We are Matt & Melissa Davis, owners and Signature Videographers of Life Stage Films. But we can't take all the credit. Life Stage is comprised of a team of filmmakers based in Wilmington, NC and we feel so blessed to provide our International Award Winning style not only in the South East, but all over the country.
We like to do things a little differently around here. Who says your wedding video has to be boring and amateur?! We like to step away from the typical wedding video and create a fresh, edgy, and entertaining "film" of your wedding day. The best day of your life deserves being documented in a powerful way. But we don't stop there! As our name implies, filming events at all "Stages in Life" is our passion. That includes Family Documentaries, Baby Stories, and any other types of celebrations that make life grand. We also provide businesses with unique video marketing tools through our sister company.
Hang out for a while and enjoy some of our work! And let us know you stopped in by leaving us some comments on the posts you enjoyed. Want to get to know us even more?! Follow us on Twitter! And if you really love us, be sure to add yourself to our Facebook Fan Page!
We are so proud of the work we GET to do everyday. We love what we provide families. And we try to provide them something different. Out of the ordinary. We don’t want it to be the same as everybody else. We hope you see the difference. So throw the term “wedding video” out the window.
We are excited about this video mainly because we feel brides aren’t being educated enough about the powerful impact of videography on their marriage. We hope more and more bridal magazines and blogs start spreading the news that having a video is a good, and priceless gift to yourselves after your wedding day is over. Especially if its well crafted, and captures all the details you never knew about. And we want choosing a wedding videographer to be the EASIEST decision you have to make during all your hectic wedding planning. We wish we could have interviewed all of our brides and grooms from the last couple years, but we think these 2 couples will do a great job telling you what we are all about. Thanks to all of the families who have already entrusted us with your wedding memories. And here’s to many more in 2009 and 2010! Enjoy the film, and let us know what you think!
- Austin Weddings - What a great video! I agree that having a videographer should be just as essential as having a photographer at your wedding. Keep up the beautiful work.
- Amy Warkentien - Wow! Great job Matt. I am excited for the kind of company and image you have consistently given Lifestage. I only hope this next year will give us both many more great opportunities to shine. I look forward to the future. Thanks for all of your hard work to make Lifestage the best it can be.
- Coach Reggie - Amazing. You are blessed with an amazing talent. Continue on your path of being legendary.
- Tim Sarquis - Awesome work! You really got an eye for cinematography!
- Evro Moudanidis - Solid work Matt, I really loved the interviews and overall found it really emotive.
Excellent!!
Cheers,
Evro
Moudanie Pictures
www.moudanie.com.au
- Steve Murphy - Matt, you do absolutely beautiful work!
- Joey Grob - Whoo hoo !!! I had a cameo in the beginning of the video !! (I'm the handsome photographer in black with my trusty monopod :)
- Ed - Excellent workmanship. Would agree it's essential to have your wedding video'd ESP as the bride and groom miss lots of the background info as they are off dealing with formalities.
- Jet Kaiser - The thumbnail alone is out of this world! Brilliant piece!
- Jamie Crumley-Tate - So, even after like 9 months. I still am constantly on your site. My wedding is over and done with, but yet, I can't get enough of your videos! Amazing. Even this gave me chills. Yall amaze me with your talents!
- Oren Arieli - You rock! Thanks so much for coming out and sharing your wisdom with our Bay Area videographer's association. I hope you can visit again sometime soon.
- David Ruzicka - Just watched your video on infocus at eventdv 25 about business leverage. It sounds almost identical to E-myth revisited by Michael E. Gerber. BTW the article about the sales manual is a business savior. I had used it yesterday on a client it really worked. Thank you for sharing. Just found out that this business is about 80% marketing/sales. And about to meet with a former wedding to redesign my demo/testimonial, did the same mistake as you.
Dave
- Trendy Bride - Beautiful Video, love your work .... great cinematography !!
