Five questions to ask before you hire a video montage producer

Although it's one of the smallest items in a special event budget, the video montage (or photo montage or DVD slideshow, which are just different names for the same thing) is one of the most personal and -- when done properly -- memorable aspects of a family event. While shopping around to find the right company to tell your story with sound and images, ask the candidates these five questions:

1. What software do you use to create montages?
Tools make the man (or woman), so this should be your very first question. Professionals use professional software, including Final Cut by Apple, or Media Composer by Avid. These software packages offer professional video editors the greatest flexibility to customize and personalize each project.

Consumer software, including iPhoto, PowerPoint and the countless slideshow-producing packages for the PC allow almost anyone (with enough time to learn and experiment) to create a simple slideshow and utilize some basic effects. Consumer video editing software, like Apple's iMovie, offers more flexibility but is still meant for the casual user. These software packages do not allow the producer -- or for that matter, the client -- to think outside the box and put their personal stamp on the project.

2. What is your video editing experience?
If you are interested in a high quality montage, built from scratch and not from a template or "theme," be sure that the company employs experienced editors. Editors with real video production experience will not only create a montage that is visually interesting, but will help you use your collection of photos and video clips to tell a story.

No one expects a PowerPoint presentation to tug at the heart strings or to excite an audience, but a carefully assembled and professionally edited video montage should. It takes a knack for storytelling and the ability -- both technically and creatively -- to edit the montage to create a mood. This might mean that sections meant to generate excitement and laughter look and feel more like a fast-paced music video than a slideshow. Or, for sentimental passages with slower music, images should linger on screen longer. Find out if the people you hire to produce your montage can adapt their style to your story.

3. Do clients get to give feedback? Do you give them "final cut" privilege?
One of the most important contract points in Hollywood filmmaking is who in the production -- the director, the producer or the studio -- gets the last word: Final cut. As the client -- the one paying for the video -- you should have the opportunity to review the project during production and give your input and approval before the movie is finished and given to you on DVD.

Ask the people you're thinking about hiring at what stages in production they solicit and accept client feedback. Do they allow or encourage review of the film at more than one stage if the client requests? Remember: It's your film and your money, so be sure you are comfortable with this important aspect of the creative process. If the company charges extra for this, or does not offer it at all, ask for a money-back guarantee in case you are not happy with their work.

4. What is included in your package pricing?
Once you have found a professional to create your montage and you understand the production and evaluation process, make sure you know what you are getting for your money. Montage packages are usually priced based on the number of photos, number of songs, and number of video clips that will be included in the finished product. Find out in advance if any or all of the following are included in the estimate or package you are offered:

- Motion effects. No matter how long or short your video, if your editor does not use motion effects (often called pan and zoom, or the Ken Burns effect) on your photos, they will appear dull and lifeless on screen. Subtle movement of otherwise still images helps keep the audience engaged and attentive.

- Transitions. Almost every video production company that creates slideshows now includes digital transitions between each photo at no additional charge. Dissolves and fades are the most common transitions because they elegantly bridge two images without distracting from either. Some clients prefer bolder, more obvious effects. Ask the editor how they decide which transitions to use where, if they will accept your suggestions on this, and be sure that you understand and agree with their approach.

- Titles, captions and credits. A picture may be worth a thousand words, but a few extra words might be important to you. If you want animated title slides, captions, and even customized credits in your movie, find out if they are part of the package price.

When using professional video editing software, it's easy for an editor to add completely customized text as title "slides," and to add text over images identify people, places and dates, or for any other reason. Consumer software -- including iMovie -- limits how creative the editor and the client can be with text and graphics.

- DVD menus. When the montage is shown at a special event, the guests will see only the finished video. But when you take the disc home and pop it into your DVD player, do you want the video to just play automatically, or would you prefer a custom menu (using your own images and video clips), similar to those you see on DVDs of major motion pictures? Ask your prospective producer if there is an additional charge for a customized, animated menu.

- Scanning/digitizing. If you provide snapshots, negatives or other non-digital content, the montage producer will have to scan the artwork to use it in a digital editing system. Try to estimate the number of images (and amount of home movie/video footage) that you plan to use in the montage, so the company you are interviewing can give you an accurate estimate of the cost to digitize your material.

5. Do these folks "get me?"
This is something you have to ask yourself, and it's a highly subjective question. But the video montage, whether you plan to show it at a wedding, some other important family event, or just give it as a gift, is a very personal production. Make sure you are comfortable with the company to which you entrust your photos -- and your history.

