of Hair & Nail Design

Makeup Artist: Fierce About Face {440-655-2208}

I met the girls at the hair salon that morning.  I love this next sequence.  Isn’t Angela radiant?

And Steve looks pretty dapper himself.

Dave always meets the guys while I spend time with the girls.  It’s always fun when the images get merged together and I get a peek at what the guys did that morning.  When I saw this photo on my screen I fell in love.  To me, it conveys so much emotion–excitement, apprehension, even love.  (Of course, Hallmark commercials do make me cry.)

Angela custom made most of the details in their wedding.  There is a big difference between “handmade” and custom made and trust me when I say that Angela’s were custom made!  Just gorgeous!

Her something blue was an etsy find.  The pearl is held by metal stamped with S & A and the date.  Such a cute little detail.  Loved it.

I wish I had been able to hear what Angela and her dad were talking about!  Their laughs were contagious and I have no idea what was so funny!

The send off was adorable with Angela’s flags and pinwheels held by their loved ones.

I love the vibrant yellow.  It’s such a happy color.

Angela grew up in Barberton.  We headed out to Lake Anna for some shots around the town.  I’m not sure what it is about this next one…just a candid moment…but I love it.

I also love these next two.  Probably two of my favorites of the day.  And can I just mention that I love these bridesmaids?  They were so great to work with.

This was a fun find.  ”A great place to chill.”

Steve and Angela planned so much time for photographs.  It was wonderful.  They even scheduled time for the bridal party to stop at David B’s for some appetizers and drinks.  One of the best things you can do to get great photographs on your wedding day (besides hiring a great photographer…ahem, ahem) is to schedule lots of creative time.

More yummy details!  Each bridal party member was welcomed to their seat with a place card that looked like these:

Seriously?  Did you notice that they look like themselves?!  I want one for myself.  No I want one for every member of my family…these may be the most adorable things I’ve ever seen!  Even the Mr. & Mrs. had them:

It’s hard to find enough words without repeating myself constantly…but the photos say it all.

For more of Steve & Angela’s day, click play below to view the slideshow.  Please wait while it loads…I promise it’s worth it.  {If you are viewing from Facebook or an RSS feed, please follow this link and scroll to the bottom of the page.}

Why I Love the UPS man…

Because he brings albums like this…

…with spreads like this…

These Art Books are beautifully bound.  Donny & Maris chose a black leather with photo strip option.

I wish I could have kept her forever, but I had to let her go.  Gabby packaged her up and we shipped her to Donny & Maris today.  Goodbye sweet album.  Take care.

Soaking Up Summer

Yes, I’ve been a terrible blogger lately.  I have been desperately trying to enjoy every second of summer that I have had free before it ends.  Somehow, though, it is still slipping away.  Quickly.  Very quickly.

I have so much to share though.  Here is a small clue of what is to come:

and…

…and so much more.  Trust me.

Check back tomorrow for some fun family shots.  Until then, enjoy the sunshine.

Wedding Wednesday {Best Cleveland Area Wedding Vendors, Tips, & Ideas}

I am so thrilled to introduce an great company to you today.  I was out at their studio a few months back and I have to tell you I was very impressed.

Hi Leigh, Have you been with Jerry Bruno Productions long?  What do you do there?  What’s the best part about your job?

I have been with Jerry Bruno Productions since July of 2005. I started out just a couple days a week, then began doing event coordination but realized sales isn’t for me. So I proposed to take over website editing and begin internet marketing, which is in line with my degree and experience in Public Relations. I love getting a chance to utilize creative skills and learn about internet marketing daily.

In 2006, Jerry put together a new band called The Avenue and invited me to be one of its singers. I asked a friend that I used to sing with in a girl group at Pickwick & Frolic, Tiffany Marchak, to join, and we pieced together the rest of the band via connections and ads.

(Leigh, singing with The Avenue)

When did Jerry Bruno Productions begin as a company?  How did it get started?

The Bruno family has long standing music roots in the Cleveland area. Jerry Bruno moved to Los Angeles in the 80s and created The Jerry Bruno Music Network there. His clients included the likes of President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan, Princess Di, and the casts and crews of “Cheers” and “Taxi.” He conducted a string ensemble for Bon Jovi’s after-Oscars party in 1990.

Jerry returned home to Cleveland in 1995 and began growing what is now known as Jerry Bruno Productions.

Your website describes your company as a “wedding entertainment source,”  what do you mean by this?

About 90% of our booked jobs are at wedding ceremonies and receptions. But in addition to over 20 bands and 20 DJs, we represent countless musicians and acts for all aspects of an event. We’ve booked string quartets to play everything from Bach to Metallica at ceremonies, and Elvis impersonators to entertain at rehearsal dinners.

