Constantina and Victoria
Most couples getting married for the first time are blown away by the astronomical costs associated with planning a wedding. Some of the costs include: the engagement ring (average cost; 5K); the DJ/Band for the party (average cost; 1K); wedding dress (look to spend anywhere between $1300- $30,000); wedding invitations and save the dates (most couples spend about $500 bucks); gifts and favors (depending on your style, about $20 per guest), Flowers (you need bouquets for the bride, boutonnieres, bridesmaids, flower girls and of course the centerpieces); Hair & Makeup (average cost: $300) and last but not least… a day of Planner to pull it all together (about $1K)…Feeling dizzy yet? Well, before you opt for a City Hall elopement ($35 bucks!!!) and crush great-granny’s dream of seeing you walk down the aisle in her 1940’s vintage gown, be sure to check out the ways this beautiful lesbian couple saved big on their big day!
Victoria and Constantina (Vicky & Tina for short) contacted our studio seeking a photography and video package with an engagement shoot to celebrate their big day. High school sweethearts, (read more about their story here) they were excited to finally be tying the knot. They chose Giando on the Water, a Brooklyn-based wedding venue with breathtaking views of the East River and Manhattan skyline, for their wedding celebration.
We started with the Brides at the Boro Hotel in Long Island City as they got ready. Tina and her girls took some fun photos in personalized silk robes before helping Tina get into her dress. She was stunning in an embellished gown and blusher veil. Victoria wore a black suit with silk lapels and an elegant diamond necklace. The two met on the rooftop of the hotel for their first look and enjoyed some time alone before heading over to Giando. The brides became life partners on the outdoor patio of the venue their friends and family cheered them on!
These savvy brides utilized several money saving tips for their reception. They opted for romantic candle centerpieces for the tables surrounded by rose petals instead of costly fresh floral arrangements. Dinner was buffet style (big money saver) instead of plated. The ladies also added in several DIY touches for their décor like the birdcage card-holder and wedding sign personalized with photos from their engagement shoot. AND of course they saved TONS of dough by choosing our customizable wedding photography and video package, that lets couples build a package that works for their needs and budget.
All in all this was the perfect wedding! Their photos came out great, their video was the perfect reflection of their love story and they still had some change left for an awesome honeymoon!
We wish this beautiful couple a lifetime of happiness (and prosperity!)
