Meet Zandolee Media

On this Wedding Wednesday, we will be talking with a really neat vendor, Zandolee Media, about how they got started with videography and what advice they can give engaged couples when searching for videographer vendors.

1.  Tell us about your company, how did you get started?

Zandolee Media was started 8 years ago in 2008.  All we had was a laptop and a cat ;) Eventually, clients began to seek us out for non-profit work - promotional videos mostly.  We loved doing this sort of work, and telling people’s stories. One of the these non-profits that approached us for video was the Miss Minnesota Scholarship Pageant. It was through working with them that we actually ended up doing wedding videography! One thing led to another, and before you knew it, we were at our first-ever bridal show… Unveiled by the Wedding Guys. It was incredible, and we were HOOKED.

We now boast a team of talented videographers and editors that can really tell a story. We love serving couples and enjoy really pushing the creative boundaries.

2. What are some things couples should consider when looking for a videographer?

When looking for a videography company to film your wedding, it’s important to take a few minutes and browse a few of their videos. Look for the quality of videography itself. How does the video make you FEEL? Most wedding videos follow the same storyline. You want your wedding video to be unique - not a copy of someone else’s. That is why we say to view a few different videos from one company - ensure that you’re hiring skilled storytellers.

3. What is your Favorite part of the day to capture?

I would have to say, the moment when the father is walking the daughter down the aisle...better yet, that moment before the doors open, when it’s just the 2 of them. The thoughts that must be racing through the father’s mind at that time…  A priceless fraction of a minute. We shoot the entire walk if possible because that’s really the biggest moment of the day.

4. What do you tell someone who is worried about the camera being up in their face and too intrusive?

This is a good question, and I wonder if couples worry about this often! We actually don’t normally hear this concern - so if this is something you’d like to address, we suggest talking to your video company about this before you book them. This can give you a sense of how flexible and workable they are. Working closely with your couple will let you know the boundaries for the couple and also other guests.  

5. How do you feel video has changed weddings in the last few years?

Video is fast becoming the preferred way to capture your special day. You actually get MORE for your money with video! More images, sounds, visuals, emotions, etc. The possibilities seem endless (perhaps that’s just because we’re video producers!), but imagine showing your wedding to your wedding guests at your reception! It’s a package we offer called the Ballisier. Or, streaming it live for loved ones who couldn’t make it. Or shooting the parts of it with 360 degree cameras. The possibilities are endless. There is so much you can do with video to maximize your special day!

6. We all know there has to be bloopers. Any moment in particular that would make us laugh?

Strangely enough, I’ve never come across a genuine blooper moment like the ones you’ll see online.

7.  Most challenging part of your job?

Making sure it all goes perfectly. We overplan everything. We think it’s fair to the couple to match their effort. So we’re doing venue visits, taking pictures, meeting with the couple - scripting out the day. Creating the special scenes, following up with additional vendors.  

Getting it all right on the front end is important to us.

8.  Any advice for couples?

Getting married is a one-day affair.  Bam!... then poof!... It’s gone.  We encourage couples not to cheat on video. You will regret it. It will be the only way to relive your wedding day with mom and dad 20 years down the road when they are gone, with full sight and sound. It’s the best way for your grandkids to see you in your prime. If you cheat on it you rob your future family of history.  

Secondly, don’t hire narcissists.  A narcissists will shoot your video engulfed in their fancy gear and lens’ and never really tell the story of your day. You want to hire a team that sees the big picture and can effectively tell your story by showing the elements of your day. The people who love you, how much fun you missed while taking pictures, those crazy cousins that found that snake over there. Family sharing a meal, waving at the camera, letting you know they came, even though you never saw them.  

Hire a company that understands that two people coming together means two families coming together. And for one day, many worlds will collide in celebration of your love.  

LOVE.

{ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.} 

 Thank You Zandolee Media!