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Rooted in Love at Turner Hall Ballroom

sweetpeacinema June 2, 2017

They say that deeply rooted love creates an unbreakable bond. And we agree.But author Louis de Bernieres may have put a finer point on the notion in this excerpted passage from his work, “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.”

Love is a temporary madness, it erupts like volcanoes and then subsides. And when it subsides you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots have so entwinedtogether that it is inconceivable that you should ever part. Because this is what love is. …Those that truly love have roots that grow towards each other underground, and, when all the pretty blossoms have fallen from their branches, they find that they are one tree and not two.”

If that little bit gave you chills, then definitely read the rest of the passage here. This was one of the readings at Victoria and Patrick’s wedding two weeks ago at Turner Hall Ballroom, and it fits their relationship and approach to their wedding! These two are firmly planted together and we loved hearing how they fit into each other’s lives in their personalized vows, which brought equal parts of laughter and tears to guests in attendance.Victoria’s vision for the grand dame that is Turner Hall befit its historic significance. Edison bulbs twinkled above the ceremony and then, after the room was flipped, over gracious round tables topped with elegant silver chandeliers and beautiful flowers. Candlelight enchanted every nook and cranny, and a home vignette of stately furniture dressed the stage adding to the air of a bygone era.These two are clearly in love, and their family and friends were overjoyed to see them officially tie the knot. And we were happy to have filmed their beautiful ceremony and reception. Please enjoy this Sneak Peek as we all wait for the final editing of their full Cinematic Feature to be completed.Congrats Victoria & Patrick! THE TEAM:Ceremony/Reception venue: Turner Hall Ballroom Officiant: Uncle of the brideDJ: Milwaukee AirwavesPhotographer: This is Feeling, ChicagoPhoto shoot: Brewhouse Inn and SuitesFlorist: Jane Kelly FloralCake: Simma’sBride’s gown: Matthew Chistopher from White Dress Bridal BoutiqueGroom’s prep: Groom for MenBride’s hair & makeup: Neroli Salon & Spa

True Love Unveiled at Milwaukee Art Museum Wedding

sweetpeacinema May 26, 2017

True love is easy to spot.We witnessed it between Alyssa and Joe on their wedding day earlier this month. These two experienced true love the moment they laid eyes on each other several years ago at Moe’s Irish Pub, and Alyssa shared that story in her vows to Joe at their ceremony in the always magnificent Milwaukee Art Museum earlier this month.Their heartfelt and personal vows were just one of many brilliant flashes of love and devotion shared during their wedding day.Earlier that morning at the stately Pfister Hotel, Alyssa and Joe exchanged notes filled with admiration and appreciation, letting each other know how each of them was feeling and their hopes for the future. We’re so honored that these two trusted us to film such a private moment, as well as the rest of their gorgeous wedding day. It’s not always easy to open up in front of others, but Alyssa and Joe could not have been more trusting and welcoming, and we think their Sneak Peek — and full film to come later — will show that beautifully.It was a joy to observe the love and energy flowing around these two, as well as the many blessings from family and friends that enveloped them. The smiles, hugs and handshakes lasted all day. An ebullient Rabbi Evan Moffic struck just the right balance of joy and gravity in the private katubah signing and wedding ceremony. He also celebrated the strength of Alyssa and Joe’s bond, made sturdier because of their shared beliefs.And while the wedding itself was a stunning affair, we hope our Sneak Peek — and full feature to come — properly show off the spectacular decor and refreshments executed by Evenement Planning, Impressions by Esther Fleming, M&M Event Rentals and Calatrava Catering. We’ve never seen so many flowers at this Milwaukee icon, and the pink, white and peach blooms perfumed the air and softened concrete lines of the Quadracci Pavilion.And let’s not forget the off-the-hook reception, which started with a cocktail hour made more lovely and lively by colorful belly dancers from ACA Entertainment. How fun was it that specialty cocktails were poured through a a monogrammed ice luge by Art Below Zero? Amazing. This reception had the itinerary done right: Dancing started the evening, broke out during the meal and, of course, after dinner, all fueled by live music from Chicago-area band Indigo.It’s always our honor to film the start of a couple’s married life together, but it’s made more special when you can see that the couple is truly in love, and that they are adored by their family and friends.Congrats to the Hakimians!!!The Team:Videography: Sweet Pea CinemaWedding and Reception Venue: Milwaukee Art MuseumPrep and Rehearsal Venue: The Pfister HotelRabbi: Evan MofficPlanner: Evenement PlanningPhotography and Photo Booth: Leo and JennyFlorist: Impressions by Esther FlemingCatering: Calatrava CateringInvitations: Pretty Paper DesignsCalligraphy: Kristen Henderson CalligraphyJewler: Hakimian ImportsLinens/Rentals/Staging: M&M Event RentalsBelly Dancers: ACA EntertainmentIce Luge: Art Below ZeroCake & Desserts: Simma’s BakerySoda Jerk Hats: Vicki’s Party ProLate Night Snacks: Kopp’s CustardBride’s Hair: Griffith ParcBride’s Makeup: Cynde HoffmanBride’s Dress: Monique lhuillier from Gigi of MequonBridesmaids Dresses: Jenny Yoo from Gigi of MequonGroom’s attire: Trunk Club custom tuxGroomsmen attire: Hugo BossTransportation: GO Riteway

