Who doesn’t know the “Kelly bag” by Hermes? Probably every elegant woman in the world wants one. The waitlist is years long. Resales boom.
Photo credit: Pinterest
But have you ever asked yourself for whom the bag was named?
The bag, named Petit Sac à Courroies, was first designed by Hermes in 1935 – and, believe it or not, it was not a success. But…. that changed dramatically when American actress Grace Kelly …
Photo credit: Pinterest
… had to carry one onscreen in one of her Hitchcock thrillers and came to love it so much that she kept carrying one privately. This was the public breakthrough…
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Already a star, with an Academy Award and three Golden Globes to her credit, she was copied by a whole generation of fashionable women – and when she married Prince Rainier III of Monaco, “Princess Gracia Patricia” became a forever fashion icon.
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No matter that she’d be nearly 100 years old by now – her effortless elegance is as stunning today and still serves as inspiration to designers and fashionistas alike (think: Red Carpet….)
Photo credit: Pinterest
Photo credit: Pinterest
Photo credit: Pinterest
And in terms of bridal couture: her dress was clearly an inspiration to Kate Middleton’s…
I have collaborated with Saida and Chantal, the charismatic owners of Nouvelle Vogue Bridal Salon, on many wedding projects and styled photoshoots. These two were the first ones to bring French/European bridal couture to the US two decades ago, and their style, taste and commitment to their brides is simply unmatched. Here are their expert insights in how to choose your wedding dress.
Photo credit: Vicens Forns
Photo credit: Vicens Forns
Photo credit: Vicens Forns
Photo credit: Danny Dong – A Savin of London Dress
Another insight into the ground rules for wedding photography from acclaimed San Francisco photographer Kevin Chin with whom I have worked on many weddings – and his photos are always fantastic! Elegant, capturing the atmosphere and the moment AND all the pretty details – a balanced approach to capturing a wedding, and always stunning!
“How did you get into photography? And, in particular, into WEDDING photography? What is it that fascinates you about it?“
Like many people, photography started as a hobby for me. I was always the one taking photos on family vacations and gatherings. I started taking photos of my friends for fun. From there, people started to ask me to shoot their family portraits and weddings. The rest is history. Weddings are the most important day in a person’s life, and I feel privileged and honored to capture their special day. Experiencing the joy and emotions of a wedding day is something that I never get tired of.
“What is your specific style and why?”
I would say I incorporate a mixture of many different styles when shooting a wedding. You need to well-versed in many photography styles to capture all the different elements of a wedding. I am very good at posing my couples to flatter their body characteristics and their style to make them look their best. I’m also good at observing and capturing real candid moments throughout the day. And, of course, I use my creative eye to capture all the pretty details of the wedding day that the couple has chosen, which include the wedding dress, flowers, decor, venue, etc. I also take into account what style of photography my couple is looking for. Some prefer candids and don’t like posing for photos, while others want beautiful posed portraits and want to look like a model. I try to capture a good mixture of everything, but I’m happy to accommodate their preferences.
“How have you evolved as a photographer?”
I have been a professional photographer for over 30 years. I have gone from shooting film to digital. I have always strived to shoot in a classic style that will not look dated over time. During the film days when there weren’t any previews of the photos you were shooting, with practice and experience, I developed a repertoire of poses and key shots that I knew would always work and that every couple would like. These were the “safe shots” or “money shots” that I knew I had mastered and that I could rely on for every wedding. When digital came around, I was able to experiment more because I could see a preview of the images as I was shooting. This gave me the freedom to experiment more which, I feel, made me a more creative photographer. I feel I offer the best of both worlds because I learned the fundamentals of photography with film and became even more creative with digital technology.
“How do you connect with couples?”
My couples tell me that they appreciate my calm demeanor and easygoing personality. This is something that is appreciated on the wedding day because it helps the couple stay calm on their wedding day.
“What is the difference between an experienced professional photographer and laypeople shooting with their cellphone cameras?”
Wedding photography is the one category that couples should invest in wisely because when the wedding is over, all you have left are your wedding photos. You want to make sure you invest in an experienced professional photographer that can capture all the different events of a wedding day. As I mentioned before, a professional photographer should be experienced with capturing flattering portraits, candids that capture authentic moments, and beautiful detail and venue shots.
These different photography styles is what it takes to capture the true essence of the wedding day. You may love the style of your photographer that you are about to choose, but make sure they are experienced on how a wedding day flows. This is important because you want to make sure your photographer doesn’t miss any key moments such as the first kiss, the first dance, etc. Once the moment is over, it’s over. There are no second takes on a wedding day.
