Goal # 31: The First Denver Big Fake Wedding

I first heard about the Denver Big Fake Wedding (previously known as the NotWedding) last year, via Green Wedding Shoes, and immediately thought it would be an awesome show to be a part of.  The concept of the NotWedding is that it’s a “bridal show in the form of a big fake wedding”.  Vendors design elements to support the day (i.e. invitation suite, centerpieces, cake) and then guests get to see vendor’s work up close and personal.  “In Action” so to speak.  There is also the opporitnity for vendors to connect with guests in the Tunnel of Love.  For photographers who participate, it’s the chance to photograph the day, similar to a real wedding day, so that guests can then view the gallery after the event and get an idea of how we captured an event they attended.

Since I love weddings and I love shooting, the event seemed like the perfect bridal show for us and I was excited to join the team of the FIRST Denver Big Fake Wedding, held at the McNichols Building.

Connecting with the vendors who participated was an awesome experience and it was amazing to be surrounded by so much talent in the wedding industry.  I knew a few of the vendors from previous projects and weddings, but most were new to me and it was great to form new relationships.  I was particularly happy to meet Jackie Cooper of Jackie Cooper Photo and the two of us hit it off as we photographed side-by-side for much of the event.

It’s also super exciting to announce that the Denver NotWedding is featured over on Ruffled wedding blog today, so click over to check out the work of the other two photographers who were present at the event!

For a more detailed look at my perspective of the day, scroll down (and stay tuned for more tomorrow), then make sure to check out all of the stunning talent that this collaboration boasted!  I’m going to try to tag as many vendors below as possible, but make sure you also check out the complete list here.

The twin team of Mallory and Meagan from Pretty ’round the City provided awesome looking manicures to the bridal party.

First Comes Love designed the hanger for the wedding dress, while a & be bridal hand dipped the wedding dress blue to match the theme of the show.  I loved photographing the dress on the sculpture outside of the McNichols building in Civic Center Park.Host and Toast designed the signature ring box and much of the ceremony space.  Plus they had a pretty kick ass booth in the Tunnel of Love.Hayley, of Hayley Styles did the sophisticated hair for the bridal party.While Alli of alli b makeup artist did the natural, yet glamourous make-up. The bridal party was absolutley in love with their looks!Swoon Jewelry Studios provided the simple, yet elegant jewelry for the bridal party. I LOVED the long turquoise necklace on the left below.The Ruffly Rose did the fabulous bouquet as well as a couple of tables at the reception (see below).  Nerida Mason from Nerida Mason Australia created the headpieces for all of the women in the bridal party.Meagan from Whimsey Design Studio provided one of the invitation suites, which photographed perfectly against the historic floor of the McNichols building.While Jen, from Anthologie Press designed the guest programs and the 2nd invitations suite.  I’ve worked with Jen before and her custom work never ceases to amaze me.  How cool is the ‘paint your own RSVP’ element?Heather and Kelly from Good ‘Ol Fashioned Party did the lounge space for the event as well as the sparkly head table for the reception.First Comes Love also did the wire art Mr. and Mrs. wine glass charms.One of my favorite parts of the day was getting to wander around Civic Center Park with the other two photographers and the videographer and capture bridal party and couple’s portraits.  Stay tuned for the next blog post because I’ll share oodles more of these photos, but here is a quick sneak peak to get you excited!Host and Toast‘s signature signage set up the ceremony and reception space.The tables at the reception were designed by several vendors: Host and Toast, Good ‘Ol Fashioned Party, The Ruffly Rose, and Hey Party Collective.

Sweet as Pie did the dessert table–boy were they yummy!!!Yours Truly Cupcake provided the cake for the cake-cutting and some amazing macaroons.After the ceremony it was time for the first dance, danced to the talents of Ignight EntertainmentOne nice thing about being among creatives is that there were a ton of gorgeous Tunnel of Love tables for guest to check out.Then it was time to finish off the night with more energetic dancing and a glow stick exit!Check back tomorrow for more couple’s photos from the event!  And definitely check out the video produced by White Robin Pictures.

The Not Wedding from Mark A.Castillo on Vimeo.