Personal Vows: The good, the fun and the wonderful

sweetpeacinema January 13, 2017

You’re planning your wedding ceremony, and your officiant asks about your vows. Traditional or personal?Speaking publicly about why you love your partner? In front of everyone?Does that idea thrill you or freak you out?

Telling your story your way

If the idea of declaring your love gives you goosebumps (in the best way), we can wholeheartedly say that you will never forget taking the time to write down what your partner means to you and then pronouncing them publicly. We love this example at Chandra and Davon’s wedding at Villa Terrace. This is just the tiniest portion of their vows, especially Chandra’s which were recited in Spanish as well as English, but you get the idea. This couple’s words to each other were genuine, heartfelt and oh so unique.https://mediazilla.com/rochj9ow1

Traditional is fine!

But what if you are having a more traditional ceremony, in a church for instance?Alexina and Garrett felt their ceremony at St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy wasn’t the best venue to get mushy and lovey-dovey. At least not for them. So, they decided to give each other beautiful, personalized toasts at their reception. These tributes to each other were amazing, and I can tell you that everyone enjoyed every minute of their stories, accolades and gentle jokes about each other. You can get just a taste of them in this sneak peek.https://mediazilla.com/Enteqx3A3

Out of sight!

But what if there’s just no way you’re going to make ANY public pronunciations of your love for each other? You’re not a public speaker and the idea makes you quiver?Have no fear! There’s a great way to express your deep devotion and excitement about your wedding day to your partner that doesn’t involve any performance. We love it when our couples write cards or notes to each other for their wedding day. It’s a way to have that quiet, personal moment that conveys so much meaning. This is exactly what we mean with Mirella and Kyle’s wedding day prep time.https://mediazilla.com/Wnx3e29k1There you have it: The good, the fun and the wonderful way of adding genuine, heartfelt emotion to your wedding day.What are you considering when choosing between traditional and personal vows? We’d love to hear!Cheers!