“Why is wedding photography expensive?”
You pay for what you get!
“Anything else you want to add?”
Whomever you pick as your photographer, you want to make sure you get along with that person because your photographer will be with starting with you putting on the dress until the last dance. You want to make sure that you like this person and that you vibe with their personality.
On how to choose your perfect wedding photographer
“How did I get into photography? And why am I fascinated by weddings?
I believe both my twin brother and I got the artistic genes from my mother. She was an art major in college. Definitely not from my dad; he had an engineering mind. Though I didn’t draw, I picked up a camera (film of course) when I was a child. And I fooled around with photography through high school. Taking pictures of friends and family. Then, after graduating college, wanting to travel and not sit behind a desk, I started modeling. This gave me freedom to travel (which is a big part of my photography journey now) and I met and worked with some of the best photographers around the world. In a way, modeling was my photography school. I learned “in front of the camera” (as a model) how to direct my subjects from behind the camera (as a photographer). After traveling extensively during my 20’s, I felt it was time to settle down, and photography was a very natural progression as I had been involved in image creating for many years already. Since I was very comfortable around people (traveling and working on so many fashion sets), I felt I had more than enough experience in directing people to create “fashionable portraits.” Combining this with the non-stop photojournalistic photography that I did while traveling, I felt I was groomed for wedding photography (the culmination of both portraiture and photojournalism, set in a high pace environment). It didn’t take long before I was booking jobs in the Bay Area, Southern California, Texas, and a number of other cities around the US.
So what brought me to weddings was my previous experience, what kept me immersed in the wedding industry was: 1) The incredible satisfaction of capturing once in a lifetime moments to preserve forever, and the connection and appreciation from my clients. 2) The wonderful network of vendors that I worked with regularly at these events. From wedding coordinators, to caterers, to florists, and the venue operators. I was working two, or three events every weekend so we got to know each there very well. They were my extended family.
What is my specific style, and why?
Photography, is a visual representation on how I view the world. This is what makes each artist different. I love the spontaneity and unpredictability of life. It fascinates me. Having the vision and skill to capture these fleeting moments in a way that expresses the feeling and emotions of that instance is inspiring. This is the photojournalist in me. Along with that, composing and directing “set shots” that bring out the best in whoever I work with, is another rewarding aspect of wedding photography. This is the fashion side of me. So, fashion-photojournalism is the best description of my style.
How have I evolved as a photographer?
With any art, or job for that matter, you bring all of your experiences to the table when you go to work. Everything! So, year after year I expand my portfolio of knowledge. To date, I have a portfolio extending over 30 years. This experience includes something like a thousand weddings, countless portrait sessions, hundreds of corporate events, many wonderful family shoots, and traveling and photographing people and cultures in 6 continents (about 50 counties). I evolve everyday I shoot. I come to each session with an incredible amount of previous experience, but, I approach each situation with a “new set of eyes,” as each person, and situation will present new opportunities to create unique images. That is what keeps me inspired and engaged in every shoot I take on. Photography, like life, is a never ending process of learning and experiencing. To really accel in any business, it is critical to always be curious and want to expand on your previous experience.
How do I connect with couples?
I have always had a very calm demeanor. I believe this sense of peace resonates with my clients. Then, because I have so much experience, and have seen so much over 30+ years of photography, my confidence is evident. The combination of a calm demeanor and visible confidence, polite but purposeful direction, puts my couples at ease. They know they are in good hands.
What is the difference between a professional and part time photographer with a cell phone?
As mentioned before, weddings are a culmination of different types of photography. First, there are the “set”, or posed photos. These take a creative vision, and the skills to direct the subjects to get the desired result. Not necessarily an easy task unless the photographer is very accomplished, and has the full trust and attention of the subjects to make the posing go quickly and seamlessly. I am very good att this. Second, the photojournalistic aspect of weddings takes: anticipation, then instantaneous decision on angle, lens use, camera settings, etc. in order to fully portray the moment in a meaningful way. Both aspects involve experience and creativity. That doesn’t mean that a “non-pro” can’t take a good image. But, it takes someone with extensive experience and creativity to create powerful images on a consistent basis.
Why is wedding photography expensive?
People are paying for years and years of experience. There is no substitute for time. Also, the artists unite, one of a kind, creativity. Their vision cannot be replicated or copied.
