Monday, April 2, 2012
We have had such a great experience with knowing and working with very knowledgable vendors, the best part is that we can take their knowledge and share it with you! We love keeping brides informed! So we went to Brent Cantrell of Cosmo Creations and asked him what questions brides should ask a DJ before booking them, and what questions he is commonly asked.
Stay informed and read on to find out what you should expect and know about your wedding DJ!
Photo by K.G. Photography
Top 3 questions you should ask your potential wedding DJ:
1. Do you have liability insurance?
2. Do you have professional equipment and back-up equipment (and a back-up DJ)?
3. Will you be my DJ on the day of my wedding or will I get someone else?
Photos by David & Tammy Wedding Photographers
What are brides' most frequently asked questions when they contact Cosmo Creations?
"Have you ever DJed a wedding before?"
Great question! Some disc jockeys (DJs) specialize in school events, car shows, proms, fraternity formals, etc. Make sure they have several weddings in their mix of events.
"What would you say your style is on the microphone?"
You need to communicate your expectations with your potential DJ. Asking “What style DJ are you?” is a great way to find out if you’re talking to someone that’s going to be over-the-top or laid back. And depending on the type of wedding you are planning, that can make a huge difference.
A good DJ will result in everyone on the dance floor having a good time. Photos by Evan Baines Photography
"Where can I find reference and reviews on your company?"
Anyone can brag on themselves. You need to hear from past brides and other wedding vendors before you make your final decision.
"Do you belong to any disc jockey associations or networks?"
Disc jockey networking is a great way for DJs to stay on top of the latest wedding trends, newest technology, and also learn from each others personal successes and mistakes in the wedding entertainment industry. Check out http://www.TNDJN.com.
"Do you offer a contract?"
In Middle Tennessee you never know what the most popular wedding date will be, so lock in a contract with your wedding vendors ASAP. Also, if you’re using a family member or “friend of a friend” make sure you have them sign a contract too (You want the person in charge of your wedding music to feel obligated to be at your wedding).
A DJ is also your emcee and will introduce the bridal party! Photos by Zach and Jody - Gray Photography
ABG Notes: Make sure to ask your DJ if they offer additional services, such as lighting. And you might be surprised! Cosmo Creations now offers some lighting options and a photo booth! (One service provider for multiple services can sometimes save you time and/or money.)
Photo from the Cosmo Creations Photo Booth - their photo booth shots are so clear!
Make sure to mention ABG when you call and check out Cosmo Creations!
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: Music, Lighting + Transportation, Reception Entertainment, Photo Booths
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Monday, January 2, 2012
Cosmo Creations is a premier DJ service that has served brides from Cookeville to Nashville for 10 years. 2011 brought exciting new additions to their company that will benefit Greater-Nashville brides. They have expanded their service offerings, added a new location, and will showcase their new products at an upcoming bridal show. Keep reading for all the details.
Brent Cantrell, who started Cosmo Creations, and the rest of the team care deeply about what the bride and groom want and envision for their wedding. This is so important, that they decided it was essential to have a place to meet with clients in an intimate setting to get the feel for what is needed to make their client's day perfect.
New Location
Cookeville couples - DJ's Brent Cantrell and Josh Rose are both Cookeville residents and local business is very important to them since the area has helped shape the business into what it is today. They will have an open house at the new location from 4 pm to 8 pm, Thursday, January 19. If you are a Cookeville area bride or wedding pro, you should go check out their new office at 135A Pigeon Rd, Cookeville, TN.
Nashville couples - The Cosmo Creations crew has and will continue to meet their Nashville brides at StudioWed Nashville.
New Services
Cosmo Creations has a number of incredible services that they offer to couples on their big days. They have packages for every event at every budget. Music can be provided with or without an emcee, and ceremony music with a lapel microphone for the officiant is also available. They have the latest technology in lighting and video projectors available for rent. Music videos showcased through the projectors and on flat panel TVs have been a big hit at weddings.
If you want a more interactive affair, karaoke is available and always a fun idea. They include over 1,000 karaoke songs, two microphones, and a television monitor. The DJ's at Cosmo Creations make it their mission to read what style music the guests would enjoy listening to and they never disappoint.
