Case Study - Via Services

Via Services is a private, independent non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities and special needs achieve greater self-sufficiency and lead richer lives. AwesomeShot Studios was asked to create a series of videos for achievement awards recipients over the years. The videos are screened at a luncheon award ceremony and also serve as promotional material for fundraisers.

Case Study - Creative Labs

Creative Labs needed a fun and unique way to introduce their X-Fi audio processing chips to their retailers before the product was launched. They called upon AwesomeShot Studios to create a short but informative video that was screened at the AMC Mercado theaters to a packed house. This allowed the company to present a focused and concise introduction with a minimum of time and resources. The entire production was scripted, shot, edited and delivered within 72 hours.

Case Study - Polycom

Polycom opened a brand new state-of-the art briefing center in Santa Clara and wanted to share the grand opening festivities with their employees and VIP clients. Unfortunately, that wouldn't be possible in a company with 2700 employees given the constraints of the facility. CEO Andrew Miller chose AwesomeShot Studios capture the ribbon cutting, tours and welcoming remarks in order to share with those employees who couldn't attend. Ultimately, this kept downtime to a minimum and saved Polycom thousands.

La Rinconada Golf Course and Country Club: Barbara & Jason's Wedding

La Rinconada Golf Course and Country Club: Barbara & Jason's Wedding from Oren on Vimeo.

This wedding was a blast! I knew it would be when I first met with Barbara and Jason last year. They told me about how much they were looking forward to this day and how involved Jason was with the preparations. The early-summer California sun shone down on the first tee of La Rinconada as they couple exchanged their vows. There were tears, laughter, and most importantly, a feeling that this union was meant to be. AwesomeShot Studios was glad to be there and preserve those moments that go by all too quickly, and are soon forgotten.

Eco-chic: One ring to rule them all.

This week, I want to talk a bit about jewelry and it's connection to environmental responsibility. Thanks to recent news exposure, many of us are aware about diamonds and their connection to war-zone conflicts and financing of insurgencies. These so-called conflict, or blood diamonds have been a black-eye to the jewelry industry, who are now pushing 'conflict-free' diamonds from areas such as Canada, Australia and Namibia. The Kimberly process is a step in the right direction, but it does nothing to address the environmental impacts of mining and extraction methods. In countries with advanced infrastructure and stricter government oversight, some efforts are made to restore mined areas to their natural state. That is rarely the case with third-world and conflict diamonds. Heirloom diamonds and lab-made diamonds are a great options that have lower impact on our planet. To learn more about cultured diamonds, check out Gemesis's excellent site.


Gold is perhaps the most popular precious metal, but it is also the most environmentally damaging to extract and process. Thankfully, there are just as many options that will allow you to feel better about your choice of symbols of everlasting love and unity. 'Green Gold', or Oro Verde refers to sustainably and safely mined gold from Columbia. Similar to fair-trade coffee, this fair-trade gold allows an indigenous culture to continue to thrive free of exploitation. Check out Cred, for fair-trade precious metals, or look at Green Karat for recycled gold jewelery.

Looking for something more unique? Not all of us are vanilla or chocolate fans. Thankfully, there are endless options that will garner just as much admiration and allow you to express your creativity. For a stylish, lightweight and eco-friendly choice, check out titanium. This metal is harder than gold and silver-so you don't have to worry as much about dents and deep scratches. Titanium is also hypo-allergenic if you have sensitive skin. No worries about rashes or discoloration. Gold, silver and other precious metals can be incorporated for unlimited design options. My wife and I chose titanium and couldn't be happier. We even had interior engraving to further customize them. The wonderful lightness of these rings are ideal for men that don't usually wear jewelry. They are a very low-maintenance option. Learn more about titanium grading and view some stylish samples here.

Think you're tough? Well, you're no match for tungsten-carbide rings which can only be cut by a diamond. Sometimes referred to as the permanently-polished ring, they are the most wear-resistant metal you can buy. When you reach your 50th anniversary and look down at your wedding ring, it should shine as bright as the day you first put it on. Not exactly the lightest of metals, but some people prefer the heft of a substantial piece of jewelery. If I were to get a 2nd ring, it would probably be a tungsten-carbide with wood inlay similar to this piece.

In a future post, I will cover more ways to save some 'green' on your wedding while keeping the environment in mind.

Meet Your Next Graphic Designers- Anna & Erin

I've been a little obsessed with business cards lately. They occupy my mind, and a decent portion of my filing cabinet. I must have gone through at least a dozen designs in as many years. They look great when I first have them printed...and I'm eager to pass them around. But within a few months, I start seeing flaws. Pretty soon, I make excuses like "this is my old card", or "I'm in the middle of a re-design". Not a very confident message to send out. If the definition of madness is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results, then my self-imposed graphic design was mad indeed.

