Destination Winery Wedding {Chateau Julien} Carmel, California

Jeff + Elvia

Driving down the PCH with the windows down and the smell of the ocean drifting in, I knew we were getting close. This quaint little chateau, nestled among vineyards in the Carmel Valley, was a picture perfect backdrop for Jeff and Elvia’s destination wedding.  Coming from Florida to get married at this beautiful location made for an intimate and very personal celebration for the couple and their closest friends and family.  Jeff told me that he wanted everyone coming to the wedding to have a blast, that the wedding should feel like a party, laid back and easy going.  Jeff and Elvia certainly were laid back and we had such a great time working with this great couple!

In terms of ambiance, the couple really wanted their wedding to feel “a little bit of old school vintage meets romantical.”  You can see some of these vintage touches with their use of old records, old photos, and even a vintage dress hanging on a clothesline for a truly personal touch.  They wanted their wedding decor to not only say something about their personalities, but also compliment the beautiful vineyard location.  I think they pulled it off.

Here is Jeff + Elvia’s handmade wedding trailer, giving them a taste of what is to come in their full length wedding film.

Another thing that made this wedding so much fun was working along the fab photographers Jonathan + Joanne Encarnacion.  Talk about a blast!  Check out these beautiful photos they shared with us from the wedding.

Jeff + Elvia’s wedding recipe:
Lovespun Films
| Encarnacion Photography | Venue: Chateau Julien |Caterer: Chateau Julien| Florist: Christine Cater | Cake: Sweet Tooth Confections | Band: Pop Fiction | MUA: Nicole Rodriguez | Hairstylist: Henessey Getuiza

Thanks for watching!

Coming Soon {The Lab Event} Cline Cellars, Sonoma

The Lab Event, where to start? A week ago Saturday we had the awesome privilege of being one of a handpicked selection of the Bay Area’s most trendsetting wedding professionals. The evening was packed full of swoon-worthy wedding inspiration. Thank you to the dynamic team of  Allison, Yasmin, and Erin who came up with this concept and then expertly brought it to life. We had such an amazing time and we can’t wait to share the highlight film we have put together showcasing some of the magic that unfolded.  Here are a couple beautiful moments from The Lab to tide you over. More beautiful images and our handmade highlight is coming soon, stay tuned!


Photos by Allyson Wiley Photography

Whimsical Ballroom Inspired Wedding {Featured | Ruffled Blog}

It’s been a while since we joined forces with some of our industry friends to bring highly styled wedding ideas to you, but we are at it again with this Whimsical Ballroom inspired wedding.  We wanted this wedding to be full of fantasy, a throwback to all of our girlhood fairytale wedding dreams.  Elements of feminine whimsy are all around with perfectly pretty tutus, soft and fun tulle balls, big balloons and even swans make a debut in this shoot.  A big shout out to the Grand Island Mansion for hosting this shoot and thanks to Coquette Events, Botanica Floral Designs, and the rest of our great team,  for giving us such great details to film.

We are so excited that Ruffled wedding blog decided to feature this super fun shoot and share all these fun ideas with their readers!


Here is our behind the scenes film of the team in action and all the beautiful details of this inspired wedding.

Fantasy Inspired Wedding Shoot from Lovespun ~ Handmade Films on Vimeo.

Tinywater did an amazing job capturing the essence of fantasy in these following images.


My daughter Gwen’s debut as a flower girl. These adorable tutu’s were designed by The Little Pea, making for flower girl outfits that are fit for a princess.


Audrey of Botanica Floral Design does it again with these stunning floral arrangements.


These delicious desserts kept everyone’s mouths watering all day thanks to the talents of Sugar & Spice. And how great is that cake topper? Umm, adorable!


Whimsical Ballroom Wedding Recipe:
Video: Lovespun Handmade Films | Photography: Tinywater Photography | Event Coordinator: Coquette Events | Flowers: Audrey Gardemeyer, Botanica Floral Designs | Dessert Bar: Sugar & Spice | Linens: Wildflower Linens |Tutus: The Little Pea | Masks: Tom Banwell | Models: Lauren and Alex from Exalt Model and Talent Agency, Kiera Shimamoto Tong | Wedding Dress: Miosa Couture | Shoes: Hey Lady Shoes by the Leung Twins | Cake Topper: Over the Top Studios by Amada Lebel | Silverware: Classic Party Rentals | Make-Up: Rona Basa, Luxe Image Premiere Hair & Make Up Artist

I hope you are inspired!

