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Bridechilla Wedding Planning

Helping You Ditch Wedding Stress And Plan The Wedding You Want

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Bree Woolliscroft- Destination Wedding Photography

by Aleisha March 14, 2019
written by Aleisha

When a creative passion takes hold and you realise you have found your true calling, you must act and that is what Bree Woolliscroft has done. Within the past year, Bree has made the leap to leave her career in Landscape Architecture to pursue her passion for wedding and elopement photography. Bree says that she's come to understand herself and her surroundings better by looking at the transformation of moments into memories thanks to a camera.
I'm absolutely delighted to welcome Colorado based destination wedding photographer Bree Woolliscroft to the Bridechilla Directory!

Tell us about how you got started in the wedding business and what you love most about working in weddings!

I've been in the photography world for about 10 years, back when I was fifteen I would spend my hot and sticky summers in South Florida running barefoot through the neighbors yards down to the lake to take self portraiture to tell a story. I followed through with photography through high school and in to College where I got my BFA. After college however, I was on my own and needed a career that would pay the bills. I fell in to Landscape Architecture, packed up my little Toyota and moved out to Denver and even began a masters degree. But it wasn't 'right'. I was getting the grades, excelling, but something was missing and I ended up fighting a hard battle with depression and anxiety. Ultimately, that led me to turn back to my camera for creative relief when I realized that photography was exactly where I needed to be.

 I often refer to myself as a wedding photojournalist - I think that really resonates with my brand and the thing I love most about capturing wedding days: The honesty.

What drives your work?

My heart was in storytelling, and I suspect it always has been. There's nothing that gives me joy as much as capturing the biggest day of my clients lives - I mean that. I hit the ground running with destination wedding and adventure elopement photography, quit my 9-5 in January and being full-time wedding photographer has meant that I get to wake up every day the happiest I've ever been. I refuse to be some impersonal vendor stepping in to stage a couples day for a feature blog, or for Dirty Boots and Messy Hair. Instead, I always go in to it as a witness - I believe wholeheartedly in capturing your love for exactly how it happened: all candidness, tears, laughs, and emotions. The REALNESS of the day and the empire love story you've built leading up to the day - that's what makes it worth it. Jokingly, I often refer to myself as a wedding photojournalist - I think that really resonates with my brand and the thing I love most about capturing wedding days: The honesty.

I'll never refer to myself as a 'wedding vendor' because it's way more important to me that my couples feel a deep connection and relationship with me - they trust me.

Tell us a bit about who your ideal clients are

​I love the real bride and groom. The ones who aren't afraid of getting a little dirty, of crying their makeup off, who isn't afraid of the emotions they're going to feel on that day. My couples understand that we are friends FIRST. They understand I'll never refer to myself as a 'wedding vendor' because it's way more important to me that my couples feel a deep connection and relationship with me - they trust me. And the photographs of their day are the most important thing to them because they know that when all is said and done, that's all they are left with to pass down and to hang on their walls. They know that these images are what they'll have to remember where they started - in good times and in bad. That those close to them will look at them ten years down the road, and say "wow, they still love each other THAT much.". Even when marriage gets hard -the first thing they know they will reach for are their wedding images. My brides value their story and the heirlooms we're going to create together.

Trends are going to fade, but knowing that I've taken the time and effort to build a friendship with my couples first so that they will allow me to capture their day in truth, THAT makes me feel like I'm doing something right.

What do you feel makes you unique and different from other wedding pros?

I believe to my core that as a wedding photographer or wedding professional of any kind, the day is not about us. It is not about 'getting the shot', it is not about staging something that is going to be blog-worthy or take time out of the biggest day of their lives to create portfolio work- Instead, I believe deeply in being a witness. They built a love that got them to the top of the aisle, and they have a story worth telling. I really believe that by not telling that story exactly how it happened, I wouldn't be doing the work they've put in to their relationship justice. It's just not about the publications for me, nor is it about the 'instagram worthy' image. Trends are going to fade, but knowing that I've taken the time and effort to build a friendship with my couples first so that they will allow me to capture their day in truth, THAT makes me feel like I'm doing something right.

What is your favorite wedding related memory?

It's kind of a funny story but my husband is from the UK and I'm from the US, and we got engaged October 1st 2016, and married with 65 people in attendance from all over the world on October 22, 2016. Yes - 22 days later I pulled off an international wedding. We were just two kids who had no business planning a wedding - knew nothing about how to do it but our love was bigger, we were really crazy about each other and there was never a doubt in our mind so we cared about very little during the planning process. It was so meaningful for us to have our friends and family there from all over the US and UK, but I think the most meaningful thing of all was finally seeing my husband at the top of the aisle - crying. That was the first time I'd ever seen him cry and I just about lost it. Everything else fell away, and none of the decor, meals, or outfits mattered. It was just me and him. I realize it now, it really was always just me and him.

What is one thing you wish more couples knew about wedding planning as a whole or your specific role in the wedding?

I feel a bit like a broken record, but it's so important that you have a deep connection to your photographer. You spend 90% of the biggest day of your life with them in tow. There really aren't limits of what I'll do for my brides and grooms. I'll hold your dress while you pee, pin boutonnieres for the groom or groomsmen, dance with your bridal party AND your grandparents at the reception - you name it. *hip thrusts*

As far as the planning process - I'm very hands on and believe that we should be! I want to help you with whatever you need. Don't feel like once the contract is signed and the deposit is paid that I don't want to be involved - text me all the details, send me pictures of your dress!

I love feeling like you're excited for me to be a part of your day - because I'm INCREDIBLY honored you chose me!!

Share 3 fun facts about you and/or your business!

  1. I shoot ALL OVER the USA and am working on building myself a place in the international market! WOOHOO DESTINATIONS!
  2. I can't say no to wedding cake --- ever.
  3. I'll probably lose it and start blubbering during your daddy daughter dance, I do every single time.

How do you help your clients "keep their chill" during the wedding planning process?