With that in mind, I was eager to meet with Anna and Erin, two cousins who got together to form Mixed Palette. What an apt name, as they both bring their unique skills to the table. I met with them over some coffee and we had a great conversation about my rebranding needs. They asked excellent questions and showed me an impressive portfolio of work. Within a few weeks, I was reviewing a variety of creative and elegant logos. The hardest part would be choosing just one.

From the first meeting through the review process to the final product, the team at Mixed Palette was a joy to work with. I hope you will check them out.


Meet Anna and Erin of Mixed Palette from Oren on Vimeo.

Shannon was the picture of nervous anticipation when I arrived at her parents house a few minutes before 1pm. Her hair and makeup were almost done, thanks to the skill of the fabulous Mina Drake. Her sisters, Ashton, Aundrea and cousin Elizabeth were all in matching white robes looking very relaxed. Could it be that the only one nervous was Shannon's dad? It was hard to tell on this beautiful Saturday afternoon.

With the ceremony only a few hours away, Janet Lash of A Very Special Occasion was no doubt tending to all the stylish details at the Mountain Winery in Saratoga. Leila Simms of Half Moon Flowers would soon arrive to setup the rose and vine arch in birch vases that would frame Shannon and Kerry for their ceremony. DJ Adrian of Sound in Motion DJ's would roll in his systems and prepare the music that would serve as the soundtrack to their day.

I even had some time before Alfred Salom Photography arrived (a rare luxury), which allowed me to get a few stories from the bride on how she and Kerry met and fell in love. It was great to hear how they breezed through their pre-wedding counseling, both agreeing that they had no reservations at all.

When Shannon's uncle showed up in a vintage Caddy, I got a bit jealous that I couldn't be the chauffeur for a day.We arrived at the winery in time to watch the cake setup by BethAnn Goldberg of Studio Cake Design. The weather couldn't be better, and guests started arriving and immediately commenting on the beautiful scenery and decorations.

I knew the bride and groom would be jetting off to Hawaii soon after the wedding, but I wanted to give them a bit of a teaser of their movie to come. Enjoy and congratulations to Shannon and Kerry.

Mountain Winery Saratoga Wedding Teaser- Shannon & Kerry from Oren on Vimeo.

Green Weddings - Fad or Fantastic?

Recent headlines about the BP oil spill in the Gulf got me thinking once again about the impact we all have on this world. I won't rally against the evils of oil, as nothing yet has been found to effectively replace it (especially when it comes to plastics and other oil-related products we rely upon daily). I will recommit myself to maintaining a low footprint in my work and my life.

Small steps, helped by an industry that is finally waking up to the realities of shrinking resources and consumer awareness, can lead to big results. For example, I have completely eliminated disposable batteries since 2009. It required a few (more expensive) equipment purchases...so this is not necessarily a money-saver, at least in the short term. But I'm so much happier knowing that I don't have to dispose of a half-used set of batteries after each and every shoot.

Likewise, moving my demo videos online means fewer DVDs sent out. From 2001-2008 I was averaging 56 mailed DVDs per year. I'm pretty sure they eventually find their way into a landfill. As online viewing options and quality increased, that number greatly decreased. I'm hoping that this year will continue as a online-viewing-only year.

A recent wedding I covered in Monterey included some wonderful, earth-friendly touches such as hand-painted wood cake-toppers and paper-flower table seating guides. Low impact can be quite chic and stylish. The only limit is your imagination and willingness to think outside the box.

In the next few weeks, I'll be writing more about other ways to 'green' your big day.

Swept Away: Lydia & John

Viansa Winery in Sonoma is one of my favorite wine-country destinations. I used to visit there often after I relocated to California from New York. When I found out that I would be capturing Lydia and John's wedding in Viansa, I was excited to return there. I distinctly remember my last wedding at Viansa, as it was 108 degrees and everyone was hugging the shade. A breeze was most welcome that day, and we were all glad when the heat finally broke. By comparison, the 25 mph gusts made the 65 degree day just a bit chillier. The golden sun, bright green vines and warm ocher hues of the winery contrasted with the beautiful blue of the sky and bridesmaids' dresses. Inside the white reception tent a clean white on white scheme was accented with silver twigs holding candle votives. This intimate and beautifully organized wedding was a delight for the senses. The winds might have been blowing a bit more than usual, but it did nothing to faze this wonderful couple.
The fantastic team included Tinywater Photography, California DJ's, and Wine Country Flowers.