Yes, a ’non-pro” photographer can shoot a wedding and probably be much less expensive. But there is no doubt that the quality of the imagery, and the experience working with that photographer will be very different from an accomplished professional. Also, a wedding is a “one shot” deal. There are no “re-do’s” in wedding photography. Everything has to be done right, at that very moment.
Beyond the “day of performance”, there is the post production work (editing) of the imagery. Most weddings are typically a one day event, but the post production can take many days. It’s not unusual to spend 40 or 50 hours in post production to create the final product.
To sum up my thoughts on wedding photography and booking the one that will work for you, I would consider a few things-
Look carefully at how the photographer takes both candid and posed images. Does the style resonate with you? Also try to look at a lot of images, especially ones that are relevant to your event (Indoor? Outdoor? Formal? Casual?)
The photographer is with you throughout the day. ALL DAY. How comfortable you are in their presence will affect you on the day, and the images that are created.
Trust. Having trust is critical on the day of (no second guessing) as well as knowing that the person will deliver a product you are happy with in a timely manner.
A career lawyer working 12-hour days and a Dutch engineer traveling worldwide for business – when such a super-busy power couple plans a wedding, they need help. A lot of help. Anja and Eric realized that fact early on and enlisted my company, A Day Like No Other, shortly after booking their venue. As avid outdoorspeople, they had chosen Nestldown Estate, a 36-acre property of natural Redwoods, manicured lawns, elegant event spaces and whimsical extras like a lifesize toy train, a giant sand sculpture, a fairytale cottage, flying dragons… it is truly one-of-a-kind!
Our planning journey, as expected, happened with many starts and stops, depending on the couple’s workload and schedules. Catering, flowers, photo and video; music, guest entertainment, transportation and guest accommodations… there was a lot to be done! And finally, the Great Day had come.
For bride Anja, the day started with hair and makeup services by Design Her Image…
… while groom Eric was likewise busy with preparations.
Time to present herself to her groom for the first time in all her wedding beauty – First Look!
Meanwhile, the teams of Nestldown, A Day Like No Other, La Bocca Fina Catering and florist Green Petal Designs were frantically working behind the scenes to get all preparations done in time. Guests began arriving via shuttle (Corinthian Ground Transportation), and our DJ Woody Miraglia of Big Fun Disc Jockeys began playing prelude music in the “Chapel,” a natural clearing amidst towering Redwoods, accessed by a long flight of stairs which make for the most dramatic walk “down the aisle.”
The wedding ceremony was officiated by a longtime friend of the couple, and as such was very personal – and emotional.
Just married! “You may kiss your bride!”
While guests were invited to cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, musically accompanied by Victoria Studio (Victoria Liu), a duo playing classic Chinese tunes on authentic Chinese instruments, the newlyweds had many more photos to take…
Behind the scenes and unbeknowst to the guests, a Lion Dance Troupe (Lion Dance Me) was preparing for the big surprise of the day.
Once dining tables had been set up…
… guests were invited to attend the couple’s Tea Ceremony on the Main Lawn…
… and after that, the drumroll started!
Here come the cutest Chinese lions you’ve ever seen! They cozied up to the guests, batted their eyelashes and were altogether absolutely adorable.
Guests were delighted, and then dinner took place “under the stars” and under twinkling lights, accentuated with toasts and speeches.
After dinner, guests were invited to the “Barn” – the central function space at Nestldown – for Cake Cutting and dancing.
The “Barn” is a barn just by name (and by its architectural style) – it is in fact a rustic-elegant event space with everything you might wish for, including a monumental crystal chandelier…
… below which countless couples have performed their First Dance as husband and wife, just as these two here did. And except for the traditional Bouquet Toss and Cake Cutting…
… it was all DANCE, DANCE, DANCE for the rest of the night.
It was a truly unforgettable day. Anja’s and Eric’s Grand Send-off was the high point of the night:
Bubbles…
… and an exit in an authentic vintage London Taxi!
If I had to give this wedding a label, it would be “classic elegance and glamour – in time lapse.” Why? We planners at A Day Like No Other had just six weeks to plan the whole elegant affair… while the couple was managing a household move! Our last vendor contract was confirmed on the day before the event. It was intense, to say the least… BUT the result was beautiful, and bride and groom were super happy!
Allison had chosen an incredible lace wedding dress with a long train and matching veil…
… and a classic bouquet in stunning purple (all florals by Green Petal Designs).