​I'm there every step of the way. Need a step-in planner for an elopement? I'm there. Need someone to go scout locations? I'm your girl. Do research on portrait locations for your destination wedding? I have you! I remind all of the brides that when it comes down to it - the only thing that will ultimately matter in getting married is your love story, your promises and your marriage certificate. You don't need anything else really - and if you WANT more, do what is feasible and comfortable and reflects YOUR personality. I'm going to treat my brides as if I'm another bridesmaid because I deeply believe they don't need another person to worry about on their big day - they need someone who will be worried about THEM.

A lot of my couples opt for an elopement where we can craft their day to be an experience - and this often is SO relieving for them. Whether that's getting up at 2 AM to hike to a summit where you change in to your dress or suit, or spending the day skiing or rock climbing, or just exploring a new city in your best dressed - adventure elopements are ALWAYS an option!

Also, I make sure that my bride and groom get quiet time just for them, especially if they're having a traditional wedding. Whether that’s sharing a plate of chicken wings tucked away on the staircase with a beer in secret after the ceremony, or a quiet few moments alone for your first dance in a beautiful and remote location - the entire day is about you and I think it's easy to forget that amongst the noise of planning a wedding. Take time for you. I have my brides and grooms make a playlist of their favorite songs to listen to during our portraits, we treat it like a mini-date. Just you two and all the feels.

Want to work with Bree? 

Connect with Bree via her website and be sure to check out her Bridechilla Directory listing. Bree is also a member of the Bridechilla Community, so you can connect with her there too!

Connect with Bree on the Socials

Instagram | Facebook |

March 14, 2019
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Generation Tux- The right look. The right fit. The right choice for your wedding.

by Aleisha March 3, 2019
written by Aleisha

Groomchillas, it's your time to shine!
Grooms and groomsmen attire shouldn't be an afterthought or something that is decided in a 30 minute whirlwind visit to a rental store, where they're kitted up with a boxy suit that's been worn by hundreds of other dudes (which also didn't fit them either). It's time to ditch the stereotype of men not taking an active interest in what they're wearing to their own wedding because we know that's just another wedding myth and boy do we love slaying stereotypes at Bridechilla!

It is always an absolute pleasure to welcome new Bridechilla Directory members into our directory family. We are delighted to feature a Groomchilla-centric company, Generation Tux, who offer super stylish suits and tuxedos delivered straight to your door. With free home try-on and with thousands of color combinations and 21 suit and tux styles, you're guaranteed to find what you need AND look freaking amazing.

Tell us about how you got started in the wedding business and what you love most about working in weddings!

Well, we started this company to make it easier on couples to order their suits or tuxedos AND situate their groomsmen. Guys are lazy. And stores are terrible. We take care of both!

How do you help your clients "keep their chill" during the wedding planning process?

We take care of everything. Free swatches, Free home try-on and a free suit or tux for the groom. Mix that with our service team that wrangles all the groomsmen and you get all the chill.

How do you ensure that you will get the ‘right fit’ with an online rental?

They say a guarantee is only as good as the person that stands behind it. George Zimmer, our founder and CEO, has been dressing grooms for 40 years.

He has had the honor of playing a role in millions of weddings and is now revolutionizing the entire wedding rental experience.

With a handful of measurements, custom technology, decades of suit rental knowledge and an award-winning customer experience team you are in excellent hands for your wedding

What’s the difference between Generation Tux and other suit rental businesses?

“Looking good has never been this easy", means something to us. It means you will look and feel great in our suits and tuxedos. It means you can lose the measuring tape. It means you will be dressed in the finest fabrics in the rental industry. And most importantly, it means you can relax and enjoy your wedding. We understand this is a rental suit or tuxedo for one of the most important days of your life. That is why Generation Tux will ALWAYS innovate to ensure you are receiving the best possible quality and service.

Slate Blue Notch Lapel Suit

Do you really give Grooms a free rental?

Sure do! Whether it’s a groomsman, ring bearer, father of the bride or just an old friend; five paid rentals qualify for a free groom’s suit or tux rental. Celebrate your big day with a free rental, on us!

What do you feel makes you unique and different from other wedding pros?

Our quality and our service. Award winning and super awesome.

What is your favorite wedding related memory?

We got to dress an entire wedding party who was not allowed to use the venue they wanted because they were gay. We like to do good.

Black Notch Lapel Tuxedo

What is one thing you wish more couples knew about wedding planning as a whole or your specific role in the wedding?

Picking the suits or tuxes up the day before the wedding is dangerous! And you don't have to! Use us. We will put the suit or tux on the doorstep of every person in the party 14 days before the wedding.

Share 3 fun facts about you and/or your business!

  1. We LOVE dogs. And we donate to the ASPCA to support our fur friends.
  2. We were founded by the former CEO of Men's Wearhouse, who is super fun and knows EVERYTHING wrong with rental.
  3. And we never turn down a chance to make a bride smile.

Looking for suit inspiration?

Looking for suit inspiration, check out the Generation Tux Gallery, featuring hundreds of real life Groomchillas!

Cement Gray Notch Suit

March 3, 2019
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Janelle & Clint’s Intimate Summertime Brooklyn Wedding

by Aleisha November 22, 2018
written by Aleisha

A destination wedding at Bacchus Bistro & Wine Bar in the heart of Brooklyn. Photographer, Kate Alison shares this globe-trotting couple's intimate Brooklyn Wedding. 

Kate: Janelle and Clint are two of the kindest, most loving couples I've met. She is from the USA, he is from South Africa, they met in Prague, and now live in London. They love to travel and explore, and also to stay in with wine and Netflix.

All 55 guests, plus the couple, traveled to Brooklyn from all over the globe. They wanted a "relaxing, non-stuffy" wedding that reflected them as a couple. Although it was a very hot summer day, we kept it super chill! The ceremony was intimate, sharing the couples hopes and dreams for growing old together. Janelle surprised Clint with a first dance to their song with sparklers and the two kept dancing all night long.

