Better Tie Productions

Republican Presidential Candidates '12

2012-02-22T19:00:00.000-08:00

For the past several months we've had the privilege of being able to photograph and video the Republican Presidential Candidates up close and personal. Here are just a few of the images we've been able to capture.

(Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum, Ron Paul, Newt Gingrich, Herman Cain, Sarah Palin, John Boehner)

Boone + Mishler Wedding at Pretty Place

2012-02-12T15:58:00.000-08:00

2012 Brides Choice Winner

2012-01-23T18:01:00.000-08:00

{Taylors,SC} – January 23, 2012 – WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding Marketplace, is excited to announce Better Tie Productions LLC has been selected to receive the prestigious WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2012 for Videography!

The esteemed annual awards program recognizes the top local wedding vendors from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism within the wedding industry. While many industry awards are selected by the organization, Better Tie Productions LLC was selected based on its stellar reviews from past newlywed clients.

Better Tie Productions LLC is recognized as part of the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire local vendor community, comprised of over 200,000 wedding professionals throughout the United States and Canada. The Bride’s Choice Award recognizes the best local wedding vendors across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is thrilled to honor the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community,” said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. “Since the launch of the Bride’s Choice Awards™ program four years ago, thousands of outstanding wedding professionals have been recognized by the bridal community for their supreme service and dedication to the wedding industry. It is with great pleasure that we congratulate Better Tie Productions LLC for their continued professionalism and commitment to enriching the wedding planning experience for engaged couples.”

We are happy to announce that Better Tie Productions LLC is one of the very best in Photographers, Videographers, and Event Lighting Designers within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Project Wedding, Brides.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire. Thanks to their positive feedback we were able to receive the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ for 2012.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/better-tie-productions-llc-taylors/0884b24e19ad8b21.html.

To learn more about the Bride's Choice Awards™, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire™, the nation's leading marketplace serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 reviewed wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers. WeddingWire also offers a comprehensive suite of online planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire is the only all-in-one marketing platform for businesses online and on-the-go. WeddingWire offers one simple solution to build a professional network, improve search visibility, manage social media and reach mobile consumers. Businesses that advertise with WeddingWire appear on WeddingWire.com, ProjectWedding.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), Brides.com and Weddingbee.com.
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Stamper Family

2011-11-29T15:31:00.000-08:00

We had tons of fun with John + Ashley and their 8 month old baby girl Ashlyn. They were naturals in front of the camera, and Ashlyn had no problem striking a pose whenever the camera was on her. Here are a few images from our short session with them.

Libby + Curtis

2011-06-30T12:09:00.001-07:00

I met Libby last year at one of the wedding shows. After a few phone calls she knew we were the one for her. We were able to film their amazing day at the Cliffs Chapel and reception at the Cherokee Valley Club house. I had a blast working on their project because we were given so much creative liberties. They were an amazing couple to work with, and it was a beautiful wedding to capture.

Pre Ceremony

Highlights Trailer

BTP Lighting: Chris & Tracey

2011-05-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

Lighting is a big passion of mine. So when I receive a call or email saying, how can you make this reception site more "us", I get really excited. And when you take an already beautiful location like The Cliffs Club house, and expound in it. The outcome is amazing. With years of doing off-Broadway lighting, I was able to learn what effects peoples moods and how lighting can transform you from a church gym to a rain-forest feeling, just with lighting. So we were able to work with The Cliffs Club house feeling and make the mood more unique to the bride and groom. -Daniel Yopp

What the Bride said:
"In preparation for our wedding reception my husband and I perused many wedding magazines- what stood out to us was that the most interesting and warm looking receptions came alive by the addition of professional lighting. Our wedding planner recommended Better Tie Productions in Greenville, South Carolina. It was one of the best recommendations we could of received during our wedding planning. Daniel Yopp made our reception memorable to all that attended with uplighting, wall monogram, highlighting our cake and dance floor. The reception venue said they had never seen the room look better!. Thank you Better Tie Productions... you have our highest praises!" Tracey Pine

Brian "Head" Welch Concert

2011-05-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

Our love of photography doesn't just stop at weddings and portraits. We love all aspects of photography, especially things that keep our creativity flowing. Nothing get's you going like a ROCK concert! The lights, haze, music loud enough to make you go deaf, the energy from the band, being in the crowd of screaming fans singing along to every song. Each thing complementing the other perfectly in controlled chaos. I just love it! These images are from a concert we just recently shot, for our good friends at The Channel. (Bands: The Wedding, Decyfer Down, The Letter Black, and Brian "Head" Welch)

Wedding Wire 2011 Award

2011-02-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

Greenville SC – Wednesday February 2nd 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Better Tie Productions, LLC has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Photography, Videography, and Lighting!

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Better Tie Productions stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Better Tie for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that Better Tie Productions is among the very best in Photogrpahy, Videography, and lighting within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at www.weddingwire.com/bettertieproductions

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire.com, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives local businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. Businesses that join the WeddingWire Network appear on WeddingWire.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), ProjectWedding.com and Weddingbee.com (both part of eHarmony), and Celebrations.com (part of the 1-800-Flowers family of brands, NASDAQ: FLWS).

Katie Naber Bridal Portrait

2010-10-14T18:59:00.000-07:00

Fall is here

2010-10-04T11:02:00.000-07:00

Things here at Better Tie Blog spot have been quiet lately we know, But it's only because we have been staying so busy. The summer was full of weddings, portraits, road trips and of course, blistering SC heat.

