Menu
Dec
26
Engagement Photo Shoot in Queen Creek
When Clarissa and Anthony contacted us, they were looking for a team of wedding photographers to cover their engagement photo shoot in Queen Creek with a second shoot in San Tan. We discussed their options and selected the perfect engagement photo package to fit their needs. They were excited and enthusiastic which made planning their engagement photo shoot so much fun. To our team at Saiaf Films, we genuinely enjoy capturing the excitement of a newly engaged couple. It adds a unique reality to their photos and makes the process so much more fun!
When it came time for their engagement photo shoot, we couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day! It was cloudy and surreal. Our team loves cloudy days for engagement photo photography. Clouds can help create a gorgeous backdrop. They allow just the right amount of light and create an amazing contrast on the couple as we photograph. The photos are team captured that day were vibrant and colorful. This particular location was very ideal as it offered a large variety backdrops to work with. There was green grass, beautiful water, and even a photo-worthy brick wall that enhanced to couple perfectly.
During engagement photo shoots, our photographers really like to showcase the love that the couple has for each other. Clarissa and Anthony had no trouble with that! They were amazingly photogenic and exhibited their connection perfectly. We always try to make these moments as comfortable and as easy as possible, especially for those who are slightly camera-shy. Yet these two, didn’t need much help! To make it even more special, their two beautiful children joined in on the photo shoot. They were such a pleasure to be around and did an amazing job when it came time to pose and smile. Especially when children are involved, we prefer to make these moments memorable ones.
As the sun began setting, we captured 
amazing and unforgettable photos of the beautiful couple silhouetted in front of the sunset. One of our favorites was when they made a heart out their hands. It was a perfect symbol of their love! Clarissa was excited to have her engagement photos used in their Save the Date invitations. She was so excited when she saw the quality of the photographs. Clarissa and Anthony were such an amazingly beautiful couple! We enjoyed their engagement photo shoot so much. Thank you Clarissa and Anthony for the wonderful experience of capturing your love on film!
Dec
23
Wedding Hairpiece 101
Planning your wedding look can be an extremely exciting, yet difficult, part of preparing for your wedding. One very important aspect is selecting the perfect wedding hairpiece. A well selected bridal accessory can have the ability to pull your entire wedding look together. With all the weddings we have attended, we have really gotten to see just how many different styles are out there. Here, we would like to share some tips for selecting the best wedding hairpiece to fit your look and complete your wedding day style.
Decide your hairstyle in advance.
When selecting a wedding hairpiece, it helps to have an idea of what type of hairstyle you may want to go with. Perhaps you prefer to wear your locks down? Or maybe a ballerina bun is more your style? Whether you have long hair, thick hair or short hair, consider choosing a wedding hairpiece that not only stands out, but also can support the weight or length of your hair. Knowing the style you plan to have will be useful in selecting your bridal hairpiece when the time comes.
Test out your wedding hairpiece.
Remember when you were selecting your wedding dress? You made sure that you viewed it from all angles right? Front, back, both sides? You should do the same with your chosen wedding hairpiece. Make sure it looks good from every angle and that it fits with the style you are trying to achieve. If you have someone with you, ask them to take a photo from each side, or a short video clip showing all angles. If you are shopping by yourself, as a salesperson to help you out. Even if you feel silly taking pictures at first, it won’t feel silly when you realize that you selected a wedding hairpiece that looks great all around. Also, don’t be afraid to test out a few different ones. Again, this accessory is just as important as the shoes or the jewelry. So take your time!
Consider the color.
It is important to make sure that the color and hue of your chosen wedding hairpiece compliments the color and style of your gown. Take note of your dress color- is it a bright white? Maybe is off-white with bead work? If your wedding hairpiece isn’t close to the same color, it may appear too bright or too dull next to your dress. Consider bringing a picture of your dress that really accents the colors when you are selecting your bridal headpiece. That way you can guarantee you are choosing a piece that matches well.