It’s Time to Party! {The Lab Event} Cline Cellars

This Saturday you will finds us at The Lab Event with some of the top trend-setting wedding industry professionals that Northern California has to offer. There is going to be tons of inspiration to be had, with NO trade-show BOOTHS, but rather, super cool vignettes designed by awesome design teams to bring to reality inspiration boards from Snippet & Ink, Perfect Palette, Style Unveiled, and Wedding Bee.

There will be  food & wine pairings, a fashion show and a party to follow.
Come hang out with us at THE LAB EVENT! All the cool kids are doing it!!!

  Photo Credits: The Lab Event, Edyta Szyszlo + Sylvana Difranco

Get your tickets now, prices go up at the door.
Ticket includes admission to The Lab, swag bag for the first 75 attendees, complimentary wine for the first two hours of the event, 1 drink ticket to use at the bar.

Where: Cline Cellars :: 24737 Arnold Drive. Sonoma, CA 95476
When: 5-9 p.m.
What to expect: Fashion Show, all sorts of inspiration, and a party to round out the night.
Make sure to say “hi” if you spot LoveSpun Jess or LoveSpun Lew!

Intimate Chateau Wedding {Anderson Ranch} Kenwood, Sonoma County

Conor + Juli

Deep in the Valley of the Moon, nestled into the woods of Sonoma County, sits a chateau of unparalleled charm.  In the shade of towering Redwoods and wise old Oak trees, rests a turn of the century inspired cottage, not unlike Jack London’s neighboring Glen Ellen Wolf House, called Anderson Ranch.  The smell of the woods, the creaking of branches and the warm summer air filled my senses.  The minute I stepped into the ranch house to film the wedding of Conor & Juli, I knew we were about to embark on a magical journey.

As a lover of decor and all things French, I was pulled in by the welcoming furnishings and French antiques graciously living throughout every inch of space.  I climbed the solid wood steps of the staircase, past a beautiful painting, following the faint sounds of conversation.  Upon reaching the landing, I found the beautiful Juli and her sister lounging at a large farmhouse table amidst a beautiful great room.  I knew in my heart that this would be one of my favorite love stories ever.

I sincerely hope you enjoy this handmade film and the story of Conor + Juli!

Anderson Ranch {Conor & Juli} Kenwood, Sonoma County

We had the awesome privilege to work alongside the wonderful photographer, Scott Andrew on this early summer wedding.  We were greeted by wonderful natural light, something that we both love to work with, and beautiful backdrops of greenery and sweeping vistas.  Juli and Conor have the kind of love that is infectious and it is couples like this that affirm that true love is alive and well.  It’s undeniable and inspirational and we are so grateful to have been part of this amazing day in their lives.

To swoon over even more of Juli + Conor’s gorgeous photos, scoot on over to Scott Andrew’s blog post about this stunning Sonoma wedding.

Conor + Juli’s Wedding Recipe:
LoveSpun Handmade Films | Scott Andrew | Ramekins Catering | Michael Daigian Design

Thanks for watching!

Vintage Inspired DIY Wedding {Viansa Winery} Sonoma

Jessica + Mike | July 23, 2011

It’s no secret that I might be the biggest Pearl Jam fan ever. While my alternative music tastes were first developed in the 80s when my older siblings were listening to music like The Cure, Depeche Mode, and The Smiths,  I really discovered the sound of my heart in the 90′s independent music movement, or grunge.  Through the years I have always been attracted to music that embodies this same sentiment and escape from conformity.

Music is a huge part of the inspiration that goes into our films and it is for this reason we often find deep connections with our clients.  When I first started talking to Jess about their upcoming wedding we talked about music. It was at that time that I not only found out Mike was a huge PJ fan too but that they even had a cat named “Vedder!” From that moment, I could not only tell that this was a wedding I wanted to film but people I wanted to get to know better.

Jess + Mike are so sweet and you can tell by their amazing and sentimental vows that their love runs deep. They are a couple with love for life, humor, music, and family & friends.  We are so lucky to meet such awesome couples in our work. We hope you enjoy this handmade film of this handmade wedding!

This wedding was labor of love for Jessica, who designed and integrated many handmade touches throughout the day.  They incorporated the talents of their friends to also contribute to this wonderful occasion such as the adorable CD favors and wood signs.  The gorgeous Californian wine country made for a beautiful backdrop for Jess and Mike’s wedding with the ceremony and reception perched high above Sonoma Valley with a view for miles at Viansa Winery.


We also were lucky enough to meet the dynamic duo photography team that is Jason & Anna.  The husband and wife team flew in from Arizona for Jess & Mike’s big day and I can see why. They captured the beautiful essence of the day perfectly. Check out even more of Jess & Mike’s gorgeous images at their blog.

