Listen.... once you get to know me you'll know that this post is not something that I enjoyed writing, or am really even that comfortable with existing in the world. I have said in the past that Danielle was actually the one that started photography as a hobby first, what I haven't said till now is that a small reason why I picked up the camera was because I figured out I didn't have to be in front of it if I was behind it. 

Now assuming that you've chosen me as your videographer we are going to spend a good amount of time talking about you. Over the course of multiple planning sessions, meetings, and phone calls. I am going to ask about how you met, how you got engaged, who the most important people are in your life, and maybe a few silly questions along the way. That being said this blog is your chance to learn a lot more about me. 

Now in 2021 as the world is still recovering I cherish my memories that I was able to make with my first few films under Martin Media Production. Kacie and Alex are expecting a child, while another couple just had their first born last week. These are the moments that I value as my role of capturing love. Like Danielle said in her blog, "It would be nice to show our son what happened on our wedding day", and while we don't have the chance... I hope the couples I work with still cherish the videos I've created and someday, years from now, after sleepless nights, and countless diaper changes... I hope they pull up their video and remember not just the moments but also the emotions and feelings of their wedding day. Thats why I do what I do for a living, that's the part I love. 

As I continue to work on my business network here in Florida I took the opportunity recently to tour a local venue, Cypress Creek Farmhouse. While located off the beat path in Astatula. FL, this venue had everything to offer potential couples. My favorite part of the site was the natural feel, mixed with prepared backdrops. The newly renovated barn features a greenery wall, amazing murals, and an interior decor that states sophistication with a rustic twist.

Owners Tay "Ty" and Craig have created a natural oasis the brings together the feeling of being on the farm with the elegance of hosting a beautiful wedding.  As I walked around the property, which is more than 40 acres, I couldn't help but spot hundreds of potential photo and video spots. The tall towering trees provide a beautiful amount of shade for an outdoor ceremony under the pergola, while the indoor reception site is chilled perfectly via modern A/C units. They also offer the options to choose one of two different water front ceremony sites. I loved the dockside feel of what they refer to as Jackson Lake. ​

I can say I'll be taking a photography portrait client here as soon as possible, and hope that I am able to book a wedding video service in the near future. In fact.... In order to speed that process up, if you are reading this and are booked at Cypress Creek Farmhouse, the first couple with a paid deposit and signed contract for videography service  will receive free drone coverage when booking "The Celebration" or "The Gala" investment level.

Be sure to check out The Cypress Creek Farmhouse yourself at the link button below.

As most people that a willing to dive this far into the site know, we are working on rebuilding a network following the relocation to Florida. In order to do that Ive found that I need to be flexible and determined every day to find opportunities that present themselves. The way I do this currently is to spend a minimum of 1 hour a night networking on instagram. It was this practice that lead to working with the Torrance family on their historic wedding at the NEW St. Pete Pier.

I've been following accounts for local wedding planners like Wilder Minds Events, owned by Delaney Drive, since the day I knew we were going to relocate to Clermont, Fl. Delaney posted a story post on Friday night sharing her excitement that all the planning and preparation was ready to go for Saturday's wedding events. Seeing the floral designs that were being installed on Friday by Save the Date Florida, I wanted to be able to follow up to see what videography company had booked the job, and watch their creation. I really enjoy the different details and styles that make each wedding unique. I know that my be a little odd coming from a big guy with a full sleeve tattoo, but I legitimately enjoy weddings. 

Upon asking about the videographer hired, Wilder Minds Event staff informed me that they had elected to skip videography service. Again Danielle will be writing a blog very soon about why this is a mistake. So lying in bed at 11:30pm on Friday night, I woke Danielle up and said, "there is a beautiful looking wedding tomorrow, with a great story of being the first ever wedding on the new St. Pete Pier, Do you think I should offer to service it for free?" My loving wife always being the support system I need did not hesitate, even knowing it meant a full days challenge with our two boys. So with that just before midnight I booked the event.

Delaney's exact words were "Are you serious?", and within minutes she had confirmed with the amazing bride and groom, Abby & Ron. If your reading this thank you  both for trusting me, and for valuing my services at the event. While typically I get to know my couples before the wedding, it has been great speaking with you as I put your video together the past 2 weeks. (Shameless plug, yes my typical lead time is 3 weeks max) 

So that my side of the event and how I got there, the wedding itself was incredible, beautiful, and historic. The pier provided a beatifully breathtaking backdrop for the ceremony, and the reception was perfectly detailed from the flowers to the glowing neon from posy exchange. 

I could describe every detail but what kid of videographer would I be if I didn't show you the video. Check out the link below to watch the highlight video from the event.