Decide how you want to wear it.
An advantage to a beautiful wedding hairpiece is the ability to change up the style and the look with how you decide to position it. It can look completely different depending on where you place it in your hair. If you choose to place it higher, it gives a more dramatic look. Maybe subtle is more your style? Place it lower on your head. Same goes for hair clips and pins. Drawing them closer to your face will make them stand out more. Recognize your desired look and determine the position of your wedding hairpiece according to what will appeal to your selected style.
In the end, all of your accessories should go together in perfect harmony. One piece shouldn’t necessarily stand out above the others, as you don’t want anything to be too distracting. Choose your pieces based on the idea that they should enhance your style, not distract it. Need some more ideas for some beautiful wedding hairpieces? Feel free to browse through our gallery to check out some of the beautiful brides and their hairstyles that we have had the privilege of photographing.
Dec
21
Protecting Your Wedding and Why You Should Do It!
It’s hard not to be wrapped up in all the beautiful, fun and exciting details of your wedding. Trust us, we completely understand. Yet, after attending so many wonderful events, we have also witnessed the amount of time and stress that is put into planning such an event. That being the case, our team at Saiaf Films would like to share some tips for protecting your wedding and a few different aspects that go with it.
Consider Event Insurance
You may be thinking, “Event insurance? Is that even possible?” Yes! And for some, it is an a great way to protecting your big event. What happens if the venue that you booked 6-months in advance suddenly goes out of business? Or let’s say a paid vendor drops out last minute, leaving you stuck. Event insurance will can help get you a refund on your deposit in case there is a cancellation. Policies are relatively inexpensive and can really insure peace of mind. Also, it provides liability insurance in the event of a medical emergency or some form of damage occurs at your event. Check with your insurance representative for more details on protecting your wedding.
Get coverage for valuable wedding gifts.
What happens when you receive some valuable wedding gifts? Perhaps it’s a valuable family heirloom. Maybe it’s a priceless piece of artwork to decorate your home? Whatever it is, it is important to make sure those items are covered. Usually, household appliances are covered under a regular homeowner’s or renter’s policy. You should look into adding more coverage for items that are considered collectibles and may be irreplaceable in the event of an accident. Consider making a list of such items and discuss them with your insurance agent to find out the best way to cover those valuable and meaningful items.
Insure your rings!
It’s no secret, a wife cherishes her wedding ring. It can be one of the most important items in her life. That being the case, it would be a shame for something to happen to it and have no means of protection. Insuring your 
rings will guarantee that it is covered in case anything ever happens to them (theft, loss, damage, etc.) It is such a simple process to add a ring to an existing policy- whether you add it to your current renter’s insurance, homeowner’s policy, or even decide to create a new policy. Save yourself the stress and anxiety by covering items like these ahead of time.
Protecting your wedding and your important items are a great way to relieve any additional stress or anxiety that may come with an event disaster or the loss of an important and meaningful item related to your wedding. Consider taking these steps in advance to make your event an amazing and long-lasting memory.
Dec
18
Catholic-Arab Wedding in Phoenix, AZ
While planning her Catholic-Arab wedding, Jennifer first called the office after looking at our website. She couldn’t stop raving about what she saw. She scheduled an appointment to meet with us and brought along her brother and 
sister. She was so enthusiastic and loved everything so much that she selected both Gold Packages for her wedding photography and videography. We loved her personality and appreciated her enthusiasm for the wedding she had been planning. We couldn’t wait to capture her and Marwan’s special memories.
The beautiful and elegant Catholic-Arab wedding began with a photo shoot in the park. Jennifer stood beautifully with her bridesmaids while Marwan posed with his groomsmen. In just an hour, our team of Catholic wedding photographers snapped over 200 photos of the wedding party. While there, our Catholic wedding photographer took the time to get special photos of Jennifer’s gorgeous wedding dress and the wedding 
bouquet. We knew that these were the details that brides cherish for years to come.