Finally fall is here with cooler weather and warm colored scenery. And we can not be More happy about it! There is something wonderful about this time of year! And how even just a drop in temp of 10 degrees can instinctively have you craving anything pumpkin spice & apples.Yum! And even the most reserved adult has the urge to jump in the crunchy leaves! Now is definitely the perfect time for portraits! Whether it be family or senior. If you don't have a photographer yet, check out our Fall Specials. Enjoy this gorgeous fall weather, and let us help capture the moments that will warm up your life forever.

Fall Mini-Shoot Marathon!

2010-09-27T09:29:00.000-07:00

We have had a lot of people ask if we take our unique style to shoot family photos. Well our answer is YES! And to celebrate the fall season, we are doing a "Fall Mini-Shoot Marathon." This is a Great opportunity for all of you to get the Better Tie look at a discount. I'm sure this will not last long, so tell all your friends and family about this amazing deal. PLUS you can get yours FREE with our "Refer 3, get yours free" deal. So if 3 of your friends or family sign up, you get your shoot free!!! Don't miss out! Grab your spouse, kids, dogs, grandparents and make some memories the Better Tie way! There are limited spots available.

Senior Portrait Sessions!

2010-07-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

You are Not average and ordinary so why should your Senior pics be! Now is the time to set up your session, we promise you will not be disappointed! For those of you who know & love our work, Please pass the word on to all your family & friends that are up and coming seniors! We would love the opportunity to give them portraits that will capture their unique personality & style. And seriously Amaze!

Alyssa + Joe Wedding

2010-07-01T10:06:00.001-07:00

This was a couple that we met last year at the June wedding trade show. The very trade show that was a complete black out due to a freak storm. We continued meeting & greeting people by the light of our flashlights, and when all was said and done made some great connections. When Alyssa called to book us for her wedding for both Photo & Video, she said that we stood out amongst the darkness. Quite the compliment! We thoroughly enjoyed working with Alyssa & Joe over the past few months, during their engagement, and bridal shoots. And captured some Amazing shots! Their wedding day was beautiful at St. Anthony's downtown Greenville, Joe was all smiles at his stunning bride, they along with their fun-loving bridal party were a blast to work with. The Poinsett downtown was the perfect setting for their elegant reception. We are so Thankful for the opportunity to have worked with them, and be a part of this exciting time in their life. Their family & friends were so welcoming, and we really enjoyed the day with them!

Here are some of the moments we captured of this Great couple! Best of Wishes Alyssa & Joe as you begin your lives together!

Alyssa & Joe's Wedding Trailer from Better Tie Productions on Vimeo.

Senior Portraits!

2010-06-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

I know the LAST thing on anyone's mind right now is school, and rightly so! But we just wanted to let you know that we have some SWEET Summer deals going on for Senior portraits! For those of you who know & love our work, Please pass the word on to all your family & friends that are up and coming seniors! We would love the opportunity to give them portraits that will capture their unique personality & style. And seriously Amaze!

2010-06-15T08:21:00.000-07:00

Exciting changes happening!! We are pleased to announce the launch of our NEW LOGO! And also our NEW Facebook Page! We are NOW "Better Tie Productions", this better encompasses who we are, and all that we offer. Cutting Edge Videography, Photography, & Lighting.

A letter from Jennifer (a recent bride).

2010-02-05T16:24:00.000-08:00

Early in 2009 I attended a bridal show in Spartanburg, SC. Since I had only been engaged for a few weeks, I knew very little about all of the many details that go into planning a wedding. Scheduling vendors was, at the time, the least of my worries.

As time went on, I found myself hiring a caterer, booking a reception location and buying a dress but had put very little thought into hiring a photographer. Our wedding location was Charleston, SC so when I started seeking a photographer I began my search there. After phone conversations with over a dozen providers my frustration began to grow. In most cases, I felt like the photographers did not really care about getting to know me and most of them did not show any interest in being a part of our wedding day.
As most of you know, attending a bridal show means giving your phone number and email address to hundreds of vendors. After I attended the show in Spartanburg, my inbox was swamped with “Let us be a part of your special day” email brochures. After a few weeks, those emails started to disappear. However, Better Tie was the only company that persisted in maintaining contact. Their name was constantly in the back of my mind, and when I decided to stop my search in Charleston they were the first company that I reached out to.
Through the entire process of planning our wedding, I made sure to hire vendors that were talented in their field and down to earth as individuals. My husband and I both have very close families and we wanted to make sure that our wedding day portrayed that bond. Hiring vendors that fit that mold was important to both of us.
Better Tie exceeded all of our expectations. They made an honest and heartfelt effort to make a connection with my husband, our families, and me from the very beginning. During my bridal shoot they went the extra mile to find locations that fit my personality in order to produce the bridal portraits of my dreams. They made the trip to Charleston a night early so that they could pick the best locations to take pictures the following day and even attended our wedding rehearsal so they would know the flow of the ceremony. On our wedding day they worked from sun up until sun down to make sure that all of the important details of our wedding day were captured. They spent time taking wedding party pictures with my bridesmaids and me on the beach and then traveled to the ceremony location to take pictures of my husband and his groomsmen on the grounds of The Citadel. They blended in with the surroundings and were sure not to pull us in a million different directions, all while making sure that they took pictures that we would be excited to look at for many years to come.
For those few, most important days of our lives, Better Tie was a part of our family. They cared about each of us and showed genuine concern in making sure that our wedding day was captured in the best way possible. They are wonderful individuals that operate on the utmost professional level. All that we have of our wedding day are memories… memories that Better Tie provided to us through their fantastic talent.