This article was provided by © Big Moment Films, 2006

Happy Endings - Your Wedding Cake

When you think of wedding receptions, what is the one thing that they all have? A "stately mountain of snowy frosting and royal icing blossoms," (from "The Perfect Wedding Cake" by Kate Manchester), aka the wedding cake! Not bad for a dessert which has its roots clear back to the Roman Empire. But back then, there was no beautifully decorated, sweet confection. Instead, a loaf of barley bread was broken over the bride’s head to symbolize her fertility. Can you imagine picking crumbs out of your hair? As the barley bread evolved into today’s wedding cake, the symbolism of the cake and the cake cutting ceremony evolved into your first joint act as a married couple, your commitment to provide for each other, and the sweet life you will share together.

Your wedding cake should taste absolutely wonderful, however, it is not just dessert. Your wedding cake will be an integral part of the reception decor, so place it in a strategic location where all of your guests can easily see it. How about in the center of the dance floor? It can be removed after the cake cutting ceremony - table and all - so you have room for your first dance as husband and wife. Just be sure that someone carefully cleans up any stray icing that may hit the floor which can be very slippery and dangerous. Or how about placing your wedding cake in a corner with pin lights or a small spotlight highlighting its glory?

The Statue of Liberty has its pedestal, a queen has her throne, the cake table needs to be worthy to hold such a beautiful creation. Like a beautiful frame that surrounds a lovely painting, the cake table should be decorated to complement the wonderful confection that it holds. Decorating the cake table needn’t be time consuming nor expensive. You may already have something appropriate in your closet or on the dining room table. A lace tablecloth would be lovely draped across the cake table. A length of tulle loosely billowed on the top of the table gives the impression of your cake floating on clouds. Or, swag the table with tulle, organza, lame, or garlands of greenery and flowers.

If your motto is "Life’s too short, eat dessert first," then you may want to go all out with your desserts. Have a dessert bar with trays of different scrumptious delicacies – iced cookies, brownies, mini bite-sized cheesecakes – with your wedding cake as the centerpiece. And speaking of centerpieces, if one large cake to feed hundreds of people isn’t your thing, how about a small (only big enough for two) cake which you and your new spouse get to cut and feed each other, and in place of the more traditional floral or candle centerpieces for each guest table, have a single tiered cake that serves 8-10 people.

This article was provided by Jean Neuhart, the owner of Weddings From The Heart.

WedAlert Honeymoon Giveaway Winners

Amanda & Todd Frazier of Midway Park, North Carolina are the lucky winners of our All-Inclusive Jamaican Giveaway, drawn on October, 2006.

When told about winning they responded:

Thank you WedAlert....I found the best place for my wedding dress because of you. Using wedalert.com was the best decision that I could have ever made.

Thanks,

Amanda

Our next drawing is scheduled for April 2007, so enter the WedAlert Honeymoon Sweepstakes today.

Tips For Producing a Unique Wedding Video

Creating a wedding video that is unique to you and your new spouse is not always something a bride and groom thinks about when hiring a wedding videographer. After all your wedding day is all about you and the wedding video or DVD should reflect your personal tastes as well.

Videos can be as simple as letting the camera roll on your wedding day or can be as detailed as a television documentary. When looking for just the right videographer, couples want someone who can capture that special day with crystal clear video and sound but have no idea what other options are available. Know that you can customize your video anyway you like depending on the videographer and your budget.

First when looking for a videographer, check to see if the videographer belongs to a professional organization, such as the Wedding and Events Videographers Association (WEVA.com). Also, find out how long the video company has been in business. You don't want a novice shooting your video since there is only one chance to get it right. When requesting demos from
prospective videographers, don't just settle for viewing a demo reel, ask to see several different weddings. Also ask the videographer if he has shot at your wedding location before and then request to see video from that specific location. When viewing the demo reel ask yourself if they all look the same, like a cookie cutter presentation or are the videos unique.

When meeting with videographers be prepared and know what you want ahead of time. Bring notes and take notes. Make sure everything you request is included on a written contract.

With the advances in today's technology the sky is the limit on wedding video options. You can request whatever your heart desires. The possibility of your special requests all depends on your budget but here are a few options that can add that special touch to your video.

