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Ring Finger 101

Ring Finger 101

  So most of us have an idea of what the “ring finger” is. But did you ever wonder where the idea came from? Or perhaps what the difference is in the wedding ring finger or the engagement ring finger? At Saiaf Films, we like to help out when it comes to a lot of the questions that come with getting engaged or married. The same goes for even the simplest ideas like “ring finger” facts. Here, we break down all there is to know about the ring finger.

Where did the idea come from?https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_99351.jpg
A long, long time ago (like ancient times long ago)- it was believed that the ring finger held a vein that ran from the tip of the finger all the way to the heart. It was called the Vena Amoris, aka- Vein of Love. Because of the “so-called” vein, it became customary that couples who were in love should wear a ring as the symbol of their love to one another. As romantic as that sounds, it was discovered that there is no such vein in that finger. But, the tradition remains and couples still wear the engagement and wedding ring on the fourth finger of their left hand.

The Engagement Ring
In some countries – like Greece, Columbia and Russia- couples elect to wear their engagement rings on their right hand. The idea of the engagement ring originated in the 1400s when Mary of Burgundy was presented with a ring of diamonds in the shape of the letter “M.” It was given to her by the Archduke Maximilian of Austria as a symbol of his love and desire to wed her.

https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_5019.jpgDiamonds became a popular trend as the diamond is the strongest natural substance found on Earth. Diamonds have become an icon to those wanting to represent a strong and unwavering commitment to one another. These days, diamonds aren’t a mandatory addition to an engagement ring, but they are still among the most popular.

The traditional method is for the man to propose to the woman, and the woman wears the engagement ring as a symbol of her commitment to the proposal. But, as times have changed. it is not uncommon for a man to wear one as well.

The Wedding Ring
Like the engagement ring, the wedding ring comes from a long, long time ago- just under 5,000 years ago in Egypt. It was believed that the circle shape of the ring symbolized eternity, as a circle has no end. The space inside of the circle is a symbol of immortal love. Typically, the couple will exchange the rings at their wedding ceremony. The rings will be placed on the wedding ring finger after the vows are said and they are promised to each other.

Whatever the style, no matter the size or cost- the engagement and wedding rings are an extremely important factor for most couples. They are a meaningful and apparent symbol of one’s commitment. The wedding ring finger is just another of the many important icons that go into a beautiful relationship.

Mike and Melissa’s Downtown Engagement Photo Shoot

Mike and Melissa’s Downtown Engagement Photo Shoot

 

downtown engagement photo shoot

What do you get when you combine a gorgeous couple with a team of highly skilled engagement photographers? You get amazing and unforgettable engagement photos, of course! They first contacted us when they were in search of a local Phoenix photography and videography team to cover their engagement photo shoot and grand Assyrian wedding they were planning. When our team first met Mike and Melissa, we were super intrigued by their energy and excitement for their engagement photo shoot. We knew in a heartbeat that they would be extremely photogenic and fun to capture on film!

As with all of our amazing clients, we took the time to listen and find out exactly what kind of image they had in https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_8437-Edit-2-2-1-Copy.jpgmind for their engagement shoot. We always aim to capture the style and personality of each couple- their photo shoot was no different. After discussing it with them, we settled on having the photos taken in Downtown Phoenix. Downtown Phoenix is one of our favorite spots to photograph at! Not only does it offer a breathtaking city backdrop with unique architecture and inspiring buildings, but it also houses a variety of vibrant and green locations as well.

On the day of their engagement shoot, our Saiaf Films team had a great time exploring all the https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/IMG_8154-Copy.jpgbeautiful painted backdrops and cityscape backgrounds that Downtown Phoenix had to offer. Mike and Melissa stood out beautifully and the connection they had was so easy to capture on film. The city lights illuminated their faces perfectly. We walked around and scouted some amazing locations for their particular shoot. A few of our favorite shots were captured on a bridge that overlooked the breathtaking city backdrop. There were so many unique buildings in the background that really added to the beauty of their photos.

Our team always aims to have adequate time during the photo shoots to really explore and plan out unforgettable photos. The photos we captured of Mike and Melissa were all unique and diverse- which was the perfect compliment to their beautiful relationship! Thank you Mike and Melissa for allowing us the opportunity to photograph your engagement shoot in such a beautiful and inspiring location. We will never forget your amazing downtown engagement photo shoot!