Jennifer

South meets West <3

2010-01-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

In retrospect, we would like to highlight the wedding of Miles & Michelle Terry. Their breath taking wedding took place in Texas and was definitely a page out of every girl's book of dream weddings. We were privileged to not only capture their day through video but to truly be a part of the celebration of their relationship and wedding day. We first introduced you all to Miles about a year ago in our post "Just like the Movies", when Miles approached us about filming and producing his extrordinary proposal video. The proposal came from a nearly two year project that began with just a “front porch” idea Miles (groom) had one evening while he and bride Michelle were in law school. It ended with a bigger-than-life proposal on a 41-foot Big Screen in the historic 1940s movie theatre in Portsmouth, Virginia, The Commodore! The proposal came through an “All-In-One” 45-minute Movie Experience, written by Miles and produced by Better Tie productions. Every second, from the trivia spots, to the 3 previews celebrating various stages of Michelle’s life, to the main feature, captured Michelle’s greatest qualities and all of her favorite things. The final scene, just before the credits and the bloopers ran, ended seconds before Miles took a knee on the floor of the movie dinner-theatre to pop the question to the woman of his dreams. Michelle never saw it coming, but the magical tale of their perfect proposal was “just like in the movies.”

Miles and Michelle are an incredible couple, with a zeal for life and live with passion and determination. Upon meeting Miles one thinks to themselves "this man is destined for greatness" and who better to be by his side, tackling whatever life may bring but the sweet, generous definition of classy woman- Michelle. The qualities that both possess are not often seen or met. And we were excited to walk down this road with them. In the few months leading up to their wedding day, Miles and Michelle both graduated Regent Law school, studied for and passed the grueling SC bar exam! An enormous task on it's own, let alone paired with planning a wedding thousands of miles away. Their hard work and perseverance were met with wide smiles of joy as they stood hand in hand, the stunning bride and the southern gentleman; in a Gorgeous cathedral in Plano, TX. Their day was filled with so many touching moments of sentiment and beauty, from the gifts exchanged by the bride and groom before the ceremony, to the beautiful song resounding through the church sung by the bride's sister. Their day will long be remembered and it was nothing short of phenomenal to capture in video.

Many congrats Miles and Michelle as you begin your lives together! The Better Tie Crew

Miles + Michelle Wedding Trailer from Better Tie Productions on Vimeo.

Mike & Megan

2009-12-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

We have really enjoyed getting to know Mike & Megan over this past year of photo shoots. Their wedding day was a perfect medley of contemporary and traditional. Megan was quite the trooper for a bride, she planned her wedding day around a marathon that was near and dear to her heart and got up the morning of her big day to run a 5K! How cool is that? :) The reception was a lavish set up outside at the bride's parents property, the bridal party was a relaxed, fun bunch and we had a blast capturing them enjoy the day. We made an instant slide show of pictures at the reception and had it showing for the guests to view and that soon became a hot spot.
Below are some of our favorites of the day.

Mike & Megan best wishes! Better Tie

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas!

2009-12-15T10:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas is fast approaching and the hustle and bustle well under way. Here at Better Tie productions we are caught up in the Christmas spirit and find our selves editing pictures and video to the sound of Christmas carols, and drinking one to many glasses of eggnog. :) We are staying busy setting up consultations, dates are quickly booking for 2010. Also, we're preparing for the trade shows coming up in the New Year by revamping our booth and showcasing some of our favorite work from 2009. We can't wait to show you the new look!
The Holiday season is filled with so many fun festivities and gatherings, and we would like to extend warm wishes to you and yours as you celebrate together. We would also like to eliminate just a little of the stress the season can bring by giving you some helpful, quick tips for great pictures this Christmas! Family group shots can be one of the most dreaded parts of get togethers but they don't have to be. Life is made up of little special moments- taking the right picture at the right time makes those moments priceless. If you are having fun, then the people you're photographing will be relaxed and enjoy having their picture taken as well. Just go with the moment, and understand that you can't control everything, so just capture what's there. Natural pictures speak volumes. Small reminders of daily life are more precious than posed pictures. With that in mind, here are some some quick tips to enhance your family pics.

1. You will want to make sure there are no poles or plants sticking out from behind your subject's heads. Pull your subjects' away from any walls, this way you can get a better depth of field, and make your point shoot camera take pictures that look like they were taken with a more expensive camera. Also, don't place anyone directly in front of the Christmas tree, instead, put them off to the side.

2. Lighting can be your friend or your enemy. Sunlight is my favorite kind of light and mornings and evenings bring the best natural photos. Try to use sunlight to your advantage by putting the sunlight to the slight side of your subjects so that it casts a soft shadow on the opposing side. This will also help prevent squinting of the eyes. It will also enhance your subjects. And remember to make sure you don't have bright lights behind your subjects.

All in all, just make sure having a good time and you will capture the perfect moment. And don't forget to keep us in mind for all your professional photo/video/lighting needs!

From all of us at Better Tie have a very Merry Christmas Season!!