In addition to all of those features, Cosmo Creations has added another exciting element to their arsenal - the photo booth! With Cosmo Creations, you can customize photo strips and take an unlimited number of high-quality photographs in color and/or black and white. Attendants are present to assist and ensure the host gets a copy of each photo taken in the booth. Instead of a traditional guest book, brides can opt for a scrapbook of these images that guests can then sign. They provide props to add to the fun along with online galleries for the digital copies of all of the images. Check out their Facebook page to see online galleries of the photo booth and past events.
To check out Cosmo Creations/Cookeville Photo Booth in person, visit the Cookeville Bridal Show from 1pm to 5pm, Sunday, January 15, 2012 . They will have their photo booth set up, so drop by to try it out and register to win a FREE photo booth rental!
If you would like to learn more about Cosmo Creations and to see a more detailed list of their packages, please visit their website. You can also call 931-265-2934 or email Brent at CosmoCreationsDJ {at} gmail {dot} com to schedule a meeting.
We congratulate Cosmo Creations!
All images courtesy of Cosmo Creations.
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Posted by Newlywed Sara |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Bridal Shows & Events, Contests, Giveaways, Specials, Music, Lighting + Transportation
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Friday, August 26, 2011
Tabitha, Horace (our guest groom) and I are back with our final recap of the Perfect Wedding Guide bridal show. Overall, we loved the show! Loews Vanderbilt made a great location; the vendors were super nice; the show was well operated and there was lots of creativity. We had a great day and met lots of great new wedding vendors and were happy to see many of our wonderful website sponsors.
While we could'nt cover all of the show's wedding service providers, we'll cover a few of our remaining favorites today - from photography and photo booths to music and unique services.
First up, the photo booths...
Ace Photo Booth's video photo booth
A Video Photo Booth - Ace Photobooths
acephotobooth.com
Tabitha: It was almost more fun watching the people in the photo booths as it can be to get in one. Everyone seemed really pleased with their pictures. My favorite was when the two girls (pictured above) both showed their ring fingers to the camera. Alas, my amateur photography skills didn't capture it properly!
Ashley: Yeah, I'd agree. I think photo booths are a great addition to a wedding reception and this one takes video! So, not only are you entertained taking pics but you share the fun by watching your friends inside! As the bride and groom, you get to watch everyone's shenigans over and over and enjoy their personal messages, recorded especially for you.
Horace: I enjoyed all of the photo booths; they varied to give you a better plan to pick the best one. The jury is still out.
A Mini Photo Booth - Nashville Photo Booths by Snyder Entertainment
nashvillephotobooths.com
Tabitha: Snyder Entertainment's photo booth was a little less bulky which makes it easier to fit larger groups of people in the picture. It seemed to appeal to lots of brides who stopped and chatted with them.
Ashley: Brian of Snyder is such a great guy and I love that his booths offer couples a scaled down version of some of the larger booths. As you can see, it could fit just about anywhere.
Wedding Photography - The Collection
thephotographycollection.com
Tabitha: Always a pleasure to see these ladies. You can't miss their booth, it's set up like a cozy living room in which you can view their good work and chat with them. Very inviting, very personable, just like their photographers.
Ashley: The booth was like a mini-studio that spoke well for the company - vibrant colors, great eye for details, and super cool team of approachable, customer-service focused, fun photographers. You can tell a lot about a company based on their presentation; always trust the initial impression. The Collection was inviting and warm - just like their team of photographers. And, their wedding photography is outstanding.
L - R: Jessica, Erin & Sarah of The Collection (Thanks for the picture ladies!)
Wedding Photography - Roland's Photography
weddingsbyroland.com
Ashley: I really like this couple! They love what they do and it shows.
Horace (groom's perspective): They were quite helpful and had a great collection of their work. They really know how to capture the moment.
Tabitha: Roland and his wife were super friendly, I really liked the tile photo frame (pictured) and thought that was a cool way to have your picture on your wall. I wonder if you could make that part of your backsplash in your kitchen?
Roland's debuted the above framed work where images are printed on tile rather than paper.
Wedding Photography - Scoobie Photographic Images
scoobiephoto.com
Tabitha: I was impressed by their guarantee that couples get online viewing of their finished wedding images in just 7 days. They also make discs to give to parents of the couples so no more annoying "Can you email me that picture with you standing here with your dad again?" from either parent!