Wedding Tuxedo 101

https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_6687-Edit.jpgWedding Tuxedo 101

  Planning on rocking a tuxedo for your wedding event? Most likely, this is one of the most important days of your life. Chances are, you want to look the best you can for that special day. You already know your beautiful fiance will be doing the same. Selecting a wedding tuxedo is an important (perhaps the only) major decision you may be making in the planning of your wedding event. It’s important to know exactly what you are facing when it comes to choosing what will fit your style best. Here, our team shares a few tips and ideas that may come in handy when selecting a wedding tuxedo.

Will you rent or will you buy?

There may be a few different factors that play into the decision for choosing your wedding tuxedo. Cost can definitely be one of those factors. Before you even start trying on the suits and ties, you will probably be deciding whether or not you want to rent or buy your wedding tuxedo. Cost is always important and there can be a significant difference in the price of renting versus buying. Renting is obviously the more price efficient choice- unless you attend formal events throughout the year. If that’s the case, purchasing a tuxedo may be a worthwhile decision. Consider it an investment. If formal events aren’t a frequent thing in your lifestyle, and that suave looking tuxedo will spend most of its existence in the back-end of your closet- renting may be the easiest option.

When selecting a wedding tuxedo…https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_0626-Edit2.jpg

To begin, try selecting a location that has fashionable and up-to-date tuxedos. You don’t want to walk into a spot that has suits straight out of Dumb & Dumber (Unless you are going for that look. In that case, carry on.) Otherwise, you should have the ability to select from recent and up-to-date wedding tuxedo options.

Make sure you speak to someone with experience.

You also want to make sure that the company or individual you are working with is skilled in guiding you on your best options as well as being able to measure you properly. They should be able to measure you efficiently and professionally.

Speak your mind…

This is a very important occasion, and you want to look your best. Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your vision for your wedding tuxedo. Your sales associate should be willing to listen to your requests and guide you on choosing what suits your needs. If they come off as pushy or unwilling to hear your thoughts, go somewhere else.

Do your research.

Don’t hesitate to look up some options ahead of time. Browse other wedding galleries to get an idea of the wedding tuxedo look you are going for. You also want to make sure that tuxedo dealer you select will be able to supply you with all the tuxedo accessories as well. From cufflinks, to bow ties, shoes, etc- it may be nice to find it all in one spot.

Try to get your groomsmen to order their attire from the same location- that way they match you nicely. Otherwise, enjoy the wedding tuxedo selection process! It is an important and memorable event to planning your wedding together. Need some ideas? Check out our gallery to see all the grooms we have had the pleasure of photographing.

Wedding Videography: How to Get the Best!

Want to get the best wedding videography ever?

 

What’s one of the most important aspects of your wedding? Well, getting to watch it over and over again and reliving the beautiful memories of that spectacular day. Want to know the best way to do that? With awesome wedding videography of course! And boy, do we know A LOT about that. In fact, it’s one of our specialties. Our team at Saiaf Films has an enormous amount of experience with capturing some of the most beautiful and epic wedding videography ever. Therefore, we would like to share our tips for acquiring the best wedding videography ever!

Wedding videography is just as important as the photography!
Seriously- It really is. Great wedding photos are amazing to look back on. They give you the opportunity to reminiscence about all kinds of memorable moments on your day. But, wedding videography has the ability to bring you back to the sounds, the movements, the words, the laughter. With wedding videos, you can remember exactly what that day looked and felt like. Why not experience even more in depth memories of one of the most important days of your life?wedding videography

Check out Vimeo!
Want to know the best way to check out amazing wedding videography? Check out Vimeo! Vimeo is one of the easiest tools for browsing amazing wedding video footage. The videos on there really help to provide an idea of just how phenomenal wedding videography can be. In fact, we have published some of our favorite weddings on our Vimeo. This is a great tool for deciding the different styles or angles you may want for your own wedding videography.

Consult a professional wedding videographer!
Enter Saiaf Films (wink..wink…) Whereas your great uncle may be skilled capturing amazing video footage on his old school video camera- you really don’t want to trust the integrity of your memories with someone who may not fully understand the beauty of wedding videography. This particular service requires a dynamic understanding of what it takes to get great memories on film. Lighting, sound, movement, the image- these are all important factors that separate good video from epic footage.

