I almost fell out of my chair! After filming this incredible REAL inspiration shoot for a real couple at their real wedding location, we were rejected by blogs clear across the country! I couldn’t believe it! I kept thinking, “I don’t believe a REAL inspiration shoot for a REAL couple has been done before?” And this was back in June 2010! With all the hype on inspiration shoots, I thought for sure someone would pick up on the “unique factor” in that this team actually worked with a real couple to present ideas and options for their real upcoming wedding. Finally someone actually “got it!”

I have to pat Kristina Hathaway on the back. She is the owner and publisher of NH Wedding Magazine. Not only did she give us a multi page spread that told the story of what we did, but she features the behind the scenes video on the front page of the website! I felt that the video really drove home the “why and how” of what we were doing. We were all completely elated, shocked, grateful, and THANKFUL that Kristina enjoyed Elizabeth and Davids real wedding inspiration shoot as much as we did. The happy ending to all of this (in my opinion) is that a few things were captured during the mock up shoot that were not able to be captured on the wedding day. There was more time for hair and makeup touch ups, exploring a few different looks. Elizabeth was able to choose her welcome party dress, finalize ideas for flowers, it was overall an amazing experience! You don’t have to take my word for it. Read up by clicking the cover image above! Thank you Kristina and Team

Elizabeth & David’s Mock Wedding Shoot – June 20th, 2010 (Real Wedding Weekend July 8th-9th, 2010)
Meg Simone Wedding Films - www.megsimone.com
Anne Skidmore Weddings -www.asweddings.com
Carrie Scribner of Dutch Bloemen Winkel -www.Dutchbloemenwinkel.com
Debony of Debony Salon www.debonysalon.com (Hair for Inspiration shoot only, she was previously booked for her wedding date).
Invitation Suite: Gus & Ruby Letterpress - www.GusandRubyLetterpress.com

The Inspiration Shoot:

The Real Wedding:

A Winter Wedding in Stowe, VT at the Stowe Mountain Lodge. PASSWORD: 2012

The Bride and Groom fell in love with Stowe, Vermont and during the winter of ’09/’10 made the 6.5 hour drive (one way) from Long Island 18 straight weekends in a row!  They were not only engaged on the slopes (in Switzerland) last winter, they were married slope side outside the Stowe Mountain Lodge on 2/4/12, surrounded by 20 close family and friends. Afterwards a few hot toddies were served and then the Bride and Groom took their first snowboard run as husband and wife. The full reception was held on Long Island last weekend, and they played this wedding film in front of family and friends.  You can see the “Snowboarding Sweethearts” Mountain adventures over on Photographer Kathleen Landwehrle blog. She did an amazing job! I love on snow adventures! What do you think? Would you get married slope side? Leave a comment below or over on my Facebook page.

Wedding Coordinator – Calais Van Horn of the Stowe Mountain Lodge
Justice of the Peace – Mitzi McInnis
Cake – The Cakery

For the last two years I’ve been a blog contributor for IN[FOCUS] Video Event. This year the event took place in Charleston, South Carolina. I don’t need to sum it up in a blog post because Jose Ortiz Films and JJ Kim from Orange Wedding Films did it just perfectly. I can’t wait to find out where next years event will be! I’ve already signed up! Have you?

Jose’s Charleston Day 1 recap:

My favorite… JJ’s Three Year Recap! Austin, New Orleans, Charleston…. amazing JJ!

The last few weeks have been crazy busy! I came back from the 2012 IN[FOCUS] video event which was in Charleston, SC this year (more on that soon), and hit the slopes with Spring Smith Studios and Kat Hanafin Photography. Nothing short of laughs and beautiful views, the day went by way to fast. I have to say getting out to play with industry professionals is one of my favorite things because we get to know each other as people which then translates to tons of fun at your wedding!  We have a good rapport, can easily bounce ideas off each other and work with each other, not in our own little world. I’m so glad to finally spend “face to face” time with Kat, although I have to thank “facebook” (and Spring) for bringing us together. I also learned a ton about Spring that I didn’t know which has me even MORE excited because I have the privilege of filming her wedding this July! To me this is a huge honor and I can’t wait to capture her story! It’s so awesome! What would life be like if she didn’t get on that plane (or MySpace)….?  If you want to see her engagement photos, check out Justin & Mary Marantz engagement shoot of Spring and Silas in front of the lens. We must do this again soon!  Who will the next on snow adventure be with? You will have to wait and see!  (PS Shot on my point and shoot, nothing fancy, just fun!)

