Jason and Gina were the first couple to have their reception in Albert’s Lodge and are getting ready to celebrate their first anniversary!  

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Being wedding photographers, you have seen many weddings.  How did your observations of other weddings impact the planning of your own?

Every wedding is different and special. I don’t think we’ve yet to see two weddings that even remotely feel the same. With that, the best weddings are the ones that feel very personal. We felt that was the most important aspect to plan around. We had food we like, beer Jason loves, danced to “our song” Lovely Tonight… even though it is NOT a song for dancing. 

How would you describe the “style” of your wedding?  

Rustic/Vintage/Outdoor… and very laid-back. 

What were the most important aspects of your day?

Our family. Having our wedding day be not only about us as a couple, but about the family we’re creating with Jason’s children. 

What advice do you have for couples currently planning their weddings?  

Hire a wedding coordinator, even if it’s only for day-of. It was the best decision we made.

Like the vendors you hire and don’t be afraid to look around until you find the right fit (don’t feel bad saying no to someone…it’s your wedding day!). Your vendors, especially coordinator and photographer, should find out what is important/meaningful/cool to you and make that their top priority.

Give yourself extra time at every step (i.e hair, makeup, formals) on your wedding day because being ahead of schedule is much better than running late! Most importantly– remember this day is about celebrating the love between you and your partner. It’s not your mom’s day, or about your crazy co-worker who didn’t get an invite, or so-and-so who doesn’t like anything.

Focus on what is meaningful to you… everything else is just details.

Would you like to recognize any of the vendors that participated in your wedding?

We’d love to recognize Save the Date Events, Center Stage Entertainment, Spruce Mountain Ranch (of course!!!), Footers Catering, and Bella Fiori Events.

Tell us about your first year of marriage.  How are you celebrating your 1 year anniversary?

Wow. One year (almost) down… many, many more to go! When we got back from our honeymoon, we literally hit the ground running with a wedding the next weekend and have hardly had a chance to catch our breath! Our family had stayed busy with summer camping trips, a move to a wonderful house on a cul-de-sac, football and baseball seasons, training for the Bolder Boulder, and learning to snowboard! Jason and I are definitely learning the art of balancing work, family, and alone time! A quick drink at the local Old Chicago (that’s suburbia for ya!) is our new favorite getaway. Even though on June 6th we will probably be at a baseball game… we are celebrating with a trip to Las Vegas! We absolutely love Vegas, and while it may not be exotic or romantic, it’s “us” and that’s all that matters.

Filed under: Weddings on May 2nd, 2011