Here at Saiaf Films, we have that covered. Our team is not only experienced in wedding videography, we are actually talented in it. The team members that capture the live footage have an eye for the epic moments. Our video editors are second to none and have put together unforgettable footage for the special couples we work with. Don’t trust your wedding videography to just anyone. Do your research, decide exactly what you want. Or, consult with our amazing team and we will guide you every step of the way with sensational wedding footage.

Roxanne and Gustavo’s Arizona Wedding

Roxanne and Gustavo’s Arizona Wedding

  https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_3049.jpgHere at Saiaf Films, we have the pleasure of capturing some of the most beautiful and amazing wedding events ever! Every event offers something unique and intriguing. Every moment is memorable. We have met so many wonderful and amazing people over our years of experience. We cherish these memories, almost as much as the people we are photographing. Roxanne and Gustavo’s Arizona wedding was nothing short of what we just described. It was a beautiful and breathtaking experience for our whole team that had the privilege of attending.

This particular wedding was truly fit for a king and queen. From the very moment we arrived, the couple’s amazing and personable family were gracious and friendly. From the very start, they were having a great time celebrating this beautiful day. The bridal party had a blast as we captured some amazing and unique photos. Their turquoise accent color was appealing and highlighted the beauty of each bridal party member. The groomsmen were excited and their energy was so easy to capture in every picture we took.https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_2816.jpg

The couple selected a gorgeous chariot that was utilized perfectly in a number of their photos. It created such a surreal and meaningful image. Their particular wedding was held at a gorgeous venue that gave a unique and romantic vibe to their day. There were brick walls that we used for a backdrop along with beautiful archways and grand scale wooden doors.

Roxanne and Gustavo were such vibrant and enthusiastic individuals. Their love and connection with each other was so apparent. The photos our team shot really captured the true beauty that illuminated them. Roxanne and Gustavo’s Arizona wedding took place at the perfect timing. There was a light breeze in the amazing desert air. The sun began setting perfectly as they said their vows to one another.

https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_4206-Edit1.jpgThe vibrant couple and their wonderful family and friends danced the night away. It was truly a night to remember. Our team loved being a part of this day and we will forever cherish the moments that this beautiful couple shared on their special day. Thank you Roxanne and Gustavo! We wish you all the best in your beautiful future together.

Freshly Engaged and Planning a Wedding?

So, you just got engaged! On behalf of Saiaf Films, congratulations! Believe us when we say, we love weddings. And we whole-heartedly understand what it takes to plan one.This can be such an exciting, and somewhat overwhelming process. But we would like to help make it as easy as possible. Here, we would like to share some of our tips and ideas for planning a wedding.

Start a checklist!
The key to planning a perfectly organized wedding is to start off with a checklist. Lists are key to staying organized and keeping your priorities in line. Staying organized is one way to guarantee less of a chance for something going wrong. Having a checklist will keep your to-dos on track while also giving you a timeline of what needs to be accomplished.

Give yourself time to plan!
Whether you designate a specific day each week, or you set aside a little time each day- make sure you give yourself adequate time to plan your wedding. Try to select a time where you can devote a few uninterrupted minutes to checking off a to-do task on your checklist. If possible, try to plan these moments with your fiance. That way you can guarantee you both are on the same page for everything.

Ask for help!
Don’t feel like you have to accomplish all this on your own. Do not be afraid to recruit the help of your fiance or your lovely wedding party. Try to take notice in what tasks may be easier for others to handle. Whether it’s gathering a list of potential cake bakers or creating a wedding invitation, don’t try to handle it all alone. You will just end up overwhelmed and stressed thinking you have to take on everything.

Try to stay flexible.
This can be somewhat difficult when attempting to plan your dream wedding. But it is really important to consider all options and stay flexible with certain arrangements. You need to take other opinions and opportunities into account whether it be about cake flavors or wedding dates for your favorite venues. Staying flexible-within reason- will make it less stressful in the end.

In the end, everything will work out beautifully. Just keep yourself focused, on track and excited about planning one of the most important days of your life! Need some amazing wedding inspiration? Check out our phenomenal portfolio for some great ideas for planning a wedding!

Picking the Perfect Wedding Dress Fabric

Wedding Dress Fabric Typeshttps://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/RAW_1_SD219-363-.jpg

  The wedding dress is quite possibly one of the most important factors to planning your wedding. Not only is it one of the most important, it is also one of the most exciting! But, that doesn’t mean it’s one of the easiest tasks you will face. When it comes to selecting the perfect dress for your big day, it is important to consider a few different factors that go into choosing your wedding dress. One of those factors is fabric type.