Better Tie Lighting

2009-12-08T19:52:00.000-08:00

If you are wanting to take your event to the next level, and create an enchanting oasis. Our cutting edge lighting design & expertise will do just that. We have been in the lighting industry for almost 18 years now, and using lights in a unique and artistic way is a passion of mine. The possibilities are endless, and surprisingly affordable.

Below are 2 pictures, before and after the Better Tie Lighting touch.

Rachel & Ian "Before & After"

2009-11-17T12:37:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! We have been getting a lot of requests to see some of our B&A (before & after) pictures.
So here are some samples from our engagement shoot for Rachel & Ian.
Let me know what you think. We would like to hear your thoughts.

We'll be displaying some more B&A's photos soon.

Daniel Yopp

Jennifer & Oliver's Wedding

2009-10-06T16:14:00.000-07:00

We have been expectantly looking forward to Jennifer & Oliver's wedding in Charleston, after Jennifer turned out some of the most rave inspiring Bridal portraits thus far, we knew the wedding would be nothing short of captivating.
We arrived in Charleston Friday morning and took a few hours to scout out unique locations that we could use for our shoot. That evening we joined Jennifer and Oliver, their bridal party and family for the Rehearsal dinner at a beautiful beach house on Folly beach. Their family could not have been more welcoming and treated us more like extended family than hired photographers, we enjoyed getting to spend some time getting to know them a little before the big day. It was a relaxing evening before the busyness that was soon to come in the morning and we sat looking out over the beach, relishing the salty breeze, the sound of the crashing waves and the beautiful sunset.
Before falling asleep that night we watched the weather channel and prayed the forcasted rain would hold off, it would be such a disappointment to be in the midst of such breath taking ocean scenery and not be able to fully take advantage of it! The following morning we awoke to cloudy skies but thankfully muggy clouds were all we had to battle and we were anxious to start the day. We went outside after the girls got ready to get some amazing moments of them together on Folly beach, then headed over to the Citadel where Oliver recently graduated and grabbed some great shots of the guys before the ceremony. The afternoon wedding was splendid held at the Summerall Citadel Chapel. The recessional was done in Citadel tradition with the bride and groom exiting under a archway of swords. And the reception was a night to remember in historic downtown Charleston at The South Carolina Society Hall.It was an elegant arrangement, with a lively D-J who kept the party hopping right up until the time that the bride and groom left. We were thankful to be a part of this special day and look forward to working on the magnificent pictures that came from it! All our best to Jennifer & Oliver!
The Better Tie Crew

Booth Side

2009-09-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

We just finished our 2 fall Wedding Festivals trade shows! We anxiously look forward to the shows and the opportunity to meet so many couples and give you a glimpse into our creativity & unique style of both photography and videography. We are passionate about what we do and the trade shows provides a wide scale opportunity to show what we infuse into each and every shoot. The show definitely did not disappoint and we spoke with close to 500+ soon to be brides! We also really enjoyed meeting new vendors and getting to know better the devoted vendors that we work beside at every show.
We look forward to setting up consultations over the next few weeks, and would love the opportunity to exceed your expectations and rock your photo and video dreams!

Come and See us!!

2009-09-15T21:18:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks we have been busily preparing for the upcoming Wedding Festivals. We eagerly look forward to trade shows, and put a lot of thought into fresh ideas for our booth. The show is always a rush of soon to be brides anxiously crossing off pre-wedding to do lists. Their minds are filled with all the decisions they have yet to make to create their dream wedding, BUT when it comes to Photography and Video they need to look no further than Better Tie Productions! We really enjoy getting to meet all the couples and the opportunity to show them how unique and innovative we are, that's why we take the time to make sure our booth expresses our personality and truly show cases what we are about. Thursday, September 17 we will be at Carolina First Center in Greenville, SC from 4-9pm and then Thursday, September 24 we will be at the Asheville Civic Center from 4-9pm.
We would love to see you there!!
The BT Crew

Texas

2009-09-08T18:09:00.000-07:00

We recently had the privilege of shooting video for a wedding in Texas!! We arrived in Dallas/Fortworth after 14 hours of driving and insane amounts of twizzlers, Monster energy drinks, oatmeal cookies and more energy drinks. Needless to say we were pretty jittery upon arrival. But excited to be in the Lone star state where we had spent many years traveling to while working in the Lighting/Theater industry. It felt good to be back. We met up with the groom and chatted with him into the wee hours of the morning, discussing expectations/ideas for the wedding weekend. After finally crashing for a long nights sleep which equaled about 2 hours! We were up and taking in the sights of the area and planning out our upcoming video shot list and getting creative.
We were asked by the groom to join him and his groomsmen for the bachelor dinner, held at a Brazilian steakhouse, which features a large variety of meats all cut table side. We all enjoyed what we hope was a little taste of heaven..endless meat! And felt blessed to get to spend time getting to know the guys before the big day!
One thing that made the time in Texas interesting was the driving! Since this was our first time in about 8 years that we have been back to Texas, their entire highway systems have been completely redone...and replaced with a glorified highway! So much so that our GPS couldn't keep up with all the exits and frontage roads! It made day to day commuting quite the adventure. Road Rage showed it's big bad self a few times, and for those of us who were passengers, motion sickness became a frequent guest. ;0)
The wedding day was a jammed packed one, we began our shoot at 9am and didn't turn off the cameras until after 11:30pm that night. And it was by far the most remarkable, awe-inspiring wedding we have shot thus far. By nights end we were ready for a good nights sleep before our drive back home the following morning. We were sad to leave the great state of Texas and the wonderful people we met during our stay, but anxious to get on the road again knowing we had projects to finish back home. We are so thankful for such an awesome opportunity and incredible experience!

