Sunrise Creations Blog

I was lucky enough to interview Rebecca Taylor from Celebratzio Wedding and Event Planning in Queensland.  I've always been interested in the way wedding planners work so I asked her about her business.

1.  How did you come to start your business?

I was a bridesmaid for a good friend and she struggled to plan her wedding, I assisted and loved it. She suggested I complete a course to become an event manager and so I did and I've never looked back. I love what I do, and being creative everyday.

2.  What is your favourite sort of event or celebration?

Any event that celebrates something - life, love, being happy!

3.  What sort of events do you manage?

Weddings, birthdays, Corporate functions, Photoshoots, Engagement Parties, production shoots.  You name it and we can do it.

4.  What is the best part of your job?

Taking the stress away from people so they can celebrate. Seeing their face when it comes together just as they imagined it would in their dreams.

5.  Do you have a funny story about one of your events?

I was managing a Fairytale Engagement party, and while the soon to be Best Man attempted to make a toast, he tapped on the bottle to get attention, which didnt happen.  He tapped so hard it smashed the bottle and champagne sprayed all over his shirt. That got everyone's attention and an applaud. They thought it was staged like that!

I plan, manage and style any and all events, to all sizes and to all budgets. We listen to what you want and create the event of your dream. At Celebratzio its all about YOU!

Recently I was lucky enough to interview Fiona Roberts, a Civil Marriage Celebrant based in Caloundra, Queensland.  She tells us about her work and why she loves it so much.

How long have you been a celebrant?

I was registered by the Attorney Generals’ Department in 2009, having completed my training whilst on leave with the birth of my son.

What made you become a celebrant?

It’s something that had been on my “to-do” list for a LONG time, so when I had a brief window of opportunity (Maternity leave), I decided to stop talking about it, and get trained and registered.  I can honestly say I’ve not looked back.  I am now a full time Celebrant, conducting in excess of 100 weddings a year – and very, very happy!

What is the hardest part of your role?

Breaking the news to a Bride and Groom that the weather is just not going to be kind to their outdoor wedding, and we need to go to their “back up” plan.  No-one likes to hear that their dream day has to be altered at the last minute.  Fortunately, most couples are fine, and end up still being thrilled with the outcome!

What do you love most about your role?

The joy of the occasion cannot be surpassed in terms of an occupation!  When you truly connect with your couples, you feel such a sense of happiness for them as they embark on the new adventure of married life.  It’s an absolute honour to be able to share such an intimate moment.

Is there one occasion (wedding, christening) you remember more than others?

As a “group” of ceremonies, I tend to remember the surprise weddings and the elopements.  As a Celebrant, you are so caught up in making sure that these moments are exactly as the couple imagined, so you can’t help but become emotionally involved.

My favourite ceremony to date, was for a couple who had invited their guests to their Daughters’ Naming Day, only for the Bride to arrive fully decked out in her white dress!  Even her Dad was in the dark, until the Groom said the Bride needed him out the front, and when he went out, she was arriving in the Limousine.  Dad was over the moon, and walked her down the “aisle” with happy tears streaming down his face.

My other favourite, was also a surprise wedding, where the guests had been invited to the couples’ engagement party in a Resort Penthouse.  When the time came, they were ushered onto the roof for a “group photo” to find it all set up for the wedding ceremony.  The Grooms’ band provided the music, and at the very last minute, the Groom (also the lead singer), turned the microphone around and sung his Bride down the aisle to “There she goes” by the LA’s – a truly touching moment!

What advice do you give to couples planning their wedding?

Whatever you decide you would like your ceremony to be – an intimate affair, a family gathering or a magnificent production, your Celebrant is there to help you. Your ceremony should reflect you as a couple, and even more importantly, your vows should be promises that you are happy to base your marriage on.

So consider what being married means to you, and then consider how your ceremony can reflect that. The beauty of choosing a Civil Marriage Celebrant, is that your ceremony truly is all about you!!

