Many thanks to the vendors involved in making Katelyn and TJ’s wedding so incredible!
Caterer:
J and J BBQ Company
4258910604
[email protected]
DJ/Musician:
Tune city dj
Jason Brown
2539701718
[email protected]
Venue:
Thomas family farm (crossroads weddings)
Debbie Thomas
9010 marsh rd Snohomish, WA 98296 U.S.
3605686945
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I’m excited to present the album of Christina and Tony with triple the pages of their original album. I really wanted to show off every part of their day and show other clients what a large album can do to display each photo in it’s best light.
I had a really great time re-living their big day while designing this album. I take great care in making sure albums are not just esthetically pleasing but tell a beautiful story revealing cherished family and friends full of emotion. I fully believe our precious memories captured in images should be printed and protected for generations to come. Images kept on an electronic gadget are too fragile to last throughout the years. Will we even know what a thumb drive or a hard drive is years from now? Preserving memories in our hand-stitched, custom designed albums is the best way I know to honor special moments for years to come.
So, click on the links below to view their albums. Both are incredible albums. It’s fun to see the same story told two different ways.
20 pages http://www.hildebrandphotoblog.com/christina-and-tony-wedding/
58 pages http://hildebrandphoto.com/main.php#!/portfolio/wedding-day-stories/lauren-nick-edgewater-hotel-seattle/1
Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club in Oahu Hawaii, Paradise Cove luau,
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A. The story of how Nathan and I met is actually pretty funny and crazy!
I was actually seeing the best man, Shawn, before I met Nathan. We were only seeing each other for a few days until Nate and I met.
There was a underage club (15-20 year old) in Kirkland that I went with my friends almost every weekend. I happened to go on September 2nd, 2012 with my friend to just have a fun night before I had to head to school that following week. I was dancing and having a good time and bumped into this guy who I thought was super cute. Shawn and I weren’t exclusive or official so I wasn’t ‘tied down’.
This guy had the bluest of blue eyes and we were talking about random things and he randomly said “This is my last night in Washington before I head to North Dakota for 3 months.” and I had stopped in my tracks and I was replied, “Well thats funny! My friend Shawn is going to North Dakota tomorrow too! Do you know him?’ and his jaw just dropped and he said, “Oh my god. I am Nathan. I am Shawn’s best friend.” and we both started laughing and kinda freaking out because Nathan had heard so much about me from Shawn but he also informed me that Shawn was torn between me and another girl. When I heard that, I knew I could trust Nathan and I told him, “Let’s just have fun tonight and see where it takes us!” We ended up exchanging numbers and hanging out the next two days and on September 4th, 2012 he asked me to be his girlfriend. I said yes and he left for North Dakota for 3 months the next day. He told Shawn on the way there and Shawn was actually very happy for us and relieved since he didn’t have to make a choice anymore.
As for the proposal, it was April 30, 2016 and we have my whole family, Nathan’s mom and her boyfriend, and some of our closest friends meet up at a place called Teatro ZinZanni in Seattle. Its a show that provides dinner, usually hilarious. I was told that the occasion was a belated celebration for my sisters birthday which was back in March. We were in the middle of eating our dinner and two of the performers from the show come up to us and ask us to go in the middle of the stage and share our best pick up lines since they did not know of any. Nathan shared his and I thought it was super funny. He said “Are you Google? because you’re everything I’m searching for!” I was laughing so hard and one of the performance guys said, “Cmon! That’s all you got?” and Nathan replied with, “Well, hows this then?” and he got down on one knee and took the ring out and I was shocked and started to tear up! I instantly said yes in the middle of him asking the question…
Click on the link below for the full article.
http://www.irishtimes.com/business/work/irish-educator-lands-global-role-with-tech-giant-1.2453111
We have branched out into Contemporary Portraits and having so much fun doing so!
www.weddingshow.com
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Fill one of our stylish folio boxes with 15 prints or more and receive a choice of one of two free gifts.
Choose between:
A. Our beautiful image wrap box full of 15 4×6 prints or
B. Our popular image wrap accordion books
Choose our 20 print collection and receive both gifts! No need to choose!
Book your photo session with Hildebrand Photography now. Email us for more information at [email protected] or call 206.790.8995
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This motorbike photo is one of Brandon’s favorite. After the bride and groom (Ann and Cody) said “I do” they kissed then ran down the aisle to Cody’s bike. They hopped on, she threw her bouquet and they drove off with all of their bridal party and us chasing them. (had to get the good photo, right?) The look of complete freedom and joy on their faces and they zipped past the property and all of their guests was priceless. I highly recommend a mini get away ride to all brides and grooms!
This is one of my favorite photos of Brandon shooting the family photos. I can’t remember what was so funny but I love this photo of him cracking up!
As photographers we love dramatic skies! It’s hard to go on a road trip with us because we are constantly stopping to photograph the clouds. There’s no photoshop on this photo. It was just amazing as is.
This day was mega hot! Everyone hid indoors until the ceremony which was held in the backyard. I would go outside to photograph details then come back in to cool down then go back out again. For this Seattle girl is was a bit like swimming. It was like I was holding my breath as long as possible then running back indoors for oxygen. Not easy for a photographer! We tend to get sucked in to the details and forget about the world around us until we get the perfect shot. The heat definitely taught me to be quick that day!
Before the wedding we drove to a nearby farm that was so many acres I can’t even remember but I never saw a fence around it. The horses and cows roamed the property freely! Yes, ours do that here in Washington state but there they really roamed, so much space! These cows were friendly…too friendly for me. They brisk walked right up and past us. I wasn’t sure what to do. I decided to play it cool and just stand still. Luckily, the cows were cool with that.
The day before the wedding we did their engagement session. I told Ann to lean up against a tree but then she pointed out a large walking stick bug just above my head. Talk about good camouflage! I like bugs. Mother nature was showing off her creativity when creating bugs. She beats Pinterest hands down!
We love seeing new places and are inspired by new scenery. We look forward to traveling to your wedding for you!
tennessee wedding
]]>Washington State Convention and Trade Center
705 Pike Street, 4th Floor
Seattle, WA 98101
Saturday January 14th, 2017
10:00am to 5:30pm (ticket sales open at 9:30am)
Sunday January 15th 2017
10:30 am to 5:00pm (ticket sales open at 10:00am)
Tickets are $17.00 per person and can be purchased at the door. Or pre-purchase here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seattle-wedding-show-2017-tickets-26905283427?ref=ecount
Children 12 and under admitted free
If you want your album printed in time for Christmas the design deadline is 11/12, that’s only 9 days from now. Be sure to go in to your Album Exposure link and click the “approve” button so I can order your album for you. If you need your link re-sent please contact me at [email protected]
Thanks all! We cannot wait to see all the printed albums. They’re going to be gorgeous!!
Wedding album
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]]>She has the BEST smile! Rebecca rocked her senior photo session!
Most parents say, “smile more, smile!” Rebecca’s mom was saying, “ok, now smile less.” We captured the perfect variety of emotion that day. It was a perfect shoot! Rebecca, Kadeana and I were a perfect team!
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We are destination wedding photographers…have camera, will travel. This means we will fly to anywhere in world to photograph a wedding. We are very inspired by new scenery and love having new places to photograph!
Here’s how it works. If you live here we can do your engagement session here, travel to your wedding destination, then, once home we can meet with you to design your wedding album.
If you live where your wedding will be we can fly to you to photograph your wedding then design your album over Skype. It’s a great thing! So, no matter where your wedding will be Hildebrand Photography can be there for you on your big day!
Here are some places we have photographed weddings:
Washington, Oregon, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Tennessee, Virginia and Buenos Aires]]>
Many thanks to the fabulous vendors involved in making Jing and Wenchang’s wedding so special!
Event Coordinator
L Events Seattle
206-383-5563 (W)
[email protected]
Caterer
Newcastle Golf Club
425-793-4668 (W)
[email protected]
Florist
Seattle Floral Design
(206) 414-8446 (W)
[email protected]
Cake Artist
Whole Foods Seattle
(206) 621-9700 (H)
[email protected]
Officiant
Annmarie Juhlian
www.marriedbyannemarie.com/
Makeup Artist
Salon Maison
425-979-1620 (W)
[email protected]
Musician/DJ
Harpist
425-298-5245 (W)
[email protected]
Venue
Newcastle Golf Club
425-793-4668 (W)
[email protected]
Videographer
SunRidge Media
425-351-0052 (W)
[email protected]
This is Frances Gaul of Frances Gaul Photography Based out of Mercer Island, serving the Seattle area, specializing in Mitzvahs, High School Seniors and Families. Hildebrand Photography and Frances Gaul Photography work together quite often. We are a great match. She’s creative, talented, professional, upbeat and dedicated. We have worked countless events together that we now work together like clockwork swapping leadership roles, creative ideas and camera gear with ease. These photos are perfect examples of how far Frances will go to get the shot. This shoot was something we put together just to test out new gear and new lighting ideas. It’s always a challenge for photographers to shoot in high, direct sunlight but with out off-camera lighting and perfect placement of subjects we rocked it.
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Avoid patterned clothing. One outfit change is an option but not necessary. You could layer then take sweaters off to show shirts underneath for a different look without having to go find some place to change clothes.
If you bring a pet please bring someone to hand them off to for the non-pet photos.
We look forward to capturing amazing images of your family! We have a few dates still available but not many. Email me at [email protected] or call 206.790.8995 (email is best) to book a session now!
Family Photo Redmond
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Hildebrand Photography
Kristina and Jacob’s wedding
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I’m creating Adri and Nick’s wedding album and just now created this spread that I just had to post to our blog…love!
]]>This view was voted #1 in the world by National Geographic magazine. I can see why.
Moran State Park wedding party
San Juan Islands Wedding
]]>http://www.seattlefloraldesign.com/
Lana, the owner, is incredible! She has designed many, many weddings we have photographed. If I posted all of them in this blog I’m sure my blog would explode! We absolutely LOVE working with her!! We would recommend and do recommend everyone to her. Her and her staff are truly creative artists. Their floral arrangements evoke emotion in everyone who sees them.
The yellow flowers at the Salish Lodge wedding were perfect for the grey, stormy day. Everyone who sees that yellow bouquet says it looks like one giant flower! They even had red rose petals on their bed!
At the Four Seasons Seattle Hotel the white bouquet smelled amazing! And look at the completely unique bouquets for the flower girl and ring bearer! Aren’t those cool! And the blue flower wreath for the little girl in the wagon makes me melt it’s so pretty on her cute little head!
Seattle Floral and Design has a high attention to detail, is timely with tight schedules is professional and hard working.
You should hire Seattle Floral and Design for your next event.
http://www.seattlefloraldesign.com/
206.414.8446
]]>Here’s our first photo shoot of lady in tulle in the woods. My vision was to have her serenely holding an orange cat (to match the orange flowers). I put out an all call for anyone with an orange cat who could model for us. This lovely lady volunteered her cat saying he has a calm demeanor and could handle it. One the day of the shoot we had her arrive late so we had time to get the lights set up and model all set with minimal stress to the cat. Once we were ready the owner took brought her cat to the site in a kitty crate, pulled him gently out of it. We took a photo of him in her arms. I asked if she had a leash then BAM! the cat jumped out of her arms and took off like a shot! I didn’t see it but I’m sure he quickly ran to a phone booth and changed into his Superman cape or at least a track suit because he was fast!
We spent the next hour looking for him. Finally, a park maintenance guy saw him. He was captured and taken back home safe and sound. No modeling for that guy! We were all completely relieved that he is ok. Stephanie, our model, had blood running down her arms from him scratching her. We had her pose with her arm hidden to not show the bright red blood against the white tulle background. It was quite an adventure! Behind the scenes sometimes make for crazy stories. Thank goodness this one ended happily.
Special thanks to Sole Repair
[email protected]
206.226.2010
Jennifer and Jonathan met Kate and I at Talaris Conference Center for their first look. This was the perfect time right after the bride and groom getting ready to be able to take a moment together to stroll hand in hand, take a breath of fresh air and laugh together before the busy part of their big day began. The serenity of the water and shade of the weeping willows were the perfect setting.
From here we drove to Magnuson Park Hangar 30 for cocktail hour in the Officers Club upstairs. There was live guitar music, gourmet appetizers, lots of family and friends, hugging, dancing and laughing.
After cocktail hour Jennifer and Jonathan led everyone in a procession from the Officers Club, past Hangar 30, down a winding pathway through the gardens which opened up to a vast green amphitheater! All the guests were seated here while the bride and groom took a moment for photos in the flower gardens above and congregated with their dear friend and officiant.
The mood was jovial. Both the bride and groom waved to everyone as they walked down the aisle and hollered silly comments to guests yelling “woo!” from their seats. The big first kiss then another procession to the Hangar for the reception. Guests stood in line to sign the guest album, grab their seating chart tag and treat themselves to a cotton candy flavored Oreo…yes, theses little morsels served in glass jars with antiqued silver lids were delicious!
Cocktail hour again but this time with a whole band playing, a bar and a photo booth. Little kids played ball with their dads, the pre-teens made their silliest faces possible and arranged their wacky poses for our cameras while the adults clinked their glasses in “cheers!”
Dinner was served family style (which I love). The caterers were fabulous. Their attention to detail did not go unnoticed by Kate and I who have been to many weddings. We were impressed. As you can see we were kept very busy and entertained taking photos of all the guests, and the multitude of details that made Hangar 30 elegant, festive and unique.
Please enjoy the rest of the photos that are full of the toast, cake cutting, dancing and fun/silly family photos.
[contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Website’ type=’url’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]
Big thanks to the vendors involved:
Hangar 30 Magnuson Park Seattle
Revel Rouser Events Event Planning/Event Services Sasha Summer Cousineau
Talaris Conference Center in the U District
Thank you to Kate Gansneder of G Squared Photography for shooting with me.
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Alicia and Kevin got married at Blue Ribbon Cooking School in Seattle. We took a trip to Freeway Park for some really fun bridal party shots.
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Why boredom was my goalLast year, 2015, was our biggest year yet. What I mean by biggest is, our highest grossing and our most shoots. It was a calm first part of the year full of boating on Lake Sammamish with our kids and enjoying the most incredible weather Seattle has ever had to offer and then August hit and September was the same and there was no slowing down for October through January which is always full of big, involved, expensive and emotionally draining wedding expos then February with the Valentines Day deadlines. It’s a good thing we are parents with 12+ years experience because all of the back-to-school paper work and clothes and school supplies and signing up for clubs and sports and dance lessons and deposits and uniforms and orientations can overwhelms the less experienced parents but we charged through all of that with a gusto. We were still fired up and running strong with out business keeping us energized and on full alert.
The longer we are in business the more referrals we get completely out of the blue and for not just weddings but everything under the sun. It’s fun. We do refer some shoots on but the headshots, family shoots, corporate events, Halloween and New Years parties we keep. I have the best time as the photographer in a photo booth setting getting creative with clients who want to look good in front of my backdrop and with out great lights. People are high fiving me and getting excited about their photos. I get a natural high and know that I’m the luckiest party “guest” because I have a purpose and get to run around the whole party getting candid shots and having an excuse to meet everyone there. My camera is my pass to everywhere. I never know who I’m going to meet with it or what shoot I’ll be running off to next.
Ok, so moving on now to 2016 we have different goals than last year. It’s fun to look back at our business and see what our goals have been throughout the years. I often reflect on these so I can remember them when I teach classes to other photographers. I want to be careful to give the correct advice which is appropriate for the experience level of the photographer asking my advice. For example, I can’t tell a brand new person to do anything they’re not ready for. We all have to go through the steps to get to where we want to be. I can’t say:
Yes, go ahead and charge $5,000 for a wedding, it can be done. Or yes, offer a wide variety of products (which are hard to order, price and deliver), or use off-camera lighting or anything else that overwhelms and takes them out of their comfort zone. Our business is a crazy mix of art and business it’s a bit like mixing business with pleasure. It’s a balancing act of being sensitive and creative and being tough and book smart.
Ok, where was I? So, our year ended in 2015 and started in a whirl wind. Now for 2016 it’s all about the quality of experience and the art. We have taken time off lately and boy does it feel good. For a time I didn’t want to do an-y-thing. I binged on Downton Abbey and Outlander. People would try to encourage me to join fun event that were free and nearby and that was just too much to consider. I’ve been slowly rejuvenating by sleeping, cleaning, walking my dog. Just last week I was walking my dog. We found a new dog park that was empty with not a person in sight. In fact, I searched the horizon often searching for bears to make sure we were safe. That’s how far out and how new this park was surrounded by a forest of tall fir trees. I stood there admiring his shiny coat in the bright sunshine and thought to myself, I am bored. I repeated it to myself ‘I am bored’. Woah, YES! finally! I AM BORED! I was so excited by the though that I raced my sweet Blackie boy out of the park and back up the hill to the car, ruffled his fur and said, “let’s go buddy!”
Being bored meant I had finally recouped and was ready to create again. Brandon and I are lucky to be on the same track. He’s just now starting to feel like creating again and we couldn’t be more excited to see what 2016 has in store.
About this photo: My mom dog sat Blackie this weekend for us while we were in Portland. She has this quirky sense of humor and decided to put the bottom of a cauliflower on his head for this photo. When I asked her what prompted her to put a vegetable on his head she said, “Well, I was making dinner and her was right there.” Lol, how many people are encouraged to do random, creative things for no reason at all, so funny. Her shy dog, Brad, is in the background wondering what is going on. Every time I look at this I crack up. It just shows how easy going Blackie is and how curious Brad is. I titled this “My poor little carnivore” Thank goodness for Blackie for bringing me peace and being with me in moments of adventure and boredom. 
my big, sweet dog
Both photos are beautiful but how fun is it to create a real “wow factor” photo to use as the album cover and make a big print to enjoy in your home.
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Lauren and Wes album cover…gorgeous!!]]>
To really make their album perfect Brandon edited one more photo from Virginia and Steve’s wedding. Yes, there is the horizontal one similar to this and with this vertical one on the same album spread it really looks fantastic!
I cannot wait to see their album printed. It’s sure to be a true family heirloom!
I was going to make this post small but then I saw more photos I liked then more and more. They’re not in the order of how they unfolded throughout the day. It’s just a blog full of some of my favorite photos from their big day.
I’ll post their full wedding album here soon. It turned out amazing! I can’t wait to see it in print!
Lauren and Wes are the greatest couple. They’re so attentive to each other. All of their guests flew in from different states to their wedding in Sonoma, Ca. Nobody is from there that they knew. It just sounded like a nice place to get married and they were right. Most of their guests live in Texas. Everyone stayed at their wedding until the very end. The dance floor was packed and their DJ played all the right songs. Lauren made an announcement for all the guests to drink their Texas shaped shot glass full of tequila early in the reception. Everyone gathered in groups and cheered, clinked glasses then down the hatch. That’s what really got the dancers out on the floor!
The grounds of the Sonoma Golf Course were/are exquisite with rolling hills and huge trees with twisted branches. Just different enough to remind us that we were no longer home in Seattle. The clubhouse is gorgeous with all the Spanish brickwork, arches, outdoor fountains and outdoor fireplaces. Guests enjoyed cocktail hour in the outdoor courtyard while we rocked out family photos.
Wes and Lauren met at Texas A&M. His grooms cake is representing the pride they share.
We caught a guest smoking a cigar because as photographers at a reception we are always attracted to loud partiers, people yelling “cheers”, anyone wearing a festive hat and anyone smoking a cigar. (wink)
They had a grand exit with guests throwing pink rose petals and everyone cheered and blew kisses to the lovely couple. It was truly a magnificent day!
1. This is by far one of the most complimented album spreads of all of our albums. We hear everyone say, “Ooh, I love that you got a photo of the whole bridal party and have them in the album!” We also hear, “that’s a stunning color of purple!” Getting an individual photo of each member of the bridal party is on our shot list for every wedding. We don’t ask, we just do. It’s something we can set up very quickly and run through each attendant photo in a flash. Complimentary backgrounds as well as similar lighting is important for the flow of the album spread so we do them all at once time to ensure continuity in the photos.
2. A photo of each grandparent set together. When was the last time your grandparents had a professional photo taken of just the two of them? Was is years ago on their wedding day? The grandparents are always pleasantly surprised when I ask them to step in so we can get a photo of them with our on site professional lights that we bring (Go Profoto!). No purses, jacket buttoned, sitting or standing tall and no hand on his belly please 
and we are careful to avoid glare from reading glasses or ask them to remove tinted glasses. One formal photo of the two of them looking forward and one of them looking at each other which always brings about sweet smiles from both of your grandparents. We love the result.
3. An individual photo of the bride with each of her bridesmaids and the groom with each of his guys. We do one silly one and one serious one. It’s fun to see what people come up with for the silly one. Sometimes we have to help them come up with ideas on what to do that is silly and other times we can’t get them to stop being silly which always cracks us up. If we are short on time we make this photo optional but then we try to capture this later during the reception. It won’t be with our beautiful Profoto lights but it’ll still be a nice photo.
4. A photo of the bride with each of her parents separately as well as just the 3 of them then we can add the groom and the siblings. Then we do the same set up with the groom and his family. I love my parents equally and appreciate having photos of them with me separately as well as together so I feel it’s equally as important to our clients.
5. The first look…but you know how I feel about the first look. I think I can speak for all photographers and vendors (especially the catering company) We are constantly thanked for encouraging our clients to see each other first before the ceremony. If you choose to do family photos and bridal party as a group photos as well as photos of just the two of you after the ceremony then the chef gives us a hard stop time because they want to do their best to serve the food to you hot. That makes us rush the most important photos of the day. It also makes your guests wait. You can skip cocktail hour and go right to dinner if you do the photos before the ceremony which can save you thousands of dollars! You can spend some of the money saved on a photo booth which is way more fun than a cocktail weenie on a fancy napkin!
6. The first dance is one of my most favorite times of the wedding. It’s when I can capture intimate, romantic photos of the two of you naturally being together and moving. The tricky part here is to avoid getting photos of your backs since you’re moving and to be aware of the background. We have had to avoid random guests standing in the background (I don’t mind a big group as a background but one random guest is a bit odd especially if they’re taking photos instead of enjoying the moment, fire extinguishers, glowing green exit signs and large DJ speakers to name a few. Usually a close up photo and the precise moment when you are in front of the distracting item is the best time to get a great shot. For this photo we appreciate a sweet song that brings about a romantic mood. We have had couples do their first dance to a hard rock song and the photos turn out less than romantic which is fun and different but doesn’t give us those romantic, natural shots we love and you do too. 
www.lewis-mcchord.army.mil/chapel/chapels.htm
www.hotelmuranotacoma.com
7. Photos of the rings. We take these photos during dinner usually. This is when the guests are all eating so we have a bit of down time. It’s perfect timing to have fun and be creative with ring photos. It’s play time for us. We love challenging ourselves to get crazy with lighting on these shots. If you’re near us during this time you may hear one of us say, “you rock!” or “yes! that’s a sweet shot!” or high fiving if I have an assistant with me since Brandon has decided high fiving is not cool anymore. Maybe he’s right but I still need something to do with my enthusiasm and a thumbs up just doesn’t have the same impact.
www.fosswaterwayseaport.org
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I’m collaborating with a new dress shop. I will be printing large prints to decorate her big empty walls. I cannot wait! Her shop is lovely and being full of big, fluffy wedding dresses everywhere you look just fills her shop with wonder! She has spacious dressing rooms with large mirrors so you can really see yourself in these glorious dresses and realize how glamorous you will feel on your wedding day. I’m honored to contribute to the success of her craft. While compiling photos to send to her to choose from I got completely engrossed in all the wedding dress photos we have captured over the many years. I don’t even have access to all of our wedding currently! So, if you don’t see your dress in these photos do not fret. It has nothing to do with you and everything to do with the fact that I had to make myself stop looking at photos and do things like…eat dinner before I completely forgot.
It’s dangerous to start a project like this because I know I’ll have to dig through all of our past weddings and stay FOCUSED! I can very easily get swept away in all the beauty and sweet memories. It’s one of the best parts of my job.
If you love any of these dresses and would like to know where they came from please feel free to contact me!
So, enjoy these photos of dresses. I will post photos of the prints I choose with the dress owner as well as photos of our prints in her lovely shop in the future.
Plus, as soon as I have a chance I feel a cake blog coming on as well as a shoe blog. I’ll be sure to eat dinner BEFORE I start those projects…especially the cake one! 
src=”http://www.hildebrandphotoblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/2016-01-28_0071.jpg” alt=”2016-01-28_0071″ width=”800″ height=”1773″ class=”aligncenter size-full wp-image-5086″ />Luly Yang
Hermosa Bridal
I Do Bridal
Alfred Angenlo
A Princess Bridal
Weddings With Joy
The Wedding Bell
Belltown Bridal
Moments to Treasure Bridal
Romashka Bridal
Suzanne’s Bridal Boutique
Kitsch Bitsch
Private Label Bridal
Alicia’s Bridal
Love Couture Bridal
Bellevue Bridal David’s Bridal
Barbara’s Bridal Boutique
Jill Stewart
Nordstrom Wedding Gowns
Tennessee Farm Wedding
We flew to Tennessee for Ann and Cody’s wedding in 2013. After their first look we drove to a nearby farm full of barns, old trucks, huge oak trees (which carry fond childhood memories for me), open fields, a pond with a dock (see the cover of our magazine for a photo of Ann and Cody on the dock) and many, many horses. Yes, we have farms full of horses her in Western Washington but this farm in Tennessee had more acreage than I can remember and spanned further than we could see. There were fenced areas but the gates were wide open. The horses just wandered all over. I’d never seen anything like that before. You’d feel something near you and turn around to see a large, furry face saying hello. Oh, and the cows, there was a herd of cows who came to say hello en masse when we took the photo up the hill by the tree. Brandon had to call me on the cell phone to tell me where to position the clients for the photo since he was too far away for us to hear. In this photo I am hiding behind the tree, the cows are coming up from the right and the bridal party is partying in the truck in the dirt road just out of shot.
Fireworks ended their wedding with a great festive bang. The last guests left stayed to play cards outside in the warm summer heat, laugh at jokes and snack on more delicious wedding cake Sweet Thing Bakery. Their wedding was full of adventure, family and romance, truly a day to remember.
To see multiple blog posts about their Tennessee Farm Wedding including a slideshow click on this link http://www.hildebrandphotoblog.com/?s=cody
If you like…
shorter meetings
feeling relieved that you hired us for your photographer, videographer and photo booth
spending more time talking about your fun wedding details and visions
then reading our faq’s is a good thing to do.
We look forward to meeting with you! And giving big hugs and/or high fives when you book us! 
FAQ
Q: Are you and your husband both photographers?
A: Yes, we are both experienced photographers. We individually bring years of artistic lighting, posing and design to each shoot. We both teach photography classes.
Q: What do you charge?
A: Hildebrand Photography prices start at $2,999. We can create a custom collection to suit your specific needs. This is done in person or via Skype. There’s a lot that goes into wedding photography. We offer more than most photographers. You will receive a complete list of our products, and can tell us what is important to your day so we can put together the best collection for you.
We have 3 collections to choose from. We keep them very simple and easy to understand. We don’t show you lower prices then confuse you with a bunch of add-ons and then have you end up at a price higher than what you expected. We put it all out there for you to see. I remember being a bride and planning our wedding and know that it is a lot to take in. My goal is to keep things as simple and easy for you so you do not have to worry about anything photography related. You know that you are in good hands and can relax and enjoy your day!
The main difference between our 3 collections is the hours of coverage then we add more photography related items that are unique to Hildebrand Photography as you go up from there.
Quite often we hear clients say, “ Wow, you have a lot to offer, things we have never heard of, this is really great!”
Q: Do you charge for travel?
A: No, we do not charge for travel…even to Hawaii! That means we don’t charge for hotel or airfare if you hire us for Hildebrand Photography. We love to do destination weddings. We have been to many states and some countries photographing weddings.
Q: What is Studio H?
A: We have two photography companies. Studio H is our more basic packages. One of the owners, either Dawn or Brandon, will shoot your wedding unless we are both booked on your day then one of our highly skilled associate (not assistant but Associate) photographers would photograph your wedding. We will do everything else including editing, album design, correspondence, etc. For more information on this please see page number four on what the difference is between Hildebrand Photography and Studio H.
Q: Do I get a DVD?
A: Yes, you will receive a DVD of your wedding photos.
Q: How do you describe your style of wedding photography?
A: We pride ourselves in creating highly artistic photos. When a friend comes to your home and sees your wall print and says, “Wow, where did you get that, is that a painting?!” and then…”Oh my gosh, that’s YOU TWO, that’s beautiful!” That’s the ultimate compliment to us. That’s what we are going for. We create art for you to hand down through the generations. We are passionate about capturing candid moments as they unfold during your day.
Q: What if there’s harsh/direct sun outdoor light or dark indoor light during family photos?
A: We have professional lighting that we bring to weddings for the family photos. You don’t want strange shadows on faces from harsh sunlight. Our lights give you and your family flattering lighting for the highest quality photos.
Q: Do you have back up photographers?
A: Yes, we have highly qualified photographers who shoot weddings with us. They know how we work, how we dress, our photography style and they have similar, professional, friendly personalities like ours.
Q: Do you have insurance?
A: Yes, we have liability insurance.
Q: I heard you have your own magazine. Is that true?
A: Yes, Emerald City Bride. Our first issue is on our blog and can be found in the link below. An abundance of information about us and how we work can be found there. Plus, it’s filled with beautiful photos which is always fun!
Here’s your copy of Seattle’s very own Emerald City Bride Magazine
Q: Can you create prints for us?
A: We love prints, especially big wall portraits! Our albums and prints have a lifetime warranty. We have worked with our vendors for many years now. We have the utmost faith in the quality of their workmanship. We are offering the lifetime warranty to you because we trust their work.