Life in the Fast Lane

2009-09-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe how fast the summer has flown by! The cooler temperatures that September has ushered in have been a welcomed change! Living in South Carolina you never really know what fall will bring, it is not unusual to have 90 degree weather! So to actually be enjoying what feels like "real fall weather" is a pleasant surprise! ;0) Right now, we at Better Tie are trying to catch our breath after a really great summer, and before what looks like an exciting next coming months.
The month of August we have been here, there, and everywhere! Besides being jammed pack full of engagement & bridal portrait sessions, this month we had the addition of some cross country traveling. We headed to Texas for a week for a wedding video shoot, and then after returning home to South Carolina for a couple days left for Nebraska for a promotional video shoot! It has been a very full month! We met some great couples and wonderful people during all our shoots and find that each new place sparks our creativity and fresh ideas! Stay tuned as we fill you in on some of the highlights of our travels in the upcoming blog posts!
And come see us at the upcoming Wedding Festivals!! If you are a bride or groom to be and have not yet chosen a Videographer or Photographer... you definitely should come to our booth, we promise we will exceed your photo and video dreams and at a price that can NOT be matched for the quality!

September 17 - Wedding Festival Carolina First Center Greenville, SC
September 24 - Wedding Festivals Asheville Civic Center

The Better Tie Crew

Diversity is Beautiful

2009-07-20T19:40:00.000-07:00

It has been a few weeks since our last blog and July has proved to be a very busy month! Our schedule has been full of consultations, photo shoots and other business ventures.
One of our photo sessions was a wonderful bridal portrait shoot with Jennifer who while completely decked out in her wedding dress endured one of the hottest evenings thus far this summer! And despite the heat she totally worked the camera for the absolutely stunning shots we were able to capture. Jennifer trudged up and down ladders, railroad tracks, across fields and streets. And at one point she even stopped traffic as we took a picture of her and a passing train! She was so down to earth and adventurous,we had a blast working with her! We can't wait for her wedding in Charleston this September, it is sure to be nothing less than gorgeous. Thanks Jennifer!
At Better Tie each and every bridal portrait session is unique to the bride we are working with. We go out before each photo shoot and scout out different locations that we feel will show case the bride's personality and style. And we accomplish that by taking them somewhere new, fresh and exciting. We are not about cookie cutter style, or taking the same shot that has been done a million times before. Diversity is beautiful. Why settle for average or repetitive when you can have Better...Better Tie!

Today I will Marry my Best Friend...

2009-06-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

We recently finished a wedding for Chelsea & Brandon a really sweet couple we met almost a year ago at the September 2008 Wedding Festivals trade show. The wedding date finally arrived and our video cameras were ready to capture the joy and sentiment felt by all in attendance as these childhood sweethearts had their long awaited big day!
The ceremony was held at Refren Baptist church, a quaint chapel with beautiful stain glass windows and southern charm. The reception was at Furman University and though it rained periodically throughout it did not dampen the beauty of the surroundings or the mood of the guests as they rocked it out on the dance floor!
One of the special features of our video collections is the bride and groom interviews done before the ceremony. This provides a time for each of them to express to one another a small amount of the emotion & anticipation that they are feeling at that moment. Re-living when they met, and fell in love and declaring their love and enthusiasm over starting their new life together. These few minutes will become a priceless part of their wedding video.
You can get to know Chelsea & Brandon a bit by watching a portion of their interview in the clip below.

The Better Tie Crew

Chelsea + Brandon Q/A from Better Tie Productions on Vimeo.

Stop & Smell the Flowers

2009-06-16T19:21:00.000-07:00

There is much preparation that goes into the making of your dream wedding. It seems as the day quickly approaches the to-do list is forever growing and it can be pretty daunting for a soon to be bride or groom. It is a bride's tendency and almost role in the days to come to worry about so many different aspects of her big day, there are a lot of variables and she bears the weight of her hopes and dreams of a perfect wedding on her shoulders. But there is one thing you don't have to second guess, You can count on Better Tie Productions! We hold true to our personal commitments that we made when we started our business, to Integrity, Quality, Excellence, & Individuality. We also made a commitment to not double-book our events. This comes with sacrifice at times, but we feel it is of the up most importance and value to our clients to know that they are getting our undivided time, focus and creative energy. We are invested in your day from start to finish. And because of that you can have peace of mind and Enjoy yourself and each other! We will provide you with everything you ever dreamed of and more by taking the little moments and making them spectacular. Stop, smell the flowers..you deserve it!

The Better Tie Crew

"And now we are as One."

2009-06-16T15:22:00.000-07:00

We were honored to be a part of Gerrie & Brandon's special day. They chose the Black Tie Video Collection so we pulled out all the stops and were able to obtain some amazing footage of their phenomenal wedding. John Knox Presbyterian Church proved to be a gorgeous back drop for their ceremony, and the reception at Westin Pointsett Hotel downtown Greenville was just icing on the cake. Their first dance was beautifully choreographed and as the night went on dance fever was definitely in the air! Gerrie challenged her bridesmaid to a dance-off which was unforgettable! Gerrie and Brandon were relaxed and really enjoying every moment of their day, and it was a pleasure to capture. When the night came to a close, 3 weddings were leaving the hotel at once which created a grand departure. A perfect ending to a magnificent day!