Christmas wedding perfection at Rustic Manor

sweetpeacinema January 7, 2017

Snow does not materialize for Christmas on command. Just ask the millions of skiers who eagerly look to the sky each winter.Not a snowflake was in sight when we met Mary and Mike last summer to talk about filming their wedding ceremony at St. Charles Catholic Church and reception at Rustic Manor 1848. The Hoyt Park Beer Garden where we met was drenched in sunshine, but Mary and Mike had snowflakes in their eyes as they described the event they were planning just two days before Christmas.They were even planning some portraits on snowshoes to reflect their love of the outdoors, and it was easy to see that these two also shared a deep commitment to each other.We couldn’t wait to film as their wedding approached, because we have so few opportunities to capture weddings in winter.And wedding portraits in snowshoes? Where do we sign up???Just weeks before the big event, Mother Nature blessed Wisconsin with a thick blanket of snow, exactly what Mary and Mike had ordered. But the forecast for their wedding day called for light flurries. The flat overcast skies only spit out the faintest flakes during portraits at Rustic Manor before the early evening ceremony.And while the frigid temperatures challenged all, the entire wedding party was game to frolic outside. And true to form, Mary and Mike strapped on wedding-present snowshoes for an amazing set of portraits and video under the soaring and majestic Rustic Manor “chandelier” tree.Then, just as Mary and Mike hoped for, a little Christmas magic occurred.As everyone packed up to drive to the church and the light began to fade, something in the skies changed. Enormous flakes began falling, so thickly and quickly that it seemed to be raining snow. We arrived at the church first, and as the bridal party van pulled up, I asked Mary and Mike if they were game to have one last, quiet moment in the beautiful snow before they said their vow.Without hesitation, without worrying about her hair or makeup, Mary said: Absolutely.And as soon as they took two steps into the swirling white, I knew this was their “moment.”And it’s why that footage leads their Sneak Peek. Swirling, amazing snow for an equally amazing couple.Congrats to Mary and Mike, who were surrounded by adoring family, a top-notch wedding party (who happily tromped through slush for them!), and a ton of caring friends who helped get the rafters of Rustic Manor rocking!Cheers,CindyThanks to the pros who helped Mary and Mike realize their winter wonderland wedding!Cinematography: Sweet Pea CinemaPhotography: The Paper Elephant (Thanks Colleen and Bill!)Venue: Rustic Manor 1848Church: St. Charles Catholic ChurchBride’s dress: Casablanca from Savvy BrideBride’s Shoes: Badgley MischkaBridesmaid Dresses: Bill LevkoffGroom’s Tux: Vera Wang Black from Jos A. BankHair/Make-up: Merle Norman SalonFlorist: Jane Kelly FloralDJ: All Star MusicInvitations: Coqui Paperie & GiftsTransportation: Cruise-A-PaloozaCatering: Saz’s CateringDessert: A Little Slice of HeavenDance Instructor: Social Style

Moments of a Lifetime: Episode 2

sweetpeacinema December 16, 2016

Weddings often bring out the very best in everyone.And why not? It’s a gathering of family and friends to wish two people well on their official start in marriage. Moments big and small.Weddings also often inspires people to grand gestures: meaningful toasts and speeches, sentimental gifts and, yes, sometimes very creative performances.We’ll get to those incredible toasts and gifts in other blog posts, but this missive is all about performances at weddings. And we’re going to start you out with one of our favorites from last year at the wedding of Chandra and Davon.We were so glad to have been there to record a stunning and emotional duet from the bride and groom during the processional. Yes! During the processional!! I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house!This moment was so spectacular, in fact, that we led their Cinematic Film with it because it had such power, and of course, beauty. The start is what you’re seeing in the clip.We wouldn’t have changed a thing (well … except we would have moved the DJ’s mic pack on Chandra to a more hidden location, as well as the mic on Davon! But those are some of the crazy things you have to roll with during live event videography. It can be a challenge to manage every aspect of the shoot!)Here’s how the moment unfolded. The location — at Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum — made for a perfect stage, with its Mediterranean-style veranda and a priceless view of Lake Michigan. All of the guests had taken their seats. A wonderful soloist had finished “I Found Love” by BeBe Winans and the bridal party stood flanking the terrace.Davon takes a moment to compose himself, and you can hear the anticipation in his breath. Then, he begins to sing:

“From the moment I saw youFrom the moment I looked into your eyesThere was something about you I knew, I knew …

Beautiful words from the All 4 One song, “Beautiful As You.”Like all the moments we record, we’ll let this one unfold, as it should, in real time in the video. Congrats, again, to the newlyweds who we know will have a marriage that will be as beautiful as their processional tribute to each other!Enjoy!