Lydia & John: Wine Country Wedding from Oren on Vimeo.

Spring Scams

Being a small business owner is a constant learning experience. Having never benefited from an Ivy-league biz-school education, I took my cues from my parents, who have owned a business since I was a teenager. My father faced many issues that are common to all businesses, and thankfully, I have been the beneficiary of some of his hard-earned lessons. Most importantly, he has taught me the value of trust as the basis for every business decision.
The advent of the internet has exposed us to a world of associations that wouldn't normally occur. I can conduct a transaction with people around the world, whom I have never met (nor might ever meet). This has, unfortunately, brought about an exploitation you are probably all too familiar with by now: the email scam.
While my wife and I were enjoying a mini-vacation to celebrate my birthday, I received notice that a company in Asia was looking to register my domain name within Asia. The informer put themselves forward as a professional internet consulting company. Their website raised only a few red flags (stock image on home page of a young white male with open arms being the first one). After a few back-and forth emails from the very aggressive "Wanda Peng", I finally had the time to do a bit of digging. Of course, it didn't take long to determine that this is yet another scam that scares business owners into thinking that our very names are at risk of being stolen.
I wish there was a happy ending to this and I could tell you that the offending company has been caught and convicted...but like most overseas scams, I have little hope that anything will be done. At least I didn't get sucked into an expensive and useless service. I can only hope that other business owners find this before they make the mistake of responding to SKDNR/Wanda Peng/AsiaDM or whatever they call themselves tomorrow.

Crystal & Nathan

Crystal and Nathan tied the knot in Oakland and chose AwesomeShot Studios to cover their day. The day began appropriately at the "I Do Hair Couture" salon in Los Gatos, before moving up to the Oakland LDS Temple for the ceremony. After a triumphant exit applauded by waiting family and friends, Marielle Hayes of Marielle Hayes Photography took the family around the Temple for portraits.

Soon, it was time to return to Los Gatos where Cindy of the Los Gatos Opera House coordinated an elegant reception for the guests. I was asked to create the photo montage playing for guests as they enjoyed hors d'œuvre and a fun photobooth setup by Kao of PhotoBooth Royale. DJ Tim of Denon & Doyle handled the MC duties like a pro and guided the bride and groom into the room to thunderous applause. Look for the emotional and cinematic video highlights soon.

Crystal & Nathan Montage from Oren on Vimeo.

Lindzie & Brian: A Fine Fall Wedding

This fun couple got married on November 14th at Wine & Roses, but we met a few weeks prior to tape their love story (parts of which are included in these wedding highlights). The cooler weather of early fall and the early sunset meant that the outdoor wedding plans had to change. But the ceremony proceeded without a hitch and the beautiful bride walked up the aisle to admiring glances from friends, family...and her husband to be. Their 2 year old son, Alex, wasn't too pleased to be away from Mom and Dad for so long. But the ceremony was short and sweet, so he was all smiles afterwards. DJ Brian of Denon & Doyle kept the party rocking with the expertly spun music and deftly handled MC duties. Photographer Richard of Everlasting Moments captured the stills.
Little known fact; Lodi is the Zinfandel capitol of the world! Might not be that bad to be "stuck in Lodi again".

Adrienne & Jeremy: Let it ride.

What a great idea! After the wedding vows were exchanged in beautiful San Francisco City Hall's rotunda, the guests were treated to a private double-decker guided bus tour of San Francisco on a beautiful September day. The celebration continued in a private room of the Foreign Cinema restaurant where guests were feted while enjoying "8 1/2" by Federico Fellini. Hope other couples catch on to this wonderful way to keep guests entertained during the photo session.

Adrienne & Jeremy: San Francisco Touring from Oren on Vimeo.

Chateau Felice hosted this sublime wedding of Melanie and Riaz on September 19th. The ceremony was short but emotional, which left more time for the rockin' reception and gourmet food and wine that plays a big role in this couple's life. Sasha Souza Events set the mood expertly with beautiful decorations, flowers, table settings, and pillow-covered benches overlooking the lake. The dynamic duo of Lisa and Sasha of Tu Photography put smiles on everyones faces for the still photos.
Since many of the family members live in India and couldn't attend the wedding, they will soon be able to enjoy the entire day as if they were guest with the best seat in the house. In the meantime, we can share the highlights which incorporate some of the vows, the readings and toasts along with footage of the beautiful bride and handsome groom.

Melanie & Riaz from Oren on Vimeo.