- weding videographer - What a fantastic job,
you are an an amazing videogrpaher, and you post production is sensational
- Katie b - ahhhh, I teared up and stayed watery eyed during this whole film. Just amazing. Really making me re-consider having a video of our wedding.
You would think in today’s age of HD this and HD that, people would have forgotten old film along time ago. But you see, its more popular than ever. Super 8mm and 16mm are special. Just something about it draws you in. And that translates into a very emotional experience when a wedding is filmed in vintage Super 8mm film. LifeStage is excited and proud to offer the addition of Super 8mm film for your wedding. It’s such a unique experience that we are the only wedding video studio in the region to offer it (3 that we know of in NC).
But we hear you asking, “Guys, what’s so great about it. Its so shaky, there’s no sound and its not a very high quality image. Why would I want this”?
The only response we really have is to ask yourself the feeling you get when you watch old home movies. When you watch old film. Its nostalgic. Super 8 film feels like a faded memory. And its feminine. Its not as harsh as some HD videos tend to be (not ours of course). But when you add film to an HD wedding video it adds so much character to it, it adds another dimension. Super 8mm film is perfect not only for the bride that wants something spectacular and unique, but for the bride who may not want video to begin with. Its kind of the “anti-video”. It doesn’t have the realness of video. It’s…surreal. Its hard not to feel nostalgic when watching Super 8mm films, but please don’t take our word for it. Watch our new sampler demo and let us know what you think. We would be happy to make it available to you for your wedding.
- steve+z - NICE Matt! Fun, full of character and emotion, Very nice maiden voyage into the world of super 8! Your couples are going to love this new feature!
- Evan Vetter - Great work guys - always taking it up a notch!
- Kristen Turick - Beautiful Matt! Welcome to the wonderful world of Super8... May you shoot much film. :) 1:50 was the bomb!
- Beau Brotherton - Gorgeous! I concur with the amazing close up at 1:50, it is a perfect shot. Tremendous film!!
- David Nida - Y'know, Matt, I think your new feature, the Super 8, is just like cotton. There are shinier, flashier alternatives out there, but it's classic that'll always be around.
- Lisa - That was an amazing video! That was my brother Jason and new sister...you captured their true love that have for one another and it was awesome!
- Luke - I am a videographer from West Virginia and I LOVE watching your demos. You guys are great and the work you do is breath taking! I would love to get in contact with you by email or what ever it may be and talk with you. I am a young videographer at only 20 years old. This is my love and you guys are a great inspiration!
- Matthew Krivanek - I love the 8mm logo treatment at the very end of the video. Nice touch.
As we all know from Alanis Morisette, no one wants rain on their wedding day. But Leigh and Derrick didn’t let the hot and stormy weather spoil their wedding. Luckily, the ceremony was indoors at First Baptist Church in downtown Charleston. The couple wrote their own vows and when the pastor delivered them you could truly feel the love between the two. This was such an easy wedding to film thanks to event designer LUKE WILSON, who provided great lighting, flowers, and décor. The ambiance Luke helped create didn’t stop there though. After the ceremony, the whole gang headed over to LOWNDES GROVE PLANTATION for an elegant southern reception at one of the most beautiful locations in Charleston. The wedding was absolutely stunning right there on the waterway as the sun was setting. And the guests danced the night away to LOOSE CHAIN. We especially loved their extended rendition of the wedding classic “Shout!” As you can see from the video, most of the guests shared our sentiments.
Just a little background info on Leigh and Derrick: The couple’s first date was to a fireworks show on the Fourth of July. Exactly seven years later, Leigh and Derrick celebrated their engagement in Aruba while watching fireworks. So it’s only fitting that they start their marriage off with a bang, right? The couple continued the trend, only this time a little quieter. As the bride and groom were exiting the reception, the guests lined up outside and were given sparklers to light the way to a vintage car waiting for the couple. It made for a really serene moment and a great way to cap off an exceptional wedding!
