How to include your pet on your wedding day

Your wedding day is one of the most joyful and memorable occasions of your life. It’s a celebration of love and bringing together your closest friends and family. For many couples, their pets are an integral part of their lives and families. So, why not include them in this special day as well?

Incorporating your pet into your wedding can add a touch of uniqueness and personalization to your big day. Not only will it bring immense joy and happiness to you and your furry friend, but it will also create unforgettable memories for your guests. Here are some ideas to include your pet on your wedding day:

  1. Dress them up: Just like you and your partner, your pet can also dress up for the occasion. Consider getting a special outfit or accessories that match your wedding’s theme. Whether it’s a cute bowtie for your dog or a floral collar for your cat, make sure they look their best for the occasion.

  2. Include them in your photos: Pets can make for adorable photo props. Arrange a photo session with your photographer to capture some precious moments with your pet. Whether it's a family portrait or photos of your pet with the wedding rings, these photos will be cherished forever.


  3. Include them in the ceremony: If your pet is well-behaved and can handle the excitement, you can include them in the ceremony. They can walk down the aisle as a ring bearer or flower girl. Make sure to assign someone to handle them during the ceremony, so they don’t steal the show completely!

  4. Designate a pet attendant: If you're worried about your pet being overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of the day, consider designating a responsible friend or family member to be their pet attendant. This person can be in charge of their care, ensuring they are comfortable, fed, and have potty breaks throughout the day.

  5. Plan for their comfort and safety: Weddings can be overwhelming for pets with loud music, crowds, and unfamiliar surroundings. Make sure you have a designated space for your pet to retreat to if they need a break. Provide them with water, treats, and a comfy resting area. Keep in mind their specific needs, especially if they have any health issues or are easily stressed.

  6. Use pet-themed wedding favors: Embrace the pet theme and incorporate it into your wedding favors. Consider giving out dog-shaped cookies or cat-shaped chocolates as a sweet reminder of your furry friend's presence on your special day.

  7. Create a signature cocktail in their honor: If you and your partner enjoy a nice cocktail, consider concocting a special drink in honor of your pet. You can name it after your furry friend or create a custom cocktail menu that pays homage to all the pets in your lives.

Remember, while including your pet on your wedding day can be a truly magical experience, it's essential to consider their well-being and comfort. Not all pets are suited for loud and crowded events, so make an informed decision that aligns with their personalities and needs.

Including your pet in your wedding day is a beautiful way to show your love and commitment to your furry friend. These moments will become cherished memories that you'll look back on with happiness and gratitude. So, go ahead and let your pet be part of the love and celebration that surrounds your special day!

3 things a bride should look for when hiring a photographer - Napa, CA

When it comes to planning a wedding, one of the most important decisions a bride has to make is choosing the right photographer. After all, photographs are the only tangible memories that will remain long after the big day is over. So here are three key things a bride should look for when hiring a photographer:

  1. Style and Vision: One of the first things a bride should consider is the photographer's style and vision. Every photographer has their unique artistic approach. Some may prefer candid shots, while others may specialize in more traditional and posed portraits. Take a look at their portfolio to get a sense of their techniques and see if it aligns with your personal taste. You want your wedding photos to reflect your personality and tell your story, so it's important to select a photographer whose style resonates with you. Additionally, consider their ability to capture emotions and moments. A skilled photographer can beautifully freeze time and capture the genuine emotions and feelings that make your day so special. Look for images that make you feel connected to the subjects and evoke emotions within you. These factors contribute to creating timeless and meaningful wedding photographs that you'll treasure forever.

  2. Experience and Professionalism: Wedding photography requires not only skill but also experience, as the photographer must be able to handle various challenges that may arise on the day. From managing different lighting conditions to capturing the right moments amidst the chaos, an experienced photographer knows how to navigate through it all. Take the time to inquire about their experience. Have they photographed weddings before? How many? A seasoned photographer will have a better sense of timing and know how to get the perfect shots, even in the most demanding situations. Additionally, professionalism is crucial. A professional photographer should be punctual, well-prepared, and able to communicate and collaborate effectively. They should be responsive to your needs and open to suggestions while also providing guidance when necessary. Choosing a photographer who is experienced and professional will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience on your wedding day.

