It's so much fun when you know half the group! Photographer and future bride Jessica along with future bride Danielle to go along with CURRENT bride Julie and a group of fun loving entertaining ladies at the beatiful Oasis conference and event center made this wedding a little extra special to me. The guys not wanting to be upstaged by the ladies, held up their end of the bargain as well! Samantha pulled double duty shooting right up until the start of the reception and then changing so she could go enjoy an adult beverage or two at her friends wedding. I nearly got carried off by Dannielle's fiance Spencer at the end of the night. I think he may have confused Dannielle for Daniel. For future reference, she has a full head of blond hair. I do not! You can find that photo on my facebook page! Anyways, enjoy the photos!

To see more of their photos check out our facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=194733&id=71891834382&saved#!/album.php?aid=194733&id=71891834382

We're headed to the Manor House tasting tonight at 4:00. I believe food is served at 5:15. Hope to see you there!

It was nice and steamy outside but the wedding party was fantastic! Here's the proof! The ladies were so hot, they were a fire hazzard!

It’s very special when I get to see someone who I’ve known for several years prior to their engagement getting married. I feel like I see the whole story better and can feel it myself on a totally different level. I completely had that feeling when Shannon and Jason first saw each other at Spring Grove on their wedding day. I’ve always felt Shannon was beautiful. But as a bride seeing how she looked at Jason, took my breath away. My hats off to Mitchells Salon in Hyde Park who were amazing with her hair and make up. Let’s not forget Jason! He and the guys looked pretty sharp themselves. The tuxes were provided by Skeffingtons formal wear The beautiful flowers were designed by Yellow Canary. Then I was thrilled to get out to St Boniface for the first time in quite a while! I forgot just how beautiful it is! Then of course the drinking and driving was provided by my favorite limo service Motor Toys Limo Service. Don’t take that wrong, the wedding party drank while the chauffeur drove!! I wouldn’t encourage it otherwise! And Patricia never stops amazing me with her wonderfully delicious cakes! It’s been a while since I had seen my man Aaron with DJ Butlers Music by Request. No surprise he kept things moving right along nice and smoothly! And for the second day in a row, I was at Receptions West! I love the new covered patio and expanded wedding party area. They are always on top of it!
I can’t tell you guys how happy I am for you. It was a perfect day with some special friends. And yes Jodi, George, Amanda, Megan and the rest of the crew, that means you too! Thanks for everything!


To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

Now this was a fun wedding! I feel like I’ve been waiting for this as long as Joe and Theresa! I’m pretty sure they came to meet with us about a year and a half ago shortly after Theresa’s brother Hank’s wedding. Then it was so cool that while I was taking photos of the awards at the Receptions bridal show, I hear your name when they announced the winner of the free reception! I’m not sure if I was more shocked or you! I have to say it was as close to perfect as it could have been. The weather was amazing. Peppe Ramundo made sure the guys were looking sharp. Nature Nook did an amazing job on the floral arrangements. Then one of my favorite ceremony locations St Teresa Avila was amazing! You had my favorite driver from A Savannah Nite and the kick ass coach limo bus. Then there was the beautiful and tasty cake from Jeanas Great Cakes! We love her!! And for the first time since Hanks wedding I got to see DJ Jeff Schaclieter who is normally too busy being GM at Receptions Erlanger. This day, he was up north on the west side spinning some tunes and announcing the new Mr and Mrs Joe and Theresa Beccaccio at Receptions West!
What an amazing day!! Thanks for letting me be a part of it.

To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

Yesterday I got the privilege to be with Natalie Powell when she welcomed her fiancé, Alan, home from Afghanistan. Natalie and I thought that we had it all planned out, we were told that Alan would be arriving at CVG airport around 12 noon, so we got there about 11:45 am to make sure we wouldn’t miss him. Not having any specific flight information we were both looking at the arrival times when from over the intercom Natalie was called to the information desk. Not knowing what this was about we were both a little worried. When we arrived at the desk Natalie was asked to show her id and was then escorted towards the chapel. As we entered the walkway to the chapel there was a sign that read “Natalie.” Then as we got to the doorway another sign read “Will You” and as we enter the chapel there was Alan on one knee with the last sign that read, “Marry Me!”