Q: How long do I have to make my album?
A: One year from your wedding date.
Q: How soon can I have my pictures edited and ready for me after the wedding?
A: We shoot about 1,000 photos per photographer then we edit those down to about 800 total depending on how many hours and how many events your wedding has. We make sure they are perfectly ready for you. This all takes about a month.
Q: How long does it take to get my wedding video?
A: Videography is much more involved when it comes to editing. The video takes three months to edit. Yes, you will receive a DVD of your wedding video.
Q: Have you shot at our venue before?
A: There are hundreds of venues in the Seattle area. We shoot weddings world wide. Although we have shot at many venues haven’t been to all of them. A good photographer doesn’t need to have seen a place first. We know the lighting will be different in different times of the day and year so even if we have shot there it will be different on your day. Plus we like to keep it fresh, to have your photos be different than anyone else’s. We can create amazing images in just a 3’ space. It all has to do with the lighting and the photographer.
Q: Are you natural light photographers?
A: We can shoot with just the daylight but we also have all the gear to be able to shoot in low light or to combat harsh sunlight. Most wedding receptions are low light so we are ready for this. We actually teach classes on how to shoot in all light settings so you are in good hands.
Q: What is the 90-day web gallery?
A: This is our gift to you. This gallery allows for easy viewing, sharing and ordering of your wedding images without having to call you. Your personal gallery is online for 90 days. You may want to purchase Event Cards from us. I make enough 4×6 cards for all of your guests which has a photo of you two from your engagement session so it’s a nice memento but then I include the link to your 90-day web gallery so all of your guests know where to go to see the photos. This way they’re not calling you asking what the link is. The event cards are very popular, guests love them!
Q: Do you offer an engagement photo session?
A: Yes, we love engagement sessions! This is our chance for us get to know each other better and for you to feel more comfortable in front of the camera. It’s also a way to spend time having fun with your fiancé. We highly recommend an engagement shoot.
Q: What is an engagement session?
A: The two of you dress up and meet us somewhere fun for a 1-2 hour photo session. This is a good time for you to have your hair and make-up trial done before your wedding. These are great photos to use for your save the date cards, guest book and decorations at your reception.
Q: Do you offer guest sign-in books?
A: Yes, our guest book is beautiful! Everyone who sees it raves about how soft the leather cover is and how it has thick pages that lay flat and don’t flop closed like other books. It will have photos from your engagement session as well as pages where guests are encouraged to sign-in and write words of congratulations to you.
Q: What about save the date and thank you cards?
A: We are researching the best company to use for these and will be offering them soon!
Q: Can I give you a list of photos for you to take?
A: We can use a list of names for the family photos to make sure we don’t miss anyone. Make sure not to make this list too long as you and your guests will want to enjoy your day rather than go through a series of posed photos. Other than the posed family photos we would prefer to not have a list. We recommend limiting your list to close family. It is important to get back to the wedding fun as soon as possible. If you like our work, our art, then you will like what we create for you. We create your photos based on the lighting, atmosphere, architecture and nature that we see in the places where you are getting married to tell the story of your day.
Q: Do you have back-up cameras?
A: Yes, we have multiple cameras (all Nikon, go Nikon!), multiple flashes, tripods, batteries, memory cards, lenses, you name it we have many of each.
Q: What if I need extra hours on the day of my wedding?
A: We know every wedding day takes on a life of its own. If your day starts to run over and we are scheduled to leave soon but there are still some events that you would like photographed we will ask you or someone you authorize if you would like us to stay an hour or two longer and bill you later. Our main goal always is to make sure your day is happy, stress-free and fun!
Q: How do we save our date with you?
A: Our deposit is $1,000, this will save your date with Hildebrand Photography. This is first come, first serve. We can-not hold dates until a deposit is made. We prefer check or cash for the deposit. The remaining amount can be paid off monthly with the last payment paid 30 days before your wedding. Our software system will automatically email you each month with a link to your payment that you can easily pay online with a credit card. You can even email payment link(s) in any amount to anyone who wants to contribute to your photography!
Q: Who runs the photo booth?
A: We have an assistant who works the photo booth.
Q: Do you stay for the dinner?
A: We would prefer to stay on-site during the dinner so that we can be close enough to keep track of what is going on in case anything unscheduled happens. We don’t need to eat what your guests eat. We are fine with a vendor meal which some venues offer. We do request that we eat when you eat and will be ready for more photos once you are done eating.
Discovery Park Seattle
Brandon and I found this magical place with trails, leaves, trees and a pond. We brought our antique red office chair into the woods and set the trap. Out from the trees this lovely lady was lured by the magical red chair and we caught her just lounging away and smiling happily while sitting in the magical chair…or something like that. 
Isn’t it just magnificent that we were so lucky to be in the right place at the right time?
Want a sure fire way to make your day unique? Hire Neil Hubbard to play the bag pipes for your wedding! He’s truly amazing in his customary attire. Your guests will be amazed! He’s a great guy. I’ve worked with him numerous occasions. While at the Seattle Wedding Show I stopped by his booth to say hello. He’s very friendly, professional and passionate about his art. He plays at Newcastle regularly during sunset. Check with him to find out which months he’s there. What a fun date night that would be to have dinner and a drink in the bar or restaurant at Newcastle on the outdoor terrace, listen to Neil’s music and watch the sunset over Seattle in the distance. If you’ve never been to Newcastle you are in for a treat! Think modern day sprawling castle with a view of Seattle as the cherry on top! There are often deer who frequent the golf course that time of day too! We took our kids there once for a fun outing (we were on the terrace not the bar). It’s great fun. After your glorious date night call Neil and hire him for your wedding. You’ll be glad you did! Newcastle Golf Club
http://www.neilbagpiper.com/
8 Things to know about Hildebrand Photography
The Seattle Wedding Show last weekend was fabulous! We met hundreds of wonderful couples. We are filling our schedule with meetings at our Redmond studio now.
Our available times to meet are filling up quickly! As soon as you have your date with your venue secure be sure to contact us right away for a meeting.
At the meeting we will give you a welcome packet describing who we are and all the great things we have to offer as well as some items that will help you plan your day. You will see our big wall prints and all of our wedding albums. We can hear all about your wedding plans and even create a custom package based on your individual needs.
8 Things to know about Hildebrand Photography:
+ We do not charge for travel. So, if you are having a destination wedding be sure to talk to us!
We have photographed weddings in: Argentina, Canada, Oregon, Arizona, Sonoma, CA, Virginia, San Juans, Tennessee, Hawaii and more!
+ We do offer photography, videography and photo booths.
+ We are a husband and wife team who are both shooters and both have many years of experience capturing incredible wedding images.
+ Our photography style is artistic with the use of textures and layers to create a work of art to display on your walls for generations to come. Some people think our prints are paintings which is a real compliment to us.
+ We capture a mixture of candid shots and posed images from your day.
+ We love wedding albums and include one in each of our collections. After all, they are your first family heirloom that you are creating together!
+ We love engagement sessions and include one in each of our collections. Our couples have lots of fun and we do too. It’s a great time to get use to being photographed and get to know each other better.
+ We have been doing this many years and have a lot of special things to offer to our clients that our clients have greatly appreciated over the years. Come on in and I’ll tell you all about them.
So, almost all of those sentences started with “we”. Come on in to our studio and let’s hear more about “YOU” and your big day! 
See you soon!
Call or text us at 206.399.4987
email: [email protected] or [email protected]
www.hildebrandphoto.com
www.facebook.com/HildebrandPhotography
Check us out at: www.Weddingwire.com and www.theknot.com where we have 5-star ratings from clients and our peers!
Published in: Shutter Magazine, Moon Travel Guide, Seattle Times, Modern Jewish Bride, Bejeweled Magazine and more.
Lauren and Nick Highlight Video from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
It’s full of tons of senior photo sessions by Hildebrand Photography. There’s also helpful tips for guys and tips for girls on how to have a great photo session.
Yes, it’s a link you have to click on to view. There are so many photos here that it was too big to put on our blog otherwise and there are more photo sessions still to be added!
There are high school seniors from all over here. There’s Redmond High School, Puyallup High School, Sultan High School to name a few. There are photos taken in studio, in the city, in city parks, on hiking trails and on Lake Washington. Some students bring their friends, dogs, parents, siblings. Some students bring props or have us shoot in places that represent their sports. There are many great ideas here on what to wear, where to go and what to bring.
Enjoy the photos and call us to book your high school senior session today!
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Come join us at the NW Bridal Showcase this weekend!
January 9th & 10th, 2016
Saturday 12:00- 6:00 & Sunday 10:00-3:00
The Tulalip Resort Casino
10200 Quilceda Blvd. Tulalip, WA 98270
https://secure.exposites.com/nwbridalshowcase.com/show.html?show.id=4120
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Virginia and Steve Highlight Video from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
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Kitsap Memorial State Park
I was challenged to a photo a day on FB by Tim Arnold. I’m pretty sure he is requesting only landscape photos but all of my photos have people in them. I completely am enamored by landscape photos. In fact, many of our big prints are all about our wedding clients with impressive landscape settings. So, I cheated and posted this sunset photo from a wedding we photographed this summer. This was taken from Kitsap Memorial State Park near Poulsbo, WA. But I also think Tim has a great capacity to cheat at this landscape photo gig because he lives on one of the San Juan Islands known as one of the most beautiful places on Earth!
I would love to take landscape photos of all the breath taking feats of nature we have in the Northwest but I would have to bring my dog and would probably require a Sherpa to carry all of my photography gear so I could get the best shot possible! I’d also have to have a GPS tracker on me so when I get lost and consumed behind the lens and wander off taking photos I’ll be able to be retrieved.
This is the beginning layout design for Colette and Ravi’s wedding album. Never mind the yellow triangles, it’s a Fundy editing thing. I really like how the album is turning out so far. I cannot wait to see the printed version, it’s going to be a true story book full of heartfelt memories for them to cherish always!
Below is a description of how Colette and Ravi envisioned their wedding day at at Foss Waterway Seaport in Tacoma as taken from our questionnaire they filled out.
Q. We’d love to know more about your wedding plans, especially what you’re doing to make your wedding special or unique for you.
A. We are going to have a ‘flower parade’ of little kids…any young person who wants to be a part of our procession is welcome to, and kids will come in with streamers and handing out flowers to guests along the aisles. We have a huge wedding party, which we are referring to as our ‘Wedding Tribe’…the whole entrance procession will be huge and festive and probably to funky, dance-inspiring music.
We will be having our ceremony in a circular format. We will have a small platform in the middle of a large circular formation of chairs, with pillows on the ground around the platform for the kids to sit on to have a better view.
We will have a steel band play outside on the promenade during cocktail hour, while the room is flipped for the reception. We will have chalk art, games, and face painting – for kids and adults alike.
For dinner, we will serve burrito bowls. We’ll have an amazing DJ friend of ours fly in from Philly, who specializes in mixing funk/soul 45s. Dessert will be Mexican ‘paletas’ (super delicious popsicles: http://roamconference.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/paletas.jpg/).
Our wedding will be full of color, laughter, diversity, dancing, and funny, warm people. It will be a sort of reunion for several different social/family groups from around the country/world.
One of our biggest values is community and connection, and we will have several gatherings and activities throughout the week and the event to help bring people together and get to know each other so that the event is one big joyous unified celebration.
They described their wedding perfectly! This is exactly how it turned out.
Thank you to the vendors who made Colette and Ravi’s wedding so perfect!
Coordinator, Caterer, Florist, Event Designer: Gierin Creek Event Services
Gown Boutique:Kitsch Bitsch Alyssa Devanny 0412 069 287 (Australia) [email protected]
DJ: DJ Personify James Norman (706) 248-3788 [email protected]
Dessert: Seattle Pops
Venue: Foss Waterway Seaport
Videographer: Hildebrand Photography
The Islanders Steel Drum Band
contact: Obe Quarless
email: [email protected]
phone: 253-426-5342
Lauren and Nick’s wedding. This is Nick with his groomsmen in dashing grey suits on the deck of the Edgewater Hotel.
…not to be outdone by the Lauren’s bridesmaids with cigars.
A major storm had just blown through with heavy winds, rains and if I remember right, lightning. We had just finish the bridal party photos down at the Discovery Park light house when a few drops fell. Everyone was back inside the hotel and safe when the heavy rains hit.
When Lauren exited the van her dad was standing there in perfect timing for her first look with him. Here’s the photo of the two of them. We were so happy to be there to capture this heartfelt moment.
By the time the storm subsided the reception party was going strong and everyone migrated outside to enjoy the fresh air with a cigar…wait, what? Ha, ha, ok they must have been outside to enjoy the cool air while smoking a cigar. Either way, I love getting cool shots of people smoking cigars. Lauren and Nick purchased a print of the guys. It’s going to look great on their wall. What a fun memory to display.
Trinity Tree Farm Issaquah
This place is amazing! Not only do they sell Christmas trees and Pumpkins but people have incredible weddings there too! It’s gorgeous there. There are acres of trees, a big, red, old fashioned fire truck, a roomy lodge style building with an impressive outdoor fireplace reminiscent of a 5-star resort in the mountains.
We cannot wait to photograph Kristi and Matt’s wedding. They are going to have many, many children in their wedding which will be adorable, many friends as attendants and an intimate number of guests. This will be the perfect wedding. We are all hoping for snow on their big day…fingers crossed! Wouldn’t it be incredible to have hundreds of evergreen trees covered in a light layer of white snow in their photos! Oh my gosh, now I’m hoping they have hot chocolate for everyone there. Wouldn’t it be nice for everyone to be enjoying each others company with a nice warm mug in the lodge and the winter view out the large pane windows that surround the lodge? The woods are my favorite. I know most people love the ocean but the woods is where I like to be.
Welcome to Hildebrand Photography!
]]>Our home away from home for will be…
Where: Washington State Convention Center in downtown Seattle
Booth #: 1312 (see red circle in map) We are next door to the Salish Lodge booth (go Salish!).
When: January 16th 10:00am-5:30pm and 17th 10:30am-5:00pm
Come meet us, say hello, see our big wall print art and our gorgeous albums! Then, hire us for your wedding and be elated that you did!
You can pre-purchase tickets here: www.weddingshow.com
This is me chilling in our comfy, lovely office after a client meeting.
Our office is everything we hoped it would be. When the power went out in our neighborhood we packed up dinner and took it to our office. We were very cozy there with our t.v., heater/fireplace, big sofa (which I just realized is the same look as Oprah’s famous yellow leather chairs) & mini fridge. We are proud to bring clients there where they can see our art in wall prints and albums. There they peruse our samples and pick out their own wall prints and albums after they view their photos on our t.v.
So, come to Redmond and have a sit on our Oprah couch, no worries, we don’t have a studio audience.
These Art Boxes are incredible! They’re very personalized with your own photo as the cover. They’re a fabulous way to protect your heirloom album plus there’s a special spot inside to hold your DVD of photos so it’s all together in one place.
Everyone who sees our Art Boxes completely LOVES them! This is something everyone should own. It’s a beautiful finishing touch to your wedding photos.
No more messing around with ordering through companies that use ROES, no more running to our PO Box to pick up orders. We have control over the color and the paper options are endless! How amazing would it be to have this in our studio. Brandon edits while I shoot. The client chooses their favorites just minutes after their shoot and takes home the final prints right then! No homework for us. Instant gratification for our clients, yay! It’s a win, win! I can’t wait to try out the new workflow!
Oh, and as a bonus, if you zoom in to the white paper above the printer in the photo you’ll see my daughter’s artwork depicting what students should not do in science class at school…in case you need a refresher on the middle school rules. The message of the day here is “don’t scare your friend or they may knock over a beaker”…and of course, “do like us on FB…always!”
https://www.facebook.com/HildebrandPhotography/?ref=hl
Canon Pro-100 printer
Krasowski family photos
This is what little kids do during weddings. They wiggle and make silly faces but when she licked her mom’s arm and I actually clicked quickly enough to capture it I was cracking up! Such a funny little kid!
It’s fun to get to go behind the scenes and see funny things like this. My camera is my ticket to be a part of the wedding guests and still get to walk around during the ceremony to see everything that’s going on. I’m happy that this little girl felt safe enough, was happy enough and having fun in the festivities of the day enough to be smiling during the vows which most kids view as two people standing there doing nothing but talking and then “EW…kissing!”
Weddings are off and on fun for kids. They are expected to dress up, not get dirty, not be loud, sit still and let relatives hold them, kiss their cheeks and chase them around for an entire day but clearly she was having a good time. I’d say her happiness is a reflection of how happy and casual everyone was at Ravi and Colette’s wedding. It was truly a festive occasion! Ooh, and this wedding reception had face painting! I’ll share those photos here later…stay tuned.
Colette arrived at the site and jumped out of her car and ran to Ravi as fast as her wedge shoes would let her and gave him a giant hug! Luckily Brandon was ready and caught it all in photos. I absolutely love this series of photos. Colette is so thoughtful she actually apologized to me for not waiting until I got there so I could photograph it. I’m just so happy she got caught up in the moment and enjoyed her first sight of Ravi on their big day to the fullest because that’s what it’s all about!
Here she is showing him how beautiful she is in her fancy, hip, fun wedding attire.
And here he is showing her how handsome he is in his suit and tennis shoes…so hip and fashionable! Ha,ha, he cracks me up with his moves. So cool!
From all of us here at Hildebrand Photography, thank you for being you. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to Jeff and the friends and family of Jenny.
Many thanks to Patrick Thorp of Thorp Photography for lending us his glorious photo of the flag at half mast.
Wedding cake made by Salish Lodge
Sarah and Corey Salish Elopement
What a sweet elopement for Sarah and Corey at Salish Lodge. Sarah wore her hair in an elegant up do by Salon Maison“. She had a champagne colored dress with a full chiffon skirt and Cory wore a gold tie and a black suit. It was all very romantic. Salish Lodge had red flower petals strewn about the dining big wooden dining room table with a bottle of red wine and two glasses. There was an elegant lemon cake with white frosting and a bouquet of white roses wrapped in a ribbon. Both Corey and Sarah had the excited jitters before the ceremony even without guests in attendance. Kent of A Heavenly Ceremony was as eloquent and warm-hearted as always.
For their first kiss he threw in an unexpected dip and we all (all 4 of us) cheered and applauded.
We took outdoor photos on the patio of their suite. It’s was pitch black outside. He wrapped her in his suit jacket and held her tight. We had them lean against the railing so we could include the famous Snoqualmie Falls that are lit with spotlights at night and overflowing with rushing water with all the rain coming down lately. It was all so dramatic and romantic! We can’t wait to share the photos!
Thanks to the vendors who made their day special:
Salon Maison
We are happy to announce that Hildebrand Photography is now offering Holiday Cards! Here is a list of templates to choose from. Which one is your favorite? My favorite is the chalkboard style card that says “JOY”. Any one of these is guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of those who receive them.
They’re 5×7 in size with a minimum order of 25 up to as many as you would like. If you want to give them to your entire family on both sides, your extended family, co-workers, everyone at church, school, soccer, the mailman and his dog feel free!
They’re $3.00 each.
Book your photo session with us now and let’s create a beautiful Holiday card for you!
Email us at : [email protected] to book your session.
Our DeLille Cellars photo is in the November edition of Shutter Magazine! Yes, I blogged about this already but here is the real deal. You can buy your own copy at Barnes and Noble Here are two photos of the actual magazine. This photo was taken at Jenna and Chris’s wedding at Delille Cellars in Woodinville, WA. DeLille Cellars is a gorgeous venue. You feel like your’e in Italy when you are there. There’s a pond, bridge, tall trees, grape vines (of course), a tall stucco building with dark wood floors, outdoor decks, arched doorways and a sweeping view of the Woodinville valley. You should get married at DeLille and hire us for photography, video and photo booth. Several of our clients have done this and their weddings were complete perfection!
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Jenny & Rob Highlight from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
Special thanks to all the vendors involved in making Jenny and Rob’s day incredible!
Cake Artist: Julie’s Gluten Free Bakery
253-200-0148
Officiant: Lifetime Memories
253-988-1840
Gown Boutique Alfred Angelo
(877) 726-4356
Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist Daniel Ross Salon
Musician/DJ D.J. Vay
206-354-7218
Venue The Rainier Room at the Truitt Building
(253) 804-3555
Videographer Hildebrand Photography dba Hildebrand Productions
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Look at these two beauties. We had so much fun, cracking up and throwing hair around with the hair dryer. Here’s a preview of just one photo each. As soon as they meet with me at our office to see the rest I will do a full blog post of them here.
Danielle and Tiffany Glamour
Kelly & Josh Highlight Video
Kelly & Josh Highlight Video from brandon hildebrand on Vimeo.
Congratulations on having your images featured in this month’s Inspirations section of Shutter Magazine!
Pretty cool, huh?
We are pleased to say that Hildebrand Photography has been published once again. This time in the print version of Shutter Magazine. Shutter magazine is a world wide magazine written by and for photographers. Shutter magazine exploded on to the scene 2 years ago as the go-to resource for business education. It’s an honor to be recognized by our peers.
You would say, “Yes, please! Wait, what is it?”
In the photography world a triptych is a 3-up of one photo, but in three separate pieces. This one of Stacie and Mitch is gorgeous, and is an impressive piece to display in their home. The one shown here is a print on sheet metal which gives it a 3-D-like depth when observed, and our clients love them. When we display metal prints in our studio, they definitely attract the most attention.
Incredible 3-D-like metal triptych
Alyssa’s Glamour Session 9-up
We checked in to the Davenport Hotel in Spokane and upgraded to the penthouse suite. The place was huge! Spacious, modern elegance, with a bar, 2 bathrooms, a breakfast nook, living room with a fireplace and a master bedroom I could run laps in! It’s funny how much atmosphere adds to the experience. Alyssa met us there and brought loads of outfits. We brought loads of our photography gear. It was great to see her again. We have photographed her and her husband, Kyle, many times. This was a secret photo session for him so no Kyle this time. (We’ll catch ya next time buddy! 
We were completely inspired by all of the colors and textures in the furniture, chaise lounge, curtains, mirrors, 9’tall shiny, black double doors, view out the picture window to Spokane. We were so lucky to have such a beautiful, photogenic model. At one point Alyssa made us laugh so hard we were doubled over. She was talking about one thing and we thought she was talking about another. Once we realized what had happened we all cracked up!
The photos in this portion of the shoot are set in a 16×24″ frame with a custom cut one-piece matte and 9 4×6″ images in it. This is just one of the special items we sell in our studio.
Be sure to “like” Glamour by Dawn on Facebook for more glamour images. https://www.facebook.com/GlamourByDawn?ref=hl
Here’s a kid version of our 9-up shown in our blog. http://www.hildebrandphotoblog.com/cutekidsfuntimes/
Wouldn’t one of these look great on your wall?
We are proud to announce that we now have our very own meeting space! So long coffee shops! No more carting stacks of heavy, valuable wedding albums while walking through parking lots and down rainy streets. We now have this nice, cozy meeting space. It’s full of light & private. There’s plenty of parking and we are conveniently located one block from Redmond Town Center in downtown Redmond.
We have many of our wall portraits displayed to give you ideas of exactly what you want on your own walls. There’s a mini fridge stocked full of all sorts of goodies, warm electric fireplace, and a very comfy couch…you should come try it out. You may not want to leave!
From our new office we can have new client meetings, pre-photo session consultations, teach photography classes, have Seattle PUG (photography users group) meetings and do our famous Red-carpet Premiers of your beautiful photos so you can see them for the first time on a big screen television. It’s our way of rolling out the red carpet for our clients.
We are delighted to offer such a beautiful space to our clients as part of their photography experience and can’t wait to see you here!
]]>So, contact us today to schedule your mini session. They are a limited time and limited amount of shoots available. We can’t wait to see you and your loved ones in our studio!!
So, lucky us, this is the perfect combination of an engagement session and family portraits…two of our favorite things to photograph!
Call us so we can schedule your family photo session. Tis the season right now so you have photos to share with family when those big holiday come!
www.laurelcreekmanor.com
Event Designer Celise Callahan Event and Wedding Design
206 715 0518
[email protected]
http://celisecallahan.wix.com/cc-eventwedding#!contact/c24vq
Caterer Act 3 Catering
425 251-9102
[email protected]
act3catering.com
Florist Blitz Floral
253 572-2327
[email protected]
http://www.blitzflorist.com/
Cake Artist Corina Bakery
253 627-5070
corinabakery.com
Officiant Wedding Priest Tacoma
253-566-4078
[email protected]
Hair & Makeup Stylist Daniel Ross Salon
www.danielrosssalon.com
253-630-9243
Musician/DJ Sounds Unlimited
425-381-5536
[email protected]
Venue Laurel Creek Manor
253 826-6306
[email protected]
www.laurelcreekmanor.com
Videographer Hildebrand Photography
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All of our clients love our guest sign-in books. Wouldn’t it be fun to have an heirloom item that is full of wishes and greetings from all of your guests as well as photos from your engagement session. Just put it on the guest table so guests can sign it as they walk in to your wedding. It’s fun to bring it to the gift opening breakfast the next morning to get more signatures from family as well as share the thoughtful messages guests wrote.
These books are press printed, thick pages. They’re lay-flat pages so no images are lost in the gutter & it’s easier for guests to sign your album without the pages flipping shut. The leather back and spine cover is supple, high quality. Personalize the front cover with a photo from your engagement session.
I recommend the 10×10 size with 10 photos and 10 guest sign-in pages. I will design it, order it and have it delivered directly to you. All you have to do is choose 10 photos and the back cover color. They’re really beautiful and high quality. You can stop by our studio to see the sample guest book we have there.
$299
]]>He plays at clubs all over Seattle. Check out his schedule on his website. Go listen to him, dance like crazy then hire him for your next event but only if you hire Hildebrand Photography because I want to listen to his music again!
http://www.kryspinmusic.com/
Your Trinity Tree Farm Wedding was loaded with laughter, love and celebration. We will never forget it!
XOXO,
Dawn and Brandon
www.trinitytreefarm.com
Issaquah
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What is truly Fine Art Images by Hildebrand Photography?
This post is an example of the art we do above and beyond capturing a beautiful photo. Shown here is the same photo with three completely different end results. This wedding was in Virginia with the background of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains.
This is the perfect example of major differences editing can make:
*The first photo is a great photo.
*The second one is dramatic and bold and has an edgy flair.
*The third one ads another dimension, full of warmth and brings in that artistic flair.
It’s this attention to detail and professional editing that allow us to deliver incredible, jaw-dropping images from your wedding day. It’s one of the ways in which we stand out from the rest.
Hildebrand Photography is known for Fine Art Images. We have actually had people at expos walk up to our booth ASKING to buy the photos we have displayed there. They do not know the people in the photo, they just love it as art!
We take photos from your wedding and make them high quality, high attention to details, one-of-a-kind art to hang on your wall. We are about the quality art. These are to be treated as a family heirloom and passed down through the generations. We recommend having them printed in a large format such as 24×36 or larger on metal to make the image a focal point in your home.
]]>These guys are the best! Sub Zero Ice Cream & Yogurt uses cryogenics to instantly freeze fresh, custom-made ice cream and yogurt. SubZero Ice Cream and Yogurt will come to your event and no only serve delicious ice cream & frozen yogurt but make it for you right there on the spot. They do not make your frozen treat until you order it! That’s right! There’s a list of custom flavors from S’mores to Blackberry to Fudge Brownie and more. You choose which flavor you want, they add the ingredients to a metal bowl, blast it with cold air, mix, blast, mix. Add a spoon and viola you have a tasty treat! It’s such a cool invention (no pun intended). They’re always a big hit at the weddings and birthday parties that I’ve been to. There are several locations including Bonney Lake & Puyallup.
Check them out:
Puyallup: [email protected]
Bonney Lake: (253) 219-2218
Here we are with Cory taking his senior photos. He’s a junior at Sultan High School. This is his favorite spot in the woods. It’s incredible up here. I couldn’t find this place again if I tried. We were outside a town called Sultan, WA. I know you probably haven’t heard of it but it’s beautiful out there. We drove past many farms with wide open spaces, cows, mountains, fields, dilapidated barns then onto a long and windy gravel road and finally to this place where the river runs ice cold from the mountains carving grooves into the rocks like fine art sculptor. The water was so low that we could see all the grooves and rounded stone bowls created from whirlpools carved over the years. I can easily see why Cory loves it here so much. I love that being a photographer takes us into places found sacred by others. Places we would never find on our own. It seems funny to drive only a short distance from the hustle and bustle of the city to find serenity like this. It’s a reminder to get out there more often and explore. I was in photographer heaven surrounded by trees, bridges, streams, boulders, barns. I could have gotten lost in photography all day out there.
We did focus though and stay on task. His shoot was the perfect mix of indoor candid and posed then outdoor city and nature. We can’t post the photos from his shoot yet but when we do you I’ll tell even more stories about the day and how we got the shots.
Ooh, I think I just decided to start a new category on our blog called “how we got the shot”. This will be fun!
Sultan High School Cory Senior Photos
Thank you to all the vendors who made this day so incredible!
Mill Creek Country Club
(206) 914-1735
Rachel from Shimmer Airbrushing
(425) 503-8346
Charlene from Bluebird Salon
(425) 232-3188
Sol of Energia Events
(206) 679-1777
Seattle Party Bus
(206) 914-3560
Flowers by Tiffany
(206) 914-1735
Josh Hoover of Triple J Music Services
(206) 300-2627
Mike’s Amazing Cakes
(425) 869-2992
Eternal Knot Weddings
http://www.eternalknotweddings.com/
(425) 417-0617
Pastor Jay Kelly
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This is so Brandon and I!
