A wedding film is an awesome thing to create. Every wedding is unique. And it's not up to me write the script but rather to discover it. Everything said... the events of the day... the ceremony service.... the speeches at the reception; these all help tell the story, not just of the day but of an incredible love two people share. Each story is different so each wedding is different. And when I do an edit I love to see how it sometimes just falls into place. Most every time it surprises me as what I intended to do as "director" of the film is changed as something works itself in perfectly. And I have to be open to that because it isn't my story... it's yours.
The Wedding of Lynn & Chris was one completely rich with story. They just have such a neat bond. And as I have just finished editing their Main Feature Edit I wanted to share their Recap video. It gives you a glimpse into all the many wonderful little stories I had to work with. One of them was the story of Jaka, who being pregnant and on bed rest, was not able to attend the wedding. She was a bridesmaid. And although she was far away in a hospital somewhere she was still very much included in the day. Early in the day she sent Lynn flowers. Emotions started rolling. Then thanks to the amazing power of technology the bridesmaids used an iPad and FaceTime to make it so she was right there catching it all as Lynn put on the dress. It could have been an Apple commercial because they used the same technology to allow Jaka to personally deliver her speech via an iPhone. It had so much impact. Absolutely amazing.
Then Chris and his groomsmen were jamming it out crazy style when we arrived to shoot the groomsmen getting ready. It was terrific. Chris must be able to play 10 instruments, he blows me away. Music is a shared love for Lynn and Chris so it made such an addition to their film. Then... their speeches were amazing. So much content and incredible words said gave me so much to work with putting together their edit.
So as you're planning your day, the one thing I try to encourage couples to do is to really act on these things that will create that incredible story. Guys... find something different to do in the morning. I know it takes you 5 minutes to get dressed but there's so much more that you could be doing so we don't have footage of you just hanging out drinking beer. Although that's still part of the day, there are other things too. Just be creative. If you want ideas, I'd love to throw a few out. Are you going to give each other a gift? This is such an opportunity to really give a background on your love because we can film both of you receiving and reading the card. It helps build the emotion in the film and tell the story that much better. Couples... don't throw away speech at the end of the night. I know you're going to thank everyone from the flower girls to the caterers but don't forget the one who is standing beside you. Each of you should take a moment to publicly express your feelings for the one you have married. From your films perspective this will drive it home and give me the best content I can. Usually it fits near the end of the film and just emphasizes the incredible journey you've made together and why it all happened. Think about it. I love making films. You just love each other. Now let's make a movie. ACTION!