Janelle & Clint's Rockstar Vendors:

Bridechilla Wedding Directory Members

Photography: Kate Alison Photography

Other Vendors

Venue & Catering: Bacchus Bistro & Wine Bar ​

Officiant: Once Upon A Vow

Flowers: Stems Brooklyn

Hair & Makeup: Bespoke Beauty & Bridal

Paper Goods: To the Moon & Back Paper & Laser Studio ​

Rings: Nichols Jewelers

Dress: Luella's Bridal

Accessories: BHLDN

Suit: Ted Baker from Moss Bros., Thomas Pink, Loake Shoemakers ​ ​

Doughnuts: Dough ​

November 22, 2018
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Styled Wedding Shoots

Jilted: A Bridal Nightmare – Halloween Wedding Photoshoot

by Aleisha October 31, 2018
written by Aleisha

JILTED: A Bridal Nightmare

Poem & Concept by Nina McKaskey of Wedded Kiss

Let's get spooky up in here with a Halloween wedding photoshoot! This styled shoot tells the  story of a bride left at the altar... but what has happened to her groom? Will true love win, or is it all a waking nightmare?

On this bleak cold Autumn day
A lovely bride was led astray
For, on this day, she was to wed
Now head held low, no vows were said
The bridegroom nowhere to be found 
She fell upon the hallowed ground
She ran to the site of their first kiss 
Where their true love had blossomed hence
And there he stood, she ran to his side 
But he was transformed, his warmth had died
His eyes now filled with twilight glow 
Would he stay? Only the moon could know.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

The Rockstar Vendor Team

Bridechilla Directory Members

Floral Design & Decor: Folie à Deux Events

Other Vendors

Photography: Morgan Caddell Photography

Concept & Planning, Poem, Hair & Makeup, & Cake: Wedded Kiss

Venue: All Saints Chapel

Gown: Leanne Marshall - provided by Gilded Bridal

Models: Chelsy & Lowell Thomas of The Gathering Co

October 31, 2018
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Kasey + Michael’s Emotional Nature Inspired Wedding

by Aleisha October 25, 2018
written by Aleisha

Bridechilla Graduate, Kasey, shares her deeply personal, emotional, woodland & nature inspired wedding to Michael at Long Island's Fox Hollow.

Tell us a little about yourselves!

Kasey: The moment I saw Mike, I knew I was in trouble.

I did everything I could to avoid liking him. Until I did. Then I did everything to avoid loving him…that happened too.

Mike and I met through my Alpha Chi Omega sister/roommate. She will tell you that she met him freshman year in the laundry room, but won’t tell me what he was wearing (or not wearing) when that happened.

Mike crept into my life by loaning us his 52″ flat screen TV for a year. He claimed he didn’t want his roommates using it more than him, and as long as he could come over to watch it every once in a while, we could keep it in our room.

I was completely naive and unassuming of his true intentions.

Mike’s class schedule went up on the wall with the rest of my roommates and he came over often. He even starred in a video project of mine.

I went away on Spring Break my Senior Year, and debated taking Mike to formal as my date. We had flirted enough that I felt he was interested, but was unsure if I was ready to be so forward about my feelings. I decided I wouldn’t take him.

When I returned to my dorm room, there were 2 dozen roses waiting at my door from him with a “I hope you had a nice trip, I missed you” card.

I ended up taking him to formal.


Later Mike went out to dinner with his Aunt and Uncle who were visiting town. He came back to school and in my room, told me he couldn’t stop talking about me all night, and wondered if I would like to be his girlfriend, officially.

I agreed and we finished out the semester, graduated together, and moved back to NY.

In April 2014, after living together for 2 years and purchasing our first home on Long Island, Mike took two days off, claiming he needed a break from his crazy work schedule. I thought nothing of it. I told Mike when it came time that he wanted to propose, I wanted to know nothing about it. But when I came home after his first day off, he couldn’t contain his excitement that he had wanted to go into the city (Manhattan) to look at rings, but lost the courage at the last minute.

The next day, I came home to an exasperated Mike who claimed I had just beat him home because he had been in the city all day…I did not marry a man of mystery. I played dumb and he told me he had stopped to see his sister while he was there and did look at rings, when I stopped him and said I didn’t want to hear anymore. Mike and I share everything with each other and I could tell this was killing him.

I was extremely anxious about Mike proposing. Like any girl, I wanted a full blown youtube worthy proposal where secret photographers caught the very moment he went down on one knee and my jaw dropped. But I told Mike my only stipulation was that it was not at a restaurant.

Mike would pitch random ideas at me over the next few weeks. “Lets take a walk” he would say, and me, being very keen to his lack of subtlety, said, no.

It came down to one night when I was sitting on the couch when I confessed my anxiety surrounding the big commitment in marriage. I came from a home where no marriage had lasted, and it was the last thing I wanted to get wrapped up in. Mike had reassured me in the way that only he can. I told him that when he was ready and thought the time was right, I would listen.

He said “I’ll be right back” and ran downstairs.

My heart started pounding.


He returned and began to confess that he knew I wanted a big romantic gesture and that he really wanted to give that to me but just couldn’t wait any longer and wanted to spend the rest of his life with me. He got down on one knee, said my name, and asked me to marry him.

And well, I guess you know what my answer was.

Tell us about your wedding!

Because I own a design studio, my wedding aesthetic had to be epic. Probably the most common comment I get from people is, “I can only imagine what your invitations looked like.” After all, the expectations of my guests (and truthfully from myself) were so high, I knew I had to blow it out of the water.

I know so many facets of print methods. I had to decide which would be right for my suite. Letterpress? Foil? Laser cut? Metal? I considered all the options.

Wood? Wood. Reverse engraved wood, because you know, standard engraved was “too common….::eye roll::”

My invites came together just as my best designs do. Me playing around in illustrator with different shapes and elements.

I love texture. I love fine detail. I love the smallest personalization to make every last element your very own.


I found some beautiful line work in the pumpkin and leaf skeleton silhouettes. I blew our names up to anchor the design. I clipped the corners to make it a unique shape. Every text element had to be anchored somehow in a nonconventional shape. Bark, branches, stumps, it was all setting the tone for my “raw element” feel. I hand gilded every invite to add a metallic shine to our names. I sketched our foxes in pencil, which would blow up into our wedding logo and be on everything from hotel door hangers to ice sculptures.