After all of these years of marriage he knows me so well. We spend almost every hour of every day together. When he is hungry I had better eat too because we are so in synch that I’m probably hungry too but just don’t know it yet.
Before most big shoots we stop for food. I go with vegetables or nothing trying to be healthy because I probably just had a smoothie at home. My smoothies usually consist of chia seeds, beets, wheat germ, green apple, lemon, an egg and sometimes coconut water. He orders sometimes healthy but mostly whatever he wants. When I met him he use to eat biscuits and gravy. (Oh my gosh, who does that?!) I put up such a fuss over that I think he has only eaten that twice since we met unless he’s a closet biscuits and gravy eater which our dog would have figured out by now and ratted on him to me.
I’m totally ok with my order until I see him yummy, greasy, salty, comfort food sitting just inches away from mine. He knows he cannot leave me alone with his food. He’s not super happy about sharing food but will always give in to me. What would I do without him? If I say I’m not hungry he orders food for me anyway and I’m always thankful he does. I’m blessed to have found someone who takes such good care of me. Sometimes when you’re on the road you just need calories. Now I just need to get him to drink my smoothies.
Here’s our typical wedding day meals:
breakfast: big glass of water & protein and carb combo ie. egg, berries or banana and toast, peanut butter and toast, oatmeal and an egg and definitely coffee but not too much because we can’t burn out right away.
lunch on the way to the wedding: hamburger with salad or fries
in the parking lot while gearing up: coconut water 16oz each, 2 hour energy shot
after ceremony: another big glass of water
dinner: generously offered by client: usually salmon, vegetables and potatoes but not very much because we take short dinner breaks and need to be able to keep moving.
once home: cereal or yogurt and more water
Be sure to treat yourself well while shooting a wedding. Eat balanced meals and/or snacks, hydrate, bring band aids for feet, keep a close eye on the schedule so you know when you can take small rests and be sure to smile as often as possible because it makes you feel good and oh my gosh, how good does it feel to be in our element doing what we love?!
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Brandon and Dawn Hildebrand
Our 2nd shooter, Frances, is nice enough to take a second out of her busy shooting time at all of our events to sneak a few photos of us. Here are a few.
1. There’s Brandon on the top of a stone tower on Mt. Moran on Orcas Island. He looks like Rapunzel, huh? 
We were dressed more casual than usual since it was an engagement shoot. The tower was once home to a guy who looked out for forest fires from his tall roost. It’s not at all cozy but for sure beautiful. We had lots of fun bouncing dramatic lighting off the stone walls inside to create dramatic images of Adri and Nick. I can’t wait to share those photos on our blog!
2. Mount Baker in the background. Brandon doing off camera lighting over my head while I’m shooting a photo of Adri and Nick in front of the tower. Destination weddings are so much fun with all the new sights and gorgeous views, great adventures!
3. A crazy group of ladies having loads of fun at Colette’s bachelorette party in a park in downtown Tacoma. This was their interpretation of a sun and Colette was at the center in the fetal position laughing so hard she could hardly stand up afterwards.
4 & 5. Brandon and I shooting Colette and Ravi’s wedding in Tacoma. This mural is on the back wall of a Buddhist Temple, so artistic and colorful!
6. Me at Adri and Nick’s reception. I do not remember this photo happening. I’m sure I was tricked into it. Frances probably said, “let me test my levels, smile!”
]]>We had an Indian/American wedding last night (I cannot wait to share stories about Colette and Ravi’s wedding) and today we are off to a Korean engagement party. I’m reviewing all the traditional steps involved in a Korean ceremony from the giving of the red gifts to the tea offering. It’s going to be great!]]>
Many thanks to Katrina Allen of Love Blooms for her artistic talents in making their wedding day special. www.lovebloomseventdesign.com and to
Skansonia Ferry for always being professional in running your one of a kind wedding venue.
http://www.skansonia.com/ and to
Chihuly Garden and Glass Seattle http://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/ for letting us rock out some fun drama photos before the wedding.
Everything from their Twin Peaks themed cake, chevron print rain boots and umbrella (just in case), vibrant blue roses and her feather hair piece were completely unique to them and showed off their colorful personalities. Heather’s shoes were custom decorated by an artist on Etsy. His cousin was in attendance, they brought their closest friend in to officiate and one of the Salish employees, Courtney Ford, Executive Office Coordinator even stayed as a guest during the ceremony.
It was everything Heather and Jedediah dreamed of, quaint, intimate, fun, unique and definitely romantic.
Cheers to the beautiful couple and their lifetime of adventure that awaits!
I asked them to choose around 30 photos for their wedding album and they said they could only narrow it down to 167.
“I was not able to pick just 30, they are all so beautiful.” -Heather
So, here is the final result of their wedding album. Here’s what they emailed to us today about their album. “We received the album today, it turned out amazing!! We both love it and can’t wait to show it off!” -Heather and Jedediah
Nick and I have known each other since 3rd grade. I don’t remember exactly how we met, but I do recall that I thought he was the cutest boy at our school. We dated for the first time in 5th grade, as most elementary relationships do-it ended pretty quickly, but we knew even then that there was something special about each other. We were close friends throughout elementary and middle school and dated again our sophomore year of high school. We decided to go our separate ways however when we both began to attend college, and never really thought we would see each other again. A few years later I got a message from Nick-we began to hang out again, and have been inseparable ever since. It feels like something that has always been meant to be for us, and we can’t wait to begin our lives as a married couple!
The Proposal:
When I was in elementary school I always had a big crush on Nick. As lots of little girls do; I used to practice writing my name with his last name: Lauren La Haye. My family vacationed every year at The Breakers in Long Beach, WA; and I would use my finger to draw Lauren La Haye in the hard sand by the breaking waves.
Nick remembered me telling him that story, and wanted to make our proposal very meaningful. He wrote “Will You Marry Me?” in the sand in the exact spot that i used to practice writing his last name as my surname. He got down on one knee, (with our dachshund right at his side-supervising), and asked me to be his wife.
My heart absolutely exploded with happiness and it was like the whole world slowed down, like everything-the crashing waves, the gulls, all existed just for us in that perfect moment.
I said yes of course. 
We feel so blessed to have each other, we are truly soul mates.
Hair and make up by:
Kathy Evans Beauty Studio
kathyevansbeautystudio.com
138 Central Way, Kirkland, WA 98033
Phone:(425) 822-0600
We had so much fun that day. We found even more areas we had never discovered before and came out with outstanding photos to share with Lauren and Nick.
Here’s what they had to say about the day.
Hey Dawn and Brandon!
We signed our contract this morning, and wanted to thank you again for such a WONDERFUL experience. We will never forget it. The picture on your blog STUNNED ME, we have NEVER looked that good!!!! And how awesome was that water droplet technique?! We love your creativity!
Hope you have a wonderful week!
Lauren and Nick
We love engagement sessions and all of the happy, fun-loving couples we attract into our lives. Thank you Lauren and Nick for such a wonderful day!
]]>Kyle and I actually come from families who are friends. His parents have known my parents for over 20 years. Kyle and I reconnected working together at his family’s company. I worked in HR and Kyle worked in the warehouse. Kyle needed help on a project in the warehouse, and we worked together for 2 days, 10-11 hour days. After that we were dating. Unfortunately, my dad passed away when Kyle and I had only been together for a month. I told, you’re in or you’re out, and he was in. He was my rock and I think we both decided going through that trauma that even though we aren’t particularly touchy or feely people, we need each other.
When Kyle proposed, he told me we should open gifts. Kyle brought out a large box. As I unwrapped the box, I saw it was for a toaster oven. I was disappointed, but Kyle encouraged me to open it. So I opened the toaster box to find another wrapped gift inside with a note that said ‘you didn’t think it’d be that easy?’. So I unwrapped the second box to find table linens box. I opened that box to find a third wrapped box, this note saying ‘sorry, it’s not a house or a puppy’. Unwrapping and opening the third box, a note came out that said ‘you are my greatest and most expensive asset’, leaving a fourth and very heavy box. As I unwrapped the final box, I turned and said “If you got me quarters…” but inside that box said ‘I have just one question’ and a bunch of marbles and Kyle was holding the perfect ring and asked me to marry him.
We aren’t the most exciting couple, or the most outwardly affectionate people, but we get each other.
Inspired.
Will post the final version once complete.
They are always challenging themselves to take that next image that makes you gasp. They know your wedding day means everything to you, your friends and your family. They will capture emotional moments of joy, laughter, praise and warmth from your day from the glint of pride in your dads eyes when he sees you in your wedding gown for the first time, to your best friend getting emotional during the toasts and the best man doing a victory lap from catching the garter. Dawn and Brandon love weddings and know yours will be incredible.
The Hildebrand Photography wedding album will be your first family heirloom it will be filled with beautiful images of your wedding…showing the true meaning of marriage; love, commitment and happiness. Be sure to have your best memories captured and preserved perfectly by hiring the best…
hire Hildebrand Photography.
]]>Book us at the Seattle Wedding Show and receive your very own movie poster customized for you! (a $100 value).
That’s right, it’s a move poster starring you and your fiancé compliments of Hildebrand Photography.
Gift #2 Guest Sign-in book
You will also receive a guest sign-in book compliments of us (a $300 value). This book is the highest quality. Very soft leather with thick lay-flat pages. Everyone who sees this books wants one of their own, everyone.
Be ready to choose us as your photographers while you’re at the show so you can receive these two gifts.
Be sure to have your best memories captured and preserved perfectly by hiring the best…hire Hildebrand Photography.
Our kids call our expo booth “our little store”.
We can’t wait for the Seattle Wedding Show!]]>
We can’t wait for their big day!
]]>Choosing our very best work to display on a 6×11″ space was not easy. We have 10s of thousands of photos and I had to narrow it down to…nine. Four horizontal and 4 vertical, all with the mood that matches us, colors that flow with each other on a page, no duplicate weddings, yes different locations and ones that both Brandon and I agree on. It’s exactly like a puzzle. After much consideration we chose these photos and are very proud to have these impressive (if I do say so myself) flyers to give to hundreds of engaged couples this weekend.
Yes, these are for the Seattle Wedding Show this weekend! We are so excited to meet potential clients this weekend.
Be sure to take the show in stride. Yes, it’s huge and there’s a lot to see but if you narrow it down to your favorites, like Hildebrand Photography, and just enjoy the sights you’ll do just fine. Come say hello and find out what we are offering special for the show!
See you there!
Dawn
]]>Our gorgeous hand-stitched, custom made albums designed in a castle in Italy tell the story of your day, quite eloquently too.
It only happens once a year so don’t miss it!
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/seattle-wedding-show-2015-tickets-13301445983
Saturday January 10th, 2015
10:00am to 5:30pm (Tickets sales at the show open at 9:30am)
Sunday January 11th, 2015
10:30am to 5:00pm (Tickets sales at the show open at 10:00am)
Hildebrand Photography can be found at booth number 1312. Come say hello!
Kids 12 and Under are Free
Come to the show Saturday, get your hand stamped on the way out, and come back Sunday for FREE.
Seattle Wedding Show features more than 400 local, regional and national vendors, including event facilities, bakeries, bridal boutiques, caterers, disc jockeys, florists, jewelers, photographers, transportation providers, wedding consultants, and much more!
Classic and contemporary bridal gowns, tuxedos, bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride dresses will be on display at fashion shows held throughout the event.
]]>Stephanie and Troy’s beautiful red and white wedding at Fauntleroy Church and Palisades Restaurant.
What a beautiful day full of tradition, loved ones and wonderful memories. I can’t wait to post more photos of their day. There are so many heartfelt stories to tell of traditions, dancing, tears of joy and laughter. I promise I will post more soon!
Their album turned out incredible! They chose a burgundy leather cover with a crystal glance insert and if that wasn’t gorgeous enough they had metallic paper which gave each page a real pop, like a 3-D effect, completely gorgeous from page to page! We were very proud to hand their albums over to them.
The album company we use is incredible. We have used them our whole career with confidence that they’ll produce a fabulous album suitable to be your first family heirloom to be passed down through generations.
Here’s how they describe their albums:
Flush mount albums with attitude! Exquisite quality combined with fabulous leathers with gorgeous cover options. Move away from the ordinary into the Extraordinary. YOU choose the spine and page style. Leather, silk, metal, woven, maple and more that range from quality basics to the hottest looks around.
We love albums and are always so excited to create them and deliver them to our clients with pride.
Jenny and Rob December Wedding in Blue and Grey
Here’s a preview of Jenny and Rob’s wedding! We will post the rest of their photos soon.
Their wedding was so much fun! She said all sorts of things went wrong but nobody noticed. Everything was perfect and beautiful and everyone had so much fun! The weather was perfect, the bridesmaids matching grey knit mittens were much needed in the chilly weather and the umbrellas, although not needed, were pretty and made for fun photos with the girls! Their dresses were a very deep blue which looks great with the grey tuxedos. The men wore tennis shoes and everyone had very pretty winter white flowers.
Jenny was completely prepared for everything which really held the day together. Rob, the groom, was even sick but you wouldn’t know it when the two of them were together his eyes lit up and everything else in his world washed away. They perfectly compliment each other. Jenny and Rob we are glad to know you both and are honored to share such a big day with you both. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness together!
Today I had the honor of capturing video of my good friend, Kerstin O’Shields. She’s an amazing person. She is very warm, personable, outgoing, friendly, intelligent, patient, happy. This is the type of person that I would like to teach me presence. Because isn’t our success based on presence? No matter who you are if you are trying to attract a new job, new clients or a new relationship isn’t it all about how you are perceived? You want to come across confident, eloquent, personable & intelligent. Kerstin can teach you these skills in her 8 Week Workshop Series on The Secrets of Body Language in Business. (Read more about her workshop below.)
Here is a little more about my talented friend:
Kerstin O’Shields
Executive Presentation Coach, Speaker, and Private Vocal Instructor
Kerstin O’Shields is an Executive Presentation Coach, Speaker, and Private Voice Teacher in the Seattle and Greater Puget Sounds Area for over 18 years. Kerstin specializes in framing the masterpiece of each person’s message and business by enhancing nonverbal communication with body posture, body gesturing, facial expressions, and clarifying physical speech.
She has enjoyed multiple speaking engagements focusing on the ingrained connection of physical presentation to increase the ability to create meaningful connections and an increase in business. She is also a performing soprano that has performed in numerous operas, musical productions, and benefit concerts.
Check out her 8 Week Workshop Series here:
http://www.kerstinoshields.com/secrets-of-body-language/
The Secrets of Body Language in Business 8 Week Workshop Series
Unlock the Secrets of Body Language in Business with Kerstin O’Shields! Renew your business and revolutionize your life by enhancing your presence, clarifying your performance, and unleashing your power! You will learn how to naturally draw people to you and be able to connect with others on an authentic and compelling level. Become aware of your target audience and what they need for the right experience with you. Embody an Alpha persona and attract your PACK!
This 8 Week Workshop Series will teach you how to improve your verbal and nonverbal communication. Create a rich arsenal of tools and knowledge around body posture, body gesturing, clarifying physical speech, and the use of facial expression. Become aware of your body language to attract more business and increase your target market’s retention of your powerful presentation style.
Bonus Marketing Video: We have teamed up with a high-end videography team, Hildebrand Photography, to create a memorable and highly effective marketing video for each participant in our workshop. Each video will feature you at peak performance, showcasing everything you’ve learned over the 8 week intensive series. Our gift to you, this 30-second marketing video will become invaluable in promoting yourself at your best. Retail value of more than the cost of this class!
]]>So, you’re planning your wedding and wondering who to hire and how you are going to arrange appointments with every single vendor then drive to them in rush hour traffic and beg your fiancé to come with you. You wish there was one big room where you could go to meet all of the vendors at once so you can do it all in one trip.
Ta da! There is such a place! It’s called The Seattle Wedding Show! It’s like a dream come true. There’s everything you could possibly want for your wedding in one place that is covered and warm and even has a fashion show where you can see the latest trends in wedding fashion! I would recommend going to Saturday then returning on Sunday. This is a once a year event. You really want to make the most of it!
http://www.weddingshow.com/Show/dates_times.html
Dates & Times:
Washington State Convention & Trade Center
800 Convention Place, 4th Floor
Seattle, WA 98101
Saturday January 10th, 2015
10:00am to 5:30pm (ticket sales open at 9:30am)
Sunday January 11th, 2015
10:30am to 5:00pm (ticket sales open at 10:00am)
Tickets are $17.00 per person and can be purchased at the door.
Children twelve and under are admitted free.
Come to the show Saturday, get your hand stamped on the way out, and come back Sunday for FREE.
Tickets go on sale at the door: 9:30 am Saturday and 10:00 am Sunday.
]]>Here are Mark’s groomsmen. Such a handsome group. The midnight blue is stunning. I like the story during the speeches where one groomsmen told about how the groom, Mark, walked him miles and miles down a deserted railroad track after a party one night to make sure he got home safely. I feel like the speeches should be in the beginning of a wedding so we can all get to know the family and bridal party better. It’s always interesting hearing stories of character, pranks, support and friendship. It adds that much more depth to your understanding of their friendship.
Here are Cara’s bridesmaids. Each one of them was/is so beautiful. I love that they chose their own dresses. Their personalities shine through with the style of each dress and the champagne color is just stunning, completely elegant. We had so much fun taking photos of these ladies all night long.
We are so happy that we were able to do Alyssa and Kyle’s Christmas photos for them again this year. It’s really great to be able to see them every year and this year we got to meet their new pup even! It’s fun to see their family grown. Just like our family, their pets are like family to them and they are the best parents ever. Merry Christmas Stringer Family!
Bri is so at ease in front of a camera. We all agreed she has a multitude of looks but really rocks the “you stole my boyfriend, I’m going to kick your b*tt” look which is extra amazing because she seems super nice to all of us! I do really love the smile she has in one of the last photos here. It’s contagious!
Laying on a Black Sand Beach
Stay tuned for more classes taught by us in the future such as off-camera lighting, posing, photography 101, Lightroom and Photoshop. Private lessons available upon request which would make a really great Christmas gift! (wink, wink)
Give us a call and we will help you with your Holiday Shopping List! 206-790-8995
Hair Color By: Brianna Cashin based out of The Cove Salon
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Yes, we own two companies. Hildebrand Photography and the sister company, Studio H.
We started our career in wedding photography as a modest studio making our way. We have grown by leaps and bounds since that day almost 8 years ago when Brandon shot his first wedding then put an add in Craigslist and got two more weddings. Since then it’s been a whirl wind of adventure, leaning, classes in business, lighting, posing, flow, scheduling, editing, marketing and much more near and far taught by world renowned photographers (Las Vegas), seminars, travels to Washington, California, Oregon, Hawaii, Arizona, Tennessee, Virginia, Canada and Buenos Aires, Argentina for weddings, travels to San Francisco for engagement sessions.
We now teach classes to other photographers Photography 101, Lightroom and Photoshop classes. We are the leaders of the Seattle chapter of the nationwide companies ShootQ and Pictage where we share our knowledge of the industry with other professional photographers and get to know the needs and goals of our fellow photographers. We have mentored other professional photographers. We enjoy learning, training and networking. We are passionate about all things photography!
So, now that we are further along in our career and offering the ultimate in wedding photography not only in our artistic style and in telling the story of your day we realize we are beyond the reach of some who may have a concern about budget.
It breaks our hearts to have a client who loves us and our work but can’t fit us into their budget. Our solution was to create Studio H www.photostudioh.com This is our associate photography company.
These carefully chosen photographers have years of wedding photography experience. They have shot with us and know exactly our flow of the day and our style. If we are available to shoot your wedding then we, the owners/the primary shooters, will be there. If not, then one of our associates will be there to capture amazing images to tell the story of your wedding day. Everything else will be done by us including any meetings with you, emails editing, album design etc.
The collections aren’t as inclusive as Hildebrand Photography collections but you still get incredible images of your day which is the most important part. The rest can be upgraded after the wedding if you so choose.
Now there is no reason not to hire us either as Hildebrand Photography or Studio H, whichever one suits your needs best. If you like us and love our work you’ll be relieved to know we can accommodate you.
Go check out www.photostudioh.com Notice you will see gorgeous photos there. We are adding more photos weekly so check back for updates often. You won’t see any high edit/fine art photos there.
Go to www.hildebrandphoto.com to see the ultimate in what we have to offer.
This family has been with us for many years now. They’re the best. It’s great to see them often and see how much their little boy has grown. He is personality plus. I was cracking up during the whole shoot. Kids are such little comedians. I love it!
This photo shoot was really great. He played and we took photos. I love studio photo sessions where I can get down on the kids level so I can hand them toys and play peek-a-boo and do whatever it takes to get the shot without worrying about mud and leaves and lighting.
I can’t wait for our next photo session with this sweet boy and his parents.
A. Book your venue first. Now you know your date. Try to do this a year in advance.
B. Book your photographer! Consider adding on Videography and Photo Booth now or wait till later. Either way you know we are available for your date so you are in good hands here. No worries, we got your back. No need to look elsewhere. 
C. Buy your dress
D. I have no idea what comes next. I only know about the dress because brides are always excited and telling me what they’ve tried on when we meet. I do, however, have a list of my favorite vendors. They are here in our blog. Go check them out. Type vendors in the search window of our blog and they will pop up.
These are the people we trust. They are professionals with plenty of experience so you can be sure your day will run smoothly.
So, let’s review. If most people are freshly engaged when they come to the January expo and you need to hire the venue and photographer a year in advance to get the ones you want. Then wouldn’t it make sense that most brides will be hiring the venues and photographers vendors while at the show? Do you want to stand in line at those booths or wouldn’t it feel good to know yours are booked and you can move on to the other vendors. Or, if you don’t book ahead of time just know that you don’t want to lose out on your favorites so be prepared to go straight to those booths and put a deposit to save your date on the vendors you love while at the show! Bring your checkbook. Know that we will reward you for booking us at or before the show!
Call us to book your meeting and/or engagement session now. 206.790.8995 or email [email protected]
http://www.weddingshow.com/
Hildebrand Photography
Follow these 4 simple steps to a successful Wedding Show.
1. Come to our booth first.
A. We are booth number 1312.
B. Call us if you get lost. 206.790.8995
2. Book us for your wedding day photography, videography and photo booth!
3. High five each other knowing you are in very good hands with Hildebrand Photography.
4. Then, go celebrate by finding cake samples to eat!
This is what our expo booth has looked like for many years now. This January we will have a completely different look! We are so very excited. It will be a sleek, stylish white booth full of our gorgeous albums and prints. Come check it out!
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Statistics show that this is the time of year that most people get engaged.
We were at Bellevue Square Mall last night visiting Santa. My daughter and I both love shiny things so naturally, while waiting for the boys, we wandered into the nearest jewelry store, Ben Bridge. http://www.benbridge.com/store/bellevue-square
There were happy couples with the glow of the brightly lit display cases shining on their smiling faces as they gazed at the engagement rings.
January is the biggest month for a wedding photographer. They call it “wedding expo/show month” in the industry. We book up quickly at wedding shows. We will be meeting hundreds of brides at the shows.
Here’s something you can do to beat the rush. This is a GREAT idea!
Meet with us before the show. Better yet, have your engagement session done with us. We can go over our collections afterwards over a warm beverage and show you our fabulous albums. You won’t believe how incredible our albums are.
If you hire us, then your engagement session is complimentary. If not then you can purchase your session for $299. (No need to price shop. That’s the going rate out there for engagement sessions.) You will be ahead of the game when it comes to sending your save the date cards out because you already have your photos! Whether you hire us or not you will be beating the rush and have amazing photos to show for it!
Remember we offer videography and photo booths too! See more info on those in our blog too! Plus, we have an associate photography company called Studio H. www.photostudioh.com
We will be at the Seattle Wedding Show. Come see us! We are booth number 1312. We are next to the Salish Lodge booth, yay! We
]]>Today I took our two dogs, Merry Christmas (Merry for short) and Blackie in for a professional photo shoot today. I’ve never taken the time to get really great shots of my dogs (as you can see from the photos posted here.)
Christine of Trimood Photography did a wonderful job. Which is funny to say since I never once saw one of her photos from today’s shoot but isn’t a really great photo shoot about more than just the photos to a client? It’s about the interaction, professionalism, comfort level and atmosphere too. I had a great time. I was very proud of my two dogs. Once they sniffed out everything they could in Christine’s studio they settled down and were eager to please. They were good listeners and even climbed up on a red bench which I did not think they would do…oh, and they even wore/tolerated wearing hats for a bit! Christine knew they would do all of these things. It was me who was skeptical but she was right, it worked! I had a really great time and so did Merry and Blackie. I cannot wait to see the photos but will be patient because Christine runs a thriving business that is busy this time of year. Good things are worth the wait though! I’m just glad she made the time for us to come in today for our shoot!
Check out her work at: http://trimoodphotography.com/
What’s your story? How did you meet? How did the proposal go?
A. First off, both of are extremely thrilled that we are getting married.
We met on a dating website and only after a week of talking to each other we decided to have a date. Our first date was at Lombardi’s in Everett, Wa on March 28th 2013. We had dinner, talked for a bit and ended up closing the place. I kissed her goodnight and since then its been such a wonderful time. It truly was love at first site!
We are deeply in love and cannot wait to get married and share the experience with our family and friends!
>
Here are the vendors Virginia and Steve chose for their wedding. They are in good hands with Wendy of Simplee Wendy as their florist and coordinator. I’ve known Wendy for years. She’s so creative, hard-working and genuinely caring. I cannot wait to see what Wendy and Virginia come up with to decorate her wedding!
My mouth is already watering for the BBQ from Bubba’s Country Cue. Steve was describing their menu to me and I begged him to stop. I can’t bear to wait so long for such delicious food!
If We the People Salon is the same place Virginia used for her engagement session then she’s going to look fabulous for her wedding!
The Side Project Band is their favorite local band and they are going to be at their wedding! So cool! They can be found playing in the bar of Willows Lodge on certain nights of the week. Brandon and I are going to go listen to them before the wedding. It doesn’t hurt that we absolutely love Willows Lodge too.
Did you scroll down and see that we will be their Videographers and their Photo Booth vendors?! It’s so fantastic that we get to do so much for Virginia and Steve. Let’s see if I can get a photo of them wearing crowns and boa’s before the night is over. 
They are good sports. I’m sure it’ll be easy.
Lastly, Kitsap Memorial Park. They had to wait in line over night to get the date they wanted! This place must be incredible to have such a high need. They say the view is outstanding of the sound. I can’t wait to see it!
Willows Lodge
14580 NE 145th St, Woodinville, WA 98072
(425) 424-3900
willowslodge.com
Event Coordinator Simplee Wendy
252-332-4883
[email protected]
Florist Simplee Wendy
Event Designer Wedding Planner
540-583-8121
www.simpleewendy.com
[email protected]
Caterer Bubba’s Country Cue
360-620-4210
[email protected]
Cake Artist Sweets @ Savories Custom Wedding Cakes
360-779-5713
http://sweetsandsavories.net/index.htm
Officiant SUSAN KINTNER
[email protected]
Gown Boutique A Princess Bridal
www.princessbridecouture.com/
Makeup Artist We The People Salon
www.wethepeoplesalon.com/
425-301-6444
Hair Stylist We The People Salon
www.wethepeoplesalon.com/
424-440-0137
Musician/DJ The Side Project live band
509-216-8920
www.tspband.com
Venue
Kitsap Memorial Park
http://www.parks.wa.gov/414/Kitsap-Memorial-State-Park
Videographer Hildebrand Photography
www.hildebrandphoto.com
206.790.8995
Photo Booth Hildebrand Photography
www.hildebrandphoto.com
206.790.8995
Stu and Cherie are both so very nice and their family is beautiful, furry ones included. We’ve known Stu for years. He’s always cracking us up with his random wit that’s always catching me off guard. They even brought the neighbor girl along! The two girls are very close and it was fun to see their big smiles and hear the giggling when they got together. I’m glad some leaves were still remaining. The throwing of the leaves at the end of the shoot turned out really cool.
Megan and Dan’s wedding was stunning. The crisp fall air and beautiful colors filling the trees lining the walkway leading to the falls was a prefect place to take a photo of these two holding hands. For the reception the mantle was lined with white pillar candles and greenery, the cake had a cozy cable knit sweater look (how’d they do that?), the appetizers had a seafood theme with oysters on the 1/2 shell, crab cakes and salmon. Guests danced in the tent outdoors after dinner and fun was had by everyone of all ages. That’s one of my favorite things about family gatherings is that people of all ages are mixing and mingling, dancing and having fun. I love all the celebrating and smiling faces!
Thank you to the vendors involved for making Megan and Dan’s wedding so special!
Salish Lodge
425.831.6596
http://www.salishlodge.com/
Musician/DJ Sounds Unlimited
425-381-5536 (H)
[email protected]
www.asoundsunlimited.com
Here are the photos from the photo shoot we did for It’s Your Day Event and Expressions owned by Ashley and Christina. Not only are they long-time friends who finish each others sentences but hey are event coordinators extraordinaire!
We met at The Knot Mixer about a month ago. The Knot www.theknot.com puts on a party every year for their vendors. This year, as told in another blog post on this site, was really fun and full of lots of really great people from the wedding industry! They both seemed super nice and lots of fun so I invited them to join me on a shoot. And now you’re caught up!
Ha, ha, selfies, gotta love em. I’m liking the sun flare, pretty cool. Pretty sure I’m concentrating on making my cold thumb be able to move to click on my phone photo button while Ashley & Christina looking fabulous behind me. 
It was a crisp, fall day for our shoot. We had fun walking around downtown Redmond with all the different colors and textures of the old bricks and the new art all mixed together in a 2 block radius. I asked about their business and they both had so much to say. You can tell they really are passionate about being creative, unique, professional and thorough in event planning. They have a HUGE idea that is really exciting that I am sworn to never speak of until the big reveal. It’s really inspiring to hear the future growth potential for their thriving business. We are like minded in our businesses and it’s really refreshing to talk about an industry we all love with inspired business minded professionals.