  3. Reviews: When hiring a wedding photographer, it's essential to check their online reviews from past clients. This will make you feel more comfortable seeing what different people had to say, Schedule a meeting or even a video call with potential photographers to get to know them better. Ask questions and observe how they communicate and respond. A photographer who genuinely listens to your visions, ideas, and concerns is more likely to capture the essence of your wedding day beautifully and accurately.

Take the time to research, meet with potential candidates, and make an informed decision. After all, investing in a talented and compatible photographer will be one of the best choices you make in preserving the precious memories of your big day.

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I'm engaged! Which vendors do I hire first? Tips from a San Francisco/Bay Area Photographer

Getting engaged is so exciting! As you embark on this journey towards your special day, it's important to make wise decisions when it comes to selecting the vendors who will bring your dreams to life. And we wanted to help you with some tips on the top vendors you should prioritize first:

  1. Planner: Planning a wedding can quickly become overwhelming, so hiring a professional wedding planner can be a game-changer. Experienced planners have extensive industry knowledge, connections, and organizational skills, making your life easier throughout the entire planning process. They'll help you navigate vendor contracts, coordinate logistics, and ensure your wedding day runs smoothly, leaving you to enjoy the magic of your special day stress-free.

  2. Venue: One of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the perfect wedding venue. It sets the tone and ambiance for your big day, so it's wise to secure your ideal location as early as possible. Popular venues often get booked up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons, so don't delay in starting your search. Make sure the venue aligns with your vision, accommodates your guest list, and fits within your budget.

  3. Photo/Video: Photos and videos will forever serve as cherished reminders of your special day. Hiring a professional photographer and videographer is crucial, as they'll make sure to capture moments, emotions, and details that made your wedding unique. Quality vendors often have limited availability due to their dedication to delivering personalized attention, so it's essential to secure their services well in advance.

  4. Entertainment: Your choice of entertainment can make or break the party atmosphere at your wedding. Whether you opt for a live band, a DJ, or even a combination of both, prioritize booking your desired entertainment early on. Talented and in-demand performers tend to have busy schedules, especially during wedding season, so securing your preferred choice ensures they're available for your date. Remember to discuss your music preferences, specific playlists, and any unique entertainment requirements with them to create the perfect atmosphere.

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5 Tips for an Epic Engagement Shoot - Tips from a Sacramento/Bay Area Photographer

So, you're engaged! First of all, congratulations on finding that special someone who's stolen your heart. Your engagement brings with it loads of excitement and anticipation for the big day, and let's not forget about the engagement shoot! It's a chance for you and your partner to capture those beautiful moments leading up to your wedding. To make sure your engagement shoot is truly epic, here are five tips to keep in mind:

Sacramento engagement photographer

  1. Choose a special location: Whether it's the place where you had your first date, a beautiful park where you love to spend time together, or a destination shoot (what about traveling to Tahoe? or maybe San Diego?) The location should be a place where you can get amazing photos and create new memories to look at.

  2. Coordinate your outfits without being overly matchy-matchy: It's great to coordinate your outfits for a cohesive look, but be careful not to go too overboard with matching colors and patterns. Instead, choose complementary colors that allow both of your personalities to shine. Don't forget to consider the location as well – a flowy dress might be perfect for a beach shoot, while a formal suit will work wonders for an urban setting.

  3. Relax and just be yourselves: Remember, the purpose of an engagement shoot is to capture the authenticity of your love. So, forget about trying to strike the perfect pose or imitating those carefully curated Instagram shots. Be playful, flirtatious, and most importantly, be yourselves. The more relaxed and natural you are, the more beautiful and timeless your photos will be.

  4. Add some personality to the shoot: Don't be afraid to inject your interests and hobbies into the shoot. If you both enjoy hiking, consider shooting in the great outdoors surrounded by nature. If you're obsessed with coffee, maybe a cute little café could be the perfect backdrop for some cozy shots. Whatever brings you joy, find a way to incorporate it into your engagement shoot – it will make your photos even more meaningful and fun!