Founded in 2011, Tailored for Education strives to increase school enrollment in developing countries by providing children with school uniforms. For millions of children around the globe, education represents the only way out of a life of entrenched poverty. Co-founders Megan Kelly & Jessica Roy (Roy, who wed at the Mount Washington Resort in 2008), wore uniforms in school growing up.

“It will impart a sense of self-worth and importance, traits that will likely lead these children to value their education even more and strive to have these opportunities available for their own children. In addition, children who receive an education have a much higher chance of breaking the preexisting poverty cycle prevalent in many developing countries today.” – Tailored for Education

It’s so much fun to find out what past couples are up to. Although I have never met Megan Kelly, when I received an email around the holidays from Jess I was really moved at their new venture. My parents are both educators and have been teaching around the globe for the last 14 years, so this was something I could easily relate to having seen some schools like this first hand.

Congratulations to Jess and Megan, I hope the threads of peoples generosity continue to blanket each student with hopes of a brighter future.

What’s the secret with my wedding film soundtracks? Recently a lot of other creative wedding pros (and even couples) have asked “where did you get that song? It fits the film perfectly!” Well, here’s the story.

“Not another Stock Music Site!” That’s exactly what I thought when my friend emailed me “Meg, have you heard of The Music Bed?” In the past I’ve been overwhelmed when surfing Production Music websites trying to find something unique for each couple. The minute I saw The Music Bed’s clean and simple site with easy navigation I was hooked. Their royalty free music artists are amazing! And popular! You can preview and scrub through entire songs! The site works for me and doesn’t waste my time. With one click I can view full lyrics and add songs to my ever growing wish-list! The categories are easy to navigate. I love the one click “instrumental only” button since I create a lot of documentary style films. I’ve never had such an easy time finding the right fit for my couples films. Their pricing and licensing is easy to understand, and quality and customer service is over the top.

The royalty free music selections resonate with modern projects but blend timeless and classic vibes to keep videos fresh long after the top 20 list is outdated. When I’m stuck on an edit, or if I don’t know the feel to take with a film, I just go to The Music Bed and 100% of the time I’ve literally had the film visually unfold for me as I listen to their extensive quality music library. Two clicks later I’m downloading my licensed song editing a project I know will be unique to each couple with a sound track that will knock their socks off. Couples comment, “Did they write this for us! it’s perfect!” Using songs from The Music Bed has elevated my wedding films to another level because they look and feel more unique and personal then ever, but not in a cheesy “production music” way.

It makes me proud to share my films knowing they are 100% royalty free!

The Marie Hines collection of instrumentals with her full original tracks are absolute favorites because the upbeat overtones on otherwise emotional pieces that are sure to give goose-bumps to any viewing audience. Matt Moberg’s Love on My Arm blends subtle acoustic riffs with modern sounds, and a catchy base rounds it out leaving you to want to know and hear more. I swear Michael Castro wrote “The First Time” just for wedding pros! This song can be applied to anything romantic. It’s upbeat nature is very hip, but this will be a song the grandkids will happily sing along to in 50 years. Now or Never (instrumental) by Stars Go Dim puts the punch and emphasis on quirky dialogue like nothing else. It’s perfect for funny toasts! The piano and strummy pauses are comically dramatic and the guitar picking crescendos just when you need it. I’m just itching for my next edit and an excuse to explore more of Brooke Annibale, poppy aggressive beats from Parachute Musical, folksy love songs from The Vespers, and any excuse to use the driving sort of 80′s english beat of “Haunted” from Leagues!