We also have a lot of clients needing entertainment for corporate events and private parties, as well.

If a couple walks in, who should they expect to talk to?

Currently, most of the booking and event coordination is handled by DJ Scott Jones and and Geoff Short. Scott is our General Manager and has been working at the office for a decade, and Geoff is band leader of and singer in The Avenue. They both have extensive experience planning and performing for weddings at all the major local venues.

(The amazing Scott Jones)

When would you recommend a DJ for a wedding and when would you recommend a band?

It can be a matter of taste and/or price. Some feel that a band provides an air of class, while others just want someone to be in charge of playing music at the right time and making announcements.

There are exceptions, but most of our bands excel at playing a wide range of popular genres and songs, which is great if your guests range in age from 8 to 80. If most of your dancing crowd is younger and into primarily modern music, a DJ might be a better fit. Many clients hire a band for the first four hours and then a DJ for the final hour or two, for the younger crowd.

What unique qualities does each have to offer?

A DJ is usually more affordable than a fully stocked band, and you’ll hear the original, familiar versions of all your favorite music. A band will provide more crowd interaction and bring more energy and personality to the room. (Our DJs pretty much stay at their booth, no dancing on speakers or singing along.)

If a bride is interested in a particular band, how far in advance should she be sure to book?

At least a year. As of July of 2010, we already have some bands and DJs booked for dates in October of 2011.

If a couple has no idea what the best entertainment choice is for their wedding, can you help guide them to a perfect match?

Absolutely! First, we can narrow choices down using availability for their date. Then, we can show them some choices on DVD. If a client isn’t feeling the vibe of a band or DJ, we’re pretty good at reading that. No problem, we move on to other choices. We’ll find out about their venue, their budget, their guests and their favorite music, and usually one or two bands or DJs will come to mind as a good fit.

What question should every couple ask their entertainment before booking with them?

They should find out if the individual they are meeting with, or those featured in the video, will be the same individuals who will be performing at the event. Some companies book under one name, then farm out the work to anyone available. But one song can sound VERY different sung by different singers, and different DJs have very different personalities. Not to mention one song list doesn’t fit all bands.

At the same time, conflicts can occur. Once or twice a year, we may need to replace a lead singer or DJ due to illness. The fact that we have a pre-screened talent roster in our pocket is a major plus to booking through an agency. We can easily fill-in a role at the last minute if needed, and the bride won’t be bothered with added stress the day of her wedding.

Leigh, thank you so much for your time.  I look very forward to working with you guys in the future.

Fun Canton Wedding Photographs {Matt & Erin}

When I arrived at the hotel the bridesmaids sat and watched as Erin’s hair was being styled.  Erin was calm and collected after months of intense planning…this was it.  She looked beautiful.  Gorgeous actually.  Laughter and conversation filled the room as all the last minute details were being cared for.  I can’ t think of many better ways to spend the morning of your wedding day.

Matt and Erin had met at Yankee Peddler but didn’t spend much time together then.  They exchanged screen names and for months spent hours chatting online.  (This was pre-Facebook after all.)  After so much time chatting without moving any further…Erin finally asked what Matt was thinking.  Is this going anywhere or not she wanted to know.

It was.  After seven years together, Matt and Erin were married at First Christian Church in Canton last month.  All of their family was gathered around them and celebrated as they spent the night dancing and enjoying the beginning of their lives together.  Dave and I were happy to be there to photograph the two of them and this wedding that they had poured so much of themselves into.

Kudos to this awesome bridal party.  I felt like another bridesmaid minus a cool silver dress.  They even did my hair.  I had a blast with them!

I’m not sure what it is about this next one that I love.  But I love it.  Isn’t Erin gorgeous?

Matt just after seeing his bride.

Did I mention that this was a cool bridal party?

To view even more images, please click play below.  The slideshow is about 3 minutes long.  Please be patient while loading, it’s worth it!  {Anyone viewing on Facebook or in an RSS Feed, click here.}

Matt & Erin…thank you both so much for allowing us the pleasure of working with you both.  We wish you both the best.

Canton Engagement Session {Brian & Jen}

He was driving like a maniac.  That’s her side of the story anyway.  She was so mad she even asked around town and found his address.  She completely intended to knock on the door and give him a piece of her mind.  She knocked and he answered, but apparently she forgave him, because soon after they were dating.  Then, last December, Brian set out on an elaborate plan to ask Jen to marry him.  To keep her from being suspicious, he worked with 94.1 to be sure that Jen would win tickets to a Cavs game.  On the night of the game, she came home to find a Christmas tree decorated with a box next to it.  She said yes {of course!} and they went to see the game as a newly engaged couple.