Check out their website where they list all that they have to offer. It’s quite impressive! http://www.itsyourdayevents.com/services/4563655018
Thank you ladies for a great day. You are both so beautiful and are so easy to photograph. I love the out takes of the two of you laughing. I’ll let you include those in your own blog post if you choose to.
Remember, to stay tuned for more blog posts about how to get the most out of wedding shows where I tell you to meet with vendors BEFORE January when all of the shows are so you can beat the rush!
Call It’s Your Day Events today to book them for your wedding and events!
Ashley & Christina
It’s Your Day Event and Expressions
425-908-7092
www.itsyourdayevents.com
This is where the bride and groom see each other before the wedding. We cannot stress how very important it is to do this for your wedding. This improves the flow of your day and the happiness of your guests which makes you, the bride and groom, happier and more at ease. As you can see from these photos we still make it special. We take photos of you two seeing each other for the first time then we give you a few minutes alone to just be together and enjoy the day. Then, you tell us you are ready and we take some beautiful action shots of the two of you then move on to have you join your wedding party to celebrate your day and get some beautiful, photos of you all having fun!
We always encourage our clients to have a first look on their wedding day and every time they follow our advice on this they say, “Thank you, it was really nice to be able to spend more time with my fiancé on our wedding day and it really broke the ice and helped me relax before our ceremony.”
You will still get that excitement in the pit of your stomach when you see each other for the first time and you’ll get it again when you walk down the aisle. We will capture all the emotion both times but the first look time won’t have the backs of peoples heads and your groom holding a straight face that you can’t read because he’s trying to be stoic in front of all of your guests.
Our clients are passionate about artistic, gorgeous photography just like we are. In order for us to be able to capture you at your best we need time. Time to find the best lighting or create it, put you in stunning locations, have you focus on us and your fiancé to create gorgeous photos for you.
Time is very important to create the very best art starring you and to create memorable moments of the two of you celebrating with your bridal party. We want you to enjoy your day. Take in all the beauty the day has to offer and remember it. This is the day you have dreamt of and planned for. Make the most of it.
So, the argument is that some people want to stay with tradition. I’ve heard it said that this particular tradition came from arranged marriages where neither the bride nor the groom had even met yet. The idea was that they wouldn’t be able to see the other then run away once they were walking down the aisle. Rest assured that your fiancé will not be wearing running shoes on your wedding day because so far 100% of our clients have met each other before their wedding day.
So, the moral of this story is…Have a first look! The first look is the best idea ever! You will love having a first look!
(Get the picture?)
Yes, we can shoot a wedding without a first look but EVERY photographer will tell you that a first look is the best way to go.
How to get the most out of wedding shows & expos.
Here are my helpful tips for getting the most out of wedding shows/expos:
1. Bring address stickers so you don’t have to write your info down 100 times for every vendor you meet. Print them now and put them in your purse now. You will thank me. 
A. Name, email, phone number and wedding date/venue will suffice.
2. Bring someone to help you carry things, ask questions and remember things. Bribe them with the yummy cupcake samples!
3. Start your research BEFORE you get to the show. Go to the show directory and see who will be there. Look them up online and circle your 3 favorites that you MUST meet while at the show. Whatever point you are at in your planning you will be able to find the next vendor on your list at the show.
I have been making all sorts of print deliveries lately! Last week I had many prints to deliver to 3 separate clients so I camped out at a Starbucks central to all and met with many clients in one day. It was great! I had a nice, cozy fireplace and comfy chairs and “worked” in my “office” for most of the day. I gave and received big hugs, we all visited about weddings, life, Thanksgiving, family and drank warm, yummy Starbucks creations. I got to see smiling faces, hear “wows!” and feel a big sense of pride as I presented each print to each client.
Katie and Sam sent a photo of their big print once it was hung in their house.
He pointed out that his reflection can be seen in the right side of the print. It’s so high gloss that their print looks 3-D, it’s amazing! He said, “It looks kick ass” which is pretty funny because I don’t think I’ve ever heard him swear before. I guess that proves just how much he likes their new wall art. I’m very happy that they chose to do the 3-up. It’s quite unique and very impressive on the wall!
3-up Sheet Metal Print, Katie and Sam’s wedding and the Blue Ridge Mountains
]]>After much anticipation we are proud to present the photo that could be on a billboard, in a movie or gracing the cover of a wedding magazine! These ladies are not only looking fabulous but working it! This photo if full of personality plus. It’s so perfect. I just love it!
The photos I’m excited to post next are of the groomsmen, of course. Let’s see how you all think they stack up to the girls in their modeling debut.
I have some gorgeous photos of Cara and Mark in the alleyway too. There was a perfect spot of light coming into the alley and shining on the bricks. Mark is rockin his look in that perfect light.
And ladies, remember when Cara was posing next to the fire escape ladder? Those turned out incredible too! I’ll post all of these by Monday.
Here is Cara and Mark’s highlight video. This brings back a flood of good memories. I remember all of the smiling faces of their friends and family full of pride, joy, love and crazy dance moves!
Enjoy!
Cara and Mark Highlight Video from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
]]>He told me to look closer. When I did I realized it was a photo of the bridesmaids from the latest Monte Cristo Ballroom wedding we did….my photo. Oh yeah, I rocked that alleyway with help from my personality plus, gorgeous models of a wedding party!
He’s putting finishing editing touches on it now then I will post it here.
I can’t WAIT to show our clients! Cara especially will love this photo of her and her ladies!
Monte Cristo Ballroom in Everett
http://www.montecristoballroom.com/
From there we ventured to the field with tall grass and a white barn in the back. (I think Brandon stood on the picnic table to get this shot.) Of course we had to traverse the bridge. It’s wobbly by nature (I think they’re called suspension bridges), made of wood slats that you can look through down, down, down to the rushing river below. Bentley wasn’t too thrilled about this but wasn’t going to let his parents go without him so he powered through.
When the shoot was over it was all big hugs and shared dreams of their wedding plans and from us it was “Oh my gosh, it’s going to be amazing and we cannot wait for your big day!” which is completely true because they love photography like we do and they are some of the nicest people ever!
Tolt-MacDonald Park Engagement Session
Jeremy and Elyssa flew up to Snoqualmie from Arizona for their wedding. They are world travelers so this was easy for them. After their wedding we took them and their bridal party to the NW Railway Museum for fun/glamorous photos. We took as many photos as quickly as possible then Jeremy grabbed Elyssa and carried her off to their getaway car to catch their plane to their honeymoon!
They’re so adorable and we are grateful they gave us the time to create fabulous photos of them on their big day!
Snoqualmie Falls and Snohomish Railroad
Suzanne’s Bridal Boutique
645 N Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234 · > 1000 mi
(480) 926-9106
Treehouse Bakery
1348 W Roosevelt St. Phoenix, AZ 85007 United States
480-560-5233
Yes, the bride and groom had someone they trusted to their wedding cake all the way up from Arizona! They had it in their lap on the plane ride all the way to Seattle!
Northwest Railway Museum
38625 SE King Street, Snoqualmie, WA 98065
(425) 888-3030
This is one of my favorite photos from this year!
Snohomish Railroad
The Skansonia Ferry is a fabulous place to get married. Stunning view of Seattle, beautiful classic décor, professional staff and more. Contact Hildebrand Photography at www.hildebrandphoto.com [email protected] or 206.790.8995 to book your wedding!
]]>Washington State Convention Center in Seattle
It only happens once a year!
Buy your tickets now.
Hildebrand Photography will be there. Come say hello, check out our beautiful new expo booth then book us for your wedding! Our gift with purchase is a personalized 20 page engagement photos guest sign-in book! Everyone loves our guest books! A $300 value!
Seattle Wedding Show
http://www.weddingshow.com/index.html]]>
]]>Photos coming soon!
In the meantime check out their website so you can ooh and ahh over all that they do!
http://www.itsyourdayevents.com/
]]>Georgetown Ballroom is an amazing place to have your wedding or event. It’s full of color and character with light up signs on the wall, statues and art everywhere. There’s an outdoor courtyard and two large ballroom areas indoors plus two separate getting ready rooms upstairs for bridal parties. There are two bars and a stage. Many brides ask us for ideas on venues that are unique and already decorated. Georgetown Ballroom is both. The staff is very hands-on and professional. We very much appreciate them and have the best time photographing weddings there. We highly recommend Georgetown Ballroom. Dates book up quickly there so go visit them today!
]]>This is one of my favorite photos. I would title this “Glorious rose petals cascading on joyous bride”. Isn’t that how renowned artists title their art? I just had to post it all by itself to give it the attention it deserves.
Isn’t Jasmina beautiful? Her wedding was really fun. See prior posts for more photos of her wedding day full of Greek traditions, white doves and even yellow rubber duckies.
Jasmina’s wedding at Matthews Estate & Winery in Woodinville
Matthews Estate and Winery in Woodinville Wedding
]]>It was a dark and stormy night…ha, ha, well, it was! We all ventured through heavy traffic, over bridges and through parking garages to get to 1927 Events in Seattle but it was well worth the trip. It’s an all brick, classy venue! Perfect for your next event!
The food by Twelve Baskets Catering and Scooters Custom Catering was beautiful & delicious, the music was thumpin to some beats that just couldn’t be resisted by the dancing party goers.
There were fruity mixed drinks that I’d never heard of that were delectable by The Invisible Hostess
Bartenders with alcohol from Bev Mo. Dianne’s Delights cake pops as well as other exotic desserts. I heard the BIG macaroons were melt in your mouth good. We called them Big Mac’s.
The photo booth by Drunken Pixel was, of course, so much fun! With a company name like that how can it not be fun!?
The lighting lent a dramatic feel to the atmosphere.
The decorations full of beautiful stationary, furniture and flowers was incredible! American Party Place, Rented Elegance, Green Light Event Design & For the Love of Press Stationery Thank you!
I can’t wait to see the video! I’m sure Jaimie J. captured some fun times!
Jen’s Blossoms Planning/Design/Floral rocked it all by putting all the pieces together to create this wonderland of beauty for us to all gather and party in. Thank you Jen’s Blossoms for all of your hard work!
Many thanks to the talented vendors who made this event possible!
Jen’s Blossoms
Planning/Design/Floral
1927 Events
Venue
Scooters Custom Catering
Catering
Twelve Baskets Catering
Catering
http://twelvebasketscatering.com/
Dianne’s Delights
Desserts
Bev Mo
Bar
The Invisible Hostess
Bartenders
American Party Place
Rentals
Rented Elegance
Furniture
Green Light Event Design
Lighting
Austin Beaver
DJ
For the Love of Press
Stationery
Drunken Pixel
Photo Booth
Hildebrand Photography
Photographer
Jaimie J. Videography
Videographer
http://www.jaimiejvideo.com/#!video/c22j5
src=”http://www.hildebrandphotoblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/2014-11-11_00041.jpg” class=”pp-insert-all size-full aligncenter” width=”770″ height=”578″ alt=”” />
We have taken many photos in and around the Seattle Marriott Waterfront Hotel for weddings and engagement sessions. It’s an extraordinary hotel with exquisite décor and views of the waterfront that are breath taking.
The Seattle Marriott Waterfront Hotel is walking distance to the Seattle Olympic Sculpture Park, Pier 91 and very near Pikes Place Market.
We highly recommend you have your wedding here and hire us to capture amazing images of your incredible event.
The Blue Ridge Mountain were the stunning backdrop to this breath taking wedding.
Their ceremony was full of touching moments, so many I can’t name them all but here are a few highlights.
For their ceremony, there’s a series of photos here showing the ring blessing/warming portion of the ceremony where family members pass the bride and grooms rings from to each other but not before holding them in their cupped hands and saying a silent blessing. It was truly beautiful.
Sam and Katie are very caring people. They included their grandmas in the ceremony by giving them roses which were met with wide beaming smiles.
Sam’s first dance was with his two grandmas which would melt anyone’s heart.
Their grooms cake is of their alma mater, Virginia Tech where they met and went on countless adventures playing in the band together. Their blood is truly Chicago Maroon and Burnt Orange (yes, those are the real names of the colors).
Katie’s dad dances the soft shoe like a champ, who knew! Everyone was gathered around the dance floor in a huge circle clapping and stomping to the music while he soft shoed around the floor then grabbed Katie (or did she grab him) anyway, they spun and clapped in a dancing, twirling, dress swirling celebration.
The surprise of the evening was after their big exit full of wild streamers, neon lights and cheering guests forming a tunnel leading to a vintage Rolls Royce ready to speed them away.
It was a glorious day full of celebration and love.
Big cheers to the happy couple, Katie and Sam!
Special thanks to all of the vendors involved for making this a flawless day!
Event Designer Wedding Planner
540-583-8121
[email protected]
Florist Kroger Co.
Cake Artist Casey’s Cakes
540-427-5538
[email protected]
Officiant Lynn Haven Baptist Church
540-342-6102
[email protected]
Gown Boutique David’s Bridal
Makeup Artist Salon Solutions
305-753-9396
[email protected]
Hair Stylist: Salon Solutions
305-753-9396
[email protected]
Musician/DJ Big Fun Events
[email protected]
Venue/Caterer: Hidden Valley Country Club
540-389-8146
[email protected]
Look at Chris’s face as they walk down the aisle together as husband and wife. He is the happiest guy in the world! I love it!
They played the Shoe-ley-wed Game. This is where the bride and groom sit back to back. They have one of each others shoes as well as one of their own shoes. The DJ asks questions like, “Which one of you would most likely be caught speeding?” They raise the shoe of the one they think will be caught and everyone bursts out laughing then they change their minds or peek at the other ones answers and start cracking up too. It’s a complete crack up and a great way for everyone to have fun.
The father/daughter dance was different than any I’d ever seen. Her dad pantomimed out the words to the song. It was sweet and touching and I couldn’t stop capturing image after image of him being playful and her beaming with joy.
Not to be outdone, the father/mother dance was fantastic with Chris spinning her all over the dance floor and her hair flying while grinning from ear to ear.
Chris and Mallory’s first dance was very sweet and even had a spin and dip thrown in here and there. First dances are one of my favorite parts of the wedding day. I get all choked up but still manage to be able to see through the lens and keep on clicking.
Three cheers to this fun, adventurous, happy couple, Mallory and Chris!
Thank you to all of the vendors involved for making their day so special.
Caterer
Monte Cristo Ballroom
1507 Wall Street Everett, WA 98201
425-740-5046
[email protected]
http://www.montecristoballroom.com/
Florist
Becky Van Dam
425-750-7930
Cake Artist
Bite Me Cupcakes
2811 Colby Ave Ste B Everett, WA 98201
(425) 903-4724
Officiant
Marissa Deku
Gown Boutique
Moments to Treasure Bridal
10137 Main Street Bothell, WA 98011
425-463-6021
http://www.momentstotreasurebridal.com/
Makeup Artist
Glynne Davis
206-595-8424
[email protected]
Hair Stylist
Glynne Davies
DJ/Musician
Monte Cristo Ballroom
http://www.montecristoballroom.com/
]]>I live near Seattle and it’s Fall so today is grey, completely overcast and dumping rain then stopping then dumping all day long.
I’m bundled up in my ughs and flannel with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea.
I dropped the kids off at school. My dogs are usually pushing at the front door to go with us but not on this rainy day. We tried to synch up our steps, right-left-right-left so we could stay close enough to all fit under the umbrella.
Ok, straight to work. I choose to finish the blog I started yesterday. I hate leaving projects unfinished but it was getting too late last night to finish.
I love seeing all the pretty photos again and reliving the wedding day while creating blogs. With all of my favorite photos chosen (a few from each part of the day) I’m now ready to make the perfect collage to display them perfectly. I edit a few to black and white and a few crops then start collaging. The software is really great but the process is challenging. There’s so much to consider. Verticals must be in sets of 2. The topics of the pair must be the same and the lighting should match and of course, they must both be good photos.
You must think about the order of the day and how it actually unfolded because if you create these groupings out of order you’ll pay for it when you upload them to your blog and they land in a disorganized mess.
So, collaged, saved, uploaded to blog, words added, titles, keywords, props to vendors who were part of the wedding and preview then publish.
Blog done. Some mistakes in the final product. Must move on. Final product overall is beautiful and that’s what counts the most.
Lunch time. Left over stir-fry veggies and couscous with tea.
Consider watching t.v. for the rest of the day. Consider watching maybe just one show. Decide that’s a good idea. Wander back to desk to check on things, forget about t.v. and start working again.
Answer questions from Brandon about schedules.
Return emails to clients regarding scheduling. Scheduling takes up many small parts of each day. It’s a lot like juggling.
Submit photos taken yesterday to editing company, Evolve Edits. Yesterday I judged photos for a school contest, took real estate photos for a house going up for sale soon, drove to Issaquah to take photos of a charity event called Just As I Am- Supporting Down Syndrome Awareness.
It’s a girls high school soccer game where they sell all sorts of things like cupcakes, blankets & raffle tickets for gift baskets to collect money for Down Syndrome. During half time they recognize the star guests with Down Syndrome by having them run through a tunnel created by all of the players of both teams then stand on a stage box and have the announcer read nice things about them that their family members wrote. It’s quite touching. They turn out a nice crowd for this event. This is their 3rd year in a row now. My friend Melissa Wyman is the creator and director and I couldn’t be prouder of her for all the hard work she puts in. I will wear my t-shirt from her event proudly!
Check on our Wedding Wire account to make sure our photos are all high resolution and updated to the ones we took this year that might be better suited for marketing than others already posted.
Create album layout. Send to client.
Email print packages and pricing to client.
Check on PUG Group FB site. Post a comment to keep people interacting.
Reply to blog comments.
Reply to new client inquiry.
Brandon asks, “you’re getting the kids from school, right?”
me: no way is school out already.
Oi, today went quickly. Kids retrieved. Noise level in house escalated. Little more work done checking to see when next expo is, who is assisting us for it, what wedding albums should I create and order for it and which prints do we print. I should email some vendors and edit some album layouts but it’s been 8 hours so that’s it for today.
So, if you are considering becoming a photographer this is what it is like. Yes, playing with pretty photos is fun but that’s only a small part of what we do. All of the day-to-day desk work is a very high percentage of what we do. The trick is to do less of this and more shooting, of course. Create more of what you love.
Here are the vendors I used today:
ShootQ
Pictage
Album Exposure
Wordpress
Evolve Edits
Wedding Wire
Photoshop
Blogstomp
Facebook
Outlook
Apple (phone)
Samsung (fridge) 
Missy, the bride, was timeless and elegant in her lace dress, with a sparkly brooch belt and classy up-do, gorgeous.
Michael rocked the tux. He looked so handsome.
Yes, Nico, the tortoise was one of the ring bearers sporting a hand-knitted tux, cruising in his big red wagon chauffeured by another handsome ring bearer (whose name I won’t say here) but isn’t he just the cutest little boy?! And be sure to see the photo of the little flower girl with glasses in her mama’s arms at the reception. All of the kids at this wedding were amazingly well behaved, adorable and so sweet.
The photos where there’s a palm tree in a pot is the tree planning ceremony. It was very unique. They each poured their jar of dirt into the pot then watered it with the little personalized watering can, so sweet.
Full of elation they danced down the aisle! Michael holding Missy and spinning her in circles was something they did out of pure joy. We did not ask them to do this although, yes, it created amazing photos.
They had a bit of an M&M theme going on yes, because who doesn’t love M&M candies but the first initials of their names is the other reason. Just another sign that they are meant to be together.
Each table was assigned a song. When the DJ played their song they were dismissed to go through the buffet. Clever idea, yes?
Tree themed, M&M themed, football jersey signing, a warm evening with cigars, good friends and a happy couple. What a perfect wedding.
We had the best time, as did all of the guests, at this wedding. Missy and Michael are very playful, animated, and light hearted. They are a perfect match and we wish them all the best!
Xoxo you two!
Thank you to all of the vendors who made this wedding seamless!
Event Coordinator Trinity Tree Farm
253-310-5709
[email protected]
Caterer Pyramid Catering
[email protected]
Florist Sublime Stems
425-444-8481
[email protected]
Cake Artist Happy Cakes and Events
425-737-6167
[email protected]
Gown Boutique Cynderellies Closet
425-771-0653
Makeup & Hair Artist Gene Juarez
Bellevue
www.genejuarez.com
Musician/DJ Injoy Entertainment
760-473-9800
[email protected]
Venue Trinity Tree Farm
253-310-5709 (W)
[email protected]
Mens Warehouse Bellevue
www.tuxedo.menswearhouse.com/
(888) 466-9889
Internship- Currently hiring (unpaid) for 2014-2015
Hildebrand Photography is looking for one or two awesome people to work with us in our wedding photography business! You will be working with us about 3-5 hours a week, either in Redmond or sometimes remotely. The internship is unpaid, but you will gain experience and training in return!
IDEALLY, YOU…
•Can commit to working 3-5 hours/week for the next six months.
•Are an aspiring photographer with serious interest in working as a photographer either part-time or full-time.
•Have some understanding of dSLR photography. We can provide you with a Nikon dSLR during work hours.
•Have not photographed more than two weddings as the primary photographer.
•Are computer-savvy and fluent with social media (twitter, facebook, blogging).
•Are reliable and professional. You are on time and never cancel on your commitments.
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
•Meeting with us once a week in Redmond.
•Image Editing: learning how to cull down to the best work, learning some lightroom/photoshop skills, and learning to manage a workflow that works!
•Marketing & Advertising: assisting with marketing campaigns, creating and submissions for publication, and leveraging social media in the best way.
•Assisting at shoots when available– mainly assisting with lighting and gear. This is NOT a second shooter position, but you may be allowed to take photos for personal portfolio use when there is time.
•Special Projects: You’ll get to see what it takes to create styled shoots and other photography events.
WHAT YOU WILL GAIN:
•One-on-one workshops and consultations with us– we can cover anything from camera technique to business development
•Constant feedback on your images, website and portfolio
•Unlimited access to our training materials library
•Behind-the-scenes view of my business– emails, client contacts, shooting, post-processing, and more
•Possible access to our overflow photography inquiries
•The adventure of learning this rewarding industry!
TO APPLY
•Please email either of us at [email protected] or [email protected]
•Tell us your story, your photography/relevant experience, and why you want this internship.
We will conduct interviews with applicants in the next couple weeks and may have a trial run period before any confirmations are made. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. This is an incredible opportunity. The things we teach you will take you leaps and bounds ahead of your competition as you begin your photography career.
We look forward to meeting you.
]]>Best wishes Chelsea and George! May all of your dreams come true.
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Mary and her bridesmaids
]]>Mary and Joe have the nicest, most thoughtful families and friends. Gifts, warm sentiments and hugs were exchanged in abundance. Mary and Joe are the sweetest couple who are lucky enough to have the cutest little boy and a lifetime of happiness to share with each other.
We are blessed to have been a part of their special moments and to capture images to last through the generations.
Event Coordinator Pink Orchid Events
425.998.8039
[email protected]
Caterer Pan Pacific Hotel Seattle
206-654-5012
[email protected]
Florist Love Blooms
[email protected]
Cake Artist Mikes Amazing Cakes
425-869-2992
Gown Boutique David’s Bridal
Venue Pan Pacific Hotel Seattle
206-654-5012
[email protected]
Videographer Design 4 Life
[email protected]
Webb Family Photos
This family was the greatest. They’re all so sweet and so beautiful! We started in-studio. The little guy loved the rocking chair. Lily and Kyle had a great time. Check out the photo of them cracking up!
The photos at the park are priceless. The oldest daughter is stunning in her white dress. I gave their youngest daughter a piggy back ride, she’s so sweet! The weather was amazing and the kids had fun playing in the water.
The family photo of the little guy’s back cracks me up.
Fun times, great weather and fabulous photos. What could be better?
We are loving our new 9-up layouts. Look at these little cuties. It’s such a fun way to capture many expressions and display them all together. Matted and framed this is perfect as a 18×20 display for your wall. Cute kids, fun times.
]]>Location:
Bellevue Hilton 300 112th Ave SE Bellevue, WA 98004 425-455-1300
Phone: 425-455-1300
Hours Saturday; 10:00 am to 4 pm Sunday; 11:00 am to 4 pm
Fashion Show Times Fashions Displayed Daily
Tickets: $15.00 – Here is your link to get the 3 for 2 discount tickets http://bridesclub.com/Bellevue-Wedding-Expo.php
MEET THE EXPERTS
Interview multiple vendors in one afternoon!
GET INSPIRATION
At the Wedding Expo you’ll be able to interview multiple wedding photographers, bridal salons, florists, caterers, wedding and reception sites, DJs, bakeries, and more — all in one fabulous afternoon. The show gives you the ability to compare prices, style and personalities right there on the spot. Ask questions and look for that special connection with your favorite company and then don’t hesitate to book them because their calendars usually fill up fast!
Get a closer look at what the vendors can do for you! Stroll through the wedding photography booths to get an idea of who will capture your style and character best. Choose a photographer you feel you connect with and who’s art you like the best.
SHOULD I BRING SOMEONE WITH ME TO THE EXPO?
Yes! Your fiancé, family members, wedding party, and friends can be a great asset to you as you plan your wedding. They can collect information, provide valuable input, give you support, and assist in decision making. Over 50% of our brides bring several guests with them. Even if you can’t attend, please send anyone you wish to collect information for you, the show is completely open to the public.
The smartest thing you can do at an expo is book wedding vendors on the spot to take advantage of special discounts that may be expo only. The next smartest thing is to book as many one-on-one consultations after the show as you can. Sometimes, if you show the vendor you are genuinely interested in them by booking a consultation, they will extend their expo special until you meet again. It’s a neat trick to allow you time to consider your options and still get a deal.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE EXPO
Pre-Printed Address Labels/Business Cards are a definite time saver : Many of the vendors will ask you for contact information to enter you in drawings to win extras for your wedding day. Filling out your name and phone number over and over can get tiring. Be sure to register with everyone so that you will be eligible to win the great prizes they give away. This also assists the vendor in following up with you.
CHECKBOOK : Some vendors offer special show discounts if you book them the day of the show. Keep in mind certain vendors can only handle one wedding per day and their date books fill quickly. For that must-have vendor, be ready to reserve your date!
CALENDAR : You will want to bring a calendar with you so you can make appointments with the businesses that you have an interest in. Remember that the show is a bit overwhelming so as we said before you will want to schedule as many one-on-one consultations after the show as you can… One decision at a time and your calendar will help you keep all of your appointments in order.
HOW MUCH LITERATURE WILL I RECEIVE AT THE EXPO
You will acquire a lot of information from the show which is really wonderful. With so many vendors, expect a lot of material to be offered to you. Take what you want and what you feel you will need to make an informed decision about that company.
Ask for price lists as well. You may also want to use a two bag system giving you the ability to sort the information you want into two bags of interest. Keep both so you will have access to everyone’s material for comparison.
SEE YOU AT THE SHOW!!!
So shine up that new ring, and REGISTER to attend the Bellevue Wedding Expo today. Here is your link to get the 3 for 2 discount pass http://bridesclub.com/Bellevue-Wedding-Expo.php It’s the smartest decision you’ll ever make. (next to saying, “YES”)
Hildebrand Photography
Nicole and Sean’s wedding was so incredible. I have never posted so many photos in a wedding blog post. I just couldn’t help myself!
Special Thanks to all of the vendors:
Watertown Hotel
Watertown Hotel
855-580-8614
Caterer Lake Union Cafe
206.568.1258
[email protected]
Florist Lake Union Cafe
206.568.1258
[email protected]
Cake Artist Lake Union Cafe
206-568-1258
Officiant David Reed
360.876.5086
[email protected]
Gown Boutique I Do Bridal
206-633-7926
Makeup Artist Lucy’s Beauty Bar
206.618.8972
[email protected]
Hair Stylist Lucy’s Beauty Bar
206.618.8972
[email protected]
Musician/DJ Kris McCoskery
[email protected]
Venue Lake Union Cafe
206.568.1258
[email protected]
Videographer Hildebrand Photography
www.hildebrandphoto.com
Here’s a little teaser of 2 images from Mary and Joe’s Pan Pacific Seattle wedding. More amazing photos from their special day to come!
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I’m so happy that you two found each other. You’re two peas in a pod and we are thrilled for your upcoming wedding. The hard part will be waiting for the big day to come…anticipation!
]]>Enjoy.
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These two ladies take my breath away. They’re so completely beautiful inside and out. They’re close friends. Hanah is moving away to go to law school and Zayba is staying here to pursue her medical degree. Zayba called us for a “going away photo shoot gift for her friend”. What a super fun way to spend the day with a friend and have beautiful photos to show for it!
We decided to go to Golden Gardens based on some photos the girls were inspired by. Yes, it was amazing weather but with little breeze and out in the blazing sun I’m pretty sure it was 200 degrees that day! There were people everywhere. Between Brandon and I one of us would lay down in the sand with the camera to get the best angle of the landscape while the other would lead the model around with a big Profoto light.
In the end it was all totally worth it! We all had a great time and the photos turned out amazing, thanks to these stunning beauties!
Nobody’s going to believe me when I say this is Seattle. I should do a photo shoot in the wintertime so you can see the difference. It’ll be so dramatic with the wind, clouds and greys. Ooh, who wants to model for me?!
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Yes, it’s a bit awkward posting photos of myself but here goes. 
My professional photographer friend, Frances Gaul, took this photo of me. She does such nice work! There are more of Brandon and I together from yesterday but those will be posted as soon as they are ready. (I know, you are on pins and needles with anticipation now, right? 