Here is a highlight trailer of the day. Enjoy!

Brandon + Gerrie highlights trailer from Better Tie Productions on Vimeo.

The Show Must Go on!

2009-06-12T13:21:00.000-07:00

Last night, Thursday June 11, 2009 was the Wedding Festivals trade show. The only summer trade show, and our first show to debut our photography to the public! (Which previously was only offered privately and to our corporate clients.) We were anxiously and with great preparation looking forward to it. The trade shows are an opportunity for us to meet hundreds of brides, but also for you to get to know us a little as well - a glimpse behind the camera- so to speak. And we want our booth to represent our personality and the creativity that we will be infusing into each and every photo shoot and video. That all starts weeks before the actual trade show. The Better Tie crew begins discussing ideas and new designs into the wee hours of the morning,(which is usually when we work best!)Once we have a design in mind we start dry runs of the set up in our workshop. We feel strongly that time + effort produces perfection. And we want that for each project we are working on.
We were very excited about this trade show, and were pumped when the doors opened at 4pm and soon to be brides and grooms and friends came pouring through. Our booth was looking sweet, lights blazing, dvd playing, meeting & greeting...then shortly before 5pm...BLACK! The entire civic center lost power due to some pretty crazy high winds. You couldn't even see the vendors whose booth is besides yours, or the bride that is a foot away from you! Amazingly though by the light of the emergency exit signs, and open doors that let some light stream in...the show continued! A great friend of ours brought some flash lights and we hooked them up to display our booth and held them so the brides could view our albums. And we thoroughly enjoyed the campfire-esque feel. The show must go on- and we are so thankful that it did! Unfortunately, we could barely see your faces to remember you the next time we meet with you, but we had SO many Great conversations with each person that stopped by our booth, and are really appreciative for the opportunity to get to know your style and expectations for your wedding. And we can confidently say that we can Rock your Photo & Video Dreams!!
This was a night to remember, we look forward to speaking with you in the upcoming weeks!
- The Better Tie Crew

The Beginning of Forever...

2009-06-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

There are those people who you meet, who when you walk away from you feel blessed to have crossed paths with, and thankful for the opportunity to have worked with them. Sarah & Mark are definitely that type. They are an all around genuine, down to earth, fun-loving couple who radiant a deep love for each other and for life. It has been a pleasure working with them over these past few months. And their wedding day was just a culmination of those experiences. Their big day was an outdoor event and with storms in the forecast we were holding our breath all week. Fortunately any gloomy clouds and rain were held off and we had a beautiful weekend to capture them both through photography and video. They both have become pros in front of the camera, which was great for us! And enabled us to focus our creative juices on the bridal party.
One cool point of interest from the day was that Mark a talented potter by trade, hand made some amazing looking mugs as gifts for each of their guests.That is not something you see every wedding!
Mark & Sarah we wish you all the best as you start your new life together!

*Check back with us for pictures from their day!

Let there be Light

2009-06-08T20:04:00.000-07:00

Summer has just begun and seems to be flying by quickly already. This past weekend was jammed packed with events, one of them being the wedding of Heather & James in the heart of downtown at the Greenville Country Club doing lighting design.
We were excited for the opportunity to work with one of the upstate's finest high-end florists Dahlia. Their exquisite floral arrangements paired with our creative lighting design transformed an ordinary reception hall to look like a page out of a magazine. We created a "Garden Room" in the entryway, by complementing the greenery with earthy green lights and a custom made monogram light displayed on the wall. In the main ballroom we infused fuchsia and spotlit each center piece for a complete romantic ambiance.
If you are wanting to take your event to the next level, and create an enchanting oasis our cutting edge lighting design & expertise will do just that. We have been in the lighting industry for almost 18 years now, and using lights in a unique and artistic way is a passion of mine. The possibilities are endless, and surprisingly affordable. You can contact me through the Better Tie website and please check out Dahlia florists at dahliaonline.com

Logan Bridal shoot.

2009-06-04T23:03:00.001-07:00

We were able to shoot Logan's AMAZING bridal portrait at the "Acanthus". Jim Craig with the Acanthus was so gracious as to let us go through the whole house and take pictures wherever we needed to. I wish we could have spent all day there it was so beautiful. But Logan was so hard to work with!!... LOL j/k She was great! We went shooting early in the morning and by 9:30am it was already 93 outside and 70% humidity. She never complained once I felt bad for her being in that heavy dress all day. Well, we were able to get some great shots. Elisha was the photographer and did a great job!
I'll post some pictures here, but you can view more on our website www.BetterTieVideo.com or look us up on FACEBOOK (Better Tie) and we have some pictures there too. Let me know what you think.

Daniel Yopp
Better Tie Video

Canvas Prints

2009-05-28T14:13:00.002-07:00

I just finished mounting Sarahs canvas print we did for her. It looks so amazing we were able to get some amazing shots from her. I will be using some of her shots for our up coming bridal show with the "Wedding Festivals" June 11th. So if your going to the show make sure you check us out, we'd love to see you.
Also even if you have a photographer or already have prints we can make them into canvas prints for you in almost any size. Just e-mail or call me if you have questions we'd love to help you.