Enjoy this super fun film with a cohesive and loving soundtrack, 100% Marie Hines.

“Now or Never” – Stars Go Dim http://www.starsgodim.com/ “The First Time” by Michael Castro http://www.michaelcastromusic.com/ all from The Music Bed http://www.themusicbed.com

This crew didn’t just “Party on the Moon” they rode this entertainment train to another Galaxy!!!! You will either be dancing or laughing the entire time. The laid back nature, humor and toasts from the day is a recipe that will leave anyone in stitches. Find out how Jeb the “Cabana Boy” saves the wedding, and how Hadley makes a run for it right before the ceremony to track down her bouquet!

Wedding Film – Meg Simone Wedding Films http://www.megsimone.com
Entertainment – Party on the Moon (Atlanta, GA) http://www.partyonthemoon.com/
Wendy Joblon – Wedding Planner http://wendyjoblon.com/
Snap! – Photography http://snapri.com/
Sayles Livingston – Flowers http://www.sayleslivingstonflowers.com/
Newport Tents – Tent Company http://www.newporttent.com/
Russell Moran Catering – Food http://www.morinsfinecatering.com/
Exquisite Events http://www.exquisiteeventsofnewport.com/
Miss Pickles Press, Jen Mageau - Printing Design and Paper Goods http://www.misspicklespress.com/
Confectionary Designs – Cake http://www.confectionerydesigns.net

Hilary had been coming up to Bretton Woods and  The Mount Washington Resort since childhood. Although Josh missed his chance to propose during their first trip to the Hotel on Valentines Day, he still won the heart of her family. The celebration ensued  and this humor filled day kept the guests laughing all night long. The Officiant was Hilary’s cousin Joanne Cox and the sword that almost sliced the bride and groom before they cut their cake was Hilary’s fathers from Norwich University “Skull and Swords.”

Wedding Film: Meg Simone Wedding Films http://www.megsimone.com
Photography: Birch Blaze Photography http://www.birchblaze.com
Flowers: Dutch Bloemen Winkel http://www.dutchbw.com
Entertainment: Big City Band http://www.bigcityweddingband.com/
Invitations: Gus and Ruby Letterpress http://www.gusandruby.com/
Wedding Gown: Monique Lhuillier from Madeleines Daughter http://www.madeleinesdaughter.com/
Bridesmaids Gowns: Jim Hjlem

“Joe said five words to me that would forever change my life. Which is, Jen Hampton starts on Monday.”

This incredible story is told from many perspectives, and will leave you wanting to know what happens next. The entire Squires, Hampton and Fidelity families celebrated love, life, and Labor Day Weekend 2011 in the White Mountains at the historic Mount Washington Resort.

Meg Simone Wedding Films http://www.megsimone.com
The Omni Mount Washington Hotel http://www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/BrettonWoodsMountWashington.aspx at Bretton Woods Mountain Resort http://www.brettonwoods.com
Live Band (Wedding Day) Nitghtshift Entertainment – District 21: http://www.nightshiftent.com
Acoustic Guitar (Welcome Party) Paul Wornick - http://www.notsocostley.com/
Photographer: Bill Christo http://www.billchristo.com
Flowers: Dutch Bloemen Winkel http://www.dutchbw.com

Dance Montage Preformed by District 21

Music Licensed Through Stock20
Front Porch
Canon in D Remix

Music Licensed Through The Music Bed
Now or Never (Instrumental) Stars Go Dim
Like I Mean It (Instrumental) Stars Go Dim
Bravery Songs (Instrumental) Matt Moberg

Nantucket Island has long been a special place to both families. Despite lifes events, one thing has always remained constant… the memories, love, and sacredness that surround this magical island on their wedding day, and always.