Here are their rings:
Ready for one pre-ceremony photo (all photos: Danny Dong) – without seeing each other, though!
After a wedding ceremony in their church, serenaded by harpist Aysha Gomez-Kureishi …
… the couple left for photos in a vintage white Rolls Royce (from NLS).
Off they went to the Redwoods, with their harpist bringing her gilded harp along!
Isn’t that spectacular?!
All the while, multiple vendor teams were hard at work to get everything ready for Allison’s and Jeston’s reception at the historic Peninsula Golf and Country Club – the venue team, my two production managers, Nimy and Deanna, the florist crew, and our Jazz trio (Magnolia Jazz). The gold-decorated wedding cake (from Copenhagen Bakery) was delivered, and when the newlyweds arrived, Cocktail Hour was already underway, and everything had been set up for dinner…
… in the grand ballroom of the Clubhouse, beneath glamorous crystal chandeliers. The tables were adorned with lush floral centerpieces, part of them towering and part of them low and overflowing their silver compotes …
Everybody was having a great time (including the newlyweds!) .. .
… serenaded by the Magnolia Jazz Trio.
Allison and Jeston shared their First Dance as a married couple…
… and, following tradition, the bride tossed her bouquet to “all the single ladies.”
What else? Cake cutting, of course!
After that, it was only dancing, dancing, dancing… until the couple’s Grand Send-off!
Wishing you a lifetime of happiness, Allison and Jeston!
Are you inspired for your own wedding? Contact me at [email protected] for your free consultation.
A Day Like No Other – wedding coordination and design
Aileen and Yao were already planning their big, big wedding in their native Korea – but they also wanted to host a smaller event for their local friends in the San Francisco Bay Area. 50 guests, give or take… BUT elegant. What better place for that than famous Penthouse Suite in the Fairmont San Francisco, home to all US presidents and foreign dignitaries visiting the City. The couple booked my company, A Day Like No Other, to help with the festivities … and here we go!
While photographer Allexa Crosson and videographer Sig Reboquio were already documenting all the pretty details, from rings to invitations to flowers…
… the Fairmont staff under the leadership of event manager Jim Bast was busy repositioning furniture in the suite and starting kitchen operations.
Bride and groom were getting dressed…
… and florist Nancy Liu Chin delivered the bridal bouquet, boutonnieres and many, many floral arrangements for centerpieces and other tables. She also decorated the fountain on the patio with floating flowers…
… for a romantic and very polished effect.
Time for the couple’s First Look…
… with the SF City skyline as their glorious backdrop. And then – many more photos!!
Here in the famous Billiards Room – a Moroccan folly entirely decorated with elaborate tiles…
… in the two-story library whose ceiling is decorated with the outlines of constellations and where a secret passageway to the rooftop opens behind a moveable bookshelf (an escape route for all the royalty and dignitaries staying here on a regular basis…
… and in the elegant living room of the Penthouse apartment – adorned with intricately carved wood paneling, an elaborate fireplace surround and priceless antiques.
After their ceremony, officiated by a friend on the patio overlooking the meanwhile foggy City skyline, it was time to party!
Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were served in the living room…
… and the newlyweds raised a glass to their union. DJ Marcus Lee (from Paul Stylez Events) had the music going, and everyone was in a joyful, festive mood. In the meantime, the Jim Bast and the Fairmont team and my assistant Nimy and I were hard at work to get the dining room ready for dinner…
Every place setting was adorned with a wedding-ring shaped sugar cookie…
… and a handwritten personal Thank You note by the couple – a true “labor of love!”
After dinner and speeches, Aileen and Yao were ready for their Grand Entrance …
… and their choreographed First Dance:
… followed by a truly “wild” Father-Daughter Dance to the tune of “Heartbreaker!”
The rest of the evening was one big upbeat dance party, only interrupted by Cake Cutting (Cake by Intincing Creations).
What a party! What’s next? Another REALLY big party back in the couple’s native Korea! Congratulations, Aileen and Yao!
Weddings have always been a celebration of love and commitment, but the way they’re celebrated has evolved dramatically over the past century. From grand traditions to modern twists, weddings in the US and Europe have seen fascinating changes that reflect shifts in culture, technology, and values.
A Century Ago: Formality and Tradition
In the early 20th century, weddings were steeped in tradition and formality. In both the US and Europe, church ceremonies were the norm, often followed by modest receptions at home or in community halls. Brides wore white gowns to symbolize purity, a custom popularized by Queen Victoria in the 19th century. Large family gatherings were a must, and couples typically adhered strictly to cultural and religious customs.