Real Film - Many videographers are offering real 8mm film as an option or add-on. It is usually just two-to-four rolls of film edited into the actual video to give a retro flavor that will awe you and your family. Don't settle for a "film-effect" that is created on a computer, it just isn't the same.

Engagement Music Video - This can be done ahead of time and presented at the reception on big screen projector. Hire your videographer to attend your engagement photo session where he can get behind-the-scenes video that can later be combined with the engagement photographs. When set to music this can be a wonderful piece to showcase on your wedding day.
The Love Story - This option has exploded in popularity. The Love Story is an interview with the bride-to-be and her fiancé, which tells the story of how they met and how they arrived at this point. Some of the video can be shot at the spot where he proposed, at the couples home or favorite spot. The Love Story is probably the most emotion-packed segment, next to the
ceremony video of your vows. This feature can also be completed ahead of time and presented on a big screen presentation at the reception.

Photo Montage - Photo Montages have always been popular and can easily achieve that personal touch without blowing your wedding budget. A photo montage is another great way to tell the story of how you met or you can go as far back as to your childhood photos. It's all a story of how you arrived at this day and it is a way to bring new life to those photographs stored in the back of your closet. The photo montage can also be shown at your reception.

Streaming Video - Many couples personalize their wedding by creating a wedding website to keep family members in-the-know about changes in upcoming wedding plans. Streaming videos can be used to create exciting engagement announcements for your wedding website. This would be a good way to introduce your wedding theme as a movie trailer to increase the anticipation leading up to your wedding.

Once you hire a videographer to shoot your wedding, there are things that you can do to help the videographer create your perfect wedding video:

1. Give your videographer a copy of the invitation, program with the names of the bridal party and anyone who will speak at the ceremony, a list of your favorite songs or the DJ play list from the reception, and a list of anyone who must be in your video, such as your great-grandmother or a relative who has traveled a great distance to come to your wedding.

2. Speak to your bridal party at the wedding rehearsal about their placement during the ceremony. Ask them to be aware of the videographer and to be careful not to block the camera at the ceremony.

3. Let the videographer know ahead of time if there will be any special performances or live entertainment such as Flamenco dancers.

4. Require the videographer to attend the wedding rehearsal. Most experienced videographers will include this service in their price list.

With a little creativity and preparation, your wedding video can be as unique as you are. Your videographer can work with you to give your video that personal touch that will reflect who you are as a couple and be watched for many years to come.

Janice Robinson
WeddingsByJanice.com

"Anyone can pick up a video camera but it takes experience and passion to make a great video!"

Adventure Bachelor Parties

Darren Hitz is the Founder of Adventure Bachelor Party (ABP). ABP plans unique, adventure-based trips for groups of friends looking to make great memories. By planning everything from the lodging to the adventure, ABP allows the groom and his friends to enjoy the experience without all the worries and hassle of planning a group trip. He explains Adventure Bachelor Party ideas below:

Weekend Adventures-A New Trend in Bachelor Parties

Bachelor parties are about guys getting together, sharing old stories, and maybe creating some new ones. They are a chance for the best man to send the groom off in style, in appreciation for years of friendship. Traditionally, this has involved drinking one's fair share of alcohol, heading off to a gentleman's club, and waking up the next morning in a strange place with a new tattoo. Recently, a new trend has emerged. Guys are now spending weekends immersed in outdoor adventures: leaping out of airplanes, roping cattle, reeling in trophy fish, and riding wild whitewater.

Picture it: 10 buddies sitting in a rubber raft, getting tossed back and forth, and paddling like crazy through a menacing drop-off the guides call, "The Meat Grinder." Besides whitewater rafting, parties can perform airborne ballets after leaping from planes at 10,000 feet, reel in fish ranging from 30 lb king salmon to 300 lb sharks, or drive hundreds of cattle alongside real-life cowboys. As an added bonus, guys return from the adventure, with pictures, mementoes, and memories that will always remain special.

Although these adventures bring a fresh, new idea to the bachelor party concept, groups are given many opportunities to do some old-school partying. Typically, the extreme adventure locations are located off the beaten path, requiring a couple-days excursion. Everyone usually congregates in a major city near the adventure site and spends the first night enjoying the urban nightlife. Day Two kicks off with an early morning rise, followed by a trip out into the wild for the adventure activity.

Some detailed examples of adventure-based bachelor parties paint a clear picture of exactly how extreme adventure combines with traditional fun to produce an unforgettable experience.

Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting is an adventure that can take place in multiple locations across the country. As long as there is a flowing river, someone will put a boat in it. The trick is finding the rivers that will take you to the edge, without throwing you over it. Under the guidance of an adventure expert, guys paddle, dodge, and hold on through class IV and V rapids, all while taking in spectacular views of the scenic beauty and wildlife. To compliment the adventure, the group spends the first night at an upscale hotel in a bustling downtown area and the second night in more rustic accommodations surrounded by nature. This combination creates a solid mix of fun and adventure.

Cattle Wrangling

Imagine living out the movie, City Slickers. Saddle-up the crew, ride the open range like old-time cowboys, and drive longhorn cattle through rugged mountain terrain. In the morning, work alongside real cowboys to move the thundering herd to greener pastures. Enjoy the sights and sounds of rolling rivers, towering mountain ranges, and native wildlife while attempting to control the wild herd. After the drive, see if anyone lasts eight seconds on the mechanical bull before taking aim at the skeet shooting range. Recount the day's highlights during a Texas-style-barbecue dinner including steaks, potatoes, and plenty of beer. Before you dive headfirst into the cowboy lifestyle, enjoy a night with upscale hotel accommodations, fine dining, and outstanding nightlife characteristic of the adjacent downtown area.

Charter Fishing

In groups of four to six people, the guys board separate charter boats and compete in a private fishing tournament. Someone not only has the satisfaction of wrestling a trophy fish into the boat, but also the sweet taste of victory in catching the winning fish to beat the rest of the bunch in the tournament. While everybody breathes in the fresh air and takes in picturesque views, the expert captains and crew guide the team to the hot spots and teach the boys how to reel in the big one. After a full day of fishing, camaraderie, and competition, a chef "cooks the catch" at a restaurant overlooking the water. Since most fishing trips are located in beach side towns, nights will be spent at Buffet-like bars sipping Margaritas, watching the fade over the horizon.

Skydiving

What's better than jumping out of a plane, free-falling for over a minute at 120 mph, and seeing for miles in every direction? Doing it all with some of your closest friends. After some basic training, everyone flies to 13,000+ feet and prepares for the jump. Hearts pound, men begin to fade to the back of the line, and adrenaline pumps as everybody peels out of the plane into the open sky. Once everyone has returned safely to Earth, the party begins. The boys enjoy beers in the hanger, a bonfire on the grounds, a delicious catered dinner, and a viewing of the days skydive video. To enhance this exceptional skydiving experience, upscale accommodations, fine dining, and locally distinct nightlife in a lively downtown setting complete the package.

Regardless of the adventure theme you choose, it will be important to make the outing an "experience" rather than just a trip. Answer these questions when planning your weekend to remember:

1. What adventure activity is the group interested in?

2. What areas of the country offer this type of activity during the group's seasonal timeframe?

3. Is there a major city near the event where people can fly to at a reasonable price?

4. What hotels offer high-class accommodations and fit the group's price range?

5. Is there a restaurant with a private banquet facility near the hotel, where champagne toasts and words of encouragement can be uttered without upsetting the other patrons?

6. What are the best bars?

7. How will the group get from the hotel to the adventure outfitter?

8. If the adventure is outside of the city, where will the group stay the second night?

These are just some of the questions that will come up as the event planning takes shape. The most important part of the trip is making sure the groom has a great time. So, if you are the best man, make sure to have his best interests in mind at all times. If all goes as planned, you will have successfully orchestrated a weekend filled with memories to last a lifetime and maybe even overcome some fears along the way.

Darren Hitz
Hitz Adventures, LLC

Honeymoon in Africa

While we are on the subject of honeymoons, have you considered Africa.

Elena Borerro of EBTS travel suggests you explore the possibilities of your unforgettable Honeymoon experience in Africa. Visit Central & East Africa where the birth place of the safari began with its open plains and masses of game to the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Visit South Africa which is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture offer the traveler a unique experience.

She provides the following sample itineraries:

Explore East Africa
1 Night Nairobi
1 Night Lake Manyara
2 Nights Serengeti
2 Nights Ngorongoro
3 nights Zanzibar

The Intimate Safari
4 Nights Cape Town
2 Nights Franschhoek-Wine Region
3 Nights Makweri Private Game Reserve

The South African Experience
3 Nights in Cape Town
3 Nights in Sabi Sands
1 Night in Johannesburg
3 Nights Livingstone
3 Nights Botswana

Where Safari Meets Exotic Beaches
4 Nights Cape Town
3 Nights Sabi Sands
1 Night Johannesburg
4 Nights Seychelles

Take a look at more details about this wonderful location.

