No, we're not suggesting you forego a professional photographer or videographer in lieu of an instamatic tucked into the folds of your ball gown. Still, we've got some great ideas on how to jazz up your wedding album with some homemade memories. Go for it!
- Outfit your bridesmaids and groomsmen with disposable cameras and ask them to snap away as they prep and primp for the big day. Also, be sure to place beautifully decorated disposable cameras on every reception table. What a great way to get a guest's perspective on your gala event.
- Put on a cocktail hour slide show! Gather the cutest, funniest and most beloved family shots and have them transformed into slides. Then, while you're off having your newest pictures snapped, your wedding planner or reception coordinator can dim the lights, switch on the projector and bring down the house.
- Create a framed guest book. Blow up your engagement picture and have it matted on archival cardstock. As guests arrive, ask them to sign the matted border. Once the picture is framed, you'll have a guest book to hang on the wall with all your other favorite prints.
- Create mini photo albums for your attendants. Once the pictures are back from the photographer, choose small beautiful albums in which to show them off. For a special touch, include favorite snapshots from all those showers, parties and dinners.
- Don't know what to do with the hundreds of pictures from your disposable cameras? Create a one-of-a-kind photo collage. Trim the edges of snapshots and use spray adhesive to mount them on heavy cardstock.
- Sew a photo quilt. Chances are your local photocopy store can make fabric transfers out of photographs. Transfer a dozen of your best shots onto squares of muslin and whipstitch them together for a great wall-hanging.
- If you can get your hands on a video camera, have a friend or family member fire it up for showers and engagement parties, not to mention the rehearsal and dinner. That way, when it's all a memory, you can fully appreciate the flurry of exciting events of which you were the focus.
HOT TIP
As a wonderful thank you gift, frame a picture of yourself and your bridesmaids getting ready for the wedding. Such a special memory, beautifully captured and framed, is sure to be cherished. And besides, every woman needs at least one glamorous candid.
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