Ashley: Ditto. I think what Scoobie Photographic offers is truly rare. His turnaround time is unheard of. He also offers a traditional style of photography which parents and classic brides love!
Pretty Stationery - Designs In Paper
designsinpaper.com
Tabitha: It was so simple, but I really liked the "mom" tealight holder. That'd be a great place holder at the head table. You could even have one that says "Just Married" or "Mr" and "Mrs" for the bride and groom. Possibilities = Endless!
Ashley: This booth was so popular that I could barely get in it! But, I've worked with Designs in Paper for years and know that they can do ANYTHING with paper - from paper bouquets to buttons to one of a kind wedding invitations.
Funkalicious - Party Patrol
partypatrolonline.com
Tabitha: I wish DJ Kelly was able to break out some funky tunes to get the party started but it just wasn't that kind of show I guess. One thing's for sure, he was really cool and friendly, two things I'd like from my DJ.
Ashley: I was shocked to see Kelly so laid back. Normally, he is in party mode, as you can see on my funny video from a previous show here. If you need a wedding DJ, he brings the party!
Definitely Dapper - Street Tuxedo
streettuxedo.com
Tabitha: It seems like each time I see Street Tuxedo's booth at a bridal show, they've added more colors to their rainbow of swatches. The guys who modeled their tuxes were certainly very sharp-dressed men! Hopefully that encouraged the brides at the show to use Street Tuxedo for their grooms.
Ashley: Street Tuxedo gives Nashville grooms swag! Their team keeps a pulse on the latest in grooms fashion. I believe in supporting local businesses and love that Street Tuxedo is a Nashville-based, family-owned and operated business. When you go into the store, you will meet someone from the Street family. As such, they value each customer. Their inventory is also local so they can quickly get what you need.
Horace ( groom's perspective): They had a nice selection of tuxes with the wide variety of tie designs.
Great Idea - Music City Sitters
nashvilleweddingsitters.com
Tabitha: Why didn't I think of this? What a great idea. They provide games, toys and entertain your guests' children so everyone has a wonderful time at your wedding and no one has to leave because of a cranky child. Brilliant.
The Groom's Perspective
Horace's take on other wedding vendors at the bridal show:
Olia Zavozina: The wedding dresses were eye catching and definitely got a response out of the attendees.
Catch Light Cinema: I was really impessed with how the company makes you the star of your wedding day.
Tuxedo Avenue: Tuxedo options for the groom were limited but they seemed eager to accommadate.
(Message for wedding pros + show producers: Horace would have liked to have seen more vendors in these categories: spa, transportation, favor vendors, fitness, lighting vendors.)
Be sure to read our recap of our favorite of the show's wedding planners, designers and florists and wedding cakes and catering.
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Attire - Bridal Gowns, Wedding Dresses & Accessories, Bridal Shows & Events, Grooms, Groomsmen & Tuxedos , Music, Lighting + Transportation, Unique Wedding Ideas, Wedding Resources
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Friday, August 19, 2011
Brides, grooms, and wedding guests love photo booths. Every time I watch a wedding show on TV (Four Weddings is one of my favorites), the brides and guests name the photo booth as their favorite aspect of the wedding; they are still crowd pleasers. It's great entertainment. And no matter whether you go with the traditional booth or a new concept, like Picture This - it's sure to make the event more fun for your guests.
I attend bridal shows to see what's new and what brides are loving. At the last bridal show I attended, the Picture This Nashville booth was very popular. It's a virtual booth, one that uses a computer monitor/kiosk instead of a physical booth that guests climb into. It's a unique service to add to your reception and to get a full appreciation of how it works, you need to see, touch, play with it.
There are two things that I think are great about Picture This Nashville: 1) They offer a full refund if you change your mind* and 2) Their booths take up very little space, if that's an issue at your wedding venue.
Read my interview with newlywed Elaine, co-owner of Picture This Nashville, and then head over to their website to learn more.
Contact Info
Name: Picture This Nashville
Main Contact: Elaine Pardo Ingram
Phone Number: 615-352-0024
Email Address: elaine {at} picturethisnashville {dot} net
Website: www.picturethisnashville.net
Twitter: picturethisnash
Facebook fan page: Picture This Nashville
How did you get started in weddings?
My husband & I were looking for something new and exciting for our wedding. When we came across this company we loved it so much we bought the rights to the Nashville - Middle, TN Area.