Daniel Yopp
daniel@bettertievideo.com
864.386.5727

Sarah's Bridal Portrait

2009-05-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

We just finished an engagement shoot with Sarah (one of our brides in June). We had so much fun and we were able to get some outstanding pictures. She was so easy to work with and just a natural in-front of the camera. We have some pictures on the new-site too. Check them out at www.bettertievideo.com

Chelsea + Brandon

2009-05-19T18:23:00.000-07:00

We just finished shooting this great couple's wedding on Saturday. We were able to get some great footage with them before and after the ceremony. The reception was at Furman and even though it was raining - everything looked beautiful. We will post their Wedding trailer in just a few days.

Just Like in the Movies

2009-04-20T09:11:00.000-07:00

We wanted to let you know about some of our work that is getting some attention right now! The "Just Like in the Movies" Proposal entered in the MarthaStewartWeddings.com proposal contest by one of our brides is in the running to be the "Best Proposal" to win a free Honeymoon Getaway to Disney World! Better Tie Video filmed and produced this incredible proposal "movie experience." Read the posting below from Martha Stewart Weddings' website posted by the bride and also so to the link we have provided to view it on the contest website...and don't forget to vote for them!!!

"Just Like in the Movies" posting on contest website:

Our perfect proposal came from a nearly two year project that began with just a “front porch” idea Miles (groom) had one evening while he and bride Michelle were in law school. It ended with a bigger-than-life proposal on a 41-foot Big Screen in the historic 1940s movie theatre in Portsmouth, Virginia, The Commodore!

The proposal came through an “All-In-One” 45-minute Movie Experience, written by Miles with his best friend’s new production company [That's us! Better Tie Video] behind the camera. Every second, from the trivia spots, to the 3 previews celebrating various stages of Michelle’s life, to the main feature, captured Michelle’s greatest qualities and all of her favorite things. The final scene, just before the credits and the bloopers ran, ended seconds before Miles took a knee on the floor of the movie dinner-theatre to pop the question to the woman of his dreams. Michelle never saw it coming, but the magical tale of their perfect proposal was “just like in the movies.” DVD available upon request!

The day was completed by Michelle’s family flying in from Texas to surprise her and celebrate with the happy couple, and a surprise engagement party with wonderful friends from school!

View this posting on the contest website here:

http://contributors.marthastewartweddings.com:80/portal/index.html?ctrl:id=window.default.ContestWindow&ctrl:type=render&ctrl:windowstate=maximized&op=vpic&user=974351&ccomm=32022&offset=190&cPicId=81362

Don't forget to vote for the proposal!

Enjoy some of the pictures from the "Making of the Perfect Proposal Better Tie Video Produced! Video of the Proposal to be posted very soon!

Judith + Isaac

2009-04-14T08:20:00.000-07:00

We just finished up a photo shoot with Judith + Isaac, in between all of the rain we have been getting lately. We captured some great photos and had a lot of fun with this couple. Let us know what you think about the photos and leave a comment for us on the blog.

The Better Tie Photo Team (A division of Better Tie Video)

You Can't Rush Awesomeness!

2009-04-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

We were scheduled to debut the new BetterTieVideo.com this past month but we still have a few more things to polish up before we let you see it! The Big-Time Executives in their Big-Time Positions have given us an extension to finish up this brand new addition to the Better Tie Family. Everyone knows that you can't rush awesomeness - so we are hurrying as fast as we can - but it's taking a little more time than first expected. We know many of our brides have been sitting by their computers hitting the refresh button over and over for the past 2 weeks having the normal Better Tie withdrawals that all of our clients normally have - but just hold your horses - the new and improved BetterTieVideo.com is on its way to a computer near you. We are almost done with it and just wanted to let you know that it is on its way!

Sarah + Mark

2009-04-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

We've been all over the East Coast this past week taking care of business but just finished up the edits on these incredible photos from Sarah and Mark's engagement photo shoot this past month and wanted to share them with all of you who follow us on our blog. They were an amazing couple, we had a blast with them.

At Better Tie Productions, we not only can take care of your wedding video production needs but also have a new photo production department (Better Tie Photo), and can handle all of your graphic design and lighting needs for your wedding as well! Enjoy the photos and if you think we might be able to do something for your wedding too - just give us a call!

Coming Soon to a Web browser near you!

2009-03-01T11:28:00.001-08:00

To all you brides-to-be out there, we are excited to announce that the Wedding Festival shows over till June, but bettertievideo.com is getting a new face-lift this month and we are excited to launch it - so stay tuned. The new website will have a clean new look, offer more packages and services than we have ever offered before, and be just about the most awesome thing you have ever seen so keep up the hard work on planning your wedding, have fun, and remember that you have got to have a videographer for your wedding and we want to be the ones you call to take care of it for you. Your wedding deserves to be better than the rest so choose Better Tie.

The Wedding Festivals Promo Video

2009-02-17T19:53:00.000-08:00

With 5 shows all in one month and thousands of brides coming through the doors, it is certainly a challenge to explain everything that goes on at Wedding Festivals Bridal Show. There are not enough words to describe the thrill caused by so many brides all in one room, at one time - shopping for their wedding vendors.

From the delighted bride-to-be to her groom-to-be who was drug along for the ride, the show is an exciting adventure in and of itself. That being said, it is too great of a challenge to summarize such an event in one single blog post. However, we at Better Tie Video Productions have tried, and we believe succeeded, in capturing the essence, milieu, and theme of Wedding Festivals within a short 3 minute video. Let us know what you think and be sure to check out more of our work at www.bettertievideo.com.