P.S. Did you see that amazing lightning as they left!?
Leigh and Derrick, thanks so much for bringing us down and trusting us to film this exciting day for you both. We had a blast and it was truly a classy, yet hoppin’ party! Enjoy this short film!
- Liz Hancock - Derrick & Leigh - CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! I had no idea it was going to be the two of you when I clicked on this video, that was such a wonderful surprise!! I am so happy for you both, what a wonderful video to keep forever to relive such a beautiful and special wedding :)
Matt & Team - You guys keep on creating the most incredible work that make Kirk and I so thankful that we have been able to book you guys to do our wedding. We can't wait!
- April Walker - oh how special to see the sweet familiar face of Leigh mixed with your team's work Matt! Leigh, congrats!! You made a stunning bride and great job yet again Life Stage Films! and yay to the Big Guy upstairs for creating that rad fireworks show of his own for your special day :)
Have you ever dreamt while you were awake, and didn’t want to wake up?
Style Me Pretty is THE BEST and most popular bridal blog out there. It’s oozing with creativity, inspiration, and wonderful vendors. We are honored to be part of their exclusive club of the “best of the best” vendors from all over the country in their “Little Black Book“. But something that has really picked up a lot of interest lately on their blog is their creative concept, “Inspiration to Reality” shoots. They storyboard an idea, and wedding pros get together and bring that idea to, reality! We are thrilled to team up with Wilmington, NC’s cream of the crop vendors to produce this coastal, dreamy, and very romantic film called, “The Dream”. Here what Style Me Pretty had to say about the film!
” We are going to round out the inspiration festivities with the dreamiest of videos by uber talent Matt Davis of Lifestage Films. He was up at the crack of dawn to film this little ballad and it was so worth it! Quite frankly, we are left speechless and that rarely happens. It is so beautiful, so ethereal, and such a perfect end to the day. Sit back and take a load off and enjoy one of the prettiest films we have seen in a long, long time.”
Millie Holloman produced some Ah-mazing pictures of the shoot as well, so be sure to check those out for a different perspective on the day. Here is Life Stage Films’ approach to this SMP “Inspiration to Reality” Film -
What was so crazy about this shoot is that we all had to arrive before the sun rose, at 4:30 AM! Salt Harbor Designs and High Performance Lighting we already at work at 3 AM, setting up the scene, and creating some VERY unique beach lighting with Edison lights. Our original model couple fell through at the last minute, but Lindsey and Gray jumped in enthusiastic and ready to go! They were perfect actually. We know Lindsey from Bald Head Island events so it was great to catch up and laugh (half-asleep) before the shoot began.
Salt Harbor did an amazing job at setting up the decor and “feel” for this shoot. With a freaking bed on the beach, a tiny boat, perfectly designed brunch table, and many more tiny intricacies that made this shoot a day in Heaven. That’s where the premise for “The Dream” starts…
I knew it was a perfect time to get a timelapse of the sunrise coming over our little corner of the Atlantic Ocean. But I had to have a reason for doing that. I didn’t want it to be just for the sake of being beautiful (which it was!). Seeing those colors painted across the sky as the morning went on was an amazing feeling. It was also an inspiration into creating a “daydream” sequence. With everything we had set up for the couple, it truly felt like a “dream” day. It felt like a place that couple has kept to themselves. Some place no one else knows about. A place where they can be free, and in love. So, the timelapse of the gorgeous sunrise was intended to show that although time was passing into daylight, the couple was actually entering into their own’ Dreamworld”. A perfect day by the ocean. An intimate dream. We wanted it to feel like an escape. I think we pulled it off.
We hope you enjoy this ethereal and intimate escape into “The Dream”.