We began our session at Silver Park in Alliance.  Brian and Jen brought their other love, Daisy, along and she snuck in a few photos.  :)

She is a cutie, huh?

Jen, you look beautiful!

After a quick clothing change, we headed over to Mount Union…

Here’s Dave’s perspective of the fire escape:

And mine:

Brian & Jen have visited Bubba Gump and wanted a bus stop shot.  We couldn’t find a good bench but this worked just fine.  Daisy seems to like it too, don’t you think?

Thanks Brian and Jen!  We are looking forward to your wedding this September.

Akron Lakeside Wedding Photography {Efrem & Keera}

There are a lot of people who claim to love.  They swear up and down their love…until things get hard.  For better or worse…until the worse comes.  Efrem is not that kind of man.  He’s proven that.  Keera has been dealing with Cystic Fibrosis her whole life and a few months ago her lungs began to fail.  Efrem sat by her side for weeks as she awaited a double lung transplant and then went through the hard work of recovery.  She couldn’t look at him, smile at him, or talk to him for a long while.  Yet, there he sat.

Her friends and family banded together and created multiple fundraising events to help Keera and Efrem with the huge medical bills.  Auctions, tournaments, live bands, dinners…all created and run with love for these two.  I wish I had known them then.  I would have loved to have been there to support them.  This couple has been through more than most.

I wasn’ t there then, but a few weeks back, Dave and I had the pleasure of being there as Efrem and Keera were married.

The day was gorgeous and Spring Lake Party Center was set up beautifully.

Look at this light!

Efrem, Keera, and their friends and family helped with many of the details.  Keera even made her own garters…aren’t they adorable?

Keera took a few minutes to write a letter for Efrem.

Just before the ceremony, I walked into the dressing room and found this:

Could she be any more beautiful?  And the men don’t look so bad either…

I love how Efrem looks at her.  So sweet.

I am pretty sure this next one is my favorite.  I love their faces.

Organ donor cards and information were provided to all the guests.  You can find information on becoming a donor here.

Efrem and Keera…thank you both so much for asking us to be a part of your day.  Blessings to you.

To view the slideshow with even more images, please click play below.  {If viewing on Facebook or an RSS Feed, click here.}

Classy Akron Wedding Photography {Donny & Maris}

Maris was joyful when I arrived at the salon as she and her friends and family got ready.  She knew the day would be the one she’s been waiting for.  The one she’d done all that traveling for.  They had prepared for every detail–a perfect location, a classy band, an elegant dress.  There was only one aspect that couldn’t be cared for in advance–the weather.

It  rained that day.  Actually, it poured.  But, the rain couldn’t stop the joy.  Donny & Maris were married under the cover of the Conservatory at Stan Hywet.  Despite the last minute changes, the wedding was beautiful and the bride and groom glowed along with the rest of the festivities.  I think in the end, they made their own sunshine.

I think the difference between great weddings and fabulous weddings is the details.  And trust me, details there were.  Here is Maris’s head piece.  Gorgeous, right?

Stan Hywet made the perfect backdrop for the day.  Donny and Maris were actually the first couple to ever be married in the front of the Conservatory.

Donny and Maris opted for a First Glance.  I love it.  I love capturing this moment when they first see one another and they can be alone for a time before the ceremony begins.  Some brides and grooms have confessed that it was their only time alone the entire day.

Maris has such grace about her.

More yummy details.

I had to include this shot.  Look at the cool stitching on the programs.

Donny’s father toasted the couple…

…followed by Maris’s sister.  And it may have been one of the cutest toasts I’ve ever heard.

Donny and Maris, thank you both for sharing your day with us.  It was a pleasure.

Some of the wonderful people and places who made their day possible:

Ceremony & Reception Location: Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

Colors: Black & White with Pops of Red

Florist: The Towne Florist

Bakery: West Side Bakery

Gown Boutique: The Country Bride and Gent

Videographer: Aaron Ruegg

Hair Stylist: Martha Vale

Makeup and Bridesmaid’s Hair: Carol Martin’s

Click below to view the slideshow.  {Please be patient.  It may take a moment to load.  Anyone viewing on Facebook or in an RSS feed, click here.}

Dave & Elisha Live Wedding Photo Booth

Looking for a fun option for your wedding reception? How about a Heritage Photo Booth? Our Live Photo Booth can be added to any wedding package.

Check out some images from Dave & Elisha’s booth below:

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