Wedding Festival Trailer '09 from Better Tie Productions on Vimeo.

Spartanburg it is!

2009-01-24T19:05:00.000-08:00

Wow! The Spartanburg Wedding Festivals was today and it was quite a show! Just over 300 brides, along with accompanying mothers, friends, and fiances poured into the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium today to plan their wedding!

Not only that, right upstairs was a national "Clog Dancing Competition!!!" That just goes to show that there is never a dull moment in Sparkle City, as the locals call it. So in addition to meeting many fabulous brides, we had the rare pleasure of being entertained by competitive clog dancers, who were practicing in the parking lot. I think I'll sleep well tonight knowing that I am one of the few people in the world that can describe their day using the phrases "Wedding Festivals" and "competitive clog dancers" in the same sentence.

But to top off such a day, we indulged in one of South Carolina's finest offerings. You guessed it!--we ate at THE BEACON!!! Food always tastes better when a man yells out your order--"Burger-A-Pleantyyyyyyyyy!! After a burger and fries marinated in grease and liquid cholesterol, we finally decided to call it a day. A great day!!

Thanks to everyone who came out to the show. And thank you to the clog dancers who made my day just a bit more interesting.

We will be at the last Wedding Festivals of this Winter show season this coming Saturday at the Carolina First Center--come see us!

The Better Tie Logo posted up on the back of our booth!

Bri and myself in our booth

Double the Wedding Festivals, double the fun!

2009-01-19T20:08:00.000-08:00

Don't miss the bridal showwwww!

We have just got done with the Wedding Festivals show in Asheville, NC last week and in Anderson, SC this week! We had the opportunity to meet tons of brides and other wedding businesses in the area!

After the Asheville show we had a very special treat, we went along with the Wedding Festivals staff and ate at a fantastic restaurant called The Fiddlin Pig! If you're ever in the Asheville area, we suggest this place! They had everything from scrumptious food, of course, to musical entertainment and an all around fun time!

At the Anderson show we had an extremely positive response from brides and other vendors. I can't wait until we start hearing back from some of the brides at both shows. If you're a bride reading this, that's you!

Here is our booth!

Here is our booth with us in it!

Every Bride Needs a Videographer...Why I'm Hiring Better Tie

2009-01-13T12:30:00.000-08:00

We just recently booked a wedding in the "Big D"(Dallas,Texas) for this August. The bride was sweet enough to tell us why she was choosing Better Tie Video. Her letter reads:

Dear Fellow Bride-to-be,

I want tell you why I have hired a videographer for my wedding, and why I have chosen Better Tie Productions to be the ones to document my big day. I am getting married on August 15, 2009, and, like most brides, am under a budget. After the flowers, and the cake, and the dress, the numbers add up so quickly, it would seem like something would have to be let go! But I know that flowers die, cake gets eaten, and I can only wear that (gorgeous) dress once.

That's why I have hired Better Tie. I want to be able to watch my wedding video and remember all of the details of the day. I want to be able to experience again my Dad's reaction to seeing me in my wedding dress for the first time, and watch what my groom was doing before I walked down the aisle. I can't wait to see my pictures from the day as well, but it is the video that will take me back and allow me to relive what will surely be one of the happiest days of my life.

So, even though money is a consideration for me, I know that investing in a videographer for my wedding day will be money well spent. I have friends and family members who did not use a videographer for their wedding, and now know that if they were to do it over again, they would make it work. Just as I have budgeted for flowers and cake, I'm budgeting for Better Tie. I hope you will too!

Michelle Kogler

Logan + Elliott' Wedding

2009-01-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

Just recently we had the honor and pleasure to film Elliot and Logan’s dazzling wedding. They decided to go with our most exclusive, Black Tie HD Collection, which includes the HD Trailer, Q/A segment, Pre-wedding video and more!

Elliot and Logan, if you are reading this, we would like to thank you for being so easy to work with! To everyone else, Logan was fantastic to shoot and also made everything more fun by helping her bridesmaids relax and enjoy the special day! Elliot, with his vibrant personality, never let there be a dull moment an added a distinctive touch to the video to make it their own. Elliot and Logan made our job easy and fun, which further helped us to capture great shots of the event! Thanks again!

Sincerely,
The Better Tie Crew

Better Tie Productions .

A New Year Kicked Off at Wedding Festivals!

2009-01-03T20:37:00.000-08:00

On behalf of the entire team at Better Tie Video, we would like to wish you all a Happy New Year! Here at Better Tie we are excited for everything that 2009 has to offer!

Today marked the first of 5 Wedding Festivals Bridal Expos in January! We will be at the next 4 shows this month. Show dates and locations can be found at www.weddingfestivals.com

From meeting brides and other vendors to experiencing the decadent culinary masterpieces that Greenville caterers had to offer via free samples, it was a truly great experience! Thank you to everyone who came out to the show to see us!

It will be our honor and pleasure to work with you in this ground splashing New Year!

Below are just a few photos of the Better Tie crew at Wedding Festivals at the Hyatt Regency in Downtown Greenville.

The official attire for the Better Tie crew.

Mr. Elisha Yopp filming the winner of the "Grand Prize: A Carnival Cruise Giveaway!"

Mr. Daniel Yopp capturing a scene.