This wedding was special to me in many ways. As you will hear in the video, sometimes things have to fall apart so other things can fall into place. The messages throughout are powerful and applicable to whatever personal situation you may relate this film to. I smile when I think of Whitney putting on her mom’s earrings, she’s glowing! I laugh when I see the dance floor shenanigans.  I can’t imagine what my September would be like without witnessing this picture perfect day … plus I love any excuse to film around the island, and I got to work with my friends too!

Meg Simone Wedding Films - http://www.megsimone.com/
Brea McDonald Photography - http://www.breamcdonald.com/
Soiree Floral - http://www.soireefloral.com/
Unique Nantucket Events - http://www.uniquenantucket.com/
Placesetters - http://www.placesetters-inc.com/
Nantucket Golf Club - https://nantucketgolfclub.com/
Nantucket Tents - http://www.nantuckettents.com/
Darya Salon - http://daryasalon.com/
Yolanda Makeup - http://nantucketpretty.tumblr.com/

All Music except the opening montage and end credits licensed through The Music Bed http://www.themusicbed.com
Always Be (vocal and instrumental) – Holley Maher
She Is (vocal and instrumental) – Ben Rector
You and Me (instrumental) – Ben Rector
Moving Backwards (instrumental) – Ben Rector

Additional Songs:
Van Morrison – Days Like This (special to Whitney)
Ray Lamontage – You Are The Best Thing (wedding weekend song)

Do you want the real story? If I tell you that Ben and Katie just finished all 4,000 foot hikes in NH, you would think that she would be walking down the isle with hiking boots on not cute red shoes! The truth is, the black flies were fierce but it didn’t stop them from taking a moment for a first look, or enjoying an outdoor ceremony on the South Verandah. Learn three couples love stories, and find out what Katie and Ben have planed for their next big adventure! I also need to mention that as a Graphic Designer, Katie did her own invitation and paper goods!

Wedding Film: Meg Simone - http://www.megsimone.com
Photography: Birch Blaze Photography http://birchblazephotography.com-
Florist: Dutch Bloemen Winkel http://www.dutchbloemenwinkel.com/ -
DJ: Matt Spofford http://www.whitemountainproductions.com/ -
Venue: Omni Mount Washington Resort http://www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/BrettonWoodsMountWashington.aspx -

I’m back! This past week I was in Cancun, Mexico at POSH: a filmmakers retreat and workshop that is just for women. Their mission is to educate, inspire and connect women business owners to help take their business and visual art to the next level. POSH was held at the Beach Palace Resort in Cancun, Mexico. I learned so much my head is exploding! Presenters touched on everything ranging from techinical aspects of filmmaking, to the art of storytelling, marketing, business, and everything in-between. For more information and to get POSH on your radar for 2012 visit www.ThePOSHRetreat.com.

“I know I’ve told you before, but I really can’t thank you enough for what an amazing job you did on our film.  I’ve lost track of how many times I have watched it over the past year, but I still feel the same emotions and get those butterflies in my stomach every time.” - Caroline

October 23, 2010 – Love Letters. There wasn’t a dry eye in the church as Father Fador read Caroline and David’s love letters to each other during the ceremony. Dave knew Caroline was the one he wanted to marry after a few dates, but how did they meet? You have to watch this super fun love story unfold. I was honored to spend two days with this amazing couple and their extended family and friends. I wish more couples would write love letters. Absolutely amazing! Happy Anniversary Caroline and Dave!

Venue: The Fairmont Copley - http://www.fairmont.com/copleyplaza/
Photographer: Fred Field - http://www.fredfield.com
Flowers: Winston Flowers - http://www.winstonflowers.com/
DJ: Murray Hill Talent – Cory Harding - http://www.murrayhilltalent.com/
Cake: Cakes to Remember - http://www.cakestoremember.biz/

For two people dreaming of this day for as long as they can remember, the unfolding visuals depict another chapter in this families journal of life, and are a testament to the unique bond they share with their families.