The same style of wedding dress can look and feel significantly different depending on the type of fabric you choose. Perhaps you want a fabric that clings to the shape of your body? Maybe you prefer one that falls away instead? Some fabrics are heavier where others are light as a feather. With all the beautiful brides we have photographed, we have definitely seen what an amazing variety of wedding dresses there are out there. Here, our team at Saiaf Films, lists a variety of wedding dress fabrics to help guide you in selecting the perfect material for your amazing event.

In no particular order:

https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_9420-Edit.jpgChiffon: Extremely popular due to it’s ability to layer perfectly for overskirts, wraps or sleeves. This material is lightweight, delicate and sheer.

Tulle: This fabric is made out of silk, rayon or nylon. It is usually used for skirts or veils.

Silk: Extremely popular, and probably the most sought-after wedding dress fabric. Available in a variety of textures such as raw silk and silk mikado. One of the most expensive wedding dress fabrics.

Polyester: Fairly inexpensive. Can be sewn or woven into nearly anything. Lightweight and flexible for a variety of styles.https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_5511-Edit.jpg

Rayon: Closely related to silk. Lightweight, inexpensive and can be easily sewn on in a variety of wedding dress locations (skirt, sleeves, neckline, etc.)

Pique: This is a knit-like fabric that has a honeycomb or waffle wave appearance. The underside of the fabric remains flat and smooth while the top gives a puffed up appearance.

Satin: Also extremely popular. Satin is a smooth yet heavy material that gives off a shiny appearance.

Not quite sure what wedding dress fabric may work best for your special day? Feel free to browse through our collection of beautiful brides we have had the privilege of capturing on the their wedding days. Also, be sure to check back on our blog as we are always sharing great tips and ideas for planning your wedding event!

Wedding Spotlight: Lina and Khalil’s Muslim Wedding

Wedding Spotlight: Lina and Khalil’s Muslim Wedding

 

https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_9618-Edit1.jpgWhen we first met Lina and Khalil, we instantly knew that what they had together was real. Just the way that they interacted with each other was genuine. Our team loves working with couples that have a great connection. It creates such an amazing aura when we are capturing their interactions on film. They both had amazing and personable demeanors and were gracious and excited to bring on our team for their Muslim wedding.

Lina and Kahlil’s Muslim wedding was an intimate event with close family and friends. The Saiaf Film’s team covered their wedding photography and wedding videography with style and class! For their particular wedding, we recruited the help of two of our female photographers and two male photographers. The female team was there toMuslim Wedding capture Lina as she got ready for her beautiful event, while the male team captured Kahlil in the midst of his preparation. These moments are always important for us to capture as it is a beautiful and monumental as the emotions and anticipation portray on film.

The wedding started with the welcoming of the groom to the bride’s family. This moment was so meaningful to the couple. Therefore, we made sure our team was on point and ready to take those shots. Our team is skilled and specializes in recognizing the important moments. We want to ensure that our couples are able to reminisce the key memories for https://saiaffilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_1605-Edit.jpgyears to come. The guests had a glorious time dancing the night away. Their energy was contagious and exciting.

Lina and Khalil requested a wedding montage of their beautiful and elegant Muslim wedding. Their wedding montage was edited by our impressive and experienced editors and was accompanied with perfectly selected music. We were able to take so many beautiful photos of the couple. Some of our favorites were captured at a nearby area that housed some beautiful Autumn tinged trees. The vibrant yellow of the leaves created a breathtaking backdrop. When presented with their photography and videography packages, the newlyweds were so pleased and excited about the results. Thank Lina and Khalil for allowing us the amazing opportunity to film your wonderful Muslim wedding.

Extended Wedding Weekend 101

Extended Wedding Weekend 101

  These days, many couples are taking a new approach to their long-anticipated wedding event. With so much planning that goes into and the time it takes to do so, some engaged couples decide to prolong the festivities by turning their wedding into an extended wedding weekend. It’s over before you know it, so why not turn it into a weekend celebration? Here, our team shares their ideas for planning an extended wedding weekend.