Funnily enough, my invitations went out late because I *needed* hand calligraphy. RSVP postcards got lost in the mail. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t beaming with pride with the result. “They even smell good!” “LOVE this” “Best invitation ever.” I had wrapped up my invitation into a package of love for every person it was extended to. It set the tone for our event.

the invitation process took about 4-6 months from the original ideas. I love the way they came out, they're still my favorite suite to date. I am hoarding every last extra invite I have. I am framing one with my bouquet flowers.

What was totally worth it?

Every single cent I thought was a waste of money before I planned a wedding was 110% worth it. I went over budget on things like stationery (duh) music, and food because I wanted to have an epic party and shatter everyone's expectations of a wedding. Considering I'm still getting glowing reviews, I'd say we crushed it.


Our first look was a point of contention. I had always dreamt of my groom crying as I walked down the aisle and he saw me for the first time. But time became an issue as we got married in late fall and Daylight Savings meant that if we didn’t do a first look, all of our wedding photos would have to be indoors, or in the night as our reception went on without us. I “caved” and did a first look and I can tell you it was probably the single best thing I did for myself on my wedding day (besides actually getting married of course). When I saw my best friend before we got started with family pictures, I was instantly relieved and excited to get married. We rode to the church together and then I hid in a broom closet (I didn’t want late arriving guests to see me) buzzing to get out there and do this thing.

What was not worth it?

Trying to DIY. I ended up being stressed to the max and the sole point person on the morning of the wedding. I didn't get to enjoy a lot of my engagement because of the stress I put on myself. I'd have done anything to have had a coordinator or someone helping greet all the vendors and receive things like flower deliveries while I actually got ready.

What did you throw in the Fuck-it Bucket?

As we got closer, things that seemed really important to me to perfect just needed to get done. I was going to do favors beyond the pumpkins and I honestly just ran out of time.

What advice do you have for other engaged couples?

Use your resources. Wedding expos or showcases are typically just a grab for your email address--make a dummy account just for the wedding for your sanity. If you don't have help planning, hire someone. There is no shame in admitting that you have no idea what you're doing and having a professional do their thing. The time and stress you'll save offsets the cost.

Bridechilla is all about being yourself and not letting the opinions of other's influence you. This mindset was a lifesaver to plan the wedding of my dreams and have no regrets. Opinions will die down after the wedding, but your memory of your wedding day will stay with you forever!

Kasey + Michael's Rockstar Vendors

Bridechilla Directory Members

Design & Stationery: revelry + heart

Other Vendors

Photographer: Deb + Matt
DJ: Barattini productions
Florist: Wick's Florist
Video: Joseph Minasi
Trolley: M&V Limosines
Men's Attire: Bonaventure
Gown: Frew's Bridal, designed by Sophia Tolli
Makeup Artist: Makeup by Jessie LaSerra
Bridesmaids Dresses: WTOO
Venue/Caterer: Fox Hollow
Ceremony Venue/Officiant: Community Church of East Williston
Daiquiri Station: Daiquiri Daddy
Photobooth: ISH Photobooths
Alterations: Zizi Nasir

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October 25, 2018
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11 Experience-Based Gift Ideas for Your Registry

by Aleisha July 18, 2018
written by Aleisha

In this article, Annabelle (from Bridechilla Directory friend Evergreen Lane Productions) talks about the traditional pillar of the wedding planning experience: the registry. The place where your future mother in law insisted you must request china, luxurious bed sheets, and a KitchenAid mixer. While there is nothing wrong with these gift ideas, more and more of us are eschewing the collection of more things we need to store and or keep clean. Enter our hero, the experience-based gift.

When you don't need more stuff...

I’m a recent Bridechilla grad myself (and guest on The Bridechilla Podcast). My husband and I were married on a lovely beach in Belize and spent 13 months of our engagement and newlywed season traveling around the United States in an RV. We did not have room for a bunch of stuff, to say the least. The experience-based gift ideas in this article are all things we either included on our registry or wish we did.

Photo by sept commercial 

Gift Registry Ideas For Creative Date Nights:

  1. Flytographer session - This company has professional photographers all over the world that will come take photos of you and your partner as you explore the city. We really value having pictures together, and sometimes selfies don’t do the trick. Plus, we had a destination wedding and missed engagement photos, so we don’t have pictures together in our hometown of Denver. A mini photo session would be a fun date option, and you could knock out your Christmas cards at the same time!
  1. Sip and Craft night - almost every city around the world has a paint and sip place where you can drink a beer or glass of wine while creating a piece of art for your new married pad. Increasingly, there are options Upstairs Circus for couples who would prefer to create with a hammer and nails instead of a paintbrush. My husband and I had a date day at a paint-your-own pottery spot where we decorated a Christmas ornament together. For crafty couples, research a local option that inspires you and add a gift certificate to your registry.
  1. Couples massage - Need a little stress relief after all the excitement of wedding planning? You’re not alone. Registering for a couples massage or spa day is an experienced-based gift that’s great for your relationship AND your mental health.
  1. Admission to a sporting event, concert or amusement park - We put a cash fund for baseball tickets on our registry since it’s my husband’s favorite sport, but you could just as easily customize this based on the interests of you or your future spouse. Concert tickets or amusement park admission make for unique date night gifts, or could add some variety to your honeymoon activities, depending on your chosen destination!