I knew you wouldn’t disappoint but I didn’t know our (high) expectations would be so far surpassed. You really have a gift. Take it from us, just because you put a camera in someone’s hands doesn’t mean they know how to tell a story. You’re an artist! – Anneke, 20/20 Producer

Wedding Film: Meg Simone Wedding Films http://www.megsimone.com -

Venue: York Harbor Reading Room – York Harbor, Maine http://www.yorkharborreading.com/ -
Designer / Florist / Day Of Coordinator: Kate Martin (Beautiful Days Events) http://beautifuldaysevents.com/ -
Photographer: Eric Laurits http://www.seekthejoy.com/ -
Cake: Beach Pea Baking Co. http://www.beachpeabaking.com/ -
Bride’s Dress: Lusan Mandongus (Madeleine’s Daughter, Portsmouth, NH) http://www.madeleinesdaughter.com/ -
Rehearsal Dinner Dress: Mom’s wedding dress from 1972
Groom’s / Dad’s / Groomsmen’s suits: 9Tailors (Boston, MA) http://www.9tailors.com/ -
Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale (Madeleine’s Daughter – Portsmouth, NH)
Save-the-Dates, Invitations, Programs, etc.: Gus & Ruby Letterpress – Portsmouth, New Hampshire http://gusandruby.com/ -
Band: Night Rhythm (wedding reception) http://www.nightrhythm.com/ -
Rehearsal Dinner Band: Steel Rhythm http://steelrhythm.com/steelrhythm.com/Welcome.html -
Transportation: Grace Limosuine, http://www.gracelimo.com/ York Trolley Co. http://www.yorktrolley.com/

Music:
“Only Love” by Jason & Erica Brown (an Original) Bridesmaid Erica and her older brother, Jason.
“You’re my Home” by Billy Joel performed by bridesmaid Kelly Bazely (also on the piano) & brother-in-law, Jamie, on guitar.

Fireflies (Instrumental), New Day (Instrumental), Wrapped Up (Instrumental), Love Stung (Instrumental) by Marie Hines http://www.mariehines.com
Love On My Arm (Instrumental) by Matt Mobeg
From The Music Bed http://www.themusicbed.com

Nantucket Island is home to many memories for Whitney and Chris. Now they can fondly reflect on one more, each time they gaze at Sankaty Head Light House or set foot on the greens.

Nantucket Golf Club http://www.nantucketgolfclub.org/
Photography: Brea McDonald Photography http://breamcdonald.com/
Flowers & Decor: Soiree Floral http://www.soireefloral.com/
Event Coordination: Unique Nantucket http://uniquenantucket.com/
Rentals: Placesetters http://www.placesetters-inc.com/
Band: The Sultans of Swing http://thesultans.com/
Tent: Nantucket Tents
Hair: Darya Salon http://daryasalon.com/index2.html
Makeup: Yolanda Makeup

Sean and Katy are Central Catholic High School Sweethearts! It was a nostalgic affair watching memories unfold. Both parents knew they had something special and even Sean was aware back then he had lasting feelings for Katy. Their stories and memories shared by friends was amazing to witness.

Wedding Film: Meg Simone Wedding Films http://www.megsimone.com
Venue: The Atkinson Country Club http://www.atkinsonresort.com/
Photographer: Leah Haydock http://www.leahhaydock.com/
Cake: Jacques Pastries http://www.jacquespastries.com/
Flowers: Bowler and Jones http://www.bowlerandjones.com/
DJ: Michael Edwards (Allstar Entertainment) http://www.getadj.com/
Uplights: Allstar Entertainment http://www.getadj.com/
Limo: Linahan Limo http://www.linlimo.com

Calling all winter couples! Now is the time to book your winter wedding film. I am mildly obsessed with winter and skiing, and would love nothing more then to kick off the year with roaring fires and softly falling snow on your big day. Courtney + Nick’s Winter Wedding at the Mount Washington Resort was absolutely incredible! High clouds gave way to spectacular scenery of the Presidential Mountain Range and deep blue skies at dusk. The Mass kicked off with a lot of laughs from Father Ray, and continued well into the evening. The amount of love from such a large wedding party was only dwarfed by the size of the celebration as over 250 people claimed their stake on a packed dance floor for hours of entertainment by SOHO. Everyone will agree this is a celebration no one will ever forget.