For example, in Europe, weddings often included specific regional traditions, like the German Polterabend (breaking porcelain for good luck) or the French croquembouche tower instead of a tiered cake. Meanwhile, American weddings began incorporating unique trends, like elaborate bridal showers and printed invitations.
The mid-century brought prosperity and, with it, more extravagant weddings. In the US, the post-war boom allowed for bigger celebrations, with fancy banquet halls, multi-tiered cakes, and elaborate photography sessions becoming the norm. Europe, too, saw a shift toward grander ceremonies as economic recovery took hold.
Wedding dresses became more glamorous, with fuller skirts, lace details, and dramatic veils inspired by Hollywood. Some brides boldly did away with long veils in favor of face veils, headpieces or fascinators that still look chic today:
Couples began personalizing their ceremonies, although religious and cultural traditions still played a significant role.
In the 1980s and 90s, wedding dresses kept “growing,” becoming more elaborate and voluminous.
Today: Personalization and Inclusivity
Fast forward to the 21st century, and weddings have become all about personalization. In both the US and Europe, couples now have the freedom to design their weddings to reflect their unique stories. Rustic barn venues, destination weddings, and eco-friendly celebrations are all the rage.
Cultural traditions still hold value, but many couples opt for less formal ceremonies or mix traditions from different backgrounds.
From vintage-inspired beginnings to modern-day innovation, weddings in the US and Europe have transformed into a vibrant tapestry of love and creativity over the last 100 years.
In the first half of 2024, I had the pleasure of planning and designing a very special wedding event – a celebration for a very private couple whom we shall call here “A” and “E.” When I first met them, they were already legally married; they’d had an intimate, family-only ceremony in their backyard on an auspicious date by the Chinese horoscope. The “real party” had to wait – and THAT they entrusted to my company, A Day Like No Other.
Our first task was to find an elegant venue with a view not too far from the couple’s home, and I was able to present several options to them. What they spontaneously loved was a spectacular place, perched high atop a mountain ridge with views from the Golden Gate Bridge to Silicon Valley: Thomas Fogarty Winery.
The next vendor decision was an equally easy and spontaneous one: photography team Danny and Julia Dong who captured the magic of the location and the beauty of the occasion from start to finish. Collideskope videographers joined them and recorded all those precious moments throughout the day.
After preparations at home …
… with hair and makeup services by Wowpretty Salon, bride, groom and bridal party transferred to the venue (all transportation provided by Corinthian Ground Transportation) where many vendor teams were already hard at work to get everything set up in time. Florist Karen Baba of PlanDecor begun decorating the couple’s own arch, while the bride was helped into her elaborate, light platinum-colored dress …
…by her bridesmaids.
What an incredible train!
After putting on her princess heels and receiving her gorgeous bridal bouquet, A. was ready to show herself to her “Prince Charming” …
… who had likewise been prepared by his groomsmen.
After their official First Look, bride and groom had many, many photos to take…
… first only the two of them, and then with their attendants.
Bride and bridesmaids were CLEARLY very happy with their flowers!
Guests were already arriving (via Corinthian shuttles), and DJ Derek Mizuno of Entourage Events put the finishing touches on his sound setup, supporting the soloists who, as friends of the couple, were performing as well.
The ceremony was officiated by a friend of the couple…
… in bright sunshine and with a lot of joy and smiles!
Just married! More photos for the newlyweds, while guests were treated to Fogarty wines and delicious hors d’oeuvres by Michi Catering and the photo booth (from Entourage Events) offered fun for everyone.
Dinner is ready! The Michi team had set the tables with elegant gold-rimmed china, matching gold-toned flatware, pink glassware and with shimmering lavender napkins in a loose knot…
… and florist Karen’s centerpieces provided a big pop of lively color – especially on the Sweetheart Table!
The sunset on A & E’s wedding day was spectacular – unforgettable together with the endless views…
Once dinner was over, everyone moved inside for Cake Cutting (cake by PQ Fung/ Pastry Atelier PQ) …
… and dancing. The couple had practiced an intricate choreographed First Dance routine that left everyone utterly speechless.
With that, the dance floor was officially open, and guests only took a short break to help themselves to the mouthwatering pastries from the dessert table (Pastry Atelier PQ).
The conclusion of the evening was as spectacular as the day itself – with a shimmering bubble exit for the newlyweds!