Photo by Toa Heftiba 

Gift Registry Ideas For Foodie Couples:

  1. Gift certificate to a meal kit service - My husband and I received a gift certificate to Blue Apron, and we were able to get several weeks of new recipes to try. Typically, my husband does the cooking in our house (I know, I’m lucky!) but it was so fun to learn something new together. We poured a glass of wine, put on a playlist, and had a date night in. This is an excellent gift for both couples who are more experienced chefs who want to try some unusual ingredients and for those who are new to the whole cooking for themselves routine. Plus, there are many meal kit options to choose from based on your location and dietary restrictions.
  1. Collection of family recipes - If you’re in search of a bridal shower idea that won’t require you to add another 50 knick-knacks to your registry, consider gathering family recipes. Invite everyone to bring a favorite recipe and store the cards in a keepsake album or box. Having recipes from my husband’s grandmother back in the Philippines sitting right next to the one for Texas baked beans my aunt would make in the summertime is something I cherish and serves as a symbol of our blended family.
  1. A Passport Program - Many cities have initiatives to help residents get out and explore the culinary scene. The Passport Program is one of those, serving US cities like Denver, Washington D.C., Minneapolis and more. Essentially a fancy coupon book, the passport provides 2-for-1 specials on drinks at a wide variety of local restaurants and bars. This is the perfect gift for foodies who love exploring local haunts, and as a bonus, it’s a budget-friendly registry addition.

Annabelle and her husband, Christian. Photo by Alicia Lewin Photography

Gift Registry Ideas For adventurers:

  1. City tour - one of the best gifts my husband and I received was a food and street art tour in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami through Cloud9 Living on Zola (also, make sure when you sign up to Zola, you use this link and codeword BRIDECHILLA, for $50 credit).
    The walking tour meandered through the arts district, and we sampled from 5 different restaurants while learning about the artists and murals throughout. Adventuring with your partner and learning about the culture and history of a new place can be so much fun. Pick your local city to explore or choose an area that you’ll be traveling to for the honeymoon.
  1. Honeymoon Film - Are you heading on the trip of a lifetime after the wedding? Bring home a souvenir you don’t have to pack in your suitcase with a keepsake honeymoon film. One of my favorite things to do is take all our iPhone or GoPro video footage from our travels and edit them together into a vacation film my husband, and I can watch over and over again. Don’t worry if you’re not a professional video editor either - that’s precisely why I created my heirloom honeymoon film offerings. Find me on the Bridechilla Wedding Directory!
  1. Membership to a local museum - We’ve supported both the local botanic gardens and the art museum, but there are tons of options depending on your area of interest. Since my husband and I travel a lot, we chose the level of membership to the Denver Art Museum that included reciprocity with 70 other museums across the United States. We’ve visited at least 10 of these museums for free thanks to this gift! Museum membership is a great way to support the arts and/or sciences, your local museums, and get some travel perks too.
  1. National Parks Pass - More into the outdoors than museums? Add an annual parks pass to your registry. Whether you’re in Australia or the United States, the park service has various levels of park membership. You could pick a favorite park that’s close to home so you can explore it in depth, or choose a regional or national level pass if you plan on lots of adventuring as newlyweds (you’re my kind of people!).

Photo by Joanna Nix

I hope this list inspires you to add experience-based gifts to your registry. Some of these ideas require a little extra research up front, but they pay dividends when you and your future spouse get to fill up your first year of marriage with incredible experiences that strengthen your relationship and create memories that you’ll be talking about for the rest of your lives. When my husband and I set up our registry, we were a little worried about ruffling the feathers of our more traditional guests. In the end, however, the experience-based gifts were some of the most popular items on our registry overall, and the KitchenAid mixer we thought we had to have is still there, un-purchased. No regrets!

Listen to Annabelle's Bridechilla episode

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July 18, 2018
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Vivid & Energetic Wedding Photography with Kivus & Camera

by Aleisha June 12, 2018
written by Aleisha

Meet Elyssa & John!

Elyssa & John Kivus are the husband & wife team behind Kivus & Camera,  wedding photographers in Durham, NC. Elyssa and John bring their enthusiastic, joyous, and fun-loving personalities to your wedding through their vivid and energetic wedding photography. Check out our interview with Elyssa & John to learn more about their business, and philosophy about wedding photography!

Tell us a little about how you got started in Wedding Photography

Elyssa: My background is in journalism. I went to college wanting to be a photojournalist and interned at great papers, just waiting for my opportunity to land a staff position. But, this was 2009 and the only thing newspapers were doing was firing people. I ended up in law school (mock trial had also been a passion), but I still loved taking pictures on the side. A couple years into my law career (which I hated), a good friend was getting married with basically zero budget, and I offered to bring my camera. I fell completely in love with documenting weddings, started the business, and was able to take it full time about 2 years later. My favorite thing about working in the wedding industry is experiencing vicarious joy. I love getting to be around so many happy people and learning what makes them smile.

Who do you love to work with?

The Kivus & Camera couple knows that weddings are meant to be enthusiastic and joyful. One of your top priorities is having a great time, whether you're inviting just a couple witnesses to a courthouse ceremony or maxing out the occupancy allowance at a ballroom. There will probably be good beer available after the ceremony, definitely some yummy dessert, and, more often than not, dancing (good and bad). You're probably super nerdy about at least one thing (comics, sports, biology, wine, whatever) and we can't wait to talk to you about that thing.

How do you help your clients keep their chill?

Sending them to Bridechilla! But mostly I just make myself available to provide advice, be a sounding board, a joke machine - whatever's needed in that moment. I've been to a lot of weddings. I planned my own wedding. I've got a lot of knowledge to share and I love to help. I also love to make people laugh, so I will always be striving to do that.

What do you feel makes you unique and different from other wedding pros?

Sometimes it feels like the wedding photography world is divided into two styles: "light and airy" and "dark and moody". We're not either of those. John & I have decided our style is "Vivid & Energetic." So from a photos perspective, our look is different than a lot of what you'll see. We embrace color, bring our own lights, aren't afraid of bright sun or dark rooms, etc. Aside from the photos perspective, I think our backgrounds set us apart. This is a second career for me (I was an attorney first, a divorce attorney no less), and John is still a practicing intellectual property litigator. It takes a certain set of skills (dedication, problem solving, self-loathing, craziness) to succeed in law school. I'm recovering from the self-loathing part, but I am bringing some serious passion for the business of weddings.

Do you have a favorite wedding memory? 