Erika & Jesse: At Last

The Historic Sesnon House in Aptos was the backdrop for this emotional weddings that joined Erika to Jesse. The bridal party included some talented groomsmen who lent their skills in song and music for the ceremony and reception.
The warm sun and clear skies set the tone for the outdoor ceremony and dinner. Afterwards, the party moved inside for music laid down by DJ Jack of Music Now DJ's and the Funk Band Groovus. The talented team of Allumer Weddings and Events, Gillett Photography, and yours-truly, AwesomeShot Studios helped to set the mood, and capture the action.

Erika & Jesse July 25, 2009 from Oren on Vimeo.

Polina & Dimitry

The toasting never stopped at this chic wedding at the beautiful Villa Montalvo. The non-stop action certainly kept me on my toes as there was never a quiet moment. From their first meeting, signing the ketubah, onto the outdoor ceremony and during a gourmet dinner punctuated with toasts, stories, games and songs (as is Russian custom). Of course, every toast ended with shouts of "Gorko", urging the bride and groom to kiss. Who could object? Mazel Tov to this wonderful couple!

Polina & Dimitry from Oren on Vimeo.

Vanessa & Chris

Villa Montalvo is dramatic enough in itself without the fast-moving clouds that were rolling in on this July weekend. By the time the string quartet began, the clouds were making way for a strikingly bright exit of the beautiful Vanessa in her custom wedding gown. The handsome groom and anxious bride exchanged their vows under bright skies and amidst adoring glances. The reception was lavish, touching, and funny as the couple toasted each table, played trivia games and dined on a magnificent dinner. No detail was overlooked, which made for a spectacular start to a new life together. Cheers to Vanessa and Chris. Many happy years together to this wonderful couple.

Vanessa & Chris from Oren on Vimeo.

Fields of Gold: Maria and Andrew

Villa Montalvo, the historic and beautiful former home of California Senator James Duval Phelan was the setting for Maria and Andrew's July 3rd wedding. The bright blue sky and typically gorgeous California day set the mood for their vows under a very special chuppa (ceremonial Jewish wedding shelter). A self-described 'small town boy from Tennessee' met his match in a 'Russian-Jewish ice-skater who loves penguins'. Two worlds were joined in a wedding that was both moving and enlightening. Still photography was handled by the wonderful and talented Claudia Akers who I always enjoy working with. The Full Tilt Band supplied the tunes that kept the dance floor packed. What a way to start a holiday weekend!

Maria & Andrew from Oren on Vimeo.

Belle & Mike: Everything is Beautiful

Belle & Mike: Everything is Beautiful from Oren on Vimeo.

The challenge: how to ride your custom chopper into a country club with the bride on the back (to the tune of 'Bad to the Bone'). Answer, with great care. Mike and Belle went so far as to plastic wrap the rear tire for this surprise entrance that dropped jaws and garnered many high-fives. Unfortunately, the couple's two 'kids' (Doberman's) weren't allowed to serve as ring-bearers. Other surprises included the groom singing to the bride for their first dance. Needless to say, this was a very well planned, beautiful, emotional and memorable wedding. We were glad to be there to capture the moments that go by as quick as, well, Mikes chopper.

Memorial Day Wedding

If you're going to pick a date to get married, I would recommend holiday weekends. Not only are they easier to remember, but you also get to celebrate future anniversaries with an additional day off. Marisa and JP tied the knot at Martinelli Event Center in Livermore this past weekend on a beautiful (if somewhat windy) summer day. Livermore isn't known for its mild weather, but this one was an absolute dream. I had met with Marisa, and her parents last year and knew that this would be a stylish wedding. Kristen from Sugar Rush Events worked her magic in transforming the event center into a dreamy and colorful fantasy world fit for royalty. Some of the unique elements included crystal chandeliers for the outdoor ceremony, placecards in a sea of coarse rock-salt, and a planter filled with 'dancing shoes' at the corner of the dance floor. Of course, the highlight of the day was the emotional ceremony that combined the two families into one. The beautiful flowers by Jinger of The Flower House surrounded Marisa and JP as they exchanged their vows under the late-afternoon sun. Ingrid Nelson discretely captured the stills on film and was an absolute pleasure to work with. When the sun finally set and all the toasts were over, DJ Stefano from Big Fun DJ's rocked the house with a killer light show and inspired music selection. Nothing pleases me more than seeing empty chairs during the dancing. Even when the cake was waiting for them! Hopefully, the highlights capture the elegance and romance of this evening as narrated by Rev. Angela Yarber, the best man, Chris, and the maid of honor, Celia.