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw this book at the library! Worth Every Penny, Build a business that thrills your customers and Still Charge what you’re worth by Sarah Petty & Erin Verbeck. I wanted to read this even before I knew that it was a New York Times Best Seller.
Sarah Petty is amazing. She’s intelligent, vibrant, driven and patient. I don’t know her well enough to call her patient but I know she is otherwise she’d never be able to get all of those amazing photos of happy kids. If you’re not familiar with her work check her out at www.sarahpetty.com If you are like me you will be inspired to quit everything else and become a rockin children’s photographer. Then you’ll do one shoot and realize how hard it is to get little ones to hold still and you’ll be even more impressed with her artwork than ever before!
I can’t wait to read Worth Every Penny. I’ll give a full review here on my blog. I know I’ll love it. I know I’m going to try to renew it and the library won’t let me because other people have it on hold anxiously awaiting it and that’s when I’ll be ordering a copy for myself.
]]>I saw Seattle in a whole new light tonight. The warm air brought people of all types out as brandon and I strolled through the city like it was our own neighborhood. Everyone is so polite I often have to remind myself to stay alert, that yes, this is still a city full of strangers.
Ending our photo shoot was difficult. Everything was full of texture, dimension and colors to suit our clients perfectly. I had to practically blindfold Brandon to make him stop.
And now it’s me who can’t stop. Even though I’m lying here in the dark I’m still seeing crumbling brick walls, silhouettes of trees against the royal blue night sky and twinkly lights strung across pub patios inspiring me to capture it all. If only a blindfold would work for me now.]]>
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]]>How they met:
Throughout the 2000s, Colette and Ravi’s paths crossed several times without them ever actually meeting.
To begin with, Colette very-nearly attended Boston College…which is where Ravi studied. They would have been in the same graduating class.
In 2001, while Ravi was in college, he learned about a study abroad program in El Salvador. He was so excited to participate in it that he convinced his roommate Eric to go…but Ravi himself did not end up studying abroad. Guess who ended up living in the same house while studying abroad together in San Salvador? Eric and Colette! (This study abroad program changed the very trajectory of Colette’s life. After her life-changing experience in El Salvador, Colette moved to San Salvador and lived in Central America for 6 years! But pupusas aren’t the only “almost” in this story of destiny…)
Throughout college, both Ravi and Colette participated in a yearly non-violent protest at the gates of the School of the Americas in Columbus, Georgia…likely to have crossed each other on that same street numerous times throughout the years.
Later on in college (in the fall of 2004), Colette was visiting friends in Boston and by random chance attended a Halloween party in Ravi’s own dorm room. If it wasn’t for the Ronald Reagan mask he was wearing, she’d probably have fallen for him then and there.
Then in 2009, they finally had the occasion to meet [virtually] through their shared-roommate, Eric, when he was visiting Colette in El Salvador.
Finally, in the fall of 2011, their paths did cross in person. Colette had just moved home from Central America and was looking for friends (in all the wrong places) and remembered that Ravi was a relatively recent transplant to the beautiful Pacific Northwest. They met, laughed a lot, became close, and the rest is history.
(Oh…and it’s safe to say that neither of them would be the people they are today if not for their long-lasting love of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson [may he rest in peace].)
We met the first year of college in math class. I always dredded math and did not want to go but obviously I had to. We sat one seat away from each other and for the first couple of days of class, we, unknowingly to each other, would purposely meet up in the parking lot after class at the exact same time, hold the door for each other, etc. Then Whitney started getting help in math from this guy I wan to high school with. So, I contacted him one day and started to ask about her and he flipped out and told her I was interested. The next day after class, we met in the parking lot and they invited me to lunch and the rest is history and we have been together for over five and a half years. We knew from about the first month of dating that we wanted to be together forever and we exchanged rings, the ones we stil have today. It wasn’t until about two years ago right before we left Florida to move to Seattle that we were having a “going away” party with all of our closest friends when she proposed to me. The whole time it was never a going away party but a proposal party and I wouldn’t have had it any other way than to celebrate with our friends. So, once we got to Seattle, marriage became legal and that is when we decided to get married since we finally could and here we are today. 
This photo session was not actually an engagement session. It was a few hours before their wedding ceremony on their wedding day! They had two outfits for the day. One for this part which was a Bonnie and Clyde themed shoot. We were lucky enough to get our hands on some pre-prohibition metal beer signs and a newspaper set in the prohibition era! Thank you Sherlynn and Batch 19 for hooking us up! Batch 19 is served at local pubs and sports bars. It’s getting so popular they can’t keep it in stock! Go check it out.
Anyway, Shadoe and Whitney played their “tough outlaw” roles Perfectly! They are both so beautiful and their photos came out so super cool. I’m glad they came up with this idea and followed through with it. I love their creativity!
ps. small part foul on Whitney’s red watch but Bonnie and Clyde were very fashionable so we think they’ll be ok with it. Let’s call it fashion forward…very far forward! 
We shot this whole shoot in 20 minutes before we were chased off of the property (sorta but that’s another story ;).
Seattle Aquarium, Market Cynthia and Matt Engagement Session
How they met:
Matthew and I met in high school of freshman year where we had all of the same classes together. After getting to know each other and becoming good friends, we started dating sometime in December of sophomore year. We both went to college in Seattle but at different universities and It wasn’t till the end of college that we started to seriously think about our future together.
Matthew had proposed to me on December 29, 2012 at Disneyland. We had planned an out-of-the-blue trip to Disneyland (with a good amount of encouragement by him) for winter break. On the last day of our trip, we went to watch the Christmas fireworks near the Walt Disney and Mickey statue on Main Street. Right after the show, he proposed to me. It was a shock and he caught me completely off guard! I couldn’t say anything but “yes”!
]]>Jen and Chris Wedding Highlight Video from brandon hildebrand on Vimeo.
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How they met:
Well, we met in 2008 in our senior year of high school, in our honors english class. We have been together ever since and have been wanting to get married for the last several years. We got engaged in 2012 on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle overlooking the city, after an amazing sushi dinner of course! We are very adventuresome and purpose driven people who want to see the world and change many people’s lives for the better along the way. Elyssa has a love of the medical and fitness field and Jeremy studies leadership development and is a snowboarding fanatic. We have big goals and dreams for the future and can’t wait to get married and move on towards them!
]]>We are rolling out the red carpet for our Seniors. We have so many great things to offer we just can’t stand it. It’s all so exciting! Our calendar is filling up quickly. Now is the time to do it before school starts. Yearbook deadlines are in the fall so book us for your photos while the weather is still great. Combine an outdoor shoot with an indoor studio shoot to get that stylish, magazine look!
Call us to book your high school senior photo session now!
Elyssa Jeremy video from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
City, gum wall, old buildings, fruit stands, wide open fields, climbing trees, a small grove of trees and 2 very happy people, well actually, 4 if you count us :).
We started at Seattle Pikes Place Market and ended up at Discovery Park for their engagement photos. They combated mosquitos, monk fish, steep cliffs that went on forever and all the while laughed, hugged and walked hand in hand. Elyssa and Jeremy are so great together, so happy, that nothing could come between them, not even crazy nature.
We had great weather, great company and amazing photos of fun memories to show for it…a day well spent.
]]>Mine are as follows:
In times of perseverance “Keep Moving Forward”
In times of fear “I’m ok, I’m ok” (said MANY times during delivery)
In times of needing strength: I sing the Indiana Jones movie theme song in my head. (I sing it to my kids when we fly…ok, it’s my husband who needs it but I swear it helps. My theory is that if Indy could do all of those brave things with snakes, whips, bad guys and bar room brawls then I, armed with only my camera gear and wits, could be brave too!)
What are your mantras or theme songs that keep you “…moving forward” in life and through this lifestyle we have all chosen as adventurous photographers?
While looking for a flying photo I found these and posted them here just for fun. Enjoy!
Seattle Aquarium Cynthia and Matt Engagement Session from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
Cynthia and Matt are the greatest couple. We had a fabulous time being inspired by all the glorious architecture & sites Seattle has to offer during their photo shoot. We are proud to offer many great photos of them capturing their happiness and fun-loving personalities. Congratulations on your engagement!
]]>The first meeting we hosted was last night and it was amazing! Nobody shot the same type of photography, most had never met before. We had all different ages and personalities but everyone was cracking up, comparing experiences and learning from each other. It couldn’t have gone better. I’m so happy!
This is for 2 free months of ShootQ, and can also be used for 2 free months of Pictage too for anyone who has never used either service before. The code for our group is seattlepug2014.
Things we discussed/learned:
Everyone is a Canon shooter except us. (We are ok with that. 
Dario of Infini Boudoir has a photography closet full of so many great photography things that he got tangled up, fell and broke his arm while trying to escape his gear closet. His arm is still in a sling. We decided that A. he needs a better story for his injury, something with more drama like a wild lion chase and B. We must see all the treasures that live in that closet!!
We had an even split of natural light photographers and studio/off-camera lighting photographers.
Flutter Studios is an inspiring space with cathedral ceilings, real brick wall, a big white wall (excellent as a reflective surface), dressing room, fridge, lounge room, bathrooms. David, the owner, is very kind to allow us to use his studio last night. He was very easy to work with. He has lighting gear to rent too. I would recommend you rent Flutter Studios for your next shoot!
We talked about How to Get More Clients. A good topic for experienced as well as new photographers.
My list of ideas was lengthy at 12 ideas enhanced by more great ideas from everyone at the meeting. Here’s a small excerpt from my notes:
3. Show what you want to shoot
a. youtube slideshows, website, blog, fb, Pinterest etc.
4. WOW your clients-
a. get published
b. win contests
5. – under promise, over deliver: mail notes and/or gifts to clients before and after the shoot.
6. FB- teaser photos the day after each event, run a contest on number of comments on their wedding photo on their page,
7. Have a booth in an expo or an open air market.
We have learned in our business that even if the main goal doesn’t pay off so well there are other opportunities that can come of the exposure/experience you gained from doing something new. So, even if it seems like an unlikely money maker go for it anyway and see where the path leads. Getting yourself out there is hugely important.
We had a request for pricing to be the topic for our next meeting so that’s what it will be. Our August meeting topic will be pricing. We’d like to do a hands-on shooting event since it’s summer. I’ll keep you posted as to when/ where & what is happening for the next PUG meeting.
Stay tuned!
Dawn
P.S. Next time I will get a group photo and your [handsome, sweet, pretty] (whichever adjective applies to you) face will be in the photo with all of us too but you have to bring your face to the meeting in order for it to be in our group photo! 
]]>Flutter Studios has graciously opened their space to us for our next meeting. Come check out this amazing space and be inspired to rent their space for your next shoot!
The meetings are free with complimentary beverages, socializing with other professional photographers and education…even free parking! What could be better?! Join us, bring friends and please RSVP.
]]>Just mention that you saw this on our blog and you will get High School Senior Announcements available with every senior photo session!
I just love the colors here, so fun and vibrant! Wouldn’t this be great to send out to all of your family and friends announcing your senior’s graduation? Remember most kids get their “Senior” photos done during the summer BEFORE their senior year! Book your photo session now.
]]>Here’s a good rule of thumb: If you can do it months in advance while, say, you’re watching TV at home, go for it — save-the-dates, invitations, welcome bags, favors. But if it’s time-sensitive or just too big of an undertaking, don’t risk it. The final days before your wedding will be very hectic: last-minute errands, family in town, seating charts to finalize, ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, packing for the honeymoon, and more. There won’t be any down time to arrange flowers or bake the rest of the wedding desserts.
So, to help you figure out how to use your time effectively, here are the five things that are really best left to the wedding professionals.
1. Flowers
Maybe you saw some “simple” mason jar centerpieces on Pinterest and thought to yourself, “Hey, I can do that myself!” But doing your own wedding flowers is a lot more complicated than it seems. Since blooms are perishable, you’ll need to time the flower delivery so that they arrive shortly before the wedding, leaving you only a day — sometimes even hours — to arrange everything. That’s precious time better spent getting your nails done with your bridesmaids and relaxing with your family. Also, any good florist can deliver beautiful arrangements at a reasonable price; or, you can enlist a few crafty friends to take on the project so that you don’t have to.
2. Your Hair
If your wedding-hair vision involves the words “Old Hollywood,” “blowout,” or “side chignon,” hire a stylist. A professional can do your hair twice as well as you could (even if you practiced and practiced) and in half the time. Keep costs down by having your ‘do done at the salon the morning of the wedding (instead of having the hairstylist come to you) or booking with a junior stylist.
3. Planning/Coordinating
Sure, you’re super organized, you know exactly what you want, and you have a ton of friends and relatives who’ve promised to help. But having a professional run the wedding day can mean the difference between an event that feels polished and inviting, and an event that feels disorganized and chaotic. And whether you choose a full-on wedding planner or a day-of coordinator, their main goals will be to make sure you and your groom are relaxed, stress-free, and fully enjoying yourselves — and that the wedding looks as good in real life as it did in your head.
4. Photography
These days, everyone knows someone with a quality digital camera and a good eye (and a killer Instagram feed). Before you agree to let your groom’s cousin or your coworker’s husband take your wedding photos, you should know that there are many advantages to hiring a professional wedding photographer. A pro understands the flow of the wedding day and will be able to anticipate what’s happening next in order to get in position for the best shots. He or she will also understand where the lighting is best, what time of day is ideal for different kinds of shots, and will think to get different candids that a family friend might not consider. A professional will also know how important it is to get close-up detail shots of all the elements you’ve worked so hard to make. Your wedding photos are the only tangible thing from your wedding day that will treasure for years to come and are worth the investment.
5. Food
Wedding guests love to rave about a good meal and complain about a bad one. So, while asking your mom to make your favorite dishes or baking 50 pies yourself the week of the wedding might seem like a way to personalize the day and save money, the food is really best left to a caterer. A professional will know how to properly estimate the amount of food to buy and how to prepare a meal on a large scale, when to serve different courses, how to combine you and your groom’s tastes into a cohesive menu, and how to accommodate guests with dietary needs or restrictions. If you’re looking to save money, consider skipping the traditional three-course meal and opt for a cocktail party-style reception instead, where tasty drinks and hors d’oeuvres are flowing the entire time. Professional caterers will also have lots of ideas on ways to save on your food budget.
Article by Heather Lee from Brides.com http://www.brides.com/blogs/aisle-say/2014/05/things-you-shouldnt-diy-for-your-wedding.html
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It was a lovely, bright and sunny day on the MV Skansonia Ferry in Seattle. There was a live band playing and wonderful catering as the guests over looked the Puget Sound with a beautiful view of the Seattle skyline.
]]>Here they are:
We’ve been professional wedding photographers for 7 years.
We are award winning have shot weddings all over the US, Canada and Argentina.
We’ve been taught by the best wedding photographers in the world.
We go to Vegas annually for training classes to continually update our skills.
We are a PPA, WPPI members and have been recognized as Certified Nikon professionals by Nikon.
Recent awarded people’s choice award by Wedding Wire.
We are certified educators with a 5-star rating by Fisheye Connect.
We teach Lightroom, Photoshop, Photography 101 and Off-Camera lighting classes.
This was taken at Willows Lodge in Woodinville. Here’s one of our most recent favorite photos. With the magic of Photoshop Brandon created this beautiful piece of art showing the bride walking past her groom and him admiring her beauty. This image is going to be printed on metal as a mural of smaller metal pieces held together by jump rings. I cannot wait to see it printed! It’s going to be amazing. This is our way of taking our photos to the next level. Come to our classes and we will teach you how to take your photos to the next level!
Be sure to check out our photography classes at http://fisheyeconnect.com/instructor/3048/brandon-hildebrand/profile.aspx ]]>
After much anticipation we are happy to announce our new class schedule!We’ve had nothing but great success in our classes. Lots of light bulb moments and “thank you for making this all make sense now” comments from our students.
We love sharing our passion of photography with you and can’t wait for this next series of classes!
See you there!
April 29th Photography 101 aka Ready, Aim, Shoot!
May 6th Creative Lighting: Create the light you want
May 13th Lightroom
May 20th Photoshop
All classes are from 5:30-8:30
Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center
16600 NE 80th Street Redmond, WA
To register go to: http://www.fisheyeconnect.com/instructor/3048/brandon-hildebrand/profile.aspx
For more information call: 206.790.8995 or email: [email protected]
]]>We were all worried about rain on this day but it ended up to be the perfect day complete with big, fluffy clouds just for fun. Nikki and Sean are adorable together. I especially love the photos of them with the mossy tree…so cool! The Tolt River Farm is really beautiful, the bridge and barn are fabulous but it was the magnificent trees covered in moss were my favorite. You can rent a yurt and camp here too!
Q. What’s your story? How did you meet? How did the proposal go?
A. Sean and I met in middle school. His neighbor was one of my best friends and he was over all the time. We became friends after that throughout high school while we dated other people. I moved away after high school and when I came back we ran into each other and have been inseparable ever since.
The proposal was an interesting one….Right before Christmas Sean had been hinting about the possibility of “something sparkly” under the tree (he’s terrible at keeping things a surprise! 
) He couldn’t keep the secret until Christmas, so he proposed on December 13th. After getting down on one knee, I began crying tears of joy so hard that he thought I was upset with his ring choice!
After he stood up and we hugged, we realized his 100 lb black lab had just had an “accident” literally right next to us…. in the living room. We were completely oblivious from all the excitement, and apparently our excitement was too much for his dog to handle.
Needless to say, I spent the next 5 minutes trying to admire my ring, while cleaning up his dog’s mess, crying tears of joy, laughing hysterically, all while Sean was throwing up. 
It was “magical”.
Mary and Joe are the nicest people. We had a great time in the sunshine with all the wonderous cherry blossoms like popped popcorn all around us.
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In this issue of “A Day in the Life of a Seattle Wedding Photographer” this is Pat, Kent and I having fun with the Emerald City Photo Booth. Pat and Kent of A Heavenly Ceremony are one of the best officiants in the Seattle area. Check them out at www.aheavenlyceremony.com They’re both very personable. It’s always fun to see them at these events.
Lake Washington Rowing Club by Prive Events, a classy venue with a fabulous water view off the deck, Open House put on by Prive Events and catered by Seasoned in Seattle Catering.
Vendors in attendance were:
The SweetSide, Emerald City Photo Booth, Foss Productions DJ, Pedersen’s Rentals, Bunny Bear Press, British Motor Coach, Seattle Farm Tables, Theo Chocolate, Metropolitan Market Floral and more!
Dixie of Seattle Met Bride and Groom magazine as well as Bill from Act 3 Catering were there too. Always great to see friends and meet new ones!
Emily and Matt’s wedding was incredible! Their winter theme was perfect all the way from the smallest detail of the evergreen boutineers to the several feet of snow that came just in time for their big day! There was a hot chocolate serving area, smores station over a big rock fireplace outside where you could watch the snow fall, glittery pine cones adorned the tables, scented candles as guest gifts and a big variety of cupcakes to choose from! It was a wonderful event where Emily and Matt really rolled out the red carpet for their guests. Their details perfectly matched the log cabin with cathedral ceilings and two huge stone fireplaces. It was cozy and fun and everyone was smiling from ear to ear from the first “I-do” until the last dance.
We are so blessed to have the greatest clients who feel like more than clients to us. It’s special people like Emily and Matt who really warm out hearts not only with yummy hot chocolate but sweet hospitality.
The vendors were fabulous:
Event Coordinator Mountain Springs Lodge
[email protected]
Caterer Mountain springs lodge
Cake Artist Homefires Bakery
Gown Boutique The Wedding Bell
(253) 759-2513
Musician/DJ Leavenworth DJ
Venue Mountain Springs Lodge
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Videography is something I wish every wedding would have. When I’m photographing a wedding and during the vows people are crying and laughing and I am taken away with the words being exchanged that are so full of emotion I can barely breath. I look around the room searching for a video camera and there isn’t one and I am heartbroken because I know these words will never be spoken in this exact way ever again.
There are certain elements of a typical wedding day that just can’t be captured any other way. Videography with good audio captures your vows. It gets the toasts where your loved ones say funny things about your past, sweet things about your nature and loving things about your future together that will never again be repeated. It captures your first dance as newlyweds as well the dances with the parents.
Hildebrand Productions captures all of these moments as well as any others throughout your day that you want for example, the getting ready, first look, hitting the town after the first look and before the ceremony for photos with your bridal party, walking down the aisle, the dancing in the reception.
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I’ll see you this weekend!
bonus: Our booth is exactly across from the snack bar!
Q. Like every snowflake and every photograph, we know that every couple is different and unique. So we want to treat you as such. When we photograph your wedding day the more we know about the real you as individuals and as a couple will help us capture who you truly are. What’s your story? How did you meet? How did the proposal go?
A. About Katie
Katie grew up in Southwest Virginia. She attended Virginia Tech to study Human Nutrition and Exercise and then studied Physical Therapy at Lynchburg College. She is currently practicing as a Doctor of Physical Therapy in an outpatient clinic in Kent, Washington. She treats a variety of orthopedic injuries and is currently pursuing a certification in manual therapy.
In her free time, Katie enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest with Sam, crafting, and trying new recipes. She is excited to be meeting new people and serving at her local church, Calvary Baptist, in Renton, Washington. She is excited to see where Christ is leading her, in faith, life and community.
About Sam
Sam grew up in Northern Virginia, outside Washington DC. He attended Virginia Tech where he studied Aerospace Engineering. He is currently working for Boeing where he designs the new 737MAX.
In his free time Sam enjoys, hiking with Katie, reading, listening to Jazz, and sketching new aircraft designs. (which he will one day build in the garage if Katie will let him).
How we met
Sam and Katie met in the fall of 2007 while dancing to the Hokie Pokie at Virginia Tech. Sam quotes “I saw this curly-haired girl from afar and had to go say hello.” Sam and Katie were both members of the Marching Virginians where they played in the clarinet section and cheered on the Hokies from the best seats in Lane Stadium.
How we got engaged
When Sam first asked Katie out on a date, they were in Miami, Florida attending the Orange Bowl with Virginia Tech. Sam asked Katie to be his girlfriend on the beach. One year later they celebrated their anniversary in Miami on a return trip to the Orange Bowl. To commemorate their time, they took some jars of sand from the beach (a special idea from Sam’s mom).
On March 2, 2013, Sam insisted that Katie should go on a jog with him in the local park. Sam had the jar of sand hidden in his jacket. In Coulon Park overlooking Lake Washington, Sam got down on one knee with the sand (bringing the beach to Katie) and asked Katie to spend forever with him. She said Yes!
A side note: the top the the jar of sand was stuck and Katie thought at the time her ring was stuck in the sand too. Haha! Good thing Sam had the ring hidden in his other pocket!
Introducing Missy and Michael aka M&M. It’s so cute that their initials is the same a yummy, fun, happy candy. They are the sweetest, most fun-loving couple. They met at the bar he works at and it’s been true love ever since! I’ve never photographed a tortoise before but we are total animal lovers so it just added to the fun of the day to have their sweet pets there. Their dog was a love and the turtle, well, I think he was a tough guy with attitude, he was cool. Their jersey shirts have their wedding date numbers on the backs of them…so clever. Their wedding is at the Trinity Tree Farm which is a newer venue that I cannot wait to see. Their wedding is going to be so beautiful. We can’t wait!]]>
This is our time of year to regroup and be productive behind the scenes and boy have we been! We created a promo video starring us, created Emerald City Bride magazine, have been teaching lighting as well as 101 classes with photoshop classes coming up soon. There’s never a dull moment here at Hildebrand Photography. So, this issue of our magazine is full of advice for brides, bridesmaids, moms and grooms and everyone else involved in the planning process on how to plan their wedding day. We talk about the pros and cons (are there any?) of “The First Look”, two of our favorite venues are featured, why we love engagement sessions and you will too! as well as Destination Weddings…we are happy to fly the friendly skies for you! It’s sure to be a helpful, informative issue full of of all the must know details of wedding fun.
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http://www.themodernjewishwedding.com/washington-state-modern-jewish-wedding-from-hildebrand-photography/
Go check out the full publication here:
Thank you to the vendors involved in making their day so special!
Pickering Barn
Twelve Baskets Catering
2 More reasons why we love what we do…and they are Alicia and Kevin. They are the greatest! Their wedding was full of laughter, dancing, hugging, kids breakdancing, disco lights, tear jerking first dances…everyone was so happy for them and their sweet family. And the icing on the cake was well, the wedding cake! Bright green and adorned with white daisies it was delicious!
Here’s a sweet note from them to us that I wanted to share. We have the greatest job ever!
Hey guys-
Things have finally slowed down for us a bit so i wanted to drop you a line and let you know that we were sooo impressed with the day of wedding slideshow, I think it was my favorite part, and also we have had multiple family/friends giving praise for our photographers. Everyone really liked you both! Thanks for everything, especially that beautiful frame with picture… It is adorning our living room 
-Alicia and Kevin
]]>The weddings that run the smoothest are those with professional/experienced wedding vendors. If anything should go wrong we all work like a smooth running machine and fix it before anyone even knows something was awry. It’s a beautiful thing.
The professionals listed below are hand chosen by us. We respect them.
So, interview them, hire them and be happy that you did…you can thank us later. 
VENUES:
Salish Lodge www.salishlodge.com 425.888.2556
Skansonia Ferry http://www.skansonia.com/ 206.545.9109
Willows Lodge www.willowslodge.com 425.424.3900
Trinity Tree Farm trinitytreefarm.com/ 425.391.8733
The Loft at Russell’s, www.russelllowell.com/ 425.486.4072
De Lille Cellars, www.delillecellars.com 425.489.0544
Bear Creek Golf and Country Club, http://www.bearcreekcc.com/ 425.883.4770
EVENT RENTALS:
Grand Event Rentals www.grandeventrentalswa.com 425.462.7368
HAIR & MAKU-UP SALONS:
Winslow Salon, Helen, www.winslowsalon.com 425.629.3686
Salon Maison www.salonmaison.net 425.223.3278
Kathy Evans Beauty Studio http://kathyevansbeautystudio.com/ 425.822.0600
VIDEOGRAPHERS:
Hildebrand Productions, www.hildebrandphoto.com 206.399.4987
FLORISTS:
Seattle Floral Design, Lana, www.seattlefloraldesign.com 206.414.8446
CATERERS:
Act 3 Catering www.act3catering.com , Bill Riordan, 425.251.9102
Gallucci’s Catering, www.galluccis.com , Adrielle 253.572.6828
LIMOS:
Viva Limousine http://elitelimos.com/main.htm 206.542.5733
FAVORITE DJ:
Event Source NW, Troy, www.eventsourcenw.com/weddings.html 425.896.8118
Sounds Unlimited www.asoundsunlimited.com 206.364.4000
LIVE MUSIC:
O’Shields Studio, Vocalist, Kerstin, [email protected] 206.852.1914
Alex Ho, Cellist, [email protected]
Noteworthy Productions, Jeff and Rhiannon pianists www.noteworthyproductions.com 206.724.2782
OFFICIANT:
Patricia and Kent www.aheavenlyceremony.com 206.789.9788
Rev. Eric Warn, www.ericwarn.com , 253.222.3742
Event Source NW, Troy, www.eventsourcenw.com/weddings.html , 425.896.8118
Seattle Wedding Officiants, Elaine Way www.seattleweddingofficiants.com/ 206.406.7919
COORDINATORS:
Wendy of Simplee Wendy www.simpleewendy.com 253.332.4883
It’s Your Day Event and Expressions www.itsyourdayevents.com 425.908.7092
Love Blooms Event Design, www.lovebloomseventdesign.weebly.com 425.681.2249
New Creations , www.newcreationsweddings.com 206.491.0608
Pink Orchid Events, www.pinkorchidevents.com 425.998.8039
PHOTO BOOTHS:
Hildebrand Productions, www.hildebrandphoto.com 206.399.4987
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http://bridesforacause.com/dress-dash-confirmed-january-18-seattle/
We are proud to be sponsors at the Brides for a Cause Dress Dash event put on by Movin 92.5 radio station!
It’s going to be a crazy, fun event, we can’t wait! Join us tomorrow at the Cedarbrook Hotel in SeaTac 7:00am -11:00am…bright and early. It’ll definitely be worth it to be surrounded by rack loads of beautiful dresses where you’re sure to find your dream dress at a price that will blow your mind! Check out the link for more info.
See you there!
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So, here’s to trying something new. The beginning of more emotions and more black and white. They might be a tad blurry but that shows motion, maybe grainy but texture is nice…reminiscent to film, not completely perfect but definitely emotional and real. These photos are captured as they were happening, real life. What do you think? I can’t get enough and am ready to blog many more!
]]>Enjoy!
]]>p.s. One of these cute little kiddos is ours. Can you guess which one?
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]]>Hildebrand Photography is the parent company to StudioH. Hildebrand Photography is all about the art. It’s high quality, high attention to detail, gorgeous albums and one of a kind art to hang on your wall. It’s Day-of-Slideshows (photos from your wedding day set to music in a slideshow shown to guests at your reception), it’s Red-Carpet Previews (you get to view your photos for the first time on our big screen with champagne and appetizers), it’s us offering you the very best in customer service.
Studio H is elegant and stylish photography designed with the budget conscious in mind. Your wedding day captured with beautiful images of all the moments of your day. Studio H photographers are specialized in capturing the moments and emotions that occur naturally in your wedding day delivered on a DVD and posted on your 90-day web gallery for you.
We are proud to offer all the years of experience we have as wedding photographers capturing the magical moments of your wedding day but without all the fuss. We understand what it’s like to have champagne taste but on a more restrictive budget. We’ve been there ourselves. So, here is what everyone has been asking for…Studio H. Incredible photography captured for you and delivered to you on a DVD to be cherished for generations.