(Wedding photos by Mills Photography, Sunshine Coast, Qld.)

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and how you fell into photography?

I started a property styling business, making houses look good for prospective buyers, and took up photography to go with it as a package. The more I learnt about photography the more I loved it.

I started to find I was more drawn to photographing people than things. I loved the emotional connection you can get and feel through the lens and seeing that in the end print. There is nothing more beautiful!

2.  You speak about finding the inner beauty in everyone in your photography, how do you achieve this?

Seeing and allowing people to show you their inner beauty can be one of the hardest things for photographers. I create space and a loving and supportive environment to allow them to be. I take the time to get to know them and their story, make them feel comfortable and know that whatever they say is ok. There is no judgment, right or wrong.

It’s incredibly powerful to see someone grow in spirit before your eyes.

3. What is the most important tip you’d share with others when photographing others?

My greatest tip would be to put the camera down…get to know your clients before you even pick up the camera, care about them and who they are as a person. Make it all about them.

4. What has been your biggest achievement with photography?

My biggest achievements have been my personal growth. Through photography I have become a better person through learning to connect and open my heart to others.

5.  What has been your biggest challenge with your business?

My biggest challenge would be my bookwork and keeping my desk clean, haha! I blame it on my crazy creative side!

6. You’re an award winning photographer – do you have a favourite image?

Some of my favorite images are not the ones which win awards.  My favorites are the images that, when I look at them, I get choked up with emotion.

Like this image of Vicky and Rowan. I know she will be able to look at this image for the rest of her life and feel what she was feeling on her wedding day; totally adored by her husband!

7. What’s your favourite, Sunshine Coast breakky?

Something really yummy like Canadian pancakes with loads of bacon!

 

Sometimes you come across a photographer who shows a real flair for capturing their subject. Sydney based Fiona King of Polly Street is one such photographer.  She is unique because although she photographs people of all ages and in all sorts of events, she specialises in "photography for fun loving people."

Her photos of children really capture their essence and their zest for life. Just have a look at these photos and tell me that they don't inspire in you the desire to go out and play.

Aside from costing so much less than flowers and live plants, using branches and twigs to decorate a room or to make as a centerpiece is one of the easiest ways to add that rustic style and creative touch to any space. For weddings or events on a tight budget this is one way to decorate your reception in a unique way without blowing the budget.

Here are some creative ideas to inspire you.

To add some glamour and elegance to your centerpiece spray paint branches that still has leaves on them with gold paint. Then secure them on a piece of nice, clean block of wood to create your lovely table décor.

 

Create a branch and twig wall art to be placed on specific places on the walls of your reception venue. You can make it an abstract wall mount by framing it in wood or metal for added contrast. By weaving the branches in and out of the other twigs and branches you create art that’s uniquely yours. You can even thread in some large crystal beads in the branches for a touch of glam.

Create table centrepieces with small branches and decorate them with beads and crystals or even loop them with stain and sheer ribbons.

There are lots of things that you can do with simple bare branches.  On their own they have a clean architectural style to them but with added detail they can become elegant and sophisticated.

This is an instructional video that I found that will give you some more idea about how to use branches as a decorative statement.

 

 

How to make a dramatic arrangement with branches

As you know I am fascinated by photography.  I am always amazed at the nuances that a photo can capture which we miss with the naked eye.

There are some wondnerful photography blogs that I love to follow.  They are inspiring and usually very educational, too.  Today I thought I would share some of my favourites with you.  They cover all sorts of themes.  I hope you enjoy them.

1.  Andrew McDougall's Photography Blog
This is a very short blog, the owner having made only a few posts, but what posts they are!  Have a look at these stunning shots.  The colour in these photos is pure art.

2.  Shelton Muller, Photographer

All I need to say is colour and lighting.  As you look through the photos on his blog that is what stands out.  His use of light and shade isimpeccable.