My favorite wedding memories are always moments that really highlight who this couple is. When the groomsmen serenade the bride with Backstreet Boys and she joins right in, when the couple have customized their vows independently and both have the same pop culture reference, when "their song" comes on and it's Who Let The Dogs Out.

What do you wish more people knew about wedding planning?

I wish more couples knew that they can make their wedding whatever they want. There's no specific timeline you have to follow - have your "reception" from 4-10 with the ceremony somewhere in the middle. There's no reason you have to have bridesmaids or groomsmen. There's no reason you have to carry a bouquet or cut a cake. Just do you. From a photography perspective: Great photos take time. Those awesomely lit couple portraits are a lot harder to get when all we have is 3 minutes at the end of cocktail hour after all of the family photos are done.

Meet Kivus & Camera - Durham, NC Wedding Photographers - The Bridechilla Wedding Directory

Share 3 fun facts about you and your business!

  1. Kivus is our last name. It's pronounced Key-vuhs. You can remember this by calling us Kivus & Butthead (you decide which of us is which).
  2. We shoot on two different camera systems! I shoot with Nikon equipment, but John uses a Sony mirrorless system. Depending on what Nikon comes out with toward the end of this year, I may be shifting to Sony too though.
  3. We go to Disney World as often as possible - multiple times a year. I may even edit your wedding photos from one of the parks. I've been known to pull out my laptop at Animal Kingdom's Nomad Lounge.

To learn more about Kivus & Camera and their photography, visit their profile in the Bridechilla Wedding Directory and check out their website!

June 12, 2018
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324 – Bridechilla Q&A- Bridal Party Dramas

by Aleisha June 11, 2018
written by Aleisha

I am delighted to welcome a special co-host to join me to answer you Bridechilla wedding planning questions, Bridechilla Directory member, wedding planner and podcaster, Cindy Savage from, an Aisle Less Travelled. We talk the values of the metric system, sewing and of course answer your wedding planning questions which this episode are all based on bridal party drama and managing expectations.

Listen to Episode 324 of Bridechilla 

Stop comparing your wedding to others

Our first wedding planning question comes from an anonymous Bridechilla who is torn about between asking a close friend to be her maid of honor as she is also planning her wedding and in doing so is being far more meticulous and traditional.
Our anonymous Bridechilla is concerned about how her potential MOH will react to her more casual approach to wedding planning and doesn’t want to get into a competitive situation, as their weddings are quite close to each other’s. How do you find away to accept each other's different approaches to planning the day and also manage expectations from the get-go? 

Comparison is the thief of joy 

It can be hard to sometimes remember this wonderful quote when we have our heads in the game but I think the sooner we can step back from the idea that wedding planning has become a competitive sport,  the sooner many of us will feel relief and freedom to just do what makes us happy. Our advice for our wonderful anonymous Bridechilla is to be open and clear about what she needs and wants from her friends involvement. Talking about their differing viewpoints, especially  if she is worried that her friend is possibly going to come in and try and change things or comment in a way that makes you unhappy.

Bridesmaid drama

Photo by Tamara Menzi

Dodging Family Conflict

Bridechilla Kelly is conflicted. She isn't close with her sister and has decided to ask a close friend to be her maid of honor. She is having no other bridal party. Upon discovering this, her sister flipped out and Kelly is now very conflicted between letting her sister down and doing what she really wants and that is having her friend be her maid of honor. 

I am sure we all have relationships within our family unit that aren't as strong as other's or that exists in a delicate ecosystem of emotions. It can often be extremely challenging to push back and not go the way that is expected of you...for Kelly that might be just relenting and giving here sister a place in her wedding but I see wedding planning as not only a place to plan an event and create your own traditions, it can be a place to step up and follow what you want to do without the pressure to conform to pressure from family and friends to 'do the right thing'.

Meet Bridechilla Guest- Cindy Savage

Image by Pinxit Photo

I’m Cindy Savage, your queer feminist wedding anti-status-quo planner. I help independent, feminist, and LGBTQ people like you plan meaningful weddings while keeping your sanity and your budget intact.

I offer a full range of wedding planning and coordination services, from hourly consultation to wedding day management to planning subscriptions to complete wedding planning and event design. So no matter what your needs or budget are, if we’re the right fit, I can help you create the wedding that is right for YOU! (And don’t worry – we’ll be lowering the stress and increasing the fun while we’re at it.) 

I’m based in St. Louis, Missouri and Portland, Oregon, and travel is included within the continental United States – so we can work together no matter where you are.

I happen to be really good at planning big parties and at helping you sort out what’s important to you – so that your wedding is the YOU-est wedding there ever could be. 

Oh yeah, and I’m also great at reducing your wedding planning stress so you can chill the f*ck out!

Thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

Show image by Demetrius Washington 

June 11, 2018
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322- The F*ck it Bucket Part 2- Vendor Edition

by Aleisha May 28, 2018
written by Aleisha

The fuck it bucket is where you put all of the jobs and things and things to buy you thought you would get around to doing before your wedding but have run out of time or care. These items are tasks are things you thought would be important at the early stages of planning but now…bye!

The fuck it bucket is back in this brand new episode of Bridechilla, this time I asked our Bridechilla Directory members to share what they recommend their clients to put in the fuck it bucket.
This episode is a great follow up to the original and will give you lots more to think about when it comes to what is important to you!
Listen to the episode and be sure to check out our vendor tips in the blog.

Listen to episode 322 of Bridechilla

Start with putting everything in the bucket!

I think you should throw literally everything directly in the Fuck it Bucket for starters, and then, sit down with your partner and decide what kind of wedding you want to have. Only after you've figured that out, dig through the Fuck it Bucket and pull out just the things that apply to you and leave everything else, and everyone else's expectations, right there in the bucket.

Aisle Less Traveled- Cindy Savage

Image By Sharma Shari

Swap favors for charity

More and more of my couples are deciding to not waste the money on the favors. They're already throwing this amazing party for their family and friends. So the two things that I've seen is either they don't do anything or they do something edible, right, that you can take and just not clutter or anything like that. Or the other thing that I've been seeing a lot is they take that money and they donate it. They donate to their favorite charity like soup kitchen or cancer research or whatever it is that's very important to them.