I can’t express what a beautiful moment this was! Alan and Natalie, I can tell by the way that you look at each other that you are going to have a long and loving relationship! Thank you for letting me be a part of your special homecoming!

I knew Megan would look beautiful but the ladies at Mitchells Salon blew my mind! Megan you were absolutely stunning! The flower in your hair from Glendale Florist was a nice touch. It smelled amazing and added a classic touch to your look. Rob wasn't half bad himself. ThatMens Warehouse tux looked awfully sharp on you. The ceremony and reception were all held at the always amazing Ault Park Pavilion. The gorgeous lighting and entertainment was provided by Brandon with Hey Mr DJ. You guys continually outdo yourselves!
Megan, we hope your sister passed her test! We had a blast with you. I can't tell you how nice it is to spend the day with such fun and genuine people. I can't wait till you get to see the rest of your photos!!

To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

What a beautiful couple!! Katie looked amazing. Mitchell’s Salon did a fantastic job on her hair and make up and Chris and the guys were all decked out by Folchi’s Formal Wear. I loved the vibrant colors in the ladies flowers thanks to Katie Elfers Floral. The always beautiful St Columban was the perfect backdrop for a breathtaking ceremony. Everlasting Sound not only provided the entertainment but also decked out The Oasis Conference and Event Center with some stunning lighting. It was an amazing day!! I can’t wait till you see the rest of the photos. They should be ready in the next couple of weeks!
To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

While Daniel was at Receptions Loveland, Amanda and Brian were on the other side of the wall with Kristin and Matthew! It’s fun all being in one place and getting to visit a little. Kristin, you couldn’t have looked more beautiful. The people at Paragon Salon did a fine job! So not only was Two Little Buds preparing the floral arrangements for Kristin and Matthew but Lindsay and Danny worked with them as well! No surprise they were amazing! The ceremony was wonderful at Prince of Peace in Loveland. The tuxes were provided by Men’s Warehouse. Transportation was provided by A Savannah Nite. One of our cake favorites, Sweetwater Bakehouse made a delicious cake! Then of course the entertainment/MC/do it all/help plan your wedding was provided by Brandon with Hey Mr DJ. Now we know Kristin and Matthew had stunning photos, but they also had an amazing videographer in Larry from Forever Wedding Video. I must say you put together a team of all stars here and we couldn’t be happier for you!

To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

Danny and Lindsay could not have asked for a better day. I’m not at all surprised Lindsay was stunning but wow! What a great job by Benzie Salon and Brideface!! Then just to make it a little more ridiculous, she had her floral arrangements done by one of the most passionate and talented florists I’ve ever known in Two Little Buds. I don’t want to take anything away from Danny and they guys. They looked pretty sharp in their tuxes from Skeffingtons. The ceremony was beautiful at Crestview Presbyterian Church. Then to top it all off, the Megan over at the Marriott Union Center hooked them up with a stunning reception with the always entertaining Jeff Clarke from Party Pleasers. Who said you can’t have a perfect wedding?

To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

If there were awards for the most fun, sarcastic, crazy weddings (maybe I should make one) Jamie and Brad are in the competition! I have been blessed with some amazing weddings so far this year and this one did not disappoint. As a side note, Jamie, tell your dad I’m working. Anyways, this was a perfect wedding. The rain held off till after we finished outdoor photos at the amazing estate of the Aldersons. By the way, thank you for making us at home. Jamie is a stylist at the One Hair Salon and no surprise she was stunning! Throw in some pretty beautiful flowers from Baysores. Brad looked pretty good himself having seen the amazing staff at Folchi’s Formalwear. The fine people at A Savannah Nite provided the coach limo which I hear was a blast! From there it was on to the ceremony at Holy Trinity. From there, we went straight to a crazy fun filled reception at Receptions Loveland with the entertainment provided by DJ Danny On the Air Entertainment. I loved the personal touch of the individual cakes on each table provided by Lisa’s Cakes. The entire evening was captured in full motion video by the amazingly talented, charming and good looking Jeff Hill. I couldn’t have asked for anything more! Thanks so much for letting us be a part of it!