  5. Trust your photographer and have fun: Your engagement shoot is a collaboration between you and your photographer. They're professionals who know how to capture your love in the best possible way. So, relax and trust their expertise. Let them guide you through poses and locations, but also feel free to share any ideas or preferences you may have. Lastly, remember to have fun – laughter and genuine moments of joy will always shine through in your photographs.

And there you have it! These five tips will set the stage for an epic engagement shoot that will forever hold a special place in your hearts. Cherish this time together, embrace the excitement, and let your love be the star of the show. Happy shooting, and congratulations once again on your engagement!

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3 tips to enjoy your wedding day from a Photographer's POV

Your wedding day is meant to be one of the most memorable days of your life. As photographers who have captured countless weddings in Sacramento and SF Bay area, we have witnessed firsthand the stress and pressure couples often face trying to capture every moment perfectly. However, it's crucial to remember that your wedding day is about much more than just photographs. Check out some tips that will help you truly enjoy your special day.

1- Make sure to save time to enjoy and relax and not take photos all the time
While it's important to capture beautiful memories, it's equally important to take time for yourself and enjoy the day you've been dreaming of all your life. Avoid the temptation to be in "photograph mode" constantly. Take a step back, breathe, and be present. Separate specific moments where you focus only on experiencing the joy, love, and celebration surrounding you. Allowing yourself to relax and be present will create lifelong memories that go beyond any photograph.


2- Get the important family photos and bridal party photos done early and focus on living in the moment the rest of the day.

Family photos and bridal party photos are an important part of any wedding album, but they can also be time-consuming and demanding. Plan in advance to capture these important moments early in the day, allowing ample time for group portraits without feeling rushed. By getting those photos done earlier, you can focus on living in the present and enjoying the remainder of your day stress-free. Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating with loved ones, and cherishing those moments with them should be a priority above everything else.


3- prepare all the details before the wedding day

Coordinate the timeline with your planner or photographer to make sure everything is planned ahead of time. finalize the timeline, and ensure all vendors are well-informed about their roles and responsibilities. By planning every detail, you will create a seamless and stress-free day, allowing you to focus on the celebration rather than worrying about any logistical hurdles

Black Oak Mountain Vineyards Wedding

Noel and Kellan's wedding at Black Oak Mountain Vineyards Wedding was absolutely AMAZING! Besides them being such a stunning couple, the venue is a true hidden gem located in Cool, CA and one of the most amazing venues we've been to in Northern California. The venue is a mixture of elegant, modern and country vibe. With a lot of options on where you can do your ceremony and reception and breathtaking views!

If you are looking for a unique place check them out at: Black Oak Mountain Vineyards

Noel and Kellan had such a beautiful wedding with so many emotional moments and so much fun! Their bridal party was simply amazing and we can definitely say one of the most fun groups we've photographed.

Check out their video and some of the wedding photos below.

The Best Times of the year to get married in the Bay Area

When it comes to planning your dream wedding, one of the first things you need to decide is the time of year to tie the knot. SF Bay Area offers so many options for venues and landscape that it’s a hard decision to make!

When deciding the best time of year for your wedding in the Bay Area, keep in mind factors such as budget, availability, and personal preferences. Spring and fall tend to be less expensive and have more vendor availability compared to the popular summer season. On the other hand, summer offers longer daylight hours and more outdoor venues to choose from. Winter weddings can be cost-effective, but keep an eye on weather conditions.

Here are what each season has to offer:

Spring:

Springtime in Northern California is a magical season with blooming flowers, lush greenery, and moderate temperatures. Since the weather is not too hot nor too cold, you can enjoy having a comfortable outdoor celebration. The months of April and May are particularly beautiful, making them perfect for a fairytale wedding.



Summer:

The MOST POPULAR! Summers in the Bay Area are sunny, warm, and perfect for outdoor weddings. The months of June, July, and August offer long daylight hours, providing ample time for stunning photos . You can opt for a beach wedding or say "I do" amidst the charming vineyards of Napa Valley. But please don’t forget that summer is a popular wedding season, so make sure to plan well in advance and book your preferred venue and vendors.