Sharma Shari Photography

Last minute DIY

I would love to add last-minute DIY decorations to the Fuck it Bucket. So many of you are stressed as fuck with getting the last-minute crafts done, burning your fingers with hot glue, and crying over your crafts. My recommendation is to not do that. Make a list of your must-haves and your list of "If it happens, it happens." Prioritize that shit, and let it go. If it doesn't happen, it doesn't happen.Also, don't do any crafts the morning of your wedding. Just don't.

Plain With Sprinkles Events​

Trash programs and printed goods

one more thing you can add to the fuck-it bucket, in our opinion, would have to be the programs.
Because in all honesty, people just leave them on their seats after the ceremony, and generally, you'd have some much of them left unused, that's it's just wasteful. Most people won't need it, because the date-of coordinator would guide the guests to where they need to be, and at the right time. Also, people might be looking at the schedule instead of the couple. And like the saying goes, you should not anticipate, you should participate.

Jon Warlick Media- Wedding Film

Listen to the original FIB episode

Image by Kivus and Camera

Deflect other people's opinions

It's definitely important that you want your friends and family to have a good time, and that's really what we look for in our couples, are people who want to have a lot of fun in their weddings. But don't let your friends and family dictate your wedding planning process.

At the end of the day, the wedding is about the two of you and your love, so you really should be doing things that reflect what you value in life, and what you value in one another. Maybe that means you're incorporating something that 99% of people would never consider, or maybe it means you're cutting out something that everybody else does. And that's awesome because that's what makes the wedding yours. Don't just do something because you saw it on Pinterest, or because your mom wants you to do it. Don't worry about what other people think. If it doesn't suit your personalities, then fuck it.

Kivus & Camera

Don't blindly follow traditions

if a client were to ask me what thing should I chuck out, what things should I not worry about, I would have to say that's tradition. While traditions can be super beautiful and amazing and can really help you personalize your day, it can also alienate you from your wedding day because they don't represent you. Like, walking with your dad down the aisle, or having somebody say readings at your ceremony, saying speeches, doing the first dance first, doing the ceremony before the reception. There's all these traditions and rules and regulations that are seen as commonplace in the wedding day. 

I feel like those are the things we need to chuck, or at least those are the things we need to analyze a little bit more closely, and then, ask yourself, why am I doing this? Are you doing it because it's tradition? Are you doing it because you couldn't imagine your wedding day without it? Are you doing it because there's familiar pressure on that specific tradition? You got to stop and ask yourself why you're doing these things that everyone is doing. While it's not bad to do it, we just need to put in under a magnifying glass and just really make sure that it's who we are. 

When working with our couples as well, whether it's partial planner or day of coordination, we make sure that we ask them about all the traditions and see what traditions are important to them. But if they're like, "Oh, I haven't even thought about it," and we're a month out from their wedding, it's like, "Well, is it important to you? Is this something that you need? Because it's good to know that it exists, but if you don't need it, let's just toss it." Being able to make informed decisions about which traditions you're tossing, is very empowering.

ThistleBEA your wedding - DIY wedding planning

Image by Leanne Sim

Ditch the idea that it's the 'brides day'

The thing I would like you to all throw in the Fuck it Bucket, and this might be a hard one for you, for some of you at least, is the idea that it is just the "bride's day". I put that in quotes because you get married and that takes two people. In some weddings, there is no bride, and some women don't feel like brides, and on and on and on. There's plenty of reasons why there might not be a bride per se.

But that idea also is harmful to us just in the sense that by putting it all on the bride and making it all about the bride, we're also putting all of the emotional labor and all of the decisions and all the pressure on the bride. So, yes, when people say, "Oh, it's your day," they are celebrating you, but also it's reinforcing this gender stereotype that women care about pretty, frilly things, and that women are going to be doing the bulk of the wedding planning and that they should be doing that, when really wedding planning should be a thing that is taken on as a partnership.

So set yourself up for really strong partnership by splitting the work, splitting the decisions, and really making this wedding not just about you, but about your partner as well in equal measure. Call your vendors out. If you see them referring to it as the bride's day, or if they refer to "their brides" instead of "their couples" when talking about other couples they work with, just be aware of this. Let's help and kind of move this industry in a more egalitarian direction.

Folie à Deux Events​

Tips for Non-Traditional Wedding Planning & a Bold Mid-Century Modern Wedding Inspiration Photoshoot | The Bridechilla Blog | Edit Vasadi Photography shares tips for planning a non-traditional wedding as well as a bold, stylish, mid-century modern wedding photoshoot in Arizona.

Image by Edit Vasadi

Posed Photography

The first thing that could go in your FIB is any type of setup that you wouldn't have for the sake of having perfect pictures taken. A lot of times, photographers want you to move to a certain area or do certain things, just so the picture is going to look perfect.

I know that I'm talking against myself because I'm going to make my job harder. I just feel like once somebody starts to direct you, you are going to get out of that moment, out of that emotional feeling of, "Okay, I'm getting married. I'm putting my wedding dress on. The time is finally here." You switch your mindset thinking of, "Oh, this is actually a photo shoot."

I think photos are for you to remember that day. You're not photographing for a magazine. You're photographing so you are documenting the wedding. When you have kids and you want to talk to them about the wedding and you're going to look at that photo, you can now remember of that moment as why that was meaningful to you, not because, "Oh, the photographer just told me to step out in front of the building because it's prettier."

Edit Vasadi Photography

Put feature film length videography in the FIB

Not everyone is going to sit through and watch their hour-long full ceremony. We believe that having the key best parts of the ceremony wrapped up within the highlight, which we also provide, is probably what you're going to want to watch. Especially if it's like a Catholic wedding, you probably don't need to see what the First and Second Readings were and the Gospel and the Homily and all this that it's just like a normal Mass.