The couple’s Catholic-Arab wedding was held at the glorious St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church in Phoenix, AZ. It houses a beautifully designed chapel with a charming spectacle for the packed wedding ceremony. This Catholic-Arab wedding began with an impressive and grand entrance of the bridesmaids that were accompanied by the groomsmen who were dancing and singing to the drums. During the ceremony, the pastor presented wonderful advice to the couple tailored around love and patience for their next chapter of Ghent. The pastor’s charismatic personality made for a very enjoyable and entertaining experience for all.
One of our favorite moments of the night was when Jennifer danced with her father. As they danced, we witnessed a 
beautiful and powerful father-daughter connection. Throughout the night, the bride was showered with love and hugs from all her friends and family. Jennifer and Marwan were exciting, fun, and energetic as they danced to the live music. While the dancing and Dabka were taking place, our photography crane captured memorable aerial shots of everyone on the dance floor. Jennifer and Marwan’s Catholic-Arab wedding at St. George was truly a night to remember. We wish these two the best in their beautiful marriage.
Dec
16
As you are probably starting to notice, planning a wedding takes up a lot of time, and money! One budget factor that can be easily overlooked is whether or not you should tip the wedding vendors. Although tipping is not mandatory, it is a kind gesture and a great way to show gratitude for a job well done. But, many people aren’t quite sure if tipping is mandatory or acceptable- which can be somewhat confusing when trying to set aside your specific budget. Our team at Saiaf Films is more than fluent in the language of weddings. Therefore, we would to share our tips for tipping- no pun intended.
Wedding Planner
Even though wedding planners don’t usually expect a tip, if yours was an exceptional one- why not show your appreciation? Whether you choose a monetary form or even a more sentimental approach such as a your wedding photos for their portfolio, your wedding planner will appreciate the extra recognition. Tips: Optional. Can be given at the end of the reception or with a thank-you note after the honeymoon.
Delivery Staff
Anytime someone brings something by or delivers something (flowers, sound or audio equipment, the wedding cake, tents, chairs, etc.) it is a good idea to tip them a little bit- especially if it is a lot of gear! Tips: Expected. About $5-$10 per person. With everything else going on, it will be hard to pass out tips individually. Consider giving it to the vendor manager ahead of time to disperse accordingly.
Wedding Stylist & Makeup Artist
Consider tipping as you would in a hair salon. Maybe even a bit more in the event that the process is a bit more time consuming. Tips: Expected. Average 15-20%. Tip at the end of your service.
Wedding Music
Whether you decide to hire a full band or you choose to have a DJ, tipping your music provider is a thoughtful idea, especially if they did an exceptional job! Tips: Expected. Gratuity can average anywhere from $15-$150. Tip at the end of the reception.
Reception Staff
From servers to clean up crew this genre can involve any individual that was on staff at the reception. Tips: Expected. Tips can range $20 – $25 per bartender/waiter or 15-20% of the total food or drink cost. Valet: $1-$5 per car or $1-$5 per guest. Consider tipping at the end of the reception.
Wedding Officiant
Normally, if the officiant is affiliated with a specific church or synagogue- the tip is usually made to the church or institution that they work with. Tips: Optional. Standard is $500 or more to the church or institution. Can normally be tipped before the wedding or directly to the officiant at the wedding.
Wedding Transportation
Provided that they show up on time, they don’t get lost and they are friendly to everyone- tipping your transportation crew is optional. Tips: Usually expected. Averaged 15-20% of the bill. Can be given at the end of the night.
Additional Tips for Tipping Your Wedding Vendors: Consider designated one individual
(usually the best man) to tip the wedding vendors- as you will probably have a lot going on. Also, be sure to check your contracts beforehand as tipping may already be included. Remember, these are the individuals who are helping to make your special day one of the most important events of your life!n As always, pay attention to those who provide exceptional and memorable service and show your appreciation accordingly and as you deem necessary.
