Wedding Vendor Spotlight- Laurie Carpenter Photography

I have worked with Laurie on several weddings that I have done. The couples are always more than happy with the work she provides and the pictures always turn out fabulous. Laurie Carpenter Photography has very affordable prices as well. Here are a few shots from weddings taken by Laurie.

I recently asked Laurie a few questions to help brides learn more about her and her services.

How did you get into photography? My mother bought my first camera for me when I was a young kid. I enjoyed my  “hobby” for several years before realizing it was so much more. It became a passion of mine and I haven’t been able to put the camera down since!

How long have you been doing photography?
I have taken photos all of my life but started the professional route in 2002.

What is your favorite trend you have seen in recent brides? I have always been traditional at heart but I see the trend in brides desiring to see their fiancé’s prior to the ceremony. They usually do a “first look” which allows me to capture some of the most amazing and REAL images. The couple is able to work out any jitters beforehand and is able to join their guests at the reception immediately following the ceremony. I never try to convince a couple one way or another but I do see the positives from a photographic standpoint.

Tell me why brides should choose Laurie Carpenter Photography for their wedding? I give each client 110%! It is truly an honor to be a part of someone's wedding day.  I am laid back and fun although I am not afraid to take charge (which is needed when trying to gather large groups for photos!). I am extremely organized and efficient. You will not have to worry about good photography on your wedding day.  You can concentrate on the most important thing.....being "in the moment."  Relax and enjoy each and every second!

What is your favorite location to take wedding shots?
The Nashville area offers so many gorgeous locations, both inside and out. I have several favorites including The Cathedral of the Incarnation, Oaklawn Mansion and the historic Carnton Plantation.

What sets you apart from other photographers?
I do not offer time limits, as I believe I am there to capture the ENTIRE wedding day story.  I do not have confusing packages. I charge a flat fee which includes unlimited time, 400 fully edited prints and the high resolution digital files.

To see more shots from Laurie Carpenter Photography or to contact her, check out her website at http://www.lauriecarpenter.com/

Wedding Favor Ideas

Wedding favors add a special treat to your wedding and to your guest. There are tons of things you can have as your favors. Choose something that is close to you and your fiance and fits in with the overall theme of your wedding.

Packet your favorite dessert into a jar and add the recipe. Guest will enjoy your favorite dessert with their family.

Another great favor idea is, having the guest choose their favorite organization and the couple makes a donation in each of the guests names.

                                    

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For a while everyone had a candy bar, but I like the idea of doing other bars, like a cookie bar. Get all of your favorite cookies and display them in jars, with bags for guest to take home with them.

Other bars that could work for your favors: ice-cream & popcorn. When choosing your favors think outside the box!

Tiffani Helms
Owner and Principle Planner

Wedding Bridal Jewelry

To finish off your bridal day look, you will need the perfect jewelry to accent your look.
T’s Studio Jewelry has some great custom pieces for your wedding day look.




I love the look of the pearl and clear crystal rhinestones together. So elegant!

  

Glorious simple Swarovski Crystals and Pearls earrings. 

These Swarovski Crystal Peridot Green earrings, are perfect to add some color to your wedding day look.

Check out T’s Studio Jewelry on Etsy for more custom creations.

Nfocus and Her Bridal Brunch

Attention Brides: The Bridal Brunch for this Sunday at the Noah Liff Center has been canceled because of the snow. Check back soon for the new date.

Tiffani Helms
Owner and Principle Planner

Can I afford a Wedding Planner?

I get this question alot or brides that say they can't afford a planner.

My motto is "you can't afford not to have a planner".

A professional and skilled planner can work within any budget to plan your wedding. Planners are here to offer you the assistants and help you need. They know the best venues and vendors, to work within your budget. Most planners offer free consultation, this gives you a chance to talk with them about their services and how they are going to be able to help you with your wedding. Once meeting with them, I am sure you will know you need a planner in order for you to relax and enjoy your special day.

Tiffani Helms
Owner and Principle Planner

Nfocus and Her Bridal Brunch

NFocus and Her Cordially Invite You to a Bridal Brunch
Sun, Jan 31 11- 3 p.m. @ The Noah Liff Opera Center
$20  Click here to purchase tickets

A champagne social featuring heavy hors d'oeuvres, a fashion show, and exclusive wedding service showcases from Nashville boutiques. Stop by Creative Designs & Events booth to receive a free gift!



Tiffani Helms
Owner and Principle Planner

Planning Your Wedding Menu

When planning your menu for your wedding take your partners food likes and dislikes into consideration. This is your wedding and you should enjoy your food, as well as your guest.



If you choose to do a cocktail hour, mini or bite sizes foods are always fun for guest to enjoy.


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When choosing your menu there are several options: Heavy hors d'oeuvres, Buffet, Family Style, or Seat-Down.  Once you decide your style,  just make sure there are enough food choices for guest to choose from.  Don’t be afraid to step out of the box with your menu, guest will enjoy the change.