Here’s a list of the creative folks that were involved with the shoot:
We recently shot Kelly & Jeremy’s wedding in rural NC, and had some of the best fun we’ve ever had at a wedding. But the thing we were most excited was the premiere of their SAME DAY EDIT. What’s that you ask? If you enjoy watching our highlights films and have fallen in love with them, just imagine being able to see one, and watch your wedding day unfold right before you and your guests, DURING YOUR ACTUAL RECEPTION!
We may be crazy for trying to edit these the same day, but it’s totally worth it, more so, for you! We want you to watch Kelly & Jeremy’s highlights video, but more so, watch their reaction. Most of the stuff they saw on the video they probably didn’t even remember happening. But imagine your guests seeing it. What a great gift to be able to share such memories and entertainment that really allows everyone to see both big moments and behind the scenes memories that they didn’t even know happened. A lot better than a boring photo slideshow, huh?And the next day we put it on facebook, etc. for those friends and family of yours that weren’t there so they can feel part of the wedding as well! It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Enjoy the SAME DAY EDIT. Imagine being in Kelly & Jeremy’s shoes watching this on their wedding day, and let us know if you would like to add this to your existing wedding package with Life Stage Films.
- Kim - WOW! Cried again while watching Kelly & Jeremy's reaction! This was such a sweet moment that we so much enjoyed. Thank you Matt, Melissa and John for your amazing work! BEAUTIFUL and FUN!
- Kelly & Jeremy - By far one of the best surprises at the wedding. It was remarkable to have only done the first dance minutes before and then seeing it again on the video! SO AWESOME! SO WORTH IT! Love it. Thanks again Matt, Melissa, and John. - Kelly & Jeremy
- Ben - Baller dude. This was amazing!
- Brittany - absolutely love this... LOVE THIS! Can't wait to see yall in September!
- Corey Cagle - You amaze me every time! This just tops it all! I wish my clients would hire you for every wedding I shoot! Its rare to find talent like yours!
- Elaine - I thought the surprise video was awesome that evening, had never heard of this before....but then watching it here again with Jeremy & Kelly's reactions was absolutely WONDERFUL!!! Thank you for capturing such precious moments that we can all relive whenever we'd like now!!!!
As soon as we saw this arrive from being processed in Hollywood we knew we had to get something on the blog to show everyone. This is a sneak peak trailer into Hayley & Jason’s beautiful mountain wedding we filmed in Super 8mm. Enjoy!
- Hayley Brafford - I love the footage and can't wait to see it all done! LOVE the song you chose - just my taste! It was wonderful working with you!
- Steve Moses - Loved it Matt! You really captured the ethereal feel of Hayley & Jason. Did you switch film stock going from inside to outside? What stock was that? Again, great job.
- Jeff Brouillet - That was phenomenal Matt! You got my super8 itch going again... I love the look and the feel of it.
I know it’s been way too long since I have updated or posted anything on our sweet little girl. She is 20 months now, and I swear she knows how to tell time. EVERYDAY at 5 PM she comes into our office, tells me to turn music on (by whining), then proceeds to dance, like this….
My wife swears she doesn’t send her in there, she just knows it’s time for daddy to get off work. Please, excuse my cheesy baby talk. And enjoy pure, unadulterated joy from this little girl.
Thankfully we are growing rapidly and in need of a part-time camera operator/videographer. It would be on a per project basis on the weekends. We so excited about having another person join our team, and would require the potential videographer have the same excitement and passion for the type of videos that we produce.
We are directing everyone to call this number below to continue the application process.
Necessary skills of the position include very strong knowledge of using professional HD cameras in manual mode, knowledge of proper audio techniques and equipment such as wireless microphones, and we would prefer someone that knows how to use a glidecam or a steadicam rig. The position requires knowledge of proper framing techniques and the ability to come up with creative shots. We would also prefer experience in filming weddings, but it is not required. We will require you to provide a demo reel of any type of production work you have filmed. The job is very fast paced and needs someone who again has a creative shooting style and can work on the fly. Weddings are typically straight forward, but there are no second takes, and we want a shooter who can deal with that type of environment.