Dec
14
Easy Tips For The Perfect Wedding Website
One of the biggest perks about living in today’s world is the impressive advantage of technology! Although weddings are known for carrying on traditions of the past, more and more people are beginning to incorporate modern technologies 
as well. One of those being a wedding websites! A wedding website is a wonderful way to plan and spread the news about your upcoming event. Being that we greatly appreciate the advantages of technology and its usefulness, our team at Saiaf Films is here to share our tips and ideas for creating and maintaining the perfect wedding website.
Choose a catchy and memorable URL
It is a good idea to select a domain name that somehow incorporates both of your names. Not only does that make it easy to remember, but it also makes it more special for you and your family. You can use just your first names if they are available, like WilliamAndBeth.com. Or you can incorporate a useful keyword- like WilliamAndBethWedding.com. Some may find it easier to just use initials in order to shorten the URL up a bit, WBwedding.com. You can also try shortening your URL by using Google’s URL shortener or Bitly as well. Whichever you decide on, be sure it feels and looks good to you, because you will be sharing that page with your entire guest list!
Information to include
It is important to make sure that your guests have access to as much information as possible. This will make it much easier for you as you plan your wedding. Instead of answering multiple questions from various people, you can refer them to your wedding website where they can gather the details themselves. More information is better than less on a wedding website. Some key points to include are:
- Venue Information: You will want your guests to be able to find the venue easily in order to ensure they can arrive on-time and stress free. Consider adding an interactive map that gives directions, such as Google Maps. You can also supply the phone number for guests to contact the venue if necessary. For those guests you like to print directions, you can always add the option to download a map with any special instructions. That way they can have it all on one page.
- Registry Information: Your wedding website is a spectacular spot to include your registry details. These days, most big name stores provide an online element for your registry. You can use those links on your wedding website to give your guests an easy way to access your information. Don’t forget, you can also utilize creative options like Etsy or Amazon as well.
- Hotel Information: If you have a number of guests coming in from out of state, consider including a list of hotels in the area along with their contact information or a link to their site. You can also research for discount or promo codes to make it even easier on your guests!
Special Details
Your wedding website is not a useful tool for information, but it is also be a great way to express your love and excitement. These are few great details to give your wedding website that extra special touch.
- Your Story: Why not give your guests the amazing background story of your relationship? Your wedding website is a great spot to talk about how you met, your proposal story or even just a few special aspects of you two.
- Photos: Of course, what is a website without photos? You want your page to be informational as well as visually stimulating. Try to incorporate special pictures that display the awesomeness of your relationship. Use your engagement photos or any other photos that show the two of you in all your splendor.
Don’t forget, your wedding website doesn’t just have to be about your wedding. Your guests may genuinely enjoy a follow-up to your wedding event as well. Consider adding the details to your honeymoon with the amazing photos that you took. Or you can even use it as a spot to share your thanks and gratitude for everyone even after the wedding. However you decide to create it, make sure that it expresses the wonderful aspects of your wedding. Plus, it can be a great a memorable way to enjoy the details even after the wedding.
Dec
11
Mesa Wedding at the Superstition Manor
Sharaya and Jared’s outdoor Mesa wedding was one of the most memorable and photogenic weddings that our team has had the privilege of capturing. Right off the bat our team was excited to shoot their special day as it was to take place at the gorgeous Superstition Manor in Mesa, Arizona. We knew that meant there was going to be a glorious 
Superstition Mountain backdrop. And of course, we were not disappointed. On this particular day, the sun had set perfectly and we were privileged with an amazing variety of unforgettable footage of Sharaya and Jared’s Mesa wedding.
Upon our arrival, we were greeted by the wedding parties who were getting ready in separate rooms of the Superstition Manor. On of our female photographers captured unforgettable and meaningful footage of the bride and the bridal party as they were getting ready for this special event. Some of our most favorite shots were when the bride, Sharaya, was with her mother and sister having their makeup done. This was followed by them helping her to put her dress on.