To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

Tim and Kelly took full advantage of her beautiful ceremony and reception venues on an absolutely perfect day. Their ceremony was at St Williams followed by their reception at Western Hills Country club. We'll have your photo package complete in the next week or two. I can't wait to see them with you!

To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

We are going to be at Wunderland from 5:30 till 7:30 for an open house. Wunderland will be collecting bridesmaid and prom dresses to donate to Kenzie's closet. Kenzie's Closet makes high school prom dresses and related accessories available to students who can't afford them. Check out this link for details: Wunderland This will also be a great chance to meet with a select group of vendors in a much more intimate setting. I encourage all to come!

Jenn had been trying to talk Bill into having their first site at Loveland Castle for months now. Bill had stuck to his "I want to be suprised when you walk down the aisle" the whole time. On Thursday, Senior Photographer Brian Kuntz decided to take matters into his own hands. He called Bill and painted a picture of how amazing it would be to be her knight in shining armor at a castle and suprise her. In the photos you see here, Jenn had no idea Bill was coming up from behind her till the moment he reached out to touch her arm. You see the reaction. It made me tear up just watching how much it meant to her. I've set up the idea of a first sight hundreds of times. But this is the first time I've seen it where only one of them knew it was coming. It was amazing! You guys have a great time tonight at Receptions in Loveland

To see more photos from Jenn and Bill, check out our Facebook Fan Page!

Well first of all, I’m not sure I could have had any more fun with Kris and Chris. From the moment I saw Kris in her dress for the first time, I was blown away. From that point on, I was in the zone! Her hair was done by Identity at Kenwood and make up by Macat Kenwood. We did all of the pre-ceremony photos as well as the ceremony at Hyde Park United Methodist, the Motor Toys provided transportation to Riverside Dr in northern Kentucky for some nice scenic shots in front of the city. From there we were off to The Phoenix in the Archway room for a stunning reception. The stunning floral arrangements were provided by the always amazing Fassler Florist. As if it couldn’t get any better, the cake was provided by Jerry’s Cheesecakes and the entertainment by Steve Bender. I mean really guys, you had the freaking dream team there for your whole wedding!! Thanks so much for letting us be a part of it. We’ll have your photos complete in the next 1-2 weeks.

There were way too many amazing photos to fit them on the blog! So, please check out our fan page on facebook!

Zach and Erica were so adorable together! They had their beautiful ceremony and reception at the Cincinnati Zoo . The stunning floral arrangements were prepared by Jones the Florist. Mark McFadden provided the evening’s entertainment. The ridiculously tasty cake was from Bonbonerie . Erica couldn’t have looked any more beautiful.

March is the most underrated month to get married! The weather has been beautiful and our couples’ have outshone the weather! Meredith and David were no exception! The had their first site at their ceremony location Trinity Northbrook Baptist where Meredith’s father is pastor. From there we headed to Riverside dr in Northern Kentucky for some breathtaking photos and then made our way back for the ceremony. From there, it was on to Molloys on the Green for an beautiful reception with an amazing cake from the always spectacular J Annette’s . Meredith couldn’t have looked any more gorgeous. The people at Regis Salon had plenty to work with, but certainly lived up to expectations!
To see some additional photos check out our fan page on facebook!

