Video or not?

Re: Video or not?

• jmaiuri

  

  November 2011 edited December 2011

  Hey There!
  
  I personally did not have a videographer at our wedding.  We found a few places that did the videography for $1000, and even that was too steep of a price for us.
  
  The church we were married in had a video recording system and was kind enough to video our ceremony for us and gave us a copy that we could keep forever.  The only video I really needed from our wedding was of the ceremony, and since we could have it for free (except the cost of the CD) that was the simplest solution.  (That and there was no money for a videographer) And I can honestly say I have no regrets not having one there.
  
  The fireworks sound like a fun idea for the wedding! However, remember it will be in september so it runs the risk of being cold out.  Would you be able to watch them from inside or does it have to be outside?  Just keep that in mind!
  
  

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• Meegles4 member

  

  November 2011 edited December 2011

  We are having a videographer, but it was something I initially cut from the budget because I didn't think it was necessary. Family and FI talked me into it, and since then I've heard several brides who didn't have one say they regretted it.
  
  That being said, I hate that we're spending a ton of money on one. If you truly don't have room in the budget, maybe ask a friend to capture the important parts -- you walking down the aisle, the vows, the toasts. You could purchase a flip cam or other style for a decent price and have it for future use.
  
  Regarding the fireworks, if that's your thing, spend the money. If your reception isn't outside, I think I'd forgo the fireworks because it will be difficult to stop a reception and direct people outside to see them.

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• theleos

  

  November 2011 edited December 2011

  I asked alot of people for advice with this. I debated between the ceremony only or reception & ceremony (or not at all). Someone said that they would have LOVED to have had their parents on video at their wedding, giving them well wishes (now that both parents are gone). It's such a special day and to have a video with all the people you love and care about and having it on camera- something they wish they would have done.
  
  That made my decision. Our wedding is August 2012- and I'm so happy we decided on a videographer! (we cut on flowers, cake, etc to make up for the extra expense).

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• moorelove11

  

  November 2011 edited December 2011

  We just got married on the 12th and my biggest regret is not hiring a videographer! I was expecting guests, my family, bridal party, etc. to take personal photos/videos and it just didn't happen. If I could go back, I'd definitely spend the money and I'd chose the video over fireworks any day : )

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• Allycat11

  

  November 2011 edited December 2011

  We got married last month and I really wish we had a videographer.  We had a very large budget compared to most couples in the area and I still felt it was an unneccessary expense.  All I could think was, "When am I going to want to watch my wedding ceremony again?"  That is also the advice I got from SIL, who doesn't even knw where her wedding video is. 
  
  The day was more of a blur than I could have ever imagined, I wish I caught some of it on tape.  I really wish I had video of the amazing welcome speech my father gave, the beautiful blessing given by my grandfather and the funny but sweet toasts given by my sister and DH's BFF.  With that being said, if you can fit it in your budget, go for it. 
  
  About the fireworks, I personally wouldn't do it.  If you REALLY love fireworks, go or it but IMHO I think it is kind of weird for a wedding.  Also as PP mentioned, it will be tricky if you are having an indoor reception.  Even if you are outside, I still am not a fan of fireworks at weddings.

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• acaponi87 member

  

  November 2011 edited December 2011

  I am not married yet but it was a very simple decision for FI and I regarding the videographer...no way.  It's something that we personally would never watch.  I really could never justify the price.  Like PP's have said though if you feel like you would be upset not to have it, consider making room in the budget.  I personally feel would prefer just getting a really good photographer.  If you really just want the ceremony, consider asking a family member or friend record it for you. 
  
  I happen to LOVE the idea of a fireworks show..I considered it for our wedding too. What a festive and rememberable way to celebrate your marriage!  FI is big into fireworks..our issue would be him and I would wanna light them off ourselves and then I'd probably trip over my dress trying to run out of the way and then *KABOOM* well, that was a quick marriage.
  
  Sorry, that was dramatic lol. I say go for the fireworks.

  June 16, 2012

  

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• Meg1036

  

  November 2011 edited December 2011

  I didn't have a videographer, and I don't really regret it.  If money were not an object?  Sure.  But I wanted my money to go other places (food, drink, etc.).  So it did.  And I have great pictures - the professional ones (600+), and also hundreds from our guests (who actually did use our photoshare site, because I emailed it to them directly, rather than passing out cards at the reception).
  
  However, in your shoes, if I were even thinking about spending $1000 on fireworks, I would put it toward a videographer instead.  Fireworks are nice (and I've actually been to a wedding with fireworks).  Guests really care about food, drink, and music.  They're going to have a good time as long as those three elements are there - and as you said, the video is forever.

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• binnie1 member

  

  November 2011 edited December 2011

  Thanks everyone for the great input!  This is really helpful.  I especially like the point about the day being a blur and this helps to recap for you.
  
  Wonder if anyone has used Wedflik?  the service that sends you camera for friends and family to film. 
  
  Thanks again!

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