Have a Welcome Party
If you have guests coming in from out of town or you have guests that you haven’t seen in awhile, consider having a welcome party. This is an excellent opportunity to greet your friends and family in a more relaxed environment. With all the craziness of the ceremony and reception, it can sometimes be difficult to spend time with particular guests and catch up. Having a welcome party will provide extra time to spend a little bit of extra time with those who may deserve the extra attention. A welcome party should take place a day or two ahead of the wedding. Whether you decide to host it, or it takes place in a separate location, try to keep it somewhere that will give you a great atmosphere to mingle with your guests. Consider inviting all of your out-of-town guests as they would probably appreciate the additional time with you and your fiance.

Host a Rehearsal Dinner

Having a rehearsal dinner can be beneficial in a few different aspects. Not only is a great opportunity to get everyone together for extra mingle time, it is also an ideal time to present any attendant gifts. Considerwedding weekend presenting the parents or any other guest that was helpful in the planning process with a token of your appreciation. Rehearsal dinners usually take place a day or two before the wedding. Try to invite your wedding party, close family members, and maybe even your officiant. This is a great opportunity to set the tone for the wedding and kick start the festivities for a memorable weekend. Consider inviting your wedding photographer as it could be an excellent opportunity to capture some amazing and meaningful photos to remember your extended wedding weekend.

Have a Farewell Brunch
Nothing wraps up a beautiful wedding weekend like a memorable farewell brunch. It provides the perfect opportunity to wind down and enjoy the last few moments with the friends and family before the weekend comes to a close. This normally takes place the morning after the weekend in the late morning around 10:00 or 11:00ish. That way, you aren’t taking up too much of the afternoon in case any out-of-town guests are anxious to get back home. Consider inviting the close family members as well as the out-of-towners. There are no specifics to having a farewell brunch. Perhaps make it a pot-luck where everyone brings a favorite breakfast dish or have it catered if possible. Check out Bell’ InVito for some more great ideas for a farewell brunch!

However you decide to spend your glorious wedding event, make sure that you take enough time to recognize and appreciate all the wonderful people that surround you. Extended wedding weekends are perfect for doing exactly that!

Wedding Party Bonding Time

Help Your Wedding Party Bond!

  RAW_1_SD219-2402-Let’s face it, weddings are meant to be fun! This always works out best when both sides of the wedding party get along. When planning your wedding, it is important to make sure that your bridesmaids and groomsmen are getting along and enjoying eachother’s company. No one wants to experience wedding party animosity. Especially on your wedding day. Here, our team at Saiaf Films shares their tips and ideas for ensuring that your wedding parties are on good terms and ready to have some fun!

Have a Wedding Party Night Out!
A night out is always a great way to get your wedding parties bonding. Consider making a reservation for a nearby bowling alley. Bowling is a great option as it is fun, active and leaves little room for awkward silences with an upbeat vibe surrounding you. Perhaps you could designate special teams that pairs up two people that don’t yet know each other. The goal is to get everyone talking and learning a little bit about the “other side” of the wedding party. Or, check out a local karaoke night. Karaoke is a great way for even the shyest individual to loosen up a bit. Plus- what better of a place to brush up on those dancing/singing skills for your big day!

Have a Wedding Party Night In!

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Why not kick back, relax and enjoy a night in with your wedding party? Make it easy and order a few pizzas or simple take-out. Everyone loves dessert, so consider throwing together a small ice cream bar or a brownie station? Go all out with sprinkles, hot fudge or caramel, cookies pieces, you name it! Relaxing at home always gives everyone the opportunity to share stories and get to know each other. Hey, they may even share some stories about you and your fiance back in the day! Those are always a great way to break the ice and let everyone notice what they have in common- you and your partner!

wedding partyWedding Party + Food= Success!
Everyone loves food. Plus, it’s a great way for everyone to bond. Make it a potluck breakfast! Everyone can bring their favorite breakfast dish or side dish. Throw in a pitcher of Bloody Marys or maybe Mimosas? Or, have a barbecue. Simple and yummy! Bring out some hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and dip, or chili with sandwiches. The ideas are endless. But we promise, where there’s good food, there’s a happy wedding party.

Whether you choose a simple night out or an awesome backyard barbecue- the goal is to get your parties together to enjoy each other’s company and get to know one another. This is a great way to build some everlasting memories and perhaps even forge some new relationships in the process. We have captured so many amazing

and well-bonded wedding parties in our time. And boy, does it make a difference in the energy and closeness of your wedding. End result: a memorable and well-bonded wedding experience!