We could not have asked for a more beautiful day! It was over 60 degrees and sunny! Kip and Rachel were just amazing to work with! We spent the entire day at the stunning Beckett Ridge Country Club for a fun filled reception with entertainment by the Snow Shoe Crabs The cake was beautiful though the groom's cake stole the show thanks to Artrageous. Rachel looked absolutely beautiful and had her hair done at Glendale Salon. Her flowers were equally beautiful thanks to Nyla's. It was an amazing day for an amazing couple!
To see some additional photos check out our fan page on Facebook!!

Overwhelmed by wedding planning? Check out this checklist and timetable for planning your wedding. Timetables are not perfect, but give you a good idea. I don't really suggest waiting till 8 months to get your photographer if you want your choice of photographer, but I would say that waiting any longer than that is risky so it's a pretty good basis.
Checklist

Here is another in a long line of Paragon Salon brides starting with the original... Thank you Marrissa!! Carly and Tyler were and absolute blast! I swear my ears almost froze off, but they were troopers and it was worth it! We started at Riverside Drive in Covington Kentucky and then travelled to St Ignatius for their Ceremony and Clovernook Country Club for a fun filled reception with entertainment by the amazingly talented Johnny Clueless Band. The cake was beautiful and tasty thanks to A Spoon Fulla Sugar. I couldn't have had a better time and Carly, you couldn't have been any more stunning! I'll see you guys soon!

To see some additional photos check out our fan page on Facebook!!

I’m honored that Daniel asked me to write a guest blog for him today. I love working with Dan and his people. They keep the mood light, they work quickly and they are always a pleasure to be around.

What I want to ask all of you visiting Daniel’s blog today is, “What “moments” do you have planned for your wedding day?”

Think back to all the weddings and reception you have attended in the past. What about those weddings and receptions do you remember?

Prior to becoming a DJ I attended and was in several of my friends weddings. From all of those weddings, I’m sad to say, I remember very little. It’s not that I have a bad memory. In fact, my friends are always amazed at the moments I can recall from our past. It’s just that those weddings and receptions had very few “moments”.

When you move people emotionally they will remember it. Wedding magazines will tell you what colors are in, what flowers work in what season and how to make your wedding day beautiful. None of them will tell you how to create “moments”. This is where your wedding entertainer comes in. If you have a good one, it can make all the difference in how your guests feel about the events of your wedding day.

While I can’t recall much of my friend’s weddings, I can recall many moments over the years I helped create for my clients. I can recall a groom who took the microphone just after the father daughter dance and began to talk about his mother. All the while making his way across the room to her, he finally stopped at her table and said “Mom I love you, can I have this dance.” I recall a groom whose brother was deployed to Iraq just a couple of months before the wedding. You should have felt the moment in that room as we heard a toast from that same brother. A toast I had secretly recorded months earlier when we found out he was being deployed.

I recall a night where at the end of the reception we played Billy Joel’s Piano Man. As everyone with their arms around one another sang at the top of their lungs the bride and groom stepped into the middle of the circle where they danced and smiled and hugged their guests. You could just feel the love in the air and nobody wanted to leave. Imagine a bride returning from fixing her dress in a separate room during her reception and finding all of her guests gathered around the dance floor and her groom sitting at the top of that dance floor holding his acoustic guitar and waiting for her. I remember her smile as he sang to her a song he had written for her after their first date. I remember the laugh we got when we introduced a wedding party into the reception with funny stories about each of them and then the smiles as we introduced the newlyweds with the story of how they met, of their first date and of their proposal. I remember these moments not just because they were my ideas or that I helped orchestrate them I remember them because they moved me and everyone in the room.

Most of the guests at the weddings I mentioned above probably couldn’t tell you if the food was good, if the couple arrived in a limousine or if there was a chocolate fountain but I promise you they remember these moments.

Most couples begin searching for DJs with the idea that all we provide is music. What some of us provide beyond the music is the ideas, knowledge, timing, and creativity it takes to help you create “moments”.

