Being that our cruise has passed, we decided to put wedding planning into full gear.  We’ve already selected La Massaria for our reception and now need to work on finding a photographer and a DJ, plus all the other needed items (invitations, favors, wedding dress, tuxes, etc).

Luckily finding a Photographer wasn’t as difficult as we had imagined.

The few times we visited La Massaria we always spent time looking through the photo album that Brad – Manager of La Massaria – has available promoting Rick Blanco Photography.  We seemed to be drawn to this album as the pictures, layout and unique style of photography captured in the album was beautiful and seemed to possibly be the way we would like our 10.11.08 photos displayed.

We met with Rick and Maria one evening after work at their home-office and immediately felt comfortable with them and their presentation.  Sharing with us many sample photo albums, frame sizes and types, plus other unique options (such as a mini album, coffee book albums, DVD albums, the clone book, favor tags, thank you cards and an image box), we were also informed about the additional services that they provide; such as:

• An engagement session where we get to know Rick and Maria and their style of photography and in return they get to know both of us, our good sides and how to get us to look good for the camera.
• After our wedding a one-on-one sit down session to design and layout our album.

In the end we decided on a storybook wedding album in a graphic design layout.  We’re going to keep everyone in the dark about exactly what this is, as we want it to be a surprise for everyone! 🙂

Although we didn’t interview a lot of photographers, we did contact another local source gaining some initial basic information which helped us in confirming our decision to have Rick and Maria capture our special 10.11.08!  Their personality, apparent dedication to our 10.11.08 and friendliness – in addition to the quality of their work – almost immediately made the decision for us ((We are still a little upset we didn’t get to meet the puppy, but we do understand.  Maybe next time!)).  Not to mention, they both seemed to take a personal interest in us, not as clients, but as people.  Knowing that we enjoy cooking together although are very new at it, Maria happily shared a cookbook with us that she believed will help us on our culinary adventures.  Rick went out of his way to give us firewood so we can finally enjoy our fire-ring ((seems that you really can’t find firewood in May/June)).

A memorable highlight:

Setup: A rectangular table with somewhere to sit on three of the sides.  Rick and Maria sitting on either of the two smaller sides, while we sat along one of the long sides.

Rick: Would either of you like a mint?
Megan/Josh: Yes!
Rick: Sorry Maria, there are only three.
Maria: Oh, maybe there’s one in the drawer.
Rick: (opening drawer) No there’s not, but here’s a thank you letter from one of our past clients!
Josh: (laughing) OH HOW CONVIENENT IS THAT!!!

We continued to joke around about what just happened so innocently, but came off as a complete setup. :up:

Although it’s only one day later, we’re both still very happy with our decision to use Rick Blanco Photography to capture our special 10.11.08!