Photo by Complete Video Solutions - Christian & Nicole's Wedding

"Real Detroit Weddings" is a new feature to my column that will appear periodically.  As you may know from my bio, I have worked in the Detroit Wedding Industry since 2002 as a Videographer, and have seen many things, met tons of great people inside and outside "the biz", and have gained invaluable knowledge about weddings along the way.

As part of my "Real Weddings Detroit" feature, I plan on commenting about the latest, cool trends and ideas that I am seeing out on the job right here locally.  So with that said, here are some of the hottest ideas I've seen over the past few months:

Photo Sessions in Downtown Detroit.  This has been a popular activity for many years, as downtown Detroit features nearly limitless possibilities for amazing photos.  From the Fox Theatre Marquee to the most unlikeliest of places...such as a back alley off of Woodward that featured graffiti-brick walls, and billowing smoke in the background.  Yes, it smelled.  But the aroma was well worth the creativity and quality of the photos (and video): (NOTE:  watch the video through the end to see another cool idea on how to remember lost loved ones at your wedding reception.)

"Strapped" Wedding Dresses.  Now I don't claim to be an expert on women's fashion, but I can tell you that all of the women at a recent wedding went on and on about the comfort and the style of NOT wearing a strapless dress.  It may be hard enough to learn to maneuver in a big gown, why have the extra worry of having to "pull up" your dress all night?

 (Left:  Mon Cheri Dress - graceandlace.co.uk - Right:  www.kaboodle.com)

Popcorn Buffet.  I did a recent article on a local popcorn company (Joel's Popcorn) and the unique idea of having a Popcorn Buffet at your reception.  I also know that Cherry Creek Golf Club in Shelby Twp also has a very impressive one that can be added.  Here's a quick video of a recent Popcorn Buffet:

Mini-Reception at the House.  I've seen this more and more over the past year, when there is time to kill in between the Ceremony and Reception.  Why not invite the guests back to the house for some finger foods and drinks?  It allows for some photos with a more personal touch (your home, or the home that maybe you grew up in), and it keeps your guests' momentum going during the down time.  It may also encourage people to actually attend the Ceremony, since some people may tend to skip it if they see that big time gap in between.  Here's a video of a Mini-Reception held around Christmas time, 2009.

These are but a few unique I've seen recently.  With the summer "busy" wedding season now upon us, I'm sure I will see more and more, so check back in for any future additions of "Real Detroit Weddings."

And if you are at any weddings and see something that you believe others should know about, contact me and let me know about it!!!

[All video links courtesy of Complete Video Solutions.]

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