3.  Zoo Studio Pet Photography

Taking photos of animals must be incredibly tricky unless the pet is very well trained.  Zoo Studio is one of a handful of photography businesses specialising in animal portraits.  They have a wonderful knack for allowing the personality of the animal to shine through.  Just have a look at this photo.  How difficult would it have been and yet how individual do the guinea pigs look?

These are all photographic works of art that inspire me to continually work on my skills as a photographer.  I hope you have found them as inspiring as I do.

Face painting is a wonderful way to bond with kids of all ages. It is fascinating to see children’s faces light up and personalities change when they see their transformation in the mirror. It is a great skill to have as a parent, childcare worker, teacher, children’s venue owner or fundraising group, and a great flexible part-time job for a young adult.


With the proper instruction, anyone can face paint like a professional in no time. Each month, Julie Tattam from Making Faces will share face painting tips and techniques, drawn from her experience painting thousands of faces as well as teaching beginners and advanced face painting classes.

Today’s Tips:

1. Use good quality Taklon or synthetic paint brushes.
   Don’t be tempted by bargain store brushes as they are uncomfortable on the face, don’t give a fine enough line, and are often harder to sterilise effectively. Invest in a good quality paint brush with a fine point. Contact Julie to enquire about the best brush types and sizes to use, and where to get them in your local area.
   
   
   
   
2. Use good quality professional face paints.
   Liquid face paint is slightly cheaper, but a much better result will be achieved with professional dry-cake face paints from reputable manufacturers. We always recommend Snazaroo as it contains a preservative which prevents bacteria from growing in the paint when it is stored. NEVER use water colours or any sort of craft paint on the face as it can cause skin staining, eye damage and severe skin irritation.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Practice on paper first.
   To get used to the basic shape of a new design (eg. a batman mask or princess crown), draw a rough outline of a face on paper, and repeatedly sketch the design onto the face. This will get you used to drawing the design quickly and accurately, without wasting your face paints. You can also experiment with developing new designs this way.
   
   
   
4. Never use craft glitter.
   Glitter is an essential tool to add that “Wow” factor to your face painting, but to avoid eye damage and skin irritation, it is essential to only ever use cosmetic-grade, 100% polyester face painting glitter. It is specially cut to avoid the sharp edges which craft glitter has, which can seriously damage little eyes. This type of glitter is not readily available in craft stores, so contact Julie to help you locate them in your local area.
   
   
   
5. Always have a couple of cheek/hand designs available.
   Some children don’t like having their face touched, but really love having a little design painted on their hand or cheek. By having a couple of these designs up your sleeve, you are able to ensure that the more timid kids are not left out. A good selection of cheek art designs can be seen in Making Faces online gallery.
   
   
   

Topics to be covered in our next “Quick Tips” blog will include popular girls and boys designs, face painting hygiene and safety, must-have equipment and other tips to get you face painting like a pro!

If you would like to learn more, contact Julie Tattam at Making Faces on 0414 783 106 or julie (at) makingfacesaustralia.com about attending one of their fun and easy 2.5hr Learn To Face Paint courses. You will receive individual attention from a highly trained professional face painter, and come away with all the skills and knowledge to face paint confidently and safely after one class. Visit the Making Faces website for details and to view examples of their work.

Our expert today is Seona from Seona Mercer Photography. Seona captures the natural beauty of babies and kid, just look at some of her photos! I love the use of props; especially the little beanies, they really add to the photos - making your babies precious eyes really stand out.

1. Tell me a little about yourself.
   I'm a mother of 3, two boys & a girl, wife to my childhood sweetheart of 16 years and I have lived in the Sutherland Shire all my life. We have chosen to stay & raise our kids here. I'm an animal lover - we have a bunch of second hand animals, a dog from the pound, a cat from a box on the side of the road & 2 carpet pythons (Those 2 are mine !) Photography has been a passion of mine since I was a kid, my first camera being a 110 film Pink Barbie number with a silver glitter hand strap & I still have it stashed away for safe keeping.
   