One advantage to having a team of photographers like Saiaf Films is our ability to simultaneously capture other moments. While the bride’s memories were being filmed, our team of male photographers and videographers were with the groom and his groomsmen capturing the moments of them getting ready as well. 
A notable and intriguing moment was when Sharaya’s sister delivered a special handwritten letter to Jared from his beautiful bride. His reaction was timeless and genuine. These moments always stand out to our team of photographers because they are some of the most important and intimate moments of a wedding day.
While at the Superstition Manor, our team greatly appreciated that the entire wedding was performed at this one particular location. From the ceremony to the reception, it was all held at this breathtaking venue. These opportunities always give peace of mind to the wedding party as it guarantees our ability to capture multiple important aspects all in one spot. We had the ability to explore all the beauty this gorgeous venue had to offer. This wonderful Mesa wedding was truly a fairytale event to remember. Thank you Sharaya and Jared for allowing us the beautiful opportunity to enjoy your wedding spectacle!
Dec
09
3 Wedding DIY Dont’s
It’s pretty obvious that the wedding DIY craze has taken the world by storm. And of course, it is easy to see why. People love to get creative with various aspects or tasks in their life. But there are a few particular areas where the wedding DIY approach may produce more stress and anxiety than necessary. Here, we share our ideas for five very important wedding 
aspects that may be better left to the pros, leaving you with a more stress free and enjoyable wedding experience.
The Wedding Cake
Whether it’s grandma’s secret recipe or you are a cake baking extraordinaire, this can be one particular feat best left to the professionals. Of course, it can be much less expensive to build your own wedding cake, but a wedding cake disaster or mess up can be very difficult to fix last minute. Not to mention, decorating and transporting your wedding cake can be quite a difficult task. Save yourself time, stress and guarantee a great tasting wedding cake by hiring someone who has the knowledge to do it right.
The Centerpieces
What is one of the most noticeable aspects of the wedding 
reception? Beautifully designed centerpieces. An eye-catching and elegant centerpiece can really set the mood for your wedding reception. Instead of attempting this wedding DIY, consider engaging the ideas from a skilled florist. It may be a larger part of the budget, but it can be worth every penny when your reception is filled with vibrant, fresh and gorgeous flowers. Initiating the help of a florist will ensure that your wedding is filled with perfectly selected blooms.
Wedding Photos
Wedding photographs and film are one of the single most important elements of your 
wedding day. They are a guaranteed method of remembering a memorable moment in your life. Therefore, it is a good idea to recruit the help of a skilled wedding photographer or team of photographers (like the ones we have here at Saiaf Films) to capture every moment. Friends and loved ones may mean well when they volunteer to help, but what if their equipment malfunctions or they for some reason get distracted? You will be happy and stress free knowing your wedding memories are secure in the hands of a professional.
Although it can be fun to add your own personal touch to your wedding, try to keep it stress free and more enjoyable by focusing the wedding DIY energy towards aspects like wedding favors, invitations, etc. That way you can guarantee that the more difficult areas are better handled. Looking for more ideas to better your wedding planning process? Check out our blog for more tips on making your wedding the best experience possible!
Dec
07
Great Tips For Enhancing Your Wedding Toast
When it comes to giving an exceptionally amazing wedding toast, it is important to remember a few key details. Our team at Saiaf Films has been present for many wedding toast moments. So, we know a thing or two about giving a good one. Here, we break down a few of our tips for giving the best wedding toast possible at your wedding reception. A wedding toast is a great time to show some love for your wedding guests, and to express your appreciation. So, let’s take a look at a few ideas for making this moment particularly memorable.
Have an opening act!
It may be a good idea to allow an individual, or a few, present a toast before you take the stage. It allows you a few moments to gather yourself while setting the tone and giving everyone the opportunity to settle down. Usually, the best man begins as the toastmaster followed by the maid of honor. Once they have presented, it is time for the bride and groom. These days, many parents like to get in on the fun as well by sharing a few words. These days, many weddings are allowing various individuals to give a toast. This is a great opportunity to allow a few special individuals who have supported you through the years to share their feelings.