Jess + Mike’s wedding recipe:
LoveSpun Films | Jason & Anna Photography | Viansa Winery | Day of Planner: Brooke Altman with Viansa | Polly Ann Bakery | Sage Catering | Delightful InkMichael Daigian Design | Hair and Makeup- Aimee Garcia | Additional Makeup: Gavi Pena | DJ: Noel | Ceremony Musician: Danny Dardon | Flower girl Tutu, CD’s, wood signs: Brittany Simon

Music licenses provided by:
Song Freedom “All I Want” Instrumental by Tyrone & Elina
The Music Bed “Honey” by Us & Our Daughters

Thanks for watching!!!

Chic Urban Oasis Wedding {Smog Shoppe} Los Angeles

Jacey + Grant | The Smog Shoppe

There is so much to love about this next wedding…a gorgeous couple, cute canine ring bearers, sentimental moments and an ultra hip wedding venue, to mention a few.  We had such a blast filming the wedding of Jacey and Grant at the Smog Shoppe in Culver City.  We are so excited that we were able to be part of such a fun and sweet wedding.

The decor and design of this wedding are certainly after my own heart! It is the perfect marriage of nature & glamour with beautiful earthy florals and fabrics, to decadent chandeliers and high fashion. One of my favorite design aspects of Jacey and Grant’s wedding is the perfectly placed pieces of furniture that flank the alter providing a comfortable resting place for the bridal party during the ceremony [Almost like mini living rooms]. So original and brilliant!

Well, I don’t want to give too much away. You’ll have to tune in to see this stunning couple and their amazing wedding full of wonderful details and charm. We hope you enjoy Jacey & Grant’s Handmade Wedding Film!

Jacey & Grant’s wedding recipe:
LoveSpun Films
| Beth Helmstetter Events | Lauren Ross  | Holly FloraHeirloom LA | Vanilla Bake Shop | Bar One Beverage Catering  | Classic Party Rentals | The Smog Shoppe | Aspect Lighting| SuperNova | DeBois Entertainment | Karen Baird | FotoCabinaJefferyValetVIP  Transportation| Dress: Vera Wang | Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Music is licensed through WithEtiquette.com

Thanks for stopping by for a little LoveSpun!

Stunning Spanish Villa Wedding {Hummingbird Nest Ranch} Santa Susana

John + Rachel | July 16, 2011

We are so thrilled to share this next film! In July we had the utmost pleasure of working with this amazing couple, an amazing team of vendors, at this most amazing venue.

The Hummingbird Nest Ranch is a stunning Spanish style villa nestled deep into the mountains of Santa Susana. It is the kind of place that exudes charm from a bygone era with sweeping vistas, grand architecture, and picturesque grounds. Certainly a romantic and dramatic backdrop for John & Rachel’s’ wedding.

Beth Helmstetter Events did an amazing job designing and executing this flawless wedding, providing a rich tapestry of beautiful details for all the guests to enjoy.  The ambiance was magical and it was easy to tell that all in attendance were having the time of their lives.

A special thank you to Jose Villa who was absolutely wonderful and gracious to work alongside.  There is nothing better than photographers who want to work together as a team to make beautiful imagery for our clients.  Jose is humble despite his amazing reputation, a true professional with the couples best interests at heart. We heart you.

From the gorgeous florals and delicious food to the talented musicians, this wedding was an absolute pleasure to film from top to bottom. We are so honored that this gorgeous and sweet couple chose us to capture this special day! Thank you and congratulations on your new life together!!!

 

John & Rachel’s Wedding Recipe:
LoveSpun Films | Jose Villa | Beth Helmstetter Events | Holly Flora | LaTavolaThe Food Matters | A Rental Connection  | Classic Party Rentals | Hummingbird Nest Ranch | Aspect LightingJose Prieto MusicWest Coast Music | Fiore Beauty | JP Reynolds

Music licensed through TheMusicBed.com

We hope you enjoyed John & Rachel’s handmade wedding film!

Tips for a Great Wedding Film {Featured} ELLEuk

“Get Ready For Your Close-Up” | ELLEuk.com The Wedding Blog

At LoveSpun, we approach every wedding that we film with the preparation and attention that it deserves.  We want our clients to feel beautiful, happy, and most importantly, relaxed on their big day.  I am a firm believer that being prepared for things helps to ease concern and makes you feel less stressed when confronted with life changing events.

It is based on this principal, that a few years back, I wrote down some of my favorite tips and started sending a letter entitled “Preparing for a Great Wedding Film” to each of our clients as their wedding day approached.  As our experiences have grown and changed over the years, this list has of course grown and evolved.  We want our clients to have the opportunity to do their part in making sure they can get the most out of their wedding film investment by following some pretty straightforward tips to ensure that we are able to capture the prettiest footage possible.