Check it out at:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Studio-H-Photography/237927459709352
*Associate photographers who have shot with Hildebrand Photography for years unless either Brandon or Dawn are available.
]]>When we were contemplating being professional photographers we thought it was the perfect business because we already had cameras and what else did we need, right? Super cheap, right? So, yes this business is cool because you don’t have to buy everything all at once like you might for starting say a retail store or restaurant but it really does get quite pricey to have everything you need to do it right.
Yes, we could delete some of these companies that we hire but that would make our job harder and take more time away from us spending time to bring in new clients. We are very careful with who (whom) we hire. We aren’t frivolous with our money but we do treat our clients right.
So, if your New Years Resolution is to start a professional photography business then here are the things to consider. I’m not trying to overwhelm you one bit but I do want you to go in with your eyes open.
I dearly love this business and want you to be as happy in this industry as I am (no grumps allowed) ;).
Yes, we haven’t had to spend as much on gear this year as we have in the past which is fabulous. My dream for 2014 is a new 200 lens and to upgrade my camera. I’d also like to go on a photography workshop retreat somewhere nice. Maybe I can find one in Florida!
I’m sure this list has gotten your brain waves flowing. Feel free to contact me with any questions.
Happy New Year!
-Dawn
website hosting
blog hosting
expo tacoma, seattle, hollywood
graphi
moocards
album exposure
pictage
shootQ
square up
evolve
office supplies: ink, paper etc.
client/vendor gifts: tissue paper, boxes, ribbons, tissue paper, stationary,chocolates, x-mas
parking
toll bridge fees
coffees, appetizers etc. at initial consultation
expo booth rental
Minuteman Press (expo flyers)
postage, boxes, envelopes
NW Fine Art: prints, DVDs, canvases etc.
gas
batteries
gear: speed light, tripods, batteries etc.
Animoto
Wedding Wire
SEO Fenix Aaron
Creative live downloads (continuing ed)
workshops
Nikon (tune-ups, repairs)
B&H Photography
Adorama
Glazers
Kenmore Camera
Costco 4×6 prints (marketing)
kid sitter
WHCC
Bay Photo
Blogstomp
Fundy
flights/hotel/rental car etc. to hawaii, Tennessee
This new thing will fill a need that has been requested ever since we stopped offering this 6 years ago! It’ll be good to bring it back.
Okay, enough teasing for now. I promise I will tell you all about our big news soon!]]>
Be one of the first 5 to register and receive 50% off of the Photography 101 class! Enter promo code: 2014
We have 3 classes coming up! Check them out here. Register now and make your New Years Resolution to learn more photography come true!
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]]>Live big, celebrate and enjoy all that life has to offer.
This is our gift to you. We are rolling out the red carpet and serving up our very best on a silver platter.
Enjoy!
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*photo found on www.tacomasports.org
Hildebrand Photography will be at the Tacoma Wedding Expo this weekend! We are so excited. This is where you can really take charge on your wedding planning to do list! Such a cool invention.
Bring a sheet of labels that have your name, email and wedding date on them so you don’t have to write it down every time you meet a cool vendor. You will thank me for this helpful tip. 
Come visit our booth. You can see our incredible nappa leather wedding album. You won’t believe how soft the leather is! It’s a gorgeous album! Come check out our metal print that everyone talks about!
See you there!
http://bridesclub.com/
Tacoma Wedding Expo
January 4 – 5, 2014
Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall
Tacoma, WA
Saturday 9:30am to 4pm
Sunday 10:30am to 4pm
Happy New Year and cheers to you. May you be as happy as the people in this photo celebrating on the rooftop of the Hotel Deca in Seattle.
Cheers!
This is the place where wonderous things happen! The albums we love and cherish that we carefully design with you are created in this beautiful, amazing, incredible castle!
Yes, that’s right, a real, honest to goodness castle! Hand-stitched with care and shipped back to us we graciously bestow them to you and your family to cherish for many generations.
Who’s ready to go take a tour? Pack your bags, pack a lunch, we are going on a field trip! Who’s with me?!
So, the castle is WHERE they are made and these photos are HOW they are made. I’m pretty sure there is pixie dust infused into every page.
Thanks to themetapicture.com for the cute album creation Pinterest post for inspiring me to write my blog post!
Mini moo cards are so adorable! They’re a fabulous invention! They’re little mini business cards wrapped in a nice little white box. You can have an array of photos on the front, a different photo on each one then insert text on the back.
I can’t wait to receive the other pieces of my gifts to send this Holiday Season!
This is Kari, she’s a very talented, super nice and professional Make-up artist. Hope went straight outside into the blustery storm at Salish Lodge right after her make-up was applied. Not only did it last the weather but Hope looked incredible all night!
It was a pleasure working with Kari. We met for lunch the other day and she’s so super nice and full of life. You should hire her for your wedding or as photographers you should suggest Kari to your brides. You will not regret it!
Keri Strong
425.891.3795
[email protected]
The grey one is Cowhide with a Crystal Glance insert. We here in the states call it leather but our album company from Italy calls it “cowhide”. It’s gorgeous and comes in more colors than you can imagine! (Now I’m picturing fields full of Italian cows in all sorts of colors.) The dimensions are 12×8.
The ivory album we have on display at Newcastle Golf Club. It’s made with Nappa Leather, the softest leather I have ever felt. It’s ah-mazing! The ivory album is 13×10.
The black and white album is our Crystal Glance style. The spine and back are leatherette.
The tiny albums in a stack with cute little white bows are called Mignons…they’re mini albums! Everyone LOVES mini albums! They’re page for page the exact same as the big album they are duplicated from. They’re fun to carry in your purse and share with friends or mail to family or give to wedding attendants.
Did you notice our personalized Hildebrand Photography ribbon? That’s another thing I love.
This is Rani and Simon. Rani is so sweet. She called me to ask for photos of her and her husband at Willows Lodge in Woodinville for his birthday. They have many photos of their beautiful children and decided it’s now their turn. I think it’s a wonderful idea. One that every couple should do every so often to remind themselves of how great they are together.
I had a wonderful time and I think they did too. They’re a beautiful couple who are so obviously still very much in love.
]]>This time it’s different though because we are being recognized by fellow professional photographers in the wildly popular Shutter Magazine!
We are pleased to announce that our “Twilight in San Francisco” engagement session at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre has been accepted into the “Inspirations” article. It’s truly an honor to not only be published but to have a full page spread!
Three Cheers for Hildebrand Photography and our beautiful engaged couple, Emily and Matt!
Prints in one box and an album in another. The BIG prints (not shown here) are in my car ready to go to their new home. I can’t wait to get these to Lenore and Tyler. Just in time for Thanksgiving!
The album is for Sanni and Daniel. We tracked her down at the grocery store deliver hers to her. I actually rounded the corner and almost ran straight into her grocery cart full of Thanksgiving food and her sweet little kiddos in tow. It was a fun surprise with a big hello and big hugs! She had a lot going on so I handed off her album and said goodbye. Here’s what she wrote to me later tonight.
“Thank you guys so much!!!! The album is amazing!!! I cried all over again. You guys rock!”
Yes, the busy season for weddings in the Seattle area has past but that doesn’t mean our work is done. We’ve been very busy making albums and look at the shipment that just arrived from our album making company, Graphi Studios, in Italy! This stack of boxes is the fruits of our labor. 5 packages full of memories, the culmination of 5 weddings which means a year long relationship with the brides and grooms, engagement sessions in Seattle at the arboretum, cheersing over wine, reviewing day-of-schedules, hugging nervous moms and dads, meeting family members, making silly faces at toddlers and soothing crying babies during family photos and trying to memorize names of entire wedding parties, setting up posing and lighting on lakes and in dark churches with beautiful stained glass, taking photos on golf courses with amazing views and in unexpected brand new Ferrari’s with a crowd of people gathered around, 2 photographers, 1 assistant, 4 cameras, 6 speed lights and a lot of batteries, remembering every shot you wanted to get…something old, new, borrowed, blue, first look, dad and bride before the aisle walk, “I-do, first kiss, sunset photo, mom tearing up, dad’s look of pride, grandma and grandpa dancing…and a partridge in a pear tree! 
I love stepping into a “day in the life” of a couple and all the joy that surrounds them and all of their guests on that special day. It’s a whirlwind of emotions, details and moments. Then to be able to create an album that represents all of that amazingness in one book and present to share with their family for generations to come is a feeling of pride and accomplishment that I will always love.
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Erin’s 40th birthday party was the best! The theme was “Break it Out” which meant you could wear anything in your closet that you want. Any crazy 80s band shirt with parachute pants you miss so much, your purple ball gown with big puffy sleeves and sequins that you miss desperately, or your smoking jacket…the sky is the limit! This group loves a good theme and adheres to it completely for every themed event, Erin’s party not excluded.
There were fairies challenging people to games involving potatoes, balloons, noodles and balloons where the winners received the coveted bracelets and the losers adorned beautiful party accessories like paper hats, horns and feather boas.
Erin got to use her skills as a scissor wielding wardrobe consultant to Emily’s purple dress.
The poker table was hot with scheming and plotting.
The photo booth was never a dull moment.
Fun was had by all! Happy 40th Birthday sweet lady!
Special thanks to Vanilla Bean Bakery for the delicious desserts!
]]>I left straight from Willows Lodge full of people, drinks, live music a big roaring fire. Into the cold and dark I drove past farms and wineries in the crisp air to a beautiful house for a 40th birthday party for another wonderful person, Erin. It was a crazy, silly fun group of people all dressed wild and laughing loudly all night long. I set up my photo booth then ran back and forth between action party candids and the booth. I ate homemade chili and vodka with fresh berries floating in it, perfect on a chili night ;). I took family photos, pictures of Erin altering Emily’s purple floor length dress into a mini skirt of sorts, everyone singing Happy Birthday in their best Marilyn Monroe voice with the lights dimmed and my iso cranked to capture the glow of the candle from her cake in her eyes.
I captured artistic photos of pool table balls arranged in her birthday date 11-12-13. Took photos around the table at a heated poker game. Got my photo taken with the beautiful birthday girl with her feather boa, packed it up and said good night.
I felt a bit like The Cat in the Hat. I rolled up my bag of tricks and headed down the road.
Once home I slept like a rock.
Woke up to coffee, pancakes and an itinerary that included swimming with my family, spaghetti dinner out and a trip to the mall to use a gift card at an accessory store full of many shiny, colorful goodies for kids.
I’ll put in an hour of work now then straight to bed at 9pm as I can barely now just keep my eyes open.
Just another day in the life of a Seattle wedding photographer.
Good night. 
Dawn
Yes, I was wearing rubber rain boots. I love my boots! I just came from a really intense play-off soccer game that went into two overtimes then ended in a shoot out (or whatever they call the goal kicks…no violence involved, thank gosh ;). I also look like I’m dancing the Hula. I’m not but if anyone wants to learn I can bring my mom to the next class. Yes, my mom is native to the Seattle area but can hula with the best of them. Aloha Mom!
Special thanks to Monte Villa Farmhouse located in Bothell, WA. Their venue is amazing. It’s beautiful, elegant, charming and the staff was very professional and welcoming. It’s a perfect place to get married or have an event. Many thanks to them for allowing us to have our Off-Camera Lighting Class there.
Monte Villa Farmhouse
www.eventvenuesofwa.com
(888) 759-9887
Thank you to Alyssa Stringer for her gorgeous, happy, natural modeling abilities and to her friend for doing her hair and make-up. Photos of Alyssa from the class coming soon!
Thank you Kendall Lauren Shea Nielsen for booking the venue for us! Check out her beautiful photos at: www.kendalllauren.com
And, of course, thank you to everyone for joining us in our class. We loved sharing, teaching, making new friends with all of you! We look forward to our next class! (Details on that coming soon…maybe it’ll be in our new studio!)
So, we’ve been dreaming about this for about a year now. Until recently it was just small talk. Now we are actually touring spaces for lease and talking numbers with landlords. It turns out that there aren’t a lot of places as small as we would need. Really, we are looking for a nice front room to lease. So, we decided that if we are going bigger anyway (which means more money out in rent) then we might as well get a space large enough to be able to photograph in. Now we’re talking! Now we can hold classes here, rent it out to other photographers, have open house events etc. We can get really creative with our photos and not have to worry about the rain and mud and sleet…oh my gosh, can you imagine it?! Now we are really getting excited!
So, the photos below are a sample of what we have toured. It’s a bit tricky to find the right space. Brandon really has a vision. I’m only seeing strange spaces. I think I’ll choose to let him lead on this one since he’s seeing amazing things. I had a vision when we bought our house and he let me run with it so now it’s his turn.
There is one in the line-up of photos below that we are very close to choosing. I’ll let you try to figure out which one that is.
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Early morning soccer playoff game
Teach a 3 hour off-camera lighting class
Another soccer game if we win first game
Soccer end of season party
Shoot dinner and a show event (really excited about having a gourmet dinner!)
What a day! Time for sleep now.
Good night,
Dawn
This party was fun had by all from start to finish. Bee and Jason and her mom, Kim, and everyone who helped went all out for this party and it showed. Just look at all of the crazy real decorations! The costumes are incredible and Willows Lodge was as impressive as ever! Here are a ton of photos for you to enjoy! Let’s hope they have another anniversary party coming up real soon…so much fun!
![PIS[7].jpg](http://www.hildebrandphotoblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/PIS7.jpg "PIS[7].jpg")
]]>I look forward to meeting Slight of Hand Cellars. I’ve heard great things about them!
The Cabiri Show this Saturday is sure to amaze. Read the information below for details on how to sign up. This will surely be a night to remember!
Cabiri Show & Sleight of Hand Cellars Wine Dinner
With Winemaker Trey Busch
Russell’s Loft
Saturday Nov 9th, 2013 7 pm
The Loft at Russell’s is excited to offer our first show of this kind. What better place to set up a magical theatre show than in our beautiful loft. Cabiri performers enchant their audiences using dance, aerial arts, stilts and among other things… a bit of fairy dust. Enjoy performances throughout dinner as entertainers mingle with the crowd or perform an aerial silk or hoop act.
If the acrobatics weren’t enough, you will also have an opportunity to visit with and learn from Winemaker Trey Busch of Sleight of Hand Cellars.
A night out for the show includes a four course meal with wine pairings and some fun extras for our VIP tables. Tickets are $125 per person or reserve a VIP table in our premier front row for $1200, not including tax and gratuity.
Menu
Tres Fromage
paired with 2010 Enchantress Chardonnay
Roasted Heirloom Tomato Soup with Duck Confit & Crème fraîche
paired with 2010 Archimage
Rack of Lamb with Demi Glace & Balsamic Gastrique
And Yukon Gold Potato Galette
paired with 2010 Illusionist
Chocolate Pecan Pie with Caramel Anglaise & Whipped Cream
paired with 2011 Levitation Syrah
Call 425.486.4072 for reservations
Email [email protected] with questions
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This cute little guy is all boy! He raced his yellow race car and toured it all over the park walls, trees and benches. He “flew” with his arms spread open like an airplane, rolled in the grass and zoomed through the trees. He’s quite entertaining!
This family is the best. We’ve been with them for years now. We get to see them at family weddings that we photograph, friend’s weddings we shoot and the photos of their little boy through all the stages of his life. We are always happy to hear from them. Their little guy is the best. He’s happy, curious, energetic but still very attentive to his parents. The three of them make a great team. Both parents are very creative and loving and it’s completely apparent in the way they raise their son.
It’s a joy to get to see you all so often. We look forward to our next gathering whatever it may be!
]]>Introduction to Creative lighting with Speedlights Photography Workshop
BasicsCameraLighting
Instructor:
Brandon Hildebrand
Seattle Wedding Photographers – Dawn and Brandon from Hildebrand Photography
www.hildebrandphoto.com
Prerequisites:
Basic photography and knowledge of your camera and flash may be helpful to follow along.
Lighting Overview, Flash, Speedlights, wireless communication, introduction to radio triggers
This class will be a hands on Introductory to Creative lighting with Speedlights
We will have a gorgeous model in a wedding dress that you will be able to photograph and you will be able to walk away with these amazing images for your portfolio!
What to bring:
DSLR
Speedlight
Any wireless triggers you may have
LOCATION:
Bothell, WA
The Monte Villa Farmhouse
3300 Monte Villa Parkway
Bothell, WA 98021
DATE & TIME:
Nov 9, 2013 12PM – 3PM
PRICE:
$149.99
One of our wedding couples requested that we take Bonnie and Clyde inspired shoot of them. (Or maybe I shouldn’t use the word “shoot” here). And, of course, we said, YES! How fun will that be?! Such a creative idea. I love it!
So, here are some photos we chose from all the research we did. They lived such an outlandish lifestyle and with a reception from strangers that would never fly nowadays. Quite an interesting human sociology study! One thing I was surprised about is that they were very family oriented and would visit family any time they could. In fact, that’s how they finally were caught.
Her sense of style and their sense of adventure and living life how they want to the fullest regardless of the rules is the charming part of their story that we are all drawn to and something we hope to capture in our photo shoot.
The shoot is scheduled for December 7th so now the hard part is having to wait until then! 
*photo credits: Photograph: Hulton Archive/Getty Images, A&E History Channel
We are home now and bumping into everything trying to navigate in the dark. I have on about 5 layers of clothes and am cozy under a pile of blankets trying to stay warm as the evening continues to get colder and our house heat is reliant on electricity. I’m typing quickly. Must sign off now to save phone battery as our power is still out at home after 9 hours now!
Wherever you are tonight I hope you are warm and safe from any storms.
Good night!
ps. I’m always moving too fast to slow down to get a good iphone photo so not the best quality but still a moment I was happy to capture.
Special thanks to everyone who made Hope and Charles’s wedding day so special!
Caterer Salish Lodge 425.831.6596 [email protected]
Florist Seattle Floral Design 206 414-8446 [email protected]
Cake Artist New Renaissance Cakes 206 920-5322 [email protected]
Officiant Rev Warren David Cooper 206 930-0719
Gown Boutique Belltown Bridal 206 443-2050 [email protected]
Makeup Artist Kari Strong 425 891.3795 [email protected]
Hair Stylist Kari Strong
Musician/DJ David Martinez 206 551.8676 [email protected]
Coordinator Lisa Gill [email protected]
Venue Salish Lodge
Our Glamour Maternity Photos in Seattle with the beautiful Miss Jessica turned out amazing! Let us loose in a photography studio with lots of lights, fur and a beautiful girl and look out! 
These photos are already greatly appreciated by Jessica but will be cherished by her little baby girl forever as her very first photo session with her mama. We are so happy Jessica was so eager to have her photos taken and now she is too.
Jessica’s Seattle Glamour Maternity Session was fabulous. More photos coming soon!
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Hope and Charles had an incredible wedding. The weather was horrifically stormy. The wind blew the rain sideways, the trees were swaying, guests were running from the parking lot to the lodge, truly a sight! Once in Salish Lodge everyone was warm and snug and the weather no longer mattered. Everyone was just so happy to be there. The bride and groom’s joy was contagious. The bright yellow wedding accents cut through the grey outdoors to create a warm glow. Salish’s signature honey collected on site was given to and graciously received by every guest. Although I knew Hope was a very easy going person I still worried about how the photo session in front of the falls would go. Her bright yellow boots to match the yellow umbrellas were perfect!It took forever to get ready for the shot. Hair flying around, coats flapping in the wind, and then umbrella’s flipping inside out! I thought they would fly off the railing and into the falls! Hope was so happy it all just made her laugh. She was cracking up. She set the mood and we all were cracking up and clicking like crazy. We then yelled, “let’s go!” so they could hear us and we all ran back to the cozy Salish Lodge for their big, beautiful wedding.
Special thanks to everyone who made Hope and Charles’s wedding day so special!
Caterer Salish Lodge 425.831.6596 [email protected]
Florist Seattle Floral Design 206 414-8446 [email protected]
Cake Artist New Renaissance Cakes 206 920-5322 [email protected]
Officiant Rev Warren David Cooper 206 930-0719
Gown Boutique Belltown Bridal 206 443-2050 [email protected]
Makeup Artist Kari Strong 425 891.3795 [email protected]
Hair Stylist Kari Strong
Musician/DJ David Martinez 206 551.8676 [email protected]
Coordinator Lisa Gill [email protected]
Venue Salish Lodge
Fall Family Photo Session Seattle
What a beautiful family! The poor little guy had a cold but still hung in there like a champ for us. He’s so super sweet. It was a beautiful, crisp day in Seattle. We can’t wait until next time we get to do photos for this family!
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While in San Francisco we left the park at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge and wound around windy roads on our way to a really beautiful sandy beach that Matt had heard about for more photos. We passed this grove of trees and immediately Brandon and I had a vision. These trees would be a perfect backdrop to a moody, nature photo.
We parked and ran across big fields to get to these trees. I hid behind a tree close to Emily and Matt pointing our speed light at them. (Sometimes I should be wearing tree colored camo.) Brandon stood far away yelling directions…”a little to the left, now walk, look at him, did the flash go off?” We could barely hear him. We were actually cracking up wondering what he was saying. In the end it was worth the detour and all of the “what?!, what’s hollered back and forth.
This photo is cool before editing but after Brandon’s mad skills it’s truly amazing!
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Special thank you to the Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club in Oahu Hawaii for hosting this beautiful event!
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Congratulations Krista and James, we were so happy to have been able to capture such a monumental moment of your history for you and your family.
Krista and James Proposal from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
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Special recognition to Casey from Blue Ribbon Cooking for her amazing décor and catering talents! [email protected]
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animoto 720p from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
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Thank you to the talents of:
Rev Ray Van Winkle
425-742-2001
Blue Ribbon Cooking/The Weyerhaeuser Estate
206-328-2442
Sandy and Josh’s wedding at The Four Seasons Hotel in Seattle was perfect. We ran around the Seattle Pikes Place Market with their wedding party and had a great time dodging tourists and cars, seeing beautiful views and cruising by the gum wall. Here is there slideshow to perfectly tell the story of their big day.
Enjoy!
Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
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This series of photos turned out completely different than I expected but perfect as they are. Nori and Tyler and the greatest. We thought Tyler was shy and reserved but at his wedding we saw the witty, great dancer, multitude of expressive faces and all around outgoing happy guy he really is. He and Nori are perfect together. She’s always happy, sweet and totally goes along with his jokes.
Their wedding was at The Weyerhaeuser Estate in Tacoma overlooking the breathtaking view. The Weyerhaeuser Estate features a breathtaking 16,000 square foot brick mansion built in the turn of the century. It’s very grandiose and regal. I put them on these stairs and told her to walk to him while he has one arm out, palm up, reaching for her. I was picturing a very classic scene to match the grounds. I did get the photos I was looking for but then Tyler had the vision of Michelangelo…or maybe it was E.T. but either way we were all cracking up. Then Nori, never skipping a step, reached out to him with her finger and bam we captured a series of them being them which was perfect.
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Dawn and Brandon Hildebrand at the Mariners Baseball Game
This is how we relax the day after a wedding. This weather this summer in Seattle was incredibly nice. This day was perfect. I read my FB posts and found out a friend was at the game. I tried really hard to get a photo of where we were so she could find us. To get the giant score board behind me as well as us in the photo was no easy task. I practically had to stand on my head to get it. Brandon was like, “seriously, what are you doing? Do you see there’s a game going on here?” It was one of those challenges that once you start you just can’t let it go until you get it right. 
My long lost friend, Wendy Long, found me, yay! It was really great to see her again!
We kicked back, ate junk food, watched the pitchers warm up (amazing athletes!), cheered for our team…you know, the usual.
Thank you Mariners for my perfect summer day with my sweety. Go Team!
Ps. The Mariners stadium event coordinators are encouraging more people to book weddings at the Mariners Stadium! We shot several weddings there this summer and they were a LOT of fun! I highly recommend it. The staff is excellent!
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Everyone loves before and afters. They’re a fascinating learning tool in this quick, intelligent society we live in.
I really like the before photo of Jennifer and Josh at Pickering Barn in Issaquah. Brandon liked it too but kept saying there was something else there…something else to it. I see that now and then in one of our photos but this time it was Brandon’s turn. He was inspired and as soon as he had a spare moment he went to work.
Here’s where it turns into one of those games in the back of People magazine where you try to figure out how many differences there are between photos. How many differences do you see?
This one has been shifted, cropped on the left and stretched a bit there too possibly, external speed light spot deleted, changes made in Photoshop to bring out the details especially in her beautiful flowing gown, vignetting, textures added (probably his own textures from photos we took) to give it that timeless painting feel and probably more but since this is Brandon’s creation we’ll let the rest be his secrets. 
The sweet look in their eyes and the warm hug bringing their wedding day into evening is something we haven’t changed a bit and are blessed to have captured for two of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.
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Hildebrand Photography is proud to announce that we are now offering Wedding Gift Registries.
Photography is very important to our clients. Giving them the gift of photography guarantees they will get something that’s very important to them that will last a lifetime as something very special from you.
Once a purchase is made we will send the happy couple a card noting the amount gifted from you to them. (see above photo)
No need to spend time and money gift wrapping. No more fears of paper cuts or old glue on envelopes like George Castanza on Seinfeld when his fiance fell ill from licking envelopes with bad glue because George insisted on buying old wedding envelopes…poor George.
We are here to help you achieve your dreams of amazing wedding photographs. Offering a gift registry is just another way for us to say, “we are here for you”.
Here’s a sneak peek of Alyssa and Kyle’s wedding album that I’m creating the layout design for. I love reliving a wedding day through the creation of an album. The hardest part for sure is choosing the best photos to tell the story of their day, only enough to fit into the album instead of every photo we took that day.
Here are a few of my favorite pages so far. Once I create the first layout I send them to my client to get their input. They can choose to move the photos around, replace any, change any to black and white, whatever they choose. It’s their album. I may not always agree with their changes but in the end when I deliver their completed album to them and see the look in their eyes it’s all worth it. Delivering albums is one of the best parts of my job. It must be how flower deliver people feel. Giving such a touching gift to someone that’s so personal and brings about so many emotions is really fulfilling.
So, here I am creating a family heirloom with a client for them and their families and I couldn’t be more honored as an artist.
Hildebrand Photography wedding photography
I was obviously surprised that our expo cost so much. I knew we were investing quite a lot here and there but the grand total was amazing…not a huge surprise but still big. It’s such a mad, whirlwind while prepping for several weeks before an expo! It’s physically and mentally exhausting prepping as well as while you are there. As long as you gather your wits about you and rest the day before you can feel exhilirated during an expo. Think about the exact words you will say to get someone’s attention, to continue the conversation and to hopefully close a sale with them. Picture them being happy and impressed and you feeling an overwhelming sense of pride in your work. You’re shaking hands, showing them albums, laughter, money exchanges, big hugs and “It was so good to meet you” followed by “We can’t wait to do your engagement photos!”
You meet hundreds of people, hear all of their stories, plans, dreams, it’s really fantastic once you let the energy of the day sweep you up and as long as you stay focused on what your main goal is and how to attain it. It’s easy to get caught up in a social atmosphere and forget you’re there to work.
I xxx’d out the prices of albums because, although these are “sample” albums from the album companies they are still quite a large investment and not something the album companies would appreciate me sharing.
Of course, once you purchase most of these things they can be used again and again but…you will find that you will want to constantly change and improve and update your booth so that really doesn’t apply often. We have been tempted for a few years now to do a double (size) booth which is a lot of expensive real estate that must be filled with prints. My safety net on this idea is that if we print images that vendors can use and we go back to a single booth then we can gift those prints to those vendors for them to use in their stores or expo booths. I’ll keep you posted on how that goes. 
Hello Lizzi,
Woah! We just now computed our expenses for the expo this weekend. I thought you’d be interested in seeing this. Luckily we had free babysitting and brought sack lunches.
Seattle Wedding Expo booth:
1,300 corner booth
35 taller wall
75 white carpet rental
350 20×30 prints 6
xxx finao album
xxx graphi album
100 furniture rental
30 parking
250 Minuteman printers
$100 price sheets
50 Michaels crafts flowers
30 Table cloth
100 dawns outfit
miscellaneous: business cards, notebooks, pens…
(520 bridge toll not included as this was in 2011 before the tolls started)
Gas 30
= $3,500 approximate total
Here’s a breakdown of each item in my list:
The taller wall increases your real estate space you can show more of your images.
The carpet is good because the old expo tiles are a strange pattern and quite cold. It’s a nice tactile comfort to have carpet. We do own a carpet for expos but the weight makes it awkward to transport.
Prints, we go through NW Fine Art & Print in Redmond. Matt is fabulous. We do not get the top quality like we would for clients! He prints, mounts and packages them up for us. You will need an easel for most of your prints.
Albums, as you know, albums take a long time to design, print, have created and ship. Be sure to leave at least a month for this!
Furniture rental: we don’t do this anymore. We thought it would be nice for potential clients to be too comfortable to leave and want to stay and look at our stuff longer. This did happen but it was a large space to take up for only 2 people to fit in. It wasn’t the best use of our space and it was expensive heavy to transport.
Pamphlets: I should have included the cost of designing our pamphlet but we lucked out and had a friend who was a student design ours. She did an amazing job! I would advertise for her in this post but she learned the skill for fun not profit, sorry.
Price sheets: make sure these slip into the flyers. You will change your prices before your flyers and don’t want to have to throw them out due to pricing changes. We use to have prices on one side and descriptions of what we offer on the other but decided that was too much clutter so now just pricing, single sided with our contact info on it for sure!
The flowers look good on my mantle now. No more shows for them.
The table cloth is wrinkle resistant. We bring a water bottle to “iron” them at the show. They’re black with a nylon type quality to them for a nice drape and durability. There are 4 because the tall, round bar table uses 2. Be sure to bring a ribbon to tie the bar tablecloth to give it a tailored look and to not trip over it.