Please call 910-338-5179 if you are interested in the position. We will not read any email inquiries, we will only accept messages through this phone number below.
Again,
Give us a call here if you are interested in joining our team. 910-338-5179
Perfect weather, perfect city and perfect wedding. This wedding was so gorgeous I had to go back and add more to the final edit just so everyone could see all the work and vision that Elana and Eric put into their event. We were able to get a great Same Day Edit done for the guests at the event, but it was only half the length of this highlights film. Just didn’t want these moments and details to go unnoticed!
When Elana called us up and said she found us on Google, fell in love with our videos and had to fly us up to Chicago, we obliged. The thing is, is our journey to Chicago has been exactly what we hope for for every client we film for. We have fostered a great relationship over the last few months, even meeting them in Chicago a month before the wedding to plan things out in detail. Eric and Elana are genuine and happy people, and I liked them immediately. Did we mention yet, that Eric not only designed Elana’s rings, but also custom designed the tuxedos!? Talent.
This was our first Russian wedding, and they are now the masters of partying in my book. Vodka, laughter and dancing flowed all night! But I’m getting ahead of myself…. The wedding took place at the stunning Elysian Hotel, downtown. One of my favorite things about filming weddings is when couples choose to do a “first look”. Builds up so much anticipation. I loved Eric’s reaction to seeing Elana in one of the most unique and amazing dresses we have ever seen. Afterwards, we had a hey day taking some creative shots throughout downtown Chicago, with the entire wedding party traveling in style in a stretch hummer. Chicago is FUN city to film in!
I wanted to include the vows in this video because they were perfectly said, and perfectly honest. We loved the way the ceremony and reception were lit and decorated. I loved the pink and purple glow in the video off their faces. Makes it feel so dreamy in there. Good lighting is necessary for great events!
The reception was something we won’t soon forget. Not only did MC Marat and his band entertain all night, but Eric and Elana had something up their sleeve too! Instead of both of them coming out to be introduced, Eric came out solo, with Elana strutting out in a feisty and elegant Salsa/Tango dress. Loved it. We were so giddy filming their first dance. So unique, and so them. Along with the toasts, Elana’s mom playing the piano for everyone, Elana’s grandma’s fish and 12 course meal, this event was the definition of spectacular, and we were honored to be there. Thanks so much Elana & Eric, for allowing us to celebrate and join in with your joy. Enjoy this glimpse into the best day of your lives! I hope we captured memories you not only remembered, but ones you didn’t even know happened.
- McCardell Photography - Not sure how, but you guys get better with each event. Gorgeous and touching at the same time... just wonderful!
- Jeff Brouillet - That was really incredible Matt! I've always loved your work but this really takes it to a new level. It felt very original and the way you captured all the fine details was amazing.
- Craig at Luster Studios - I always love how you intertwine the audio and visual mix. Wonderful edits and perfect positioning for composition consideration... One the best not only in the area but in the country... ROCK ON!
- meg simone - wow - totally wild - totally different - love the lighting - loved the MUSIC! Those two are hot tickets! I felt like I was watching some international love film. So cool! Great work Matt!
I actually LOVE the weddings we get to film where we show up, without actually having met the couple and the family in person before, but you already feel like old friends when you arrive. I loved these two families, and it was a pleasure to pull off one of the biggest surprises in Life Stage Films history. The film you can view above was what we call a “Same Day Edit”. It’s where we shoot all day, and actually edit a highlights video to show at the reception that night! The catch with this one, is that it was a total surprise to the bride and groom, as a gift from the father of the bride, John. We even filmed Kelly & Jeremy’s reaction as they watched this video LIVE for the first time. Especially sneaky of us was we showed the video to the 300+ guests only 30 minutes after the first dance, which we included in the final video. Kelly & Jeremy’s reaction is classic, and I’ll show it on the blog in a few weeks. You don’t want to miss that!
