DDM Photo and Video Blog

Tina and Steve

     One of the best things about being in this type of business is that you get to meet a lot of different people, from many different walks of life. We've covered Christian wedding ceremonies, Hindu wedding ceremonies, Hispanic ceremonies, Jewish ceremonies, the list goes on. Each ceremony is different in certain ways, but in the end the all are about two people who are in love making a committment to love one another.

     This past week we had the pleasure of being there for Tina and Steve's spiritual wedding ceremony at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. They came down from Pennsylvania for the big event, planning to do their vows on the beach as the sun rose in the east as a backdrop. Unfortunately, the weather did not want to cooperate with their plans, and so the ceremony was moved indoors.

     A big thanks goes to the GM Christina down at the Holiday Inn (also one of our past clients), who arranged to have the ceremony done in one of their banquet rooms with windows facing out to the beachfront. We arrived on site at 5:30am (wow, that was early!) and found the room tastefully decorated in scented candles on the floor, with small rose bushes set around a center table with the unity candles. The smell of incense was in the air, and everyone was in great spirits despite the howling weather. A close friend of the couple acted as the officiant for the ceremony, which was spiritual in nature yet contained some very emotional vows, and of course a great kiss at the end.

       Immediately after the ceremony, we shared champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, and cake with our newlyweds. Chef DeLong of The Gourmet Bake Shoppe again out-did herself, with a fantastic strawberry cake that was just sinfully delicious.  After a brief celebration, we got the couple together to take some pictures with the newly available light, and then we headed out for a mid-morning siesta. Tina and Steve were absolute delights to work with, truly wonderful people who we wish the best to for many years to come. While it may not have been the biggest wedding we've ever covered, it was certainly every bit as powerful, emotional, and full of love as any wedding that we have ever had the privilege to be a part of.

 

Annie and Dan

Following the specially planned baptism of Dan from the night before, Annie and Dan exchanged vows at the Thalia United Methodist Church on April 21st, 2007. A jam-packed morning of surfing, primping and power outages made way to a flawless ceremony, which then in turn, led to an absolute gorgeous reception at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens.   Many kudos go to Danyelle with "Weddings by Michelle" for putting together this great event. After dinner, we were fortunate enough to take a stroll around the park while guests enjoyed drinks on the gazebo. Once inside, the Maid of Honor and both fathers made heartfelt toasts and Dan was presented with an "I'm a Keeper" t-shirt. Dancing and more dancing (even by Grandma) brought the special night to a close. We thank Annie and Dan for letting us share their special day with them - and we wish them the best in their fun-filled lives together.

Blair and Todd

Click Above to view the video short What a fun couple, and what a great wedding! The day started at St.Pauls Catholic Church in Portsmouth. While most brides get ready with the bridesmaids at a house or hotel, they brought the house to the church for the girls final preperations. (Courtesy of the family's nicely equipped RV!) St. Pauls is a beautiful church, with great architecture, beautiful statues, stained glass windows, and fine artwork. The staff was wonderful to work with as always, and the ceremony went beautifully. Veronica Dana, a fabulous photographer who we really enjoy working with, guided the families through the portrait sessions inside the sanctuary, outside the church, and on the grounds at the Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club. It was a beautiful day for outside portraits, with not a single cloud in the sky. There was ample time for some fun, creative photos, and I'm sure there will be a LOT of great shots to go through later. The reception was a lot of fun...a real Carribean themed event. The guests enjoyed tasty food, a fun live band, and watching the thrilling sparkler exit followed by Blair and Todd's yacht departure. Congratulations to Blair and Todd on a beautiful wedding, and best wishes for a great future together! We very much enjoyed being part of thier special day!

Sarah and Tim

Click above to view Sarah and Tims Wedding Video Trailer! . What a beautiful wedding! Sara and Tim's special day was held on Saturday April 21st at the Calvary Baptist Church, a 96 year old building in Portsmouth with plenty of charm! Wedding Coordinator Pearl Taylor of Uniquely Yours by Pearl did a great job again as usual ensuring the days events went off without a hitch. Sara and her bridal party arrived, and joined Keith Cephus for pre-ceremony photo shots. Keith is a wonderful, talented photographer, and we always look forward to working with him. He brings with him his unique charisma and fun approach to every wedding. There was a great turnout of family and friends for the ceremony, and everything went according to plan, as Sara and Tim were joyfully united as Man and Wife. Keith proceeded to take the bridal party outside for some great post ceremony shots, and what a sunny, gorgeous day it was! They could not have asked for better weather. The party was held at the Town Point Club in Norfolk, and as usual, their staff did a tremendous job. The guests enjoyed great food from a bountiful buffet, superb service and a beautifully set room, overlooking a panorama of water through their large windows. Very elegant and memorable!! Sara and Tim made rounds to visit with family and friends at the guest tables, and managed to enjoy the view and sun during occasional trips out to the balcony. After dinner, the DJ entertained the crowd with lively music, and the dance floor came to life. Other highlights of the evening included the traditional Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances, cake cutting and some touching speeches from Sara’s Dad, the Best Man and the Maid of Honor. We wish Sara and Tim the very best in their married life together. We were privileged to be a part of their very special wedding day.