Sometimes, it’s the unknowns of life that cause us the most anxiety. Weddings are no different. (What if the weather turns? What if a decor piece arrives late?).

But with the right vendor team, you need not worry. It’s our job to alleviate your concerns, fulfill your needs, and make sure your day is a success.

Below, I’ve explained exactly how PGP Wedding Films does all of this and more. And while every wedding is unique, and your timeline may vary, this will help you envision what it’s like to have us not only as a Philadelphia wedding videographer but your wedding-day advocates. 

Morning and Getting Ready 

Your wedding day has arrived. The one you’ve spent countless hours dreaming about and preparing for. Naturally, you’re extremely excited and maybe a little nervous. 

That’s why I make it a point to get to the venue location at least an hour early. Not only to scope out the area but also to make sure things are on track.

When my second filmmaker, Roxanne, arrives, she’ll head to the bridal suite to cover the getting-ready moments with the ladies. And I’ll say a quick hello to the bride before making my way to the groom’s room to film the guys getting ready.  

These “bits and pieces” moments are those intimate times between family and friends: the mother of the bride buttoning her daughter’s gown; a groomsman adjusting the groom’s tie; the bride having her hair curled. We also capture meaningful details like flowers, mementos, and landscapes. 

The morning hours are also ideal for filming letter readings and gift exchanges. Even if you don’t want to read your letter out loud, we can capture what you feel as you silently take in your love’s words. 

First Look, Ceremony, and Cocktail Hour 

If there’s a first look, Roxanne and I will reconvene and film together for about an hour before the ceremony.

At some point, I’ll peel away to make sure all of the technical stuff is handled before the ceremony starts. Because, for us, it’s critical that we capture all of the audio from the vows. After all, I believe the vow exchange is the moment when you really get married. And listening back to yourself saying those words (especially if you’ve written them yourself) is so powerful. 

Roxanne will film most of the fun stuff during cocktail hour while I load tripods and ensure everything is ready for the reception. And, if possible, one of us will pull the two of you away for some alone time and sunset footage.

The Reception 

Reception time is when we really take a step back, let you enjoy the moment, and capture everything as it unfolds. 

The reception is a fun time to film because everyone relaxes and lets their personalities shine a bit more. I make sure there’s always someone capturing the big moments, like the speeches and dances, but also the little details that tend to go unnoticed, like your grandmother having a sweet moment with the flower girl.  

I like being low-key and hands-off so that I can stay in the background. It allows me to be more attentive to what’s happening around me. 

Expect the Best

I think it’s important to note that, for me as a Philadelphia wedding videographer, working as a team with your other vendors is essential. Whether you have a wedding planner, a DJ, or a venue coordinator, I’ll check in with them beforehand to ensure we’re all on the same page. 

And because I don’t want to bother you at any point during the wedding, I’ll work behind the scenes with your vendors so you can simply enjoy your day.

Here’s a good example:

I was filming the perfect morning wedding and got all the footage I needed up until cocktail hour. 

Then, big storm clouds rolled in. Rather than worrying about filming cocktail hour (I was working alone then), I helped the planner move chairs under the tent so the couple could have the reception as planned. That was more important to me. And luckily, I had an extra shirt in my car I could change into.

Moral of the story: I’m there to make your day better, not just get footage. And I’ve learned that your film will be better if you enjoy your day. So I make sure that happens and then capture it. 

Hire the Best Philadelphia Wedding Videographer

Your wedding day is when the next chapter of your story together begins. And I would be truly honored to play a role in documenting that chapter. 

If you would like to tell us your love story and learn more about how we film, please reach out. I can’t wait to hear the details.