Please check out Brandon's Website at www.HeyMrDJ.net

Here is a sneak peek! Lauren and Jason had a beautiful ceremony and reception at the amazing Wetherington Country Club. Tuxes by Skeffingtons, cake by J Annette's and floral arrangements by Vern's

No vendor will have a bigger impact on your wedding than your photographer. Not only will they take the photos that document your wedding for years to come, but they will also work more closely with you than any other vendor that day. There are many things to consider when picking your photographer.

1. Budget/Package
2. Style (photojournalism, traditional, blend)
3. Format (film or digital)
4. Personality fit
5. Experience

You will find a wide price range when looking at photography based on the package, the number of photographers and the experience of those photographers. You will find family friends for a few hundred dollars all the way up to nearly $10,000. Most fall somewhere in between. A full time professional with 10 or more years of wedding photography experience will inspire confidence, be organized and prepared for all situations but will not be less than $2000. However, they may have an associate with less experience that works for their studio in a lower price range. You may find someone with less experience but still a quality photographer for a lower price as well. You just need to be sure there is enough experience that you are comfortable. Don't assume that a higher price means more experience or better quality either. It's a good guideline, but not a perfect science.

Packaging may be the most complicated part of shopping for your photographer. The hidden charges can easily double your package price after your wedding. For example, the high resolution dvd that everyone asks for is often not print ready and if it is, is still not the same level of quality as what is shown in studio. To get a professional look to your digital files, your images need to be corrected with software and printed at a professional lab. This can be a major expense after your wedding as there is a huge mark up of sometimes upward of 1000%. It is important to have your high resolution dvd but look out for watermarks and file types that you cannot print from. Few couples really understand the amount of time they will need in their package. If you are headed to a park, then a ceremony site, then the reception and want your photographer to get any candids at your reception, expect to use 8-10 hours or so. The last thing you want is to be rushed through your day because of your photographer’s package. When looking at albums, make sure that the prints, mounting, binding, cover upgrades and design are included in the price you are given.

Nearly every photographer will call themselves photojournalistic because it is popular. It’s up to you to determine if you like their style. Don’t worry about what style they consider themselves. The majority of photographers in this area are digital photographers. If you like the classic look of black and white film or the colors and skin tones in color film, you will need to do some homework to find those who offer film photography. If you prefer the special effects that tend to go along with digital photography, then be sure your film photographer has the capabilities or use a digital photographer. It is wise to look at both a film and digital photographer so you can judge for yourself.

Most importantly, you will be spending your entire day with your photographer. Make sure that you can not only tolerate them, but actually enjoy being around them. Your photos will suffer if you can tell you are getting impatient with the person taking them. There is nothing more important on your wedding day than how you feel.

Here is a sneak peek! Chris and Staci braved the cold and took photos outside at The Anthenaeum at St Mary's and followed it with a beautiful ceremony at Immaculate Heart of Mary and a fun filled reception at Receptions Eastgate DJ’d by Drop Zone DJ'sTuxes by Men's Warehouse, cake by Jerry's Cheescakes and floral arrangements by Courtenay Lambert.

Enjoy the ambiance of the Manor House on March 7, 2010 while checking out some of the top vendors in the city. Can't wait to see you there!!

Cincinnati Bridal Expos

Manor House

Come see us on February 27th and 28th at the Duke Energy Center for the 2010 Bridalrama Bridal Show.

BridalRama

The Wedding Mafia is proud to present "A Bridal Affair with the Mafia" at the Oasis Conference and Event Center. We are proud to be a featured vendor at this event. If you would like free tickets to this event, please contact us before our supply runs out!
Wedding Mafia

Come see us at the Receptions Fairfield and try to win a free wedding reception at the Receptions Bridal Show.

Receptions Inc

Come see us at the Sharonville Convention Center for the 2010 Cincinnati Wedding Showcase

Cincinnati Wedding Showcase

Come check us out at the Wendy's Bridal Show this weekend!

Wendy's Bridal Show

Tags: Wendys bridal show

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