San Francisco Bay Area Wedding

Fall:

Fall brings vibrant colors to the Bay Area scenery. The months of September and October offer backdrops with foliage turning into shades of red, orange, and gold. This season is particularly popular for rustic-themed weddings, as the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot adds a romantic touch to the ambiance. The weather is usually still pretty hot, but you can also enjoy the cool breeze during your outdoor ceremony or reception.


Winter:

While winter may not be the first season that comes to mind for a wedding, the SF Bay Area has beautiful options, even during the colder months. If you're looking for a cozy and intimate celebration, a winter wedding might be just perfect. During this season, Ballroom Weddings and Indoor weddings in general are more popular.

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Top 10 First Dance Songs for 2023/2024

Choosing your first dance song can be hard. It is the moment when you and your partner will share your first dance as a married couple and it is important to choose a song that represents your love story. There are a few things to take into consideration: Do you want something slow and romantic or upbeat and fun? Also, the lyrics of your first dance song should reflect your love story and should have a special meaning to both you and your partner.

We had the honor to collaborate on this blog post with the amazing DJ Eternal!! By doing hundreds of events every year, him and his crew The Crowd Uplifter definitely know how to throw a party!!

www.TheCrowdUplifter.com

Here is a mix of throwback & classics with a couple of recent songs for the Top 10 First Dance Songs for 2023/2024 .


1. Brian McKnight - Back at One

2. Eric Benet - Spend My Life

3. Chicago - Youre The Inspiration

4. Music Soul Child - Dont Change

5. Pink Sweat$ - Nothing Feels Better

6. Pink Sweat$ - At My Worst Remix with Kehlani

7. Savage Garden - I Knew I Loved You

8. Childish Gambino - So Into You

9. Pussy Cat Dolls - Stickwitu

10. John Mayer - Gravity 


If you need more inspiration, give him a follow on Instagram at: @ItsDJEternal




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Erin & Weichen Wedding - Boundary Oak Golf Course

We had the amazing opportunity to capture Erin and Weichen’s Love story. It was such a fun day full of so many sweet moments! We loved every single moment of it.

Read below some fun facts about how they met, how was the proposal and why did they choose to work with our team!

Venue: Boundary Oak Golf Course

Photo and Video: Boss Media Productions

Decor: Pearlsia Decor

Cake/desserts: Le Gateau Elegant

Flowers: Florals by Xochi

DJ: All Family Events

How did you meet your spouse?

For context: Weichen is originally from China, and I'm from California. He had been living in New York for several years, and I had moved to China in 2018. I came back to California for what I THOUGHT would be just a quick trip home to visit family during the Chinese New Year holiday (January 2020). COVID happened, thus shutting down the whole world, which then meant there was absolutely no chance of going back to the new awesome life I had just made for myself in China! It was pretty upsetting, and for a few months, I struggled with what to do with myself after realizing I would be 'stuck' in the US long-term. One of my best friends, Blair (who had visited me once in China and had attended some of my classes), encouraged me to get back to teaching: she pushed me to try online tutoring and recommended a website she had been using to learn Korean. I was honestly still pretty bitter over what had happened earlier in the year with my previous teaching job, but after turning down a few other job offers that just didn't feel right, I reluctantly signed up as a new tutor on the website she suggested. Ironically, Weichen was one of the first people to ever reach out to me asking for help improving his English. Since his office in NY had closed around the same time due to COVID, he decided to make use of quarantine time by working on his English speaking and writing skills. One of the funniest parts to us is that, since I was a new tutor (on this website), I had to set my teaching rates ridiculously low in the beginning in order to gradually gain a presence on this platform; Weichen, on the other hand, had a certain price in mind he was willing to pay - which just so happened to match my laughably inexpensive lesson prices at the time. He does, however, admit that the bit in my profile about having lived in China and having studied Mandarin didn't hurt either. :D He had English lessons with me temporarily, and we stayed in touch even after we weren't having classes together anymore. Within a few short months, he became one of my best friends, and (since New Years 2020) the rest is history. 

How did he pop the question?