Come prepared!
It’s no secret, all eyes will be on you as you are presenting your toast. So, you definitely want to take the time to 
make it right. Obviously, you want to be yourself, but it doesn’t hurt to prepare and be confident in what you plan to share. Perhaps you can begin by sharing a few lines from a special poem or song that has meaning to you. Doing this also allows you to loosen your nerves and prepare your voice for the speech you are about to give.
Don’t get carried away…
Although it can be difficult, try not to ramble on. Speak your words slowly and clearly to guarantee that your audience doesn’t miss any of your special points. Try to limit your speech to two to three minutes. It is a good idea to keep it simple and clear. Whereas it may seem funny, try to leave out any inside jokes or slang as those are hard for your entire audience to relate to. It is a good idea to keep it clean without embarrassing anyone.
Toast it!
Of course, it helps to do some research for wedding toast ideas. While you want your toast to feel genuine and spontaneous, it is okay to give yourself some ideas for content ahead of time. You will be presenting to one of the friendliest audiences possible- your friends and family- and chances are, they really want to hear what you have to say. Practicing is a good idea, but while practicing, be sure 
to carry on a natural and free-spirited tone. You don’t want to come across as stiff or robotic. Try to remember what you are going to say instead of reading from a stack of cards. If fidgeting is an issue of yours, do stress! It is your wedding! Walk around a bit. Ease your tension.
And finally…
Obviously, it is near impossible to thank everyone in attendance. To prevent yourself from any potential arguments about who was recognized and who wasn’t, keep your thank-yous fairly broad: Mom, Dad, Family, and brand-new family, then friends. It is a great idea to fully memorize that last thing you plan to say. That way you can end it with a little pizzazz and confidence. Say something that will make your ending clear guaranteeing that your audience is aware that your speech has ended. Thus, bringing on the applause and glass raising. Viola! Everyone is left impressed, thanked and grateful to attend your special wedding event.
Dec
04
Wedding Spotlight: Sunthar and Preeth’s South Asian Engagement Photo Shoot
Engagement Photoshoot / Hindu Wedding Photographer / South Asian Wedding Photographer Posted by Saiaf Films
/
0 comments
Sunthar and Preeth first contacted Saiaf Films when they were in search of a South Asian wedding videographer and photographer for their beautiful and elegant Hindu Wedding in San Tan Valley, Arizona. At first, we talked to the couple by phone for their pre-wedding consultation in order to understand exactly what type of style they wanted for their wedding photos and videography. 
They were impressed and enthusiastic about our work and were excited to schedule their engagement photo shoot.
We didn’t meet Sunthar and Preeth in person until the day of their engagement photo shoot. The second we saw them, we knew they were all about style and class! They were a gorgeous couple that radiated elegance. They selected a vibrant and green scenery in Scottsdale that created the perfect backdrop to their engagement photos. The fashionable couple was adorned with classy outfits that enhanced their impressive appearance. Their clothing choices were an excellent selection as it created a great contrast against the rustic backdrop.
During the second portion of their engagement photo shoot, Preeth wore a traditional Hindu wedding outfit that inspired our team to focus on the vibrant colors that highlighted the gorgeous couple. With the beautiful green setting and the rustic elegance of the surrounding architecture, this particular spot has become a favorite for the Saiaf Films team. The exposed brick background created a picturesque modern flare. The second location was lush and green which enhanced the couple’s selected colors.
Vibrant colors were the theme for this South Asian couple- as it usually is for most traditional weddings. On the day of their elegant wedding, Sunthar and Preeth carried on with their colors and dynamic elegance. Our team was able to capture the beauty of their memorable day. The couple was exciting and there was never a dull moment. Thank you Sunthar and Preeth for allowing our team to capture your incredible flare and class on film!