   
    
   
2. What do you love about photographing families or babies?
   
   
   

   Babies bring out the softness in their dads, I've seen big tough blokes coo & make gaga noises while holding their newborn, I love that ! I love to photograph toddlers, they are high energy & fun, they giggle and give the most enjoyable expressions - they make me giggle too.

   I love seeing the happy tears come from parents & grandparents when they see their images, Photos are eye candy, they fill your body with a sense of pride & emotion, they give you that warm fuzzy feeling inside, they put you in the moment, and without photos, what memories do you have? And most of all I love the odd cuddle I steal while mum's packing baby's bag up to leave after the photo shoot!
   
   

   
   
   
3. What is the number one tip you would give a family preparing for their photoshoot?
   
   A well rested & fed baby or child, as well as clothing that won’t clash, avoid large slogans & patterns, layered outfits & denim jeans work well. Babies are best photographed in their birthday suit !
   
   
   
   

4. What is your favourite Sunday morning breakfast?
   
   Bacon & eggs on English muffins, with Orange juice, we don't eat this often, as we are usually up & out of the house, with a bit of toast in hand- but when we do I really enjoy the long lazy breakfast, reading the paper - oh and the junk mail - l.o.v.e junk mail !
   
   
   
    
   
   
   
5. Describe your perfect day
   
   A day spent with my husband & kids, I love picnics, so we like to pack up the 4WD & head over the sand hills to our favourite beach for the day, I love summer & all the fun it brings, like chasing sun flare with my camera...
   
   
   
   
   

Tanya is the talent behind Tindale Images. Since first starting to take photos of families for fun, Tanya was soon swept up in a whirlwind, one that has led her into shooting all over Sydney, and in high demand. Her natural and carefree style, shows families interacting with one another. Tanya's main inspiration comes from her 5 year old twin boys.

1. Tell me a little about yourself.
   Me! I'm a country girl, but have been in Sydney for 21 years now (wow time flies). I originally came to Sydney to study fashion design, so I have always had an interest in and an eye for design and fashion. Our life is chaotic, with a shift working husband, 5 year old identical twin boys and a crazy 1 year old german shorthair pointer puppy! As noisy and busy as our life is, I wouldn't change a thing.
   
   
2. What do you love about photographing families or babies?
   The interaction with families; each family is so unique, with their own story to tell. Especially with babies, the love and awe that shows in the parent's faces or the wonder an older sibling will show.
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. What is the number one tip you would give a family preparing for their photoshoot?
   Clothes - this is certainly the most important thing for your sessions. If you are making a significant investment in your photos, you want to make sure that everything down to your clothes is well thought out. Not that you have to be totally co-ordinated, but if there is a highlight colour, like red, then it can be repeated throughout everyones clothes.
   
   I did a family session just a few weeks ago, they all wore navy and red; the two little girls looked stunning, along with their dad and their mum, who is expecting their third baby. The thought they put into the clothing, really showed through.
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. What is your favourite Sunday morning breakfast?
   Hmmm. Favourite Sunday morning breakfast... well we go to Church by 9.30 so our breakie is often very quick and nothing too exciting, we like to sleep in, making the most of no daycare drop off. Maybe I need to change the Sunday breakie idea to Saturday, at least that way we would have a chance to develop a family tradition...  pancakes, poached eggs and bacon here we come!!
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Describe your perfect day
   As our life is so chaotic with the boys, business and a shift working husband, a perfect day for me is spending time together as a family; starting with breakfast at a cafe in Cronulla; an adventure at the beach, climbing rocks and looking for treasure (shells, sticks... anything the boys find interesting). At home, we find a new home for all the fabulous treasure... and then a blissful afternoon nap. Ahhhh, our house is delightfully quiet for 2 hours. After dinner, a few hours of alone time with my husband.