African Honeymoon Vacations

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations List

WedAlert.com, one of the most popular and fastest growing interactive online wedding planning directories on the Internet, today published its Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations List.

“The destination that you and your new spouse choose for your honeymoon, whether it be two days or two weeks long, has a lot to do with your personal interests and tastes as well as your budget,” said Joyce Artinian, a spokesperson for WedAlert.com. Here are WedAlert.com’s top 10 picks for an unforgettably romantic honeymoon getaway:

Tropical Paradise

1. Hawaii – It’s still one of the top destinations for newlyweds, and it’s easy to see why—palm trees, clear blue ocean water and magical sunsets make these islands foolproof for romance and relaxation!

2. The Caribbean – From Aruba to Jamaica, get a tropical experience that’s closer than Hawaii, and sometimes more affordable—all-inclusive is the way to go!

3. Mexico – With so many resort towns to choose from including Cancun, Acapulco, Cozumel, Ixtapa, Los Cabos, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, the possibilities for a dream honeymoon in this festive country are endless!

“Om”azing

4. Arizona – Go all out with luxury spa treatments at one of Arizona’s many relaxing retreats! Massage, yoga, aromatherapy, body wraps, pools and more await you…

5. Go global at spa destinations worldwide including the Bahamas, Europe and Asia.

French Kiss

6. Paris, France is unmistakably one of the most romantic spots on the planet! Another part of France to love is Provence in the south, with its distinctive culinary delights and fields of lavender.

Wildlife

7. South Africa – If you crave adventure and are animal lovers, an African Safari is perfect for you! Kruger National Park in South Africa is proving to be quite popular—camp out with your beloved under the stars at night, and explore the wildlife and terrain by day for an adventure you’ll always remember!

Love Boat

8. There are cruises available to pretty much every continent from a variety of cruise lines, so whether you want to escape to Italy or sail to Sydney, Australia, you’re sure to find the destination that’s right for you. Dine on a variety of exquisite cuisine while taking in the scenic route and salty sea air. Activities on board will ensure that there’s never a dull moment!

Take a Gamble on Love

9. Las Vegas – Roll the dice and party until the wee hours of the morning. Vegas has something for everyone, from live entertainment to posh hotels, top restaurants and casinos galore!

Young at Heart

10. Disney World – Take your fairytale love to the land of fairytales, frolic about and enjoy amusement park rides, meet favorite cartoon characters from your childhood and experience the fantasy that is Disney!

Share your honeymoon plans here with us.

Bahamas Honeymoon Destinations

All in One Vacations recommends the following resorts in the Bahamas for your upcoming honeymoon:

Xanadu Beach Resort
Located directly on the white sand beach, this resort offers water sports and a dive center. Car and scooter rentals are also available. Upon purchase by Howard Hughes in the mid-70's, the resort's reputation leaped from the celebrity columns to the front page. Their own bazaar market and gift shop have a wide variety of duty-free items for your selection.

Island Palms Resort
An intimate retreat located in the heart of Freeport, Island Palm Resort gives you easy access to casinos, shopping, restaurants, golf courses, and attractions. The Port Lucaya Marketplace offers a little something for everyone. From shopping and dining to water sport activities, you will find it all there and it's just a short ride from the Island Palm. Get a quote!

Island Seas Resort
The Island Seas Resort offers one and two bedroom condo's for the family. Relax on their secluded beach or pool deck complete with waterfalls, jacuzzi, and swim-up bar, where you can enjoy your favorite cocktails while relaxing in the water. at the island's only Tiki-Hut restaurant and bar. Add a meal plan to your vacation which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and 4 drinks at one low price per person. Get a quote!

Port Lucaya Resort
Escape to this tropical enclave overlooking a multi-million dollar marina. Perched on a peninsula surrounded by crystal blue waters, The Port Lucaya Resort & Yacht Club is where you'll find relaxation, fun and sunny pleasures located in the heart of the Lucaya Resort area. Get a quote!

Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach
Welcome to Grand Bahama Island's only all-inclusive resort, Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach. Renowned for its ample beach, white sand and warm tropical waters, this fine resort offers 276 ocean or garden view rooms. Get a quote

Learn more about Bahamas Honeymoon ideas by clicking here.