E-pics

Definition
E-pics (abbreviation)
Engagement Pictures

Main Entry: en·gage·ment pic·tures
Pronunciation: \in-ˈgāj-mənt, en-\ \ˈpik-chərs\
Function: noun (plural)
Etymology: American

1 : photographs taken after an engagement, before a wedding
3 : historically taken to accompany engagement announcements in the newspaper, or for use on Save The Date cards
4 : a way to practice smiling for the camera and see what sorts of crazy faces you make before your actual wedding photographs
5 : a way to take some fun photographs that attempt to portray the unique relationship between a couple in a relaxed manner
6 : something that Brenna and Marc were not planning on having

Why not have E-pics? Well, my reasons were many:
1. Attempting to budget
2. We already have a fantastic photographer (who also happens to be a friend, and wonderful person). Unfortunately, said fantastic photographer lives pretty much ALLLL the way across the country, and neither of us is planning a trip to the other side of the country any time soon

So, I guess I had two reasons not to do E-pics.

Then, came Groupon. Ahhhh, Groupon. For those unfamiliar with the wonder that is Groupon, it is a website that features new coupons/gift certificates every day or two. It is called "Group"on because a certain number of people have to purchase the coupon before it is activated. For example, if at least 50 people pay $25 for a $50 gift certificate to a hip restaurant, then the deal is on!

Few things in life make me happier than finding ways to save money on things. I love coupons, and sales, and thrift stores, and even (very rarely) dumpster diving. Why pay full price for something when just a little extra work will get you the SAME THING for LESS MONEY. The thrill! (Never mind the things that I buy because it is SUCH A GOOD DEAL and never use...)

One day, I innocently checked the Groupon* for San Francisco, and there it was: $65 for engagement pictures, with all the pictures on a CD, and one re-touched 5x7 print. Aaaand, I bought it. I couldn't help myself! I think it is a relatively new photographer, and though I have seen the website (and like the pictures), I have no idea what we're getting into. We're scheduled for our 'shoot' in a couple of weeks. I'll keep you posted!

* Incidentally, I have also purchased tooth whitening for the wedding. I heart Groupon.

Since I can't rush completely into things without some research, I have taken to looking at engagement pictures online. Fun! People get so creative.

Here are some pics that I like. I'm going for a woodsy feel, hopefully with some water and lush nature-y things.



Photography: The Studio B Photography
Aren't those mossy trees so cool?! It's like another world, and they're this splash of color in there.


Photography: Todd Johnson Photography
I love pictures with streams and bridges and trees. This is great because it has the feel of all of that. I must admit a small part of me wants a 'standing-on-a-log-over-a-river-a-la-Dirty-Dancing' picture. I don't know if I could convince Marc to do it...


Photographer: Punam Bean Photography
Again, dreamy looking with fun outfits! I love her dress.


Photography: Carrie Patterson Photography
I love the sun and her cheerful yellow dress and the lush greenness.


Photography: Caroline Tran Photography
Not quite keeping with the nature/tree theme. But they're floating! I love it!!! I'm seriously thinking about getting balloons to use as props.