What do you like most about weddings?
I love dealing with happy people. Working a wedding and seeing the smile on peoples faces makes what we do so much fun.
What’s your favorite wedding pic/video and why?
This video show how much fun using our service can be.
What is your service philosophy?
We understand that in the glory days of planning your event you want it all but the reality is as you get closer the expenses get out of hand. *Picture This Nashville will give you a total refund 60 days before the event. I was a bride that lost a lot of money on wedding show specials.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? / Why should a bride hire you?
A bride should shop around to make sure that they like our service. We are not the traditional photobooth by any means. We take up less space then the big booths and for cost of one machine you can have two. The biggest selling point is our guestbooks. We really take pride in those. We understand what the couple is going through and want to make it as smooth as possible.
Touch screen photo booth kiosk...
with a customizable screen.
A few Nashville wedding pros working + having fun at recent Nashville wedding!
Customizable Photo Guestbook
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors?
Visions by Valeshia – Photography – Valeshia rocks
Trupix Wedding video – Luke and Samantha are so much fun and they get you a great product.
Branching Out florist – Vikki really does magic
Fontanel Mansion – Bradley is a hoot
Designs in Paper – Donette and Steve make ordering your invitations and programs so easy.
Visit Picture This Nashville to learn how their photo booth works and see if it's a good addition to your wedding entertainment.
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Inspiration & Trends, Music, Lighting + Transportation, Unique Wedding Ideas, Wedding Resources
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Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Every detail matters, including the music played at your reception and how your guests interact with your DJ or band. What the DJ selects is ultra important as it determines whether your dream wedding ambiance is achieved. If you are seeking some "fist-pumping" partying, your DJs timing, selections are crucial to keep people on the floor. If you prefer a subdued, sophisticated yet enjoyable evening, you want a DJ that respects your wishes and keeps it lively without imposing.
We turned to Cosmo Creations to challenge them to create wedding music for four mock couples. We created these brides and grooms based on various weddings and couple's we've featured. Hopefully, this will give you insight as you determine your wedding's tone and how to work with your wedding DJ.
Style 1: City Sleek
The couple's wedding style: City chic, modern and bold
The couple's musical tastes: They both love Stevie Wonder and Hip-Hop. They want a danceable reception but the music has to be clean.
Top image: Dove Photography; Middle images: Ulmer Studios + A Delightful Day; Bottom image: The Collection
Cosmo Creation's Custom Playlist for a City Sleek Couple
I Gotta Feeling by Black Eyed Peas
Hey Ya by Andre 3000
Forever by Chris Brown
Let’s Get Married by Jagged Edge
The Way You Make Me Feel by Michael Jackson
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Style 2: Country Meets City
The couple's wedding style: Country with a city edge
The couple's musical tastes: Bride loves country; groom loves rock.
Images: JHenderson Photography via Facebook fan page
Cosmo Creation's Custom Playlist for a Country Meets City Couple
Sideways by Dierks Bentley
She’s Country by Jason Aldean
All Summer Long by Kid Rock
Simple Man (acoustic) by Shinedown
Save a Horse by Big & Rich
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Style 3: Creative + Funky
The couple's wedding style: Non-traditional, fun yet sophisticated
The couple's musical tastes: Sophisticated yet far from classic
Images: Ace Photography via Facebook fan page
Cosmo Creation's Custom Playlist for a Creative + Funky Couple
Water Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers performed by Vitamin String Quartet
Yesterday by The Beatles performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Across The Sea by Weezer performed by Vitamin String Quartet
Don’t Stop Believing by Journey performed by Vitamin String Quartet
I’m Yours by Jason Mraz performed by Vitamin String Quartet
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Style 4: Destination Nashville!
The couple's wedding style: All about Nashville, TN
The couple's musical tastes: The pulse of Nashville
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Images by Michael Howard Photography and Southall Eden Farm via Facebook fan page
Cosmo Creation's Custom Playlist for a Destination Nashville Couple
Crazy Town by Jason Aldean
Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus
Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash
Only God by Emerson Drive
Friends in Low Places by Garth Brooks
Brent Cantrell, owner of Cosmo Creations (Image courtesy of Kristyn Hogan, Lifestyle Photographer)
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Music, Lighting + Transportation
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