We recently sent this letter to our client Carrie Gorman, editor of ELLEuk.com, in preparation of her wedding in December.  She was delighted with receiving them and thought her audience on ELLEuk.com’s The Wedding Blog would enjoy reading them too.  We are so thrilled to be featured on ELLEuk.com for a second time and we hope that our tips and tricks prove useful for brides around the world, looking to put their best foot forward on their wedding day!

See below for the rundown.

Here goes…

  • A Pretty Place to Get Ready When picking out a location to get ready for your wedding, look for a spot that is beautiful, free of clutter and if possible, one that has plenty of natural light.  Also request that your makeup artist and hair stylist set up in front of a natural light source instead of a bathroom with florescent lighting.
  • Neat and Tidy Delegate bridal party members to help keep your getting ready room organized and clean. This will make you feel more calm as well as make a pleasing back drop for pictures & your wedding film.
  • When music is not your friend Most brides love to have their favorite tunes playing as they get ready for their big day. When filming your getting ready footage, keep in mind that we cannot edit music out.  If we capture a special moment of audio that would be great for your film but an obnoxious song is in the background we may not be able to work it into the film.  At the very minimum, turn the music down when you’re putting on your dress for any exceptional reactions from your parents and friends.
  • Keep the Sanctity Remind your wedding party that chewing gum and talking to each other during the ceremony can detract from the attention of your guests and that it doesn’t look good on the film or in pictures.
  • Walk Slowly For the ceremony, the bridal party and especially the bride should remember to walk controlled and gradually down the aisle.  This is your time to shine, your guests want to have a good look at you, and it helps us, the filmmaker and your photographer, to capture the moment.
  • Schedule enough time for photos and filming Family photos and portraits can take a while so make sure you not only allow for this in your time-line, but also have enough time for romantic shots of just the two of you with your wedding filmmaker and photographer.  We suggest 15-20 minutes in addition to your formal photography session to get some beautiful eye candy for your wedding film.
  • Take your time to dance  Sometimes for whatever reason, couples choose to cut short their first dances, having the DJ fade out the music in the middle. From our standpoint we love to film the first dance from different, unique angles and look for tender moments. It’s hard to get all that in 90 seconds so why not just enjoy the moment and your time in the spotlight.
  • Light it up  Reception lighting can sometimes make or break the look of your wedding film.  It’s a great idea to hire a professional lighting designer to add ambiance to a room but keep in mind that different colors of up-lighting can make skin tones look strange. Lighting that is too bright around the edges of the room can make the interior look dark. Even out up-lighting with spotlights on the dance floor and head table.  If a designated spot for toasts or speeches can be picked out ahead of time and then lit properly, it will make all the difference in the world.

Thanks for reading our tips for a great wedding film! We hope you have the best wedding ever!

Sunny Winery Wedding {Featured | Style Me Pretty} Wilson Vineyards

Justin & Amy | May 14, 2011

We get so excited when we see our adorable couples pop up on amazing web blogs like Style Me Pretty! With such cute details, a charming couple, and tons of yellowy goodness it’s not hard to see why their wedding got picked for a feature on the Little Black Book Blog.  Aimee Wendell of 2Chic Events & Design helped this couple realize their wedding vision and we were on hand along with Jodi Yorston, to document all the fun decor and beautiful moments!  Thank so much to Style Me Pretty for featuring Justin & Amy’s wedding highlight film, such an honor!


Justin & Amy’s Featured Wedding Recipe:

 Cinematography: Lovespun Handmade Wedding Films | Photography: Jodi Yorston Photography  | Flowers: Visual Impact Design | Event Design: 2 Chic Events & Design & Bride and Mother of the Bride | Event Planning: 2 Chic Events & Design | Ceremony Location: Wilson Vineyards | Reception Location: Wilson Vineyards Barn | Invitations: Mother of the Groom | Caterer:  Culinary Specialists | Invitation Designer: Vera Wang | Calligrapher: Lara Kiniris | Cake/Desserts: Freeport Bakery | Wedding Gown Designer: Modern Trousseau | Bridesmaid’s Dress Designer: Wtoo | Jewelry: Bracelets and cufflinks made by Bride’s uncle | Band: Hip Service | Ceremony Guitarist: Jesse Hendricks | DJ: It’s Time Entertainment  | Hair: Jeanna Noricks, The Parlour Salon | Make-up: Suzanne Barnett

Thanks for looking!

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