In a really nice restaurant on what is often called the Chinese Valentine's Day, 七夕节 (Qixi Festival, or 'Double Seventh' Festival) . He was hiding the ring from me in his jacket. At some point, I said I was cold and asked to wear said jacket. Somehow, he swiftly removed the ring from the pocket before handing the jacket over to me. Then after dinner, I was waiting to go home...but he was waiting for the loud group of guys having a business meeting (at the table next to us) to leave so we could have a moment of privacy. We must have sat there for over an hour after we finished our own dinner, and Weichen just kept making excuses to stall (let's have dessert, why don't you have another drink, how about ANOTHER drink...?); in retrospect, I should have been suspicious at this point because I can't remember another time where he's ever delayed leaving an establishment (especially when I've already asked him when we're leaving hahaha). Once the party seated next to us FINALLY left, he asked me in the most straightforward, most 'Weichen-like' way possible: 

"Have you really thought about if you want to marry me?" 

"*me not getting it yet* Yes, of course!" 

"..Are you sure...?" 

"*still not getting 'it' but rather, getting confused* ...yes...!?" 

"Are you SURE?" 

"YES." 

Then he abruptly pulled out the ring box and slid it over to me on the table!!! I'm laughing retelling this because again, in the most 'Weichen' way possible, he made this moment like a business deal (he knew that I would be really awkward/uncomfortable  if he made some dramatic, super-public display for the proposal so he tried to be lowkey about it!! hahaha). For me, it was perfect - he pulled it off seamlessly. 

What was the best part of your wedding day?

We both agree that the toasts were an extra-special part of the day for us; we felt super awesome and loved. On a less-sentimental note, however, the whole dance / party was just ridiculously awesome!!! The whole family is still talking about how much fun it was and reliving the day through the sneak peek reels that have been released on Instagram and Facebook already! 

What made you choose our company?

We first reached out to your company because it is on the list of preferred vendors we were given from the venue we chose for our wedding (The Clubhouse at Boundary Oak). We had a meeting with Nayra, and we had another meeting with a representative from one other company as well. In the end, we decided to go with Boss Media for two reasons: 1.) the convenience of being able to hire the same company for both photo and video! Weichen's work schedule is always really demanding, and I just finished school recently, so as we planned our wedding we were really looking to simplify the whole process as much as possible. For us, it seemed preferable to hire the same company for both jobs, and now we are so very glad we made that decision! 2.) We generally just got a great feeling from our first meeting with Nayra: we really got the sense that she not only knows what she is doing, but that she is incredibly passionate about her work as well. Aside from the many beautiful examples of weddings the company has shot before ours we previewed on the website, we just knew from talking to her that we could trust Boss Media with our big day. We are so glad we made this decision!!! Thank you guys again for everything!  

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3 things to remember when shopping for a wedding dress

As one of the most important purchases you'll ever make, shopping for a wedding dress can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With so many styles, designers, and price points to choose from, it's easy to get lost in the sea of options and lose sight of what you really want. To help you navigate the process, here are three things to remember when shopping for a wedding dress.

1. Do your research

Before you even set foot in a bridal shop, it's important to do your research. Look online and browse Pinterest to get a sense of the styles that you like and the designers that you're drawn to. This will help you narrow down your options and make shopping a lot less overwhelming. It's also a good idea to set a budget before you start shopping so you can avoid falling in love with a dress that's outside of your price range.

2. Keep an open mind

While it's helpful to have an idea of what you're looking for, it's important to keep an open mind when trying on dresses. You never know what style or fabric might surprise you and make you feel amazing, so don't be afraid to try on different silhouettes and designs. You may be surprised at what flatters your body type and makes you feel like a beautiful bride.

3. Don't forget about the practical details

While it's easy to get caught up in the romance of trying on wedding dresses, it's important not to forget about the practical details. Think about the venue and the time of year you'll be getting married, as this can influence the type of dress you choose. A breezy, lightweight gown might be perfect for a beach wedding, while a heavier fabric might be better for a winter wedding. You'll also want to take into consideration any alterations that might need to be made, as this can add to the overall cost of the dress.

Shopping for a wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of the wedding planning process. By doing your research, keeping an open mind, and paying attention to the practical details, you're sure to find the perfect dress that makes you feel like a beautiful bride on your big day.

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Wedding Photographer and Videographer - Napa | San Francisco | Northern California.