My outfit: I do heels, nice jeans, colorful shirt and of course, complete hair and make up. You want to look your best! Bring comfy shoes for walking the long distance to and from your car before and after the show each day.
Assistant: If Brandon has a photography gig that day then I’ll hire an assistant for the day. I also pay for their lunch and parking. I make sure to tell them to talk about our art, show them albums and get their contact info. I am always careful to choose someone who is happy and professional. Both qualities are very important in representing our brand.
Misc: Bring a sign in sheet, calendar, pens, your square for your smart phone, water, mints, coffee, business cards.
So, that should cover it! The lower your packages, the more clients you should get at the expos but the more you charge then it only takes a few to break even then start making money. Either way you are golden. Sometimes, many times you don’t get booking at the show but rather days after the show so don’t worry. Your hard work will pay off! Good luck and know that most shows are in September and January after all of the Christmas proposals so get ready!
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We met Ann in Tacoma and instantly liked her. We flew to Tennessee for Ann and Cody’s wedding. Their wedding was so much fun. They said, “I do” ran hand in hand to his Harley. She jumped on and threw her bouquet to the crowd gathered around. His best man caught the bouquet…he was very determined! 
They sped down the long driveway and off into the distance with her white dress flitting in the wind. We captured incredible photos of them driving back past the house. Ann was beaming with joy! The bike was polished to perfection, the skies were dramatic and Ann and Cody were the happiest people on the planet. What a wild ride!
We are so grateful to have been nominated for King 5’s “Best of Western Washington” for best Seattle Wedding Photographer again. Thank you to everyone who nominated and voted for us! Please continue the voting. We would love to get 1st place this year!
http://best.king5.com/hildebrand-photography/biz/515364
]]>The reception was over the top amazing! It was held at her parent’s private residence (sorry to those who would love to get married there). There were so many beautiful details my camera almost exploded! Danielle’s mom made the table cloths by hand for those ultra long tables and even hung their initial “S” at the end of each table. The details were very well thought out. Everything looked amazing and everyone had such an incredible time. It was truly an event to be celebrated and remembered.
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Special thanks to the vendors who made their day so special.
Event Coordinator: Starry Eyed Events
(425)-269-6302
[email protected]
Caterer: Susan Magan Catering
(425) 814-6151
Cake Artist: NY Cupcakes
(425) 283-5445
Officiant: St. Margarets Church
Gown Boutique: A Princess Bridal
Musician/DJ: Sounds Unlimited
425-381-5536
[email protected]
This is us before Christina and Tony’s Hawaii wedding. We hydrate to the max before every wedding. Three cheers to coconut water for always being there for us! 
Christina and Tony’s wedding was amazing! There was a morning storm that day that luckily cleared up early but left the day full of heavy humidity. The photos we got of the bride and groom out on the point on the Marriott property overlooking the ocean were worth the heat. They are the happiest couple and the photos show it. Their wonderful friends and the palm trees surrounding them was icing on the cake! You guys are the best. We previewed your photos while flying home and can’t believe how great the photos of the dove release turned out. Brandon is fast on the trigger! His new nickname is now “SuperClick”! (he doesn’t especially like this but it suits his photo capturing speed!)
Step 1: Personality
When selecting a Seattle wedding photographer you are selecting more than just a photographer for your wedding day. You are hiring a wedding photographer that will be with you, your family and your group all day on your wedding day. Personality is a huge part of the selection process and should not be overlooked.
Your wedding photographer’s personality can set the tone for your entire wedding day and your bridal party. You will most likely be working with your wedding photographer for a year, or longer in some cases, by the time you factor in your engagement session and post wedding photography and albums.
Step 2: Consider the style you like
Some Seattle photographers are into posed portraits, others are photo journalistic meaning they capture the action as it happens, some have a finished look that is very artistic. Whether your style is fun, bright, dramatic, elegant or classic choosing a photographer who best suits your style is very important.
Step 3: Choose quality
Photography in this digital world is constantly changing, and you need someone who is dedicated to keeping themselves informed of the latest technologies and capabilities, this will ensure that you not only receive the best quality but also the most choices of products and services. Make sure you choose a photographer who continually educates themselves in the industry. We fly once a year to one of the largest wedding photography conventions in the world to take classes taught by the most seasoned wedding photographers in the world.
Step 4: Set Up Interviews
This is not a decision that can be made on looks alone — you must meet your potential photographers in person. If you like what you see on their sites — and their fees are in your ballpark range — call to see if they’re available for your wedding date. If the photographer is already booked on your date, you may want to see if they have an associate or can recommend another shooter with a similar style. Set up in-person meetings. Be prepared to talk about your venue, your wedding style and what you envision for your photos.
Step 5: Start Searching Immediately
Hiring a wedding photographer is one of the first things you should do, because the best professional photographers book their schedules a year in advance. If you want outstanding pictures, start searching for your photographer when you have decided on the date. A wedding photographer’s peak season in the Northwest is Spring though the end of summer. Saturdays are the most popular but Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays are becoming more popular too. If you will be celebrating an “in-season” wedding, book your photographer at least six to twelve months in advance.
Step 6: Post-production
Expect your photos to take at least four to six weeks. The photographer has hundreds of photos to screen, and even once the list is narrowed down, edits and album production can take 40 hours or more. Edits include color correction, fixing red-eye, transformations to black and white or sepia, cropping and other basic enhancements.
Step 7: albums are important
Without an album where will your wedding photos live? Not if but when will that technology go out of date?
The album is the first piece of family history you will create as a married couple to be passed down for generations. It’s very important. An experienced wedding photographer has been trained in album design and how to best tell the story of your day with a cover design to match your style. It must be high quality to stand the test of time.
Producing the album requires choosing the right photos to tell the story of your wedding day, designing the pages (photo layout, sizes of pictures) and printing.
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]]>We landed on Oahu last night. We are already having a great time. Found little black crabs on the beach, cruised North Shore, found the shrimp truck, incredibly delicious, pulled a major detour to go to Leonard’s Malasadas. I had the Haupia coconut filled one and it made me even happier than I was which I didn’t think was possible!
This is one of the most amazing, romantic proposals I have heard of. Frank really rolled out the red carpet for Brandie! I love their amazing story. This really shows how he is willing to go the extra mile for his true love!
How he proposed:
We met in May 2009 at a nightclub. He proposed to me on February 19th of this year. I was hanging out with a friend at a local coffee shop, and a man I had never met before came in and began hitting on me! He was using the corniest pick up lines I’d ever heard and I couldn’t hold back the laughter. I politely tried to get rid of him but he was persistent! After some time my friend who was with me said “Brandie, you need to be rescued!” At that moment, Frank came in wearing chest armor and a knight’s helmet. He got rid of the guy, and then got down on one knee! He told me how much I meant to me and asked for my hand, and I said yes!
Our Story: We met in Whistler, Canada while we were both vacationing with friends at “College Weekend”. That Saturday night we both ended up at a Bar called Moe Joe’s. We both spotted each other from across the room, we met in the middle of the dance floor and danced for over an hour with barely any words. We felt an instant connection. After we danced Tom offered to buy me a drink and the chemistry and conversation kept going, we stayed up all night just talking, laughing and getting to know each other. Two days back to back of no sleep and a firework connection we both knew that we had found our match.
The Proposal: In September just after 8 months of knowing each other Tom popped the question. We had discussed our future on several occasions but it still took me but surprise. Unfortunately only 2 years ago Tom’s father passed away of a terrible illness, during this time he became unable to walk. Where Tom proposed was the last place he can remember his dad being able to walk. It’s a look out spot in Seattle by Alki beach. On a Wednesday evening in September Tom took me to Seattle he said for a bonfire on the beach with some of our friends for a beach bonfire, instead he took me to a lookout point and began to explain the story of his father. Next thing I know he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.
We both feel so blessed to of found one another and look forward to all that our future brings together.
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This is the perfect example of how yes, we work very hard at weddings, always aware of everything happening around us, keeping close watch of the schedule, running to capture a moment but oh my gosh, it does not feel like work and that’s what makes our job so amazing.
Ann and Cody’s bridal party and family were cracking us up all day long. This is Brandon taking their “formal” photos at the beginning of the day. From that moment on we laughed constantly. There was that part during the vows and the first dance where we got a little misty eyed but that’s to be expected when the bride and groom is as sweet as Ann and Cody.]]>
I know, it’s long. Thank goodness for Jolie, my superstar assistant, when it comes to helping me conquering this list!
I know the last thing you want to do after shooting a wedding is work more. So, on the day after, soak your feet, walk the dog, enjoy the sunshine and rest. On the next day remember how much fun the wedding was and that you want more and start this list.
wedding flowers, french, blue, hydrangeas, wedding photos, reception, details, growing
1. Make slideshow or Post day of slideshow to blog with open still photo and our logo on the last page.
1a. Post to their FB, “Thank you and here is the link to your Online Gallery where we will post your wedding photos once they’re ready. Be sure to share this with friends and family.”
2. Send email to client saying, “You’re photos are ready, now choose x # of photos for album design”.
3. Burn a proofing DVD to mail to client.
4. Create album design (with our logo/contact info on last page).
5. Do album layout w/ client (might need to meet to choose cover, paper, cover photo etc.)
6. Order album. Order one for our expo and or the venue? Order something unexpected for the client.
7. Wrap album in beautiful packaging. Hand deliver or mail to client.
Give them a big hug and have a feeling of loss knowing that you’re wedding time with them is done but remind yourself that you’ll see them again when their friend books you for their wedding and smile.
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We all had the greatest day. It started off with big hugs and a hello then right to photos in the classic lobby of our hotel, the Mark Hopkins Intercontinental Hotel. From there we went to the base of the Golden Gate Bridge then hiked up a steep hill super fast (I think my legs are shorter than everyone I was with!) It was worth it because the view of the bay was amazing from up there and the wind added that extra drama that makes me wish we had a veil nearby to add to the dramatic look. From there it’s all a blur! We went everywhere and saw everything in San Francisco. We loved all of the colors (more than in Seattle), old and glamorous architecture, and how vast the city is. I can see why Emily and Matt enjoy living there so much. There’s so much there to see and do!
Matt and Emily generously bought us lunch and we all clinked our glasses in celebration of a great day…or was it to their engagement? All I know is that we were all very happy and that’s something to celebrate. So here’s to a fabulous couple who are perfect together and know how to live life to the fullest.
Cheers!
Brandon at Cheekwood Manor
We flew to Nashville, Tennessee for Ann and Cody’s amazing wedding (post coming soon). While there we visited Cheekwood Manor to see the art exhibit “Light” by Bruce Munro. We, of course, brought our camera with us and moved at a snail pace because every corner we turned had another amazing piece of art or incredible architecture representing the old south that inspired us to capture it. Good thing we are both photographers because traveling with a photographer is not fast paced. You will always hear, “Ooh, stop the car!” Followed by things like, “That oak tree in the field of rolling hills is breathtaking!” At some point you have to travel with your eyes closed (as long as you are the passenger that is) because it’s all too tempting and you really do just have to get to your destination eventually.
I love this photo of Brandon. I’m so glad we share the love of art and photography.
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Ann and Cody Wedding day of Slideshow from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
Afterwards we previewed a farm down the street for their wedding day photos.
We could go crazy with photos here! It’s incredible to see so many horses and cows and the pond with rolling hillsides, old barns and big trees. These are photos we took with our iphones. I cannot wait to take their wedding day photos here! They’re going to be crazy amazing!!
]]>I’ve always wanted to visit Tennessee. I hope the heat doesn’t melt me into a hot mess…literally. Going to have to seek out the nearest sweet tea to ward off the heat…lots and lots of sweet tea!
Dawn and Brandon flying to Nashville, Tennessee
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Special thanks to: Pastor John [email protected]; Tracy Contera, Lord Hill Farms, [email protected], Florist: Brittany Flowers Patty Holder 425-827-1414, Cake Artist: Tallant House Judy Tallant [email protected] 425-737-1533, Makeup Artist: Kathy Evans from Kathy Evans Beauty Studio 425-822-0600, Hair Stylist: Toni Lawrence from Mane Street Salon 425-844-3083, R. Dubré Hayes aka DJ DUBREEZY| DUBREEZY ENTERTAINMENT 206-595-4948 | [email protected] | www.dubreezyentertainment.com
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Thanks to: Purple Café and Columbia Winery for letting us take photos in your beautiful establishments.
In November of 2012, on Veteran’s Day weekend, Jeff surprised Caitlin with a trip to Orcas Island. When they got to the hotel, Jeff told her to close her eyes and she heard a pop of champagne and immediately started to sweat profusely. She bets Jeff did too! When she opened her eyes she had a glass of champagne and one hand and saw Jeff kneeling next to her other asking for her to marry him. Jeff is going to kill Caitlin for saying this, but he actually shed a couple tears, which set off Caitlin’s because she’s a big fat cry baby. Between sobs she said “YES!!!!!!!!!!” She went to call her parents. Her dad, Tom, answered and the conversation went like this:
“Hi Daddy!! Guess what!?”
“Sh*t, your mom isn’t home”
“Okay…”
“Call back in an hour”
Obviously, Caitlin’s dad already knew what had happened because Jeff was the proper man and asked her parents’ blessing earlier that week. Gayle, Caitlin’s mom, had gone grocery shopping when Caitlin had called with her big news. Eventually, Caitlin was able to get a hold of both her parents at home and shared the joyous news! Everyone is ecstatic because Jeff is a great guy and her parents, and brother, know that he will take care of her FOREVER.
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Alyssa and Kyle are amazing people. They met by chance but it was no accident that they are together. They are perfect for each other. Both happy, easy going, fun and beautiful! They could totally be a couple who models together. Alyssa may be a dog trainer who wears cowgirl boots and isn’t afraid to get dirty but she’s got the moves, ha,ha. When I saw her on her wedding day…well, let’s just say that I’m glad she was in a big white wedding dress because I barely recognized her. She looked incredible. Their wedding was at the Point Defiance Rose Garden in Tacoma and to see her surrounded by roses with the sun beaming down on her while she held her dads close as they prepared to walk her down the aisle made me glad I could hide behind a camera because I was tearing up. This is one of my favorite parts of the wedding. Brandon and I always flip a coin to see who gets to photograph the bride and dad right before they walk. I always win. I’m not sure if the coin is rigged or not but honestly, I think he avoids it because he would be a wreck seeing the look in the dad’s eyes as he gives his little girl away. I feel honored to be able to see this part of a person’s life. It’s rare. It’s private. It’s my job to capture those looks of endearment without invading their space and without melting in a puddle of tears so that they can share these memories with their loved ones who weren’t there up close during that sweet moment.
Ok, back to Alyssa and Kyle. I have to chuckle when I see the photo of Kyle that we posted here. When we took this photo he totally rocked it. Part of being a good model is being a good actor. We asked him for a straight face and *bam* just like that his military training kicked in and he was dead serious. And with the dim lighting casting a shadow over part of his face and nobody else around that time of night he looked scary…well, handsome but tough! Brandon and I both said, “woah!” and jumped back an inch. Yes, it’s just Kyle, the super nice guy we know but man does he have a tough guy look. I’m sure it comes in helpful in his line of work. The photo posted above is his little bit softer side…didn’t want to scare you because Alyssa may have the moves but he has the look. 
We are so glad to know Alyssa and Kyle. They’re going to have an incredible future together full of amazing adventures!
Special thanks to the vendors who helped make the day amazing!
Cake Artist
Carrie Pollard
Makeup Artist
Mac
Hair Stylist
Shari Olson Alyssa’s hair and looked perfect from “I-do” to “good night”!
Shari Olson
541-567-2517
Gown Boutique
David’s Bridal
DJ/Musician
Brandon Tautfest (He plays live guitar and sings during the reception!)
253-468-8037
Venue
Point Defiance Rose Gardens
Coleen
5400 N. Pearl St. Tacoma, Washington 98407
(253) 305-1090
[email protected]
Kristen Pedeferri
425.454.6003
[email protected]
Reception location:
Courtyard Marriott Tacoma
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Here’s what experts have to say about the importance of mentoring:
Mentoring is the most cost efficient and sustainable method of fostering and developing talent within your organisation. Dr. David Clutterbuck, author of the book “Who Needs a Mentor?”
Here’s a link to an article By Amy Barrett in Business Week on the importance of a mentor. Why you need a business mentor. http://www.businessweek.com/stories/2007-02-25/why-you-need-a-mentor
Having been there and done that, mentors can save you from falling into common traps and point out things you may be too busy to notice. “New entrepreneurs have a pretty difficult time because they start with an idea and suddenly have to become multidimensional,” says Gordon Shea, author of The Mentoring Organization. “Most folks have weaknesses, and they need help filling in those gaps.”
So, read my “oh-so-informative” flyer. Then give us a call, email or text. Let us know how we can rock your wedding photography world!
We’ve been to The Big Island of Hawaii-Kona, Holualoa Hawaii, Bend Oregon, Phoenix Arizona, San Diego California, Napa Valley California, San Francisco California with our wedding photography. We are looking forward this year to weddings in Nashville Tennessee and Oahu Hawaii. It’s amazing all of the adventures we are lucky enough to experience thanks to photography. This life is truly full of surprises. We look forward to many more adventures to come.
So, now tell me…where in the whole wide world would you choose to get married?
We got married in beautiful downtown Monroe, Washington in a sweet little catholic church. 
I really love Sonoma, California though for weddings or maybe I’d choose Vail in the snow!
For the Holualoa wedding album go to this link: http://hildebrandphoto.com/#!/portfolio/books/mary-kai/1
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]]>Caitlin and Jeff Wedding Day of Slideshow from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
Brenna is quite elegant and James adores her. They’re both really smart not to mention beautiful! He twirled her in a dance on their own private artistic brick circle in the middle of a huge open field surrounded by tall oak and fir trees with a peek-a-boo view of the Sound. Both of them and their surrounding were breathtaking. They were so happy to be married and excited to have photos of every bit of the day…a perfect match for us!
they played the Shoe-ley-wed game where the DJ asks them questions and they answer by raising the shoe of the person they think fits the question best but they’re back to back so neither sees the other ones answers. The guests were all cracking up. It was video recorded though. James covered his own back though by answering with both shoes up to some questions. (I told you he was smart.) 
It’s a dangerous game when the DJ asks things like, “Who’s most likely to steal the last cookie from the cookie jar” or “Who’s most likely to be caught speeding”.
The peanut butter and jelly cupcakes were delicious. The vegan food was delish! Everyone enjoyed the sun and everywhere I turned people were smiling, joking and hugging.
The day was perfect.
Best wishes to Brenna and James on many happy memories to come!
Special thanks to these vendors who made the day so special!
Caterer Gallucci’s Catering (For Brenna and Jame’s wedding they made vegetarian food that was out of this world delicious! We love Gallucci’s!)
253.826.1799 [email protected]
Florist Always and Forever Creations (She asked me to take many photos of the arch she created. I would have anyway because it was unique and beautiful and I could tell someone had pride in their work, very cool.)
253-952-6343
Cake Artist Julie’s Gluten Free Bakery
253-200-0148 [email protected]
Gown Boutique Weddings With Joy
(360) 943-9860
Hair/Makeup Artist Brassfield’s Salon
(253)565-9800
Venue Pierce County Environmental Services Building (big, gorgeous Sound view!)
(253) 798-4141 [email protected]
This is how we met: (Of coure I remembered them. I instantly liked both of them!)
Hello there! We met at the wedding expo at the Tacoma Dome, and were very impressed by your work and your friendly yet laid back attitudes. We are the ones who have a maid of honor who is also a professional photographer, and will need a full-event photographer who will be happy to work with another person (maybe you remember us?). Are you still available on Saturday July 6th? We would love to get together with you or just discuss expectations. Thank you, Brenna Moyer
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B. Have groom put hot pink socks and cowgirl boots on bride.
C. Don’t worry much about lighting. The twinkle in her eye reflects all the fun they’re having!
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]]>I said no. Much to my surprise Brandon said yes.
I smiled, hopped out of the car and thought how lucky I am to have a man who never ceases to amaze me.
What a great start to our adventure!
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We met in our last year of undergrad at Oregon State through mutual friends (Sandy’s roommate and Josh’s classmate were dating at the time, now married). After graduation, I (Sandy) moved up to Washington State University for pharmacy school while Josh moved to Eugene, Oregon and started his career. After the first year of work, Josh quickly decided being a grown up was overrated and went to WSU for graduate school in engineering… and to be closer to me… I’d like to think :).
As I was nearing graduation of what became my “professional student’s career”, it was about that time in taking the next step. With a few “friendly” hints from me, Josh took a trip back to Eugene to get the ring. We were planning a trip to visit my sister in Alabama that next week and Josh had originally planned to do it then. Fortunately, Josh is awful at keeping secrets and waiting for the “moment”. So when he got back from Eugene, he suggested we take my dogs out for a walk… at 7 am. Having had experience with Josh and early mornings, it became pretty obvious something was going on. We walked along a trail to a beach/park and Josh got pretty quiet (you may know how chatty he normally is!). To mess with him, I was telling him we needed to head back so I could pack for the airport. Then he got down on one knee and proposed. It was the exact proposal I had wanted, a private and personal engagement.
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]]>Cathleen and Michael Wedding from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
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A big shout out to our favorite vendors. You all did such an amazing job at taking care of Cathleen and Michael and making their big day flawless!
Weddings by Wendy Wendy Taggart-Walker www.simpleewendy.com
Cobalt Wedding Events Cammie Watts www.cobalteventrentals.com
Venue: Murano Hotel
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Here’s Brenna and I at Coulon Park. Brenna and James engagement shoot was so much fun. We have so much in common. We even wore the same shirt to the shoot! I promised not to wear a white gown on her wedding day though! We are both animal lovers and we own the same shirt. We are practically twins! 
She wants to someday have a mini farm with goats, chickens and other fun farm animals. I think some of this was news to James but he sounds like the calm, cool, adventurous type so it’ll all work out.
Brenna is such a natural beauty…perfect complexion and so natural in front of the camera. And to think she had a Mohawk before she grew her hair out for her wedding! What personality, I love it!
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This is Brandon and I at my cousin Lance and his beautiful fiance, Ariana’s wedding at Huntley Lodge in Cle Elum. Yes we shot lots of photos but yes we had a lot of fun too! I am so glad Lance and Ariana found each other. Ariana fits right into our family like she was always a part of it and her family is so super nice. They are peas in a pod. Both laid back, like to be adventurous (hello skydiving!) and hard working. They’re in Costa Rica right now on their honeymoon. I cannot wait to hear about their adventures down there! I’m sure they’re seeing and doing everything life has to offer in the jungles full of monkeys, volcanoes, zip lines and beaches…so cool!
Cheers to the lovely couple!
-Dawn
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Mark and Holly both grew up merely miles away from each other in Kent, WA but they did not actually meet until the time was right in late 2009. Holly’s sister, Heather, went to Kentridge High School (95-97) with Mark (97-99) but boundaries changed forcing Holly to attend Kentwood High School (99-01).
In 2000, Mark started working for Holly’s uncle, Terry.
In 2005, Mark went to Terry’s wedding at Holly’s grandpa’s home in Ellensburg, WA. Holly was in town that weekend at the rodeo with friends but did not end up making it to the wedding that day.
In 2009, Holly’s dad, Jack, and wife, Tanya purchased a plot of land in Ravensdale, WA to build their dream home. They invited the family out for a hot bonfire to celebrate on a cold autumn day. Terry and Holly spoke very briefly at the bonfire but he invited her to the annual Turkey Bowl. The Turkey Bowl is a game of flag football where Terry’s frozen Thanksgiving Day turkey can be used in the game for extra points. It sounded interesting and he mentioned there would be a lot of single guys there. Holly (completely out of character) decided to go ahead alone and freeze her butt off watching a bunch of guys play football with a family she hardly knew.
Mark spotted Holly walking toward the bleachers while they were warming up on the field. After the game Mark hung around to help clean up, but really to ask Terry’s son Corey, “Who’s the hottie?”. He looked over his shoulder and simply said, “That’s my cousin.” and kept on walking.
On the way back to the house for food and drinks, Mark tried to mentally prepare himself for approaching Holly. For the first time in 7 years, Mark knew he needed to jump back on the horse and get back into the dating scene.
During the after-party, Holly located the outdoor fireplace to warm up next to. Mark immediately found a wing-man, Dave, and slid into conversation with Holly. They talked with ease and knew there could be something there but the conversation ended abruptly.
Holly had to leave to meet up with a friend (which she was already an hour late). She made sure to pass on her phone number loudly to her cousin, Corey right in front of Mark. Mark was so deep in thought about how to ask for her phone number that he completely missed the opportunity to take down the number while she gave it to Corey. Over the course of the next few weeks Mark frequently bugged Corey to give him Holly’s number. When Mark finally got her number and made the first call they both knew something special was beginning.
On September 15, 2012, Mark and Holly were wine tasting for the first time in the Tri-Cities. They spent the day enjoying each others company in the hot summer sun. They walked along the river, played frisbee in the park and went to a few wineries for tastings. There was one winery that really stuck out to Holly when researching places to go for the quick weekend trip which was Tagaris Winery in Richland, WA. They had an indoor bar and restaurant with outdoor seating with a live band at night. They tasted the best wine of the weekend in the bar and joined the wine club before moving to the patio next to a large fountain for dinner. After dinner, Mark got down on one knee and proposed to (a very surprised) Holly. Of course she said yes!
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What’s your story? How did you meet? How did the proposal go?
We met on Eharmony.com. I (Alicia) had moved to Seattle about a year and a half prior to that and had been having no luck meeting new people, girls and guys alike. I started going to a local church and made some girl friends (now part of my wedding party); one of them suggested that I use internet dating to meet potential guys. Being from a small town with old fashioned values I had never thought of this type of dating, but after feeling so secluded in the big city I thought it would be worth a try. Kevin says he started using it for the same reasons, all of his guy friends were married and meeting single, successful women seemed near impossible. After about 9 months of Eharmony for me, I was matched with Kevin and we exchanged emails for an entire Summer, but never did meet. I had been on a few dead end dates and in August of that summer I decided that I was going to close down my Eharmony account. Kevin had emailed me in that same week and said he was going to shut his down too, and gave me his personal email. He also suggested that we meet. We emailed a few more times before I decided to give him my phone number. He called me the next day and we planned a date. We were going to meet at a restaurant down at Southcenter, near where he lived. The day of the date it was gorgeous outside, it was warm and summery, even in late September. I started thinking about the date and thought that I would feel more comfortable if we met closer to my house and that it might be nice to be outside, more relaxed. I called Kevin and asked if he would like to Picnic at Gasworks Park instead. He thought it was a great idea. I stopped by PCC on the way there and that’s when I started feeling nervous. I grabbed some sandwiches and some other Organic stuff (I wasn’t sure if he was the typical Seattlite or not!) When I pulled into the parking lot I called Kevin. He answered and said that he was in the parking lot, standing by the path. There were quite a few people around and I had only seen a few photos so I was pretty nervous. Then he saw me (red hair is hard to miss) and I saw him smile and wave at me. He was tall and blonde and adorable, talk about butterflies! We had our picnic and walked around the park, just talking. He was so easy to talk to and so laid back, I remember feeling instantly comfortable with him. After a few hours we decided to go over to Fremont and have a few drinks. The night was full of laughing and great conversation, it went perfectly and ended respectfully. I was so excited. It was sometime after our 4th date that I was driving home from his house one day and felt this overwhelming sense of “knowing.” I knew right then and there that Kevin was “the one.” I had always heard people talk about that feeling but never really believed it was a true thing until that day.
We were both on the same page from day one. We both wanted first and foremost, a family. We didn’t really plan on having the family before the marriage, but it did happen that way and we were both thrilled to find out we were having a baby. We considered having a shotgun wedding, before the baby was born, but decided that we wanted to wait until our little family was settled. Kevin had been talking about proposing to me for months, even only 6 months after we met. I think we both knew right away what was going to be. I gave him several “hints” at what kind of ring I wanted. Two of my best friends got engaged in Fall of 2012, it was then that I started to feel antsy, especially because I knew he would want to wait until the hype from their engagements were over.
I honestly had NO idea that Kevin was going to propose when he did. We were in my hometown of Longview WA over Thanksgiving holiday this past winter visiting my family when he popped the question. It had been a great trip, lots of food and time with my parents and siblings, even a few old friends. It was Saturday evening and Kevin suggested we go out to dinner, just us, to get away for a bit. I thought it was a great idea because I was feeling a little overwhelmed with my parents house and my siblings running around. We went to a local restaurant that I always loved and had dinner. From there we decided to just drive around town and look at Christmas lights. The city of Longview decorates one of the islands in the lake every year on Thanksgiving. Its funny that Kevin took me there because it is a place that has always been special to me, since I was a little kid.
We parked by the lake and walked down the path next to the water. It was super cold and crisp, but perfectly clear skies that night. There wasn’t a soul around either (which is unusual). We stood there looking at the hundreds of Christmas lights hanging over the water and on the trees when he said that he had something that he wanted me to wear in the photos for tomorrow (we were having professional maternity photos done the next day). I was puzzled until he put his hand into his coat pocket and pulled out the box. I was shocked and excited. He got on his knee and asked the question, I of course said yes. It was an exciting time and the ring what exactly what I always wanted. We hugged and kissed and laughed for a while before returning to my parents and sharing the news (my Dad already knew of course). The fact that he asked me at that island, by the lake was a big deal and I dont think he will ever understand why. It was a perfect proposal.