Really, the highlight is that it's an emotionally-driven piece that should capture what you really care about, and your wedding video appreciates over time. We hope that the first time you sit down and watch it is going to be an experience in itself, you know, cozying up on the couch with a glass of wine and your partner. But then, 10 years down the line, that's when it becomes real special. You get to see the people that were there who have changed, that are no longer around so it's great to create a shorter more succinct video that captures the essence of the day. 

Aloha Wedding Productions

Image by Autumn Harrison Photography

The Guest Book

The tradition I would like to trash is the guestbook. I had a guestbook for my wedding, a traditional guestbook, and it lived on my bookshelf for about a year. Then, we moved, and it went into a box. Five years since that move, it's still in that box. So my suggestion, either trash it completely, put that guestbook in your Fuck it Bucket. Or, if you really want guests to sign something, choose something that you would want out in your home anyway. A piece of art, a quilt, a game, something you would have in your home, whether it had signatures on it or not. It'll just make that item more meaningful. But having a book that has nothing in it but signatures, like you went to Disney World to get autographs from Mickey and Minnie? No. Fuck it Bucket.

Emily Katherine Events

Ditch traditional Ceremonies

As far as ceremonies go, I'm a big believer in putting tradition in the Fuck it Bucket. That doesn't mean that you can't have a beautiful and meaningful ceremony. It means that you should have a ceremony that reflects the two of you. If you want to include a unity ritual, you don't have to do the unity candle. Do it if you like it, but I've had couples include all sorts of unique alternatives. I've had two brides who mixed a cocktail during the ceremony. They were recreating the love potion they drank on the night they met.

Another couple did a community blessing ritual where guests were given little packets of Legos and asked to make a wish while holding the packets. The Legos were collected and the couple later used them to build the Lego beach house. I've also had couples who did a tree planting, sipped beer, ate cookies, and even shared pancakes. Bottom line, if something isn't meaningful to you, don't do it just because you're supposed to. It's your wedding. You're not supposed to do anything except marry the person you love. So dump the traditions you don't like, and have a little fun.

Anita Weds

Thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

May 28, 2018
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Meet Sharma Shari – Geek Wedding Photographer

by Aleisha May 22, 2018
written by Aleisha
Meet Sharma Shari - Geek Wedding Photographer | The Bridechilla Wedding Directory

Meet Sharma Shari!

Sharma Shari, geek wedding photographer extraordinaire, is both a member of the Bridechilla Wedding Directory and one of our community admins! Sharma is based in Florida, but shoots weddings all over the southeast US & Puerto Rico, she loves to travel and is happy to go wherever you want to be married! 

Read on to get to know a little more about Sharma and see some of her delightful geeky wedding photography!

Meet Sharma Shari - Geek Wedding Photographer | The Bridechilla Wedding Directory

Tell us about how you got started in the wedding business and what you love most about working in weddings!

I got into wedding photography kind of by accident. I wanted to try it but wasn't sure. Another photographer in my area invited me to assist her on one of her weddings... and just like that I was hooked. I love when the couple is having fun, I love to capture that their expressions!

Meet Sharma Shari - Geek Wedding Photographer | The Bridechilla Wedding Directory
Meet Sharma Shari - Geek Wedding Photographer | The Bridechilla Wedding Directory

Who do you love to work with?

My ideal clients are couples that are not afraid to express themselves on their wedding day. They would add any nerdy/geeky element if that is what they love. And more importantly, they will plan their day as they want. Traditions or not.

Meet Sharma Shari - Geek Wedding Photographer | The Bridechilla Wedding Directory

How do you help your couples "keep their chill" during the wedding planning process?

I like to remind them that the most important thing is that they are getting married. Everything else we can fix or have delivered to the venue. They are marrying each other!

What makes you unique and different from other wedding pros?

I am very open. I love celebrating their uniqueness no matter what. I will be there for them during the day, not only taking photos but making sure they are having fun. If they are having fun, I can capture it!

Meet Sharma Shari - Geek Wedding Photographer | The Bridechilla Wedding Directory

What is your favorite wedding related memory?

Seeing one of my couples throw the best "Hallowedding" ever. She wore a very fitting and beautiful black dress, they walked themselves down the aisle with the White Stripes song, and had the party of the lifetime at their favorite brewery! They did it their way...and even the mothers were jumping on the dance floor!

Meet Sharma Shari - Geek Wedding Photographer | The Bridechilla Wedding Directory

What is one thing you wish more couples knew about wedding planning or wedding photography?

Before contacting any vendor, sit down and talk about money. How much do you want to spend? Look around and research the reality of the type of wedding you want with the amount of money you want to spend. That will help with the price shock while asking for quotes. As far as Photography goes, I wish they would be true to themselves and acknowledge the importance of photography for them instead of just telling the potential photographer you are too expensive. In my case, I take care in planning my pricing, I know how much my work is worth. It is ok if photography is not your priority and you decided to have a low budget for it. But don't tell a vendor, any vendor, you are too expensive! I better way to approach this is by telling: Your work is amazing but you are out of my budget. Thanks! Also, always let the vendor know that you are going with another one. We really appreciate that you are taking the time to let us know!

Meet Sharma Shari - Geek Wedding Photographer | The Bridechilla Wedding Directory

Share 3 fun facts about you and/or your business!

  • I am a geeky and nerdy person. If you are having a wedding full of fandom puns, more likely I would understand all of them. And will dress accordingly to your fandom.
  • I love books, coffee and wine (with no particular order of preference)
  • The more details about your wedding I know, the more excited I get. I love geeking out with the couples, especially when I see them excited about planning their day!
  • Bonus - I am Puerto Rican, so I speak Spanish!

If you want to learn more about Sharma and her photography, visit her profile in the Bridechilla Wedding Directory and check out her website!

May 22, 2018
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Hi, I’m Aleisha

Hi, I’m Aleisha

Founder of Bridechilla

I created The Bridechilla Podcast, Guides and Facebook Community to empower you to plan an awesome wedding day and put all of the wedstress and obligation straight in the Fuck It Bucket!
With 350+ episodes of Bridechilla, 3 Guides and hundreds of blogs, get started on your path to wedding planning zen!

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