day 14: photography.

i've gotta admit that i love where wedding photography has gone over the last few years. my friends who got married just 5 years ago didn't have near the options or variety that's out there now. (but, of course, lots of great options can make choosing your photographer more challenging.)

i knew all along that photography was going to be a priority in my budget. it's literally the only thing that lasts after the day of your wedding, and people that know me know that i love capturing moments on film. over the years i've been making mental notes on photos from friends' weddings that i just adore, and i've really started to notice the difference between a good photo and a great photo.

(once like a spark) came across my radar in multiple ways right before i got engaged. some friends had used them in their wedding, and their photos came up in my facebook newsfeed, and i heard the notwedding was using them as their photographer. their pictures were gorgeous ("classically beautiful with a little touch of whimsy and a lot of charm"), and i gotta admit -- i had a crush on their website. and i just loved their team approach to things -- everybody focuses on the job they do best, whether that's coordinating, editing, or actually taking the pics. and they have photographers in a bunch of different cities {ps nashville has leslie, who i just love!} and then i come to find out the sisters that started it went to my high school! small world. so i booked them soon after we were engaged & have been thrilled with every step of the process so far. we actually did our engagement pictures with leslie a few weeks ago & i can't wait to show you! (hint: tomorrow's post! eee!!)

some other great wedding photographers out there include anchor & eden (my friend callie and her brother - they're great!) and my friends christine, carrie, quinn, & skip all are super talented, too!

*marisa's marks: take your time to research all different styles & approaches to wedding photography. also think through any photographers you know. there are a lot of people trying to get better in this area, and this could be a great place to save money if you're willing to give a beginner a shot! also look for deals if you pay your total all up front and/or buy an engagement package, too -- don't be afraid to ask for a discount!