If you and your guests are skiing the day before or after your celebration, talk to me about special on snow coverage!

Venue: Mount Washington Resort – http://www.brettonwoods.com – http://www.omnihotels.com/
Floral and Event Decor: Carrie Scribner at Dutch Bloemen Winkel http://www.dutchbloemenwinkel.com
Photographer: Amanda Burse, La Bella Vita Photography  http://www.labellavitaphotos.com/
Live Band: SOHO http://www.nightshiftent.com/
Wedding Film: Meg Simone Wedding Films http://www.megsimone.com

Who needs 6 Degrees of Kevin Bacon when you have one degree of Brooks & Liz’s Wedding? One year ago (Labor Day 2010) I was filming Brooks & Liz’s wedding in Wolfeboro, NH on Lake Winnipesaukee. They rented a gorgeous home right in the  bay (the brown one with the tent).  During the day, I noticed the family next door (white house to the right) was out on the deck spectating (wouldn’t you if a wedding was taking place right next door!) A few months later I get a phone call from Bride Enid asking if I could film her wedding Labor Day 2011, “And by the way we love Brooks & Liz wedding film, we were at the house next door when that all took place!” Come to find out that was Groom Chuck’s home, and yes, I’m off to film their wedding this Labor Day Weekend (Sun). Of course the real recommendation of my services came from Enids bridesmaid Lea Morgan, another wedding photographer. So, the “One degree of Brooks & Liz” doesn’t stop there. Today (Fri/Sat) we head out to film another Labor Day Weekend Wedding – and the bride, Jennifer, went to college with Liz!

I’m lucky to say I’ve been able to see Brooks and Liz again over the year. These two take the party with them where ever they go! Lake Winnipesaukee is a special place to so many, and it was a perfect setting for their celebration. I’m not sure what people had more fun doing – dancing, laughing at each others mustaches, gazing out at the lake, or just relaxing on the porch. One thing is for certain they love their family and friends!

Please peak at their AMAZING wedding photos from Kerry and Taylor of Birch Blaze Studios! Part I and Part II! Visually spectacular! A favorite for sure

Wedding Film: Meg Simone Wedding Films
Photos: Birch Blaze Photography
Music: DJ Matt Spofford – White Mountain Productions
Flowers: PJ’s Flowers
Event Coordination: Amy Piper of Signature Events.

When I am in the throws of editing 2011 weddings, I love taking a moment to reflect back on where I was  a year ago from “x” date. Spencer + Elizabeth fell in love on Lake Winnipesaukee while spending weekends at his family’s home. Spencer comments “the lake is our religion,” and it shows. These two were surrounded by many loving family members as they wed lake side on a perfect August day at Church Landing in Meredith, NH. 8/21/10

You did an incredible job.  We laughed, I cried, and neither of us ate a single bite of our dinners sitting in front of us on the coffee table because we couldn’t take our eyes away! - Elizabeth, Bride

Rehearsal Dinner: Mame’s Restaurant
Officiant: Reverend Richard E. Greenleaf, St. Paul’s School
Wedding Coordination: Mill Falls
Photographer: Bharat Parmar
Florist: Ladd Hill Gardens
Cake: Cakes By The Lake
Live Band: The Holy Cow Band

Your North Country wedding woes of forgetting your under garments are a thing of the past! Assets Jean Co. in North Conway is selling Hanky Panky’s and Spankx! For those tying the knot you know you want to look good in that dress, and sometimes you need the right under garments to fit the cut and style of the dress accordingly. I was recently in Assets Jean Co. and the customer service is off the charts! Stop in and pick up a pair of super stylish jeans for Apres Ski or Summer fun while up visiting, and accessorize with Sally Bags! You must see this store for yourself! Located at:

2506 White Mountain Highway
North Conway, NH, 03860
603-356-0303