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We met in 2010 on Okcupid.com. Bill messaged Margaret first, they emailed back and forth a bit, and then met in person at Thornton Place over dinner and a movie (sushi and Inception). They dated casually for three months before Bill called it quits. They didn’t talk for about 10 months. Both dated other people in the interim. In the summer, Margaret was back to online dating and wondered what Bill was up to, so she emailed him. They met for drinks and sparks flew initially, but both got cold feet, and Margaret decided to date one of the Eharmony guys. Once that fizzled out, she contacted Bill AGAIN, they met up, decided to date exclusively, and the rest is history! That was in November 2011.
Fast forward to spring 2012. They are talking marriage but not totally sure. Margaret suggests Green Lake Jewelry Works as a possible place to get a ring. Bill checks it out and is really impressed, so they start designing their dream ring. Bill wants to pop the question before they get the actual ring, so as not to ruin the surprise! So he plans an all-day date the first Saturday in August and is very secretive about the whole thing. Obviously Margaret is suspicious something’s up, but doesn’t want to get her hopes up. Bill makes Margaret brunch at her apartment downtown. He hails and Uber cab from his phone, which takes them to the Pacific Science Center to go to the Mummies exhibit. Afterwards they grab lunch at Lola. Then they go to the matinee of Rent at the 5th Ave. Finally they are walking down to the Great Wheel at about 5pm. They wait in line and get in a gondola with two other couples. Margaret thinks, “No way he’s going to propose in front of these other people!” Bill passes his camera to the gal sitting across and asks her to snap a picture. Then he turns to Margaret, pulls out the ring, gets on his knee, and proposes! Margaret is shocked but says “Yes of course!” Afterwards they head to Seraphina on Eastlake for a romantic dinner, and the rest is history!
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Tyler and I met at work. We decided to go on a snowboarding trip together because I had no way to get to the mountains and Tyler did not have anyone to go with. This trip ended up being our first date. We pretty much have not spend a day apart since.
4 years later Tyler proposed to me at the Tulalip Casino. We went for a weekend trip for Tyler’s 30th birthday. My parents and a group of our close friends traveled to the casino. Unknown to me, but known almost everyone else Tyler had a surprise proposal planned. Our second day there we all went to dinner at one of the restaurants and Tyler proposed after a champagne toast by the best man.
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We grew up on opposite sides of the world, I grew up in a small little hick town and he grew up in Florida with lots of people around. We met on an online dating site, he was looking to meet friends and I was just trying to help out my brother. Neither of us were looking for a relationship, we just kind of started falling for each other. Kyle is a Christian as am I. I had kind of fallen off my tracks and he helped me to a better life. He fake proposed to me so many times I thought my mind was going to blow.
I wouldn’t have asked for it any other way! The way he proposed was meant to be for us to actually got married on April 1st. Which is April Fool’s Day! So now every anniversary we get to play pranks on each other!!
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We met in college at Evergreen. We lived in the same dorm. I dated a few other guys and James had a long distance girlfriend. The first time we had a long, liquor-induced conversation I knew I was going to do my best to marry him. He knew nothing of my plan, and it took several months to get him for myself. We have a great, relaxed relationship, always have. We have hardly spent a week of nights apart in the five years we’ve been together. There is just something comfortable about being with each other that can’t be forced or faked. The first three years of our relationship James still had no idea I planned on marrying him, as I always had. On our three year anniversary I made him aware of my intentions, and he reciprocated. We agreed to get married two years hence, and now here we are! He told me he thought I was too liberal to want to get married, which many of my friends agree is a vibe I give, but since I knew from our first conversation that he was the one for me, why not have the legal security and benefits of marriage? We are happy to be able to share our day with our friends and family so they can witness our joy and commitment to each other.
We’re glad that you can, too!
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]]>Also, hair stylist Helen Tribble of Winslow Salon and makeup artist Jessica Bohannon. The girls looked incredible. Helen and Jessica are very talented hair and make-up artists that I would highly recommend!
These venues are gorgeous! The views at Bear Creek Golf Club are stunning! And did you know that Columbia Winery not only has amazing food but also a hidden barrel room? Januik is so sleek and unique for sure! Woodhouse is a beautiful, quaint, lovely venue where I would be so excited to have an event! And all of these places are run by the nicest, friendliest and most professional event coordinators which to me is icing on the cake!
Januik 14710 Woodinville Redmond Rd NE, Woodinville, WA 98072 (425) 481-5502
Bear Creek Golf Course 13737 202nd Ave NE, Woodinville, WA 98077 (425) 883-4770
Columbia Winery 14030 NE 145th St, Woodinville, WA 98072 (425) 488-2776
Woodhouse Cellars 15500 Woodinville Redmond Rd NE, Woodinville, WA 98072(425) 527-0608
Helen Tribble of Winslow Salon 609 Market St, Kirkland, WA 98033 (425) 629-3686
Jessica Bohannon Make-up Artist (206)697-0328
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- Auction
Cathleen and Michael Engagement Video from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
Tis the life of a Seattle photographer. We have the greatest adventures. This weekend we did a baby photo session in Black Diamond. We love this sweet family. We’ve done their engagement photos, wedding photos, maternity and now baby. We love being able to see them so often. They’re the best family. I could totally be adopted by them. 
They just bought a wonderful new house and they couldn’t be prouder.
So…we were buzzing with joy when we left their house. We were so busy talking about how cute their little blue eyed baby Kalin is that we took a wrong turn. We admired the scenery and wowed over the green rolling hills then saw the sign, “Welcome to Enumclaw”. SCREECH! went the tires. Yes, it was a fun side trip but my gosh, where the heck were we? I got us back on track but not without telling Brandon he owed me a donut. After diverting him away from pulling into the casino with all my might (never my favorite place to go) we stumbled upon this cute little shop and my wish came true!
Best Husband Ever…not best navigator but that’s ok. 
Are you craving donuts yet?
]]>Location! There is soooooo much information accessible on the internet now, but you have to know how to search. Meet your new best friend, Blogs. They can be such a huge resource when looking to uncover a secret gem for your wedding day location and Seattle Wedding Venues are some of the best in the world. With more and more popping up there is one that will fit your wedding day perfectly!
Hildebrand Photography – New Castle Wedding
Margaret and Bill Engagement Video from Hildebrand Productions on Vimeo.
By Dawn and Brandon,
]]>Figure out what day you want to get married, then make sure that works for all the family members and important people in your life who you have at your wedding.
This may seem obvious but in the excitement of it all it can be overlooked and is the most important step to start with.
Today, families are busy, so it is nice to make sure no one is committed to travel or another event that they are planning to attend.
Once you have a date, or have at least narrowed it down to a couple of options that may work for you, your top guest list, you can get going on your most important task.
Consider the fact that some people you know may be students or teachers who don’t have time to travel during the school year, especially September. Also, think about how prices of venues and
other wedding vendors are sometimes lower in the off-season or on weekdays.
By Dawn and Brandon,
Title of the document
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1. Column for guest names
2. Column next to gust name for coming yes or no
3. How many guests are invited
4. How many guest replied
5. Gifts received
6. Thank-you notes sent
7. Who is invited to the rehearsal dinner, brunch, etc.
This spreadsheet will not only help keep you organized but also will keep your life sane. Well, semi-sane
By Dawn and Brandon,
]]>So, which coat so you like best?
[topcollage]
By Dawn and Brandon,
]]>By Dawn and Brandon,
]]>Skilled and creative photographers are ready to capture all of your precious moments.
We strive to make your photo sessions with us a fun and enjoyable experience. Whether it is creativity you are after or a traditional look we can make your photo dreams come true.
We believe that every photo shoot is unique and should be treated just as that. We will work with you to figure out what kind of shots you are looking for.
by DawnBrandon Hildebrand
By DawnBrandon,
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By Dawn and Brandon,
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These are two of my favorite memories. They are stuck together under a piece of laminate. The top one is Brandi and Bailey in Ocean Shores in 1999. Brandi was a shy but very sweet Chow Chow mix. She was Brandon’s before we met. I lovingly called her my red headed step child. She gave the best hugs and on her head was the softest fur you’ve ever felt. I always said I’d take a swatch of her beautiful fur to the hair salon and have them match her red for me…so pretty. Bailey is the other dog here. She was a Soft-Coated Wheaton Terrier rescue show dog. In true terrier form she had a lot of spring in her step. Smart, loyal and fiesty. She was mine before Brandon and I met.
The “girls” got along most of time unless there was a treat or food involved then forgetaboutit. Once Brandon had to break up a fight. He picked up Brandi and jumped in front of Bailey. Well, I guess she couldn’t stop her momentum because she bit him right in the hiney. I saw it all because I was on my way to help him until that happened and I never made it. I collapsed in a ball of laughter on the spot. I choked out the words, “I’m sorry” and “are you ok?” between my gasps for air. He took it all in great stride and right then and there I knew he’d make a good, fair and patient dad.
This all happened before we were married. Once he proposed we knew we would be a good fit after having gone through so much together in such a short time…such as dog fights aka “chick fights”.
THE BOTTOM PHOTO: Us in Acapulco on vacation 1999
This is where you can tell Brandon has a bit of Mexican in his blood. What a beautiful, er, handsome tan he gets each year! And then there’s me. I really like this photo. I wish I never would have noticed that my nose is terrifically tan while the rest of my face is well, Norwegian. I am greatly proud of my Norwegian heritage but shouldn’t we have nice tans too to protect from the harsh sun reflecting off all the snow there?
The necklace I’m wearing was bought for me by Brandon at an Acapulco street vendor stand. We loved shopping there. So many bright colors, all the art and colorful characters there in a maze of booths. One even adopted us. He looked like Mister Miagi from Karate Kid. When I lost Brandon once I walked around saying, “Marco!” then listening intently for him to reply, “Polo!” Mister Miagi helped. I tried to explain Brandon’s name to him in my high school level Spanish (which I’m sure is completely eloquent ;)) but he insisted on staying by my side hollering, “Marco!” “Marco!”
“You’ll get mixed up, of course, as you already know. You’ll get mixed up with many strange birds as you go.”― Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You’ll Go!
By Dawn and Brandon,
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This is us as babies. I’m sitting on my grandma’s piano bench that she hand embroidered herself. Brandon is sporting a fancy in-studio photo…ooh, la, la!
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Chris and Jenna’s wedding at DeLille Cellars in Woodinville was truly a delight. DeLille Cellars is located close to everything but once you are there it’s as if you are miles away in Italy.
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The trend in wedding gowns is going ever so slowly towards color…and I love it. Subtle color that looks incredible with her ginger hair! What do you think of this blush colored dress?]]>
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They are the sweetest couple. This was a re-enactment of the real deal…same wheel, same people. People were honking and waving during the photo shoot. It warms my heart to know that strangers will cheer for love.
p.s. She said “I do” this time too!
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We met hundreds of wonderful engaged couples and are excited for the possibilities of being a part of many beautiful weddings this year. We look forward to all the adventures wedding photography leads us to.
Cheers to a Happy New Year!
By visiting the Tacoma Wedding Expo, you will learn from the best in the business – all in one place all under one roof.
Tacoma Wedding Expo
January 5-6, 2013
Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall
2727 East D Street, Tacoma, WA
Directions
Phone: 253-272-3663
Hours
Saturday; 9:30 am to 4 pm
Sunday; 10:30 am to 4 pm
Fashion Show Times
Fashions Displayed Daily
Tickets: $17.00 –
($17 including $1 facility fee and $1 box office fee)
Here is your link to get the 2 for 1 discount pass http://www.bridesclub.com/bridal-shows/Tacoma-Wedding-Expo.cfm .
MEET THE EXPERTS
Interview multiple vendors in one afternoon!
GET INSPIRATION
At the Wedding Expo you’ll be able to interview multiple wedding photographers, bridal salons, florists, caterers, wedding and reception sites, DJs, bakeries, and more — all in one fabulous afternoon. The show gives you the ability to compare prices, style and personalities right there on the spot. Ask questions and look for that special connection with your favorite company and then don’t hesitate to book them because their calendars usually fill up fast!
Get a closer look at what the vendors can do for you! Stroll through the wedding photography booths to get an idea of who will capture your style and character best. Choose a photographer you feel you connect with and who’s art you like the best.
SHOULD I BRING SOMEONE WITH ME TO THE EXPO?
Yes! Your fiancé, family members, wedding party, and friends can be a great asset to you as you plan your wedding. They can collect information, provide valuable input, give you support, and assist in decision making. Over 50% of our brides bring several guests with them. Even if you can’t attend, please send anyone you wish to collect information for you, the show is completely open to the public.
The smartest thing you can do at an expo is book wedding vendors on the spot to take advantage of special discounts that may be expo only. The next smartest thing is to book as many one-on-one consultations after the show as you can. Sometimes, if you show the vendor you are genuinely interested in them by booking a consultation, they will extend their expo special until you meet again. It’s a neat trick to allow you time to consider your options and still get a deal.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE EXPO
Pre-Printed Address Labels/Business Cards are a definite time saver : Many of the vendors will ask you for contact information to enter you in drawings to win extras for your wedding day. Filling out your name and phone number over and over can get tiring. Be sure to register with everyone so that you will be eligible to win the great prizes they give away. This also assists the vendor in following up with you.
CHECKBOOK : Some vendors offer special show discounts if you book them the day of the show. Keep in mind certain vendors can only handle one wedding per day and their date books fill quickly. For that must-have vendor, be ready to reserve your date!
CALENDAR : You will want to bring a calendar with you so you can make appointments with the businesses that you have an interest in. Remember that the show is a bit overwhelming so as we said before you will want to schedule as many one-on-one consultations after the show as you can… One decision at a time and your calendar will help you keep all of your appointments in order.
HOW MUCH LITERATURE WILL I RECEIVE AT THE EXPO
You will acquire a lot of information from the show which is really wonderful. With so many vendors, expect a lot of material to be offered to you. Take what you want and what you feel you will need to make an informed decision about that company.
Ask for price lists as well. You may also want to use a two bag system giving you the ability to sort the information you want into two bags of interest. Keep both so you will have access to everyone’s material for comparison.
SEE YOU AT THE SHOW
So shine up that new ring, and REGISTER to attend the Tacoma Wedding Expo today. Here is your link to get the 2 for 1 discount pass http://www.bridesclub.com/bridal-shows/Tacoma-Wedding-Expo.cfm . It’s the smartest decision you’ll ever make. (next to saying, “YES”)
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| Contact | Bobbi Roth Wedding and [email protected] |
| Event Coordinator | Bobbi Roth Wedding and [email protected] |
From an early age Tahaira could be found with her nose in a book or penning stories of her own, dreaming about foreign lands and exotic peoples. Being the daughter of immigrants, she became increasingly aware and curious of her ethnic heritage. This curiosity has continued to shape her path; Tahaira majored in Anthropology, studied Urdu in Lucknow, India, completed her Masters in International Studies, and became the world’s biggest fan of Harry Potter. Upon graduation, she spent weeks sending out resumes and applying for jobs, hoping to land a wonderful opportunity that might occasionally take her across the world or at least some place large and cosmopolitan. A friend from her study-abroad days forwarded her resume to his former colleague and she landed a job in Tampa. The position sounded interesting but Tampa? Florida was as far from Washington as one could get without crossing international borders! Not to mention….Tampa??? She signed up. In an economic recession, you gotta take what you can get!!
Tony, on the other hand, was more interested in video games and sports for most of his childhood, but eventually realized there existed a world outside of good old Dayton, Ohio, where he grew up. For the record, however, he has never read or watched any Harry Potter!!! Anyway… back to the story: While Tahaira was securing employment in Tampa, Tony was finishing his undergraduate degree in Corporate Finance at the University of South Carolina while undertaking a job hunt in which he flew to DC to take part in a job fair. His friend from his Egypt summer study-abroad in 2005 graciously hosted his visit. Upon returning from the job fair, Tony mentioned a company he’d met which he soon found out was a former employer of his host! To make a long story short… Tony soon arrived in Tampa.
Yes, Tony and Tahaira have a mutual study-abroad friend they both met in different countries, studying different languages at different times in their lives who hooked them up with gainful employment. Kismet.
| Caterer | EatDrink | |
| Florist | A Tailored Affair | |
| Cake Artist | Macrina Bakery | |
| Venue | Hotel Deca |
How Erika and Jon met…
Many moons ago, a girl named Erika “friended” a boy named Jon.
See? Meeting someone online can work! Erika and Jon met on Myspace when she added him as a friend . Over a month’s time of e-mails back and forth, they finally met at the Bada Lounge (now Umi Sake House – one of their favorite sushi restaurants). Jon’s friends (Austin and Charles) kept Erika’s friends (Annjie and Jenney) entertained while Jon and Erika talked, danced and sang through the night. A sweet kiss on the cheek sent Erika off into the night with her friends.
Just as Erika was arriving home that night, she got a call from Jon – “did you get home safe?” and Erika was hooked.
A week passed before their official first date – a home cooked meal by Jon, followed by a movie. Erika and Jon have been together since!
Over the years, they’ve bonded over music, movies and The Sounders. Sounders ’til they die!
| Caterer | Remmy’s Catering | |
| Florist | Friend/Co-worker | |
| Cake Artist | Cakes of Paradise | |
| Gown Boutique | I Do Bridal | |
| Makeup Artist | Venia Beauty | |
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Seattle Floral Design
Trophy Cupcakes
Officiant: Paul Barrett
Hair: Caruh Salon, Lindsey
DJ: Hansen Entertainment,Jeremy
Camio String Quartet
This lovely photo is compliments of Amy’s son, Turner. Well done Turner!
This photo is a perfect description of Amy and Chad, fun, romantic, happy. When asked to describe her wedding day this is what Amy said:
“Well, our wedding is about 4 people coming together (my two kids and chad and I)
They are so happy about us getting married and Chad entering our family and that is what the wedding is about.
We really want everyone to have a really good time. This is not a wedding where etiquette is the be all/end all but a wedding where family is valued above all else
We have both been married before and never want to be married again and we just really want our family to be the focus and for everyone to enjoy and celebrate the family we are creating.
Just a damn good time!!! and a poofy dress!!!!”
We couldn’t be happier for you two and cannot wait to share your big day with you!
He proposed last November. I had just woken up and was still laying in bed, he knelt down beside the bed, took out the ring and said he wanted to make me his wife.
Aimee and James are our creative, artistic, hip couple who requested Pioneer Square for their engagement session. The location suited them perfectly with all the art, textures and energy. We had a fabulous time. They are like two peas in a pod. Very comfortable together, easy going and light hearted. We very much look forward to their wedding this Saturday.
]]>Next up…custom stamps! I can’t wait.
Design Board Created for Anna and Alex
He proposed in the Westin Hotel, Bellevue. He tricked me into thinking we were going to a friend’s Birthday party at the hotel. When we entered the room I thought the “birthday party” was in, I soon realized it was’t a party. I thought he just got the room and decorated it with rose petals to celebrate my new job I was recently offered. As soon as he got down on one knee, I knew it wasn’t that either. Of course I said yes…and the rest is history!
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We spent only a day there but I’ll remember it for a lifetime. Redwoods are one of the oldest living things on our planet. The Chandelier drive-thru tree is around 2,000 years old. I tried to explain to my daughter that it sprouted in the year 12. Woah, that puts it into perspective. Can that be true? Completely amazing the lifetime it has lived. They’re awe inspiring columns that seem to go on forever. Makes our 60’ evergreen trees look like saplings. Forests are my favorite place to be. Oceans are ok but forests are exciting, wonderous adventures. I was so happy to be there, running along the twisting paths among the giants with my family. Mother nature is truly the world’s best architect.]]>
This is Brandon at Viansa Winery in Sonoma, CA. The moment you step onto the Viansa property you feel like you’ve been transported to Italy. From the vast vine filled fields to the stucco architecture with winding staircases and arched entryways with overbearing heavy wood doors this place has every detail to transport you half way across the globe. I had visions of monks inhabiting the barrel room but then had to remind myself that that probably was never the case.This photo I took of Brandon was our 4-minute break of the day. Our videographer, Larry, was doing a 360 of the bride and groom gazing into each other’s eyes for the first time as husband and wife. He was definitely capturing a moment and I was happy to give him those precious 4 minutes.
Even though this was our time to rest I couldn’t resist taking this photo of Brandon. He looked so handsome with the 80 degree sunlight warming his face in the cool barrel room. Arms full of my lens bag, his D800, the mic boom he’s a man ready for action caught in a still moment. Even though the fake fur is called “dead cat” it still couldn’t ruin the mood and how handsome he looked at that moment.]]>
With the expo coming up this thought really hit home. I admire all the energy and enthusiasm brides have in planning their weddings. It’s the same way I feel about my business. Let’s make it BIG, set lofty goals, fine tune the details, have fun, make great memories and enjoy the ride! It’s all so exciting. So, while your dream is to have a glorious wedding, mine dream is to capture the glory of your dream coming true. Let’s get together and make our dreams come true!]]>
Photo booth strips, that is. 
]]>By visiting the Seattle Wedding Expo, you will learn from the best in the business – all in one place all under one roof.
Seattle Wedding Expo
January 14-15, 2012
Seattle Center
299 Mercer St, Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: (206) 684-7200
Hours
Saturday; 10 am to 4 pm
Sunday; 11 am to 4 pm
Tickets: $15.00 – buy your tickets now and receive 2 for the price of 1!
MEET THE EXPERTS
Interview multiple vendors in one afternoon!
GET INSPIRATION
At the Wedding Expo you’ll be able to interview multiple wedding photographers, bridal salons, florists, caterers, wedding and reception sites, DJs, bakeries, and more — all in one fabulous afternoon. The show gives you the ability to compare prices, style and personalities right there on the spot. Ask questions and look for that special connection with your favorite company and then don’t hesitate to book them because their calendars usually fill up fast!
Get a closer look at what the vendors can do for you! Stroll through the wedding photography booths to get an idea of who will capture your style and character best. Choose a photographer you feel you connect with and who’s art you like the best.
SHOULD I BRING SOMEONE WITH ME TO THE EXPO?
Yes! Your fiancé, family members, wedding party, and friends can be a great asset to you as you plan your wedding. They can collect information, provide valuable input, give you support, and assist in decision making. Over 50% of our brides bring several guests with them. Even if you can’t attend, please send anyone you wish to collect information for you, the show is completely open to the public.
The smartest thing you can do at an expo is book wedding vendors on the spot to take advantage of special discounts that may be expo only. The next smartest thing is to book as many one-on-one consultations after the show as you can. Sometimes, if you show the vendor you are genuinely interested in them by booking a consultation, they will extend their expo special until you meet again. It’s a neat trick to allow you time to consider your options and still get a deal.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE EXPO
- Pre-Printed Address Labels/Business Cards are a definite time saver : Many of the vendors will ask you for contact information to enter you in drawings to win extras for your wedding day. Filling out your name and phone number over and over can get tiring. Be sure to register with everyone so that you will be eligible to win the great prizes they give away. This also assists the vendor in following up with you.
- CHECKBOOK : Some vendors offer special show discounts if you book them the day of the show. Keep in mind certain vendors can only handle one wedding per day and their date books fill quickly. For that must-have vendor, be ready to reserve your date!
- CALENDAR : You will want to bring a calendar with you so you can make appointments with the businesses that you have an interest in. Remember that the show is a bit overwhelming so as we said before you will want to schedule as many one-on-one consultations after the show as you can… One decision at a time and your calendar will help you keep all of your appointments in order.
HOW MUCH LITURATURE WILL I RECEIVE AT THE EXPO
You will acquire a lot of information from the show which is really wonderful. With so many vendors, expect a lot of material to be offered to you. Take what you want and what you feel you will need to make an informed decision about that company.
Ask for pricelists as well. You may also want to use a two bag system giving you the ability to sort the information you want into two bags of interest. Keep both so you will have access to everyone’s material for comparison.
SEE YOU AT THE SHOW
So shine up that new ring, and REGISTER to attend the Seattle Wedding Expo today. Here is your link to get the 2 for 1 discount pass https://secure.bridesclub.com/seattle/ordertickets.cfm . It’s the smartest decision you’ll ever make. (next to saying, “YES”)
]]>
Year-end holidays are the perfect opportunity to bring loved ones together for a family portrait. When so many family members are home for the holidays, there is no better time to capture those family memories. We know that year-end holidays are packed full of activities for most families, so we are very flexible with our studio hours during this portrait season.
Do you have a loved one home from college? With all of you together, now is the perfect chance to get an updated family portrait on your wall.
Right now we are offering A FREE gift-size image for each child in the portrait.
Call Now – Sessions Limited – Don’t Be Disappointed!
]]>Deadlines are as follows:
Cards – December 5th
Prints – December 15th
Canvases and Albums – November 20th
Lastly, we will be taking some time off around the Holidays so it may take a little longer for us to respond to you around these dates:
– November 25th and 26th
– December 24th to January 1st
Thanks! 
Hildebrand Photography Holiday Special
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]]>Family and children’s portraiture are always fun to do and make for a fun outing with the family. As much as we love them be sure to contact us ASAP to schedule your session.
Below are some sample cards to give you some ideas:
These can be ordered in sets of 25 with envelopes for $100
Portraits are the Perfect Gift for the Holiday Season. If your loved ones can’t remember what gift you gave them last Holiday Season, then it wasn’t a Portrait from Hildebrand Photography.
It’s also time to mention our deadlines to guarantee you can still get your desired items in time for gifts or for yourself. Deadlines are as follows:
Cards – December 5th
Prints – December 15th
Canvases and Albums – November 20th
Lastly, we will be taking some time off around the Holidays so it may take a little longer for us to respond to you around these dates:
– November 25th and 26th
– December 24th to January 1st
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Our Booth at the Tacoma Fall Wedding Expo
Our Booth at the Tacoma Fall Wedding Expo
here is a link to Directions and Discount coupons http://www.bridesclub.com/bridal-shows/tacoma-fall-wedding-expo.cfm
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What’s not to like about these two yellow duckies on top of the cake?
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Cheers!
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I went with Tara and her friends for a girl’s night out. Her friends are fabulous. We are having a great time. They have so many great life experiences to share, so warm and friendly. I feel very welcome and having a great time watching them interact. I don’t follow reality shows but I can see how they can draw you in. Being part of even a small piece of the pie or someone’s life is intriguing. It brings me out of my own realm and lets me learn and grow from other people’s stories. This is the school I could get straight “A’s in just by sheer fascination. My motto has always been, “everyone’s a book and all you have to do is ask a few questions then listen to the stories that roll out.”
Kainapau and I met through casual friends surfing. We became best friends and I never thought we would end up together or even be getting married…. after a year or so of friendship my feelings grew and one day I realized I was in love with Kai! I guess you can say I was a little aggressive and definitely pursued Kainapau. We started dating September of 2009 and my life has been nothing but smiles. We went to Switzerland for a few weeks to visit a girl I went to school with and it was an amazing trip! We snowboarded, drank wine and ate lots of cheese. Towards the end of the trip; after a long day on the slopes Kainapau asked me to come out and look at the view. We were staying in a swiss chalet that had a panoramic view of the swiss Alps and there was snow everywhere. I followed him out and we were holding each other saying how beautiful it was. A few minutes later he stepped away from me and started acting strange then he said “You know I love you right? And one day I want to have little bambinos with you…” I started laughing and then he reached in his pocket and said “Mary one day will you marry me?” I was in complete shock! And then he had a ring on my wedding finger before I knew it! I started fumbling around saying “what? What?” and then I said “YES! YES! And now… I’m marrying my best friend 
and I’m so HAPPY!
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IE.. Just now when my client kissed his wife and instead of putting the camera down after getting the kissing photo I held in in anticipation and, yes! There they are beaming with happiness!This sweet family made our day…cutest little boy!
This wedding was on a Friday afternoon but felt like a Saturday. Everyone was energetic, happy, hugging and laughing. When engaged couples ask my advice on having a friday wedding I think back to Jenn and JD’s wedding and say, “go for it!” People, young and old, were holding hands and dancing in a big circle surrounding another big circle of dancers. They hoisted the couple into the air while sitting on chairs. Jenn’s eyes got wide at first with the fear of being dropped and then with excitement. Everything had a personal touch. Her chef friends cooked up a delicious storm in the kitchen. His sister painted a picture we took during their engagement sessionon a large canvas. I went zipping past it and thought, “oh cool, a print of ours” then I realized it was a painting…oh my gosh, amazing. Such a talented lady and a thoughtful gift to give this sweet couple. His aunt, Stacey, gave a heartwarming ceremony. And we all ate Mike’s Amazing Cake, hooray! It was the most perfectly flawless cake I’ve ever seen and tasted, oh-my-gosh, delicious. I only know this because one of the guests kept insisting I try it. I rarely eat wedding cake but this time I caved under pressure and and so glad I did. http://mikesamazingcakes.com/ What a fabulous end to an unforgettable wedding.
Cheers! To a fabulous couple. May you live Happily Ever After Jenn and JD.
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Here’s Jasper sticking out his
tongue at Bella and Bella saying, “Mom! Jasper’s
making faces at me!”
Sorry friend 
To carry all my love for you.”
~Author Unknown
The bride wore green shoes, the bridesmaids had purple shoes and the Groom and his men wore handsome brown tuxedos with brown shoes to match…everyone looked amazing, fun, unique…we loved it! We were photographing everything that moved and didn’t move. We were so inspired by all the beautiful people and details! Truly an incredilble wedding. Lindsay and Chris, you guys are the best!
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Chris and I are polar opposites….he’s the outgoing type and I’m more reserved. With that being said, I have never found someone who I work so well with. It’s completely true what they say…opposites do attract! I like to think that we’re a very spontaneous couple. Nothing shows that more then our honeymoon to Greece. We deliberately didn’t make any reservations or firm plans, and completely “winged” the whole trip. We have never had more fun. We have so much fun together and strive to find the most off beaten trail when we travel or have a day off. Now the weird quirky stuff….if one of us gets a song stuck in our head, we’ll both start bustin’ a move. Little shimmy-shake of the shoulders in the car….ya know, completely normal!
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