In the mean time, check out the details and the emotions of this wedding day. The weather was perfect, and the atmosphere of excitement was even better. Some of my favorite moments captured was of course the moment Jeremy saw Kelly in her dress for the first time during the “First Look”, but also the excitement as the girls got ready and especially when Jeremy’s mom pinned his boutonniere on him. And cowboy boots!? Heck yeah! Loved that. It was a perfect way to top off this beautiful country wedding at the Duplin winery in NC.
Please enjoy this short film of your wedding day Kelly, Jeremy, and the rest of the family. It was a pleasure filming your incredible celebration. It was one to remember. Never seen anyone dance with a “stanky leg” so well.
ALSO…A HUGE thanks to my good friend and very talented wedding filmmaker John Moon from Northernlight Filmworks in Indiana, for coming down and giving me the creative support we needed to pull this off.
- kelly - Absolutely love it!!!! Loved the boots - the old blg, the railroad tracks!!!! You did it good!!!! You look so happy Kelly - Congrats to you and Jeremy!!!!
- @shellyeve - Matt and Melissa! ya'll did an incredible job! i LOVE this!
can't wait to see the final! sorry i didn't get to say hello to you matt but you were editing up a storm - i finally met melissa!
- John Salmon - Matt, Melissa & John, Words can't express you well you captured the personalities and the atmosphere of Kelly and Jeremy's wedding. Such great memories and worth every single penny. We had such great fun with you guys!! Now looking forward to KY where we get to do it all over again for Ben and Brittany!! You guys are the best!!!
- Anna - Wow! Guys, this is absolutely fantastic!! Way to go! Can't wait to work with you again one of these days!
Nothing means more to us when future brides “stalk” our blog for years for inspiration, ideas and a stress relief from everyday life…and then call us the moment they get engaged! You know what’s even better? When that future bride is a professional wedding pro themselves! Penny is a truly talented NC photographer, and it meant so much to us that she wanted us at her wedding as soon as she was able to make that decision. Bubbly, content, and contagious are words that we use to describe Penny around here after watching her wedding film unfold and of course, after we spent time with her and Aric during their wedding day. We loved this wedding for it’s southern charm. The quaint chapel, the birdcage veil, the Carolina Inn, and of course the hospitality of both Aric and Penny’s friends and family. A very unique detail about this wedding, is that the entire bridal party were children. We loved it. At times though it’s safe to say Penny’s Maid of Honor stole the show. One of the things that resonated with us as we watched the ceremony through the lens, is how Penny looked at Aric, and would sneak in an occasional “wink”, which we caught. And during their first dance? Everyone seemed to fade away, you could see they were IN the moment. Great stuff. Also impressive was the cake exchange. Pretty bold of both of them to attack each other. But hilarious to watch! Also get a feel for their wedding day by checking out Rachel from Millie Holloman Photography’s blog. She captured some amazing moments as well!
Thanks so much Penny, for trusting us, and also becoming friends. This wedding day was fun and memorable, and we hope you are taken back in a new way. Enjoy.
Check out the recent North Brunswick Magazine article written on “small businesses that are making a large impact”. We couldn’t be happier on how it turned out and are so thankful for the exposure. Mad props to Amy, Zach, Melissa, Michelle and Kara for being an all-star team!
Wilmington, NC
(Video is displayed in 720P HD. Please press play, then immediately pause to let video fully load for best viewing experience)
If these aren’t the most heartfelt, emotional and powerful vows you’ve heard at a wedding, then show me where you’ve seen more honesty than this. I even left out the majority of the vows from the highlights video and this is still good. I usually don’t leave so much spoken word in a film, especially at the beginning of a highlights video, but I just couldn’t cut this stuff out. It resonated with me, with the guests in attendance, and I hope it resonates with you. I LOVE it when couples write their own vows. So much more personal.
And a little background info for the context of these words exchanged between them: Wiley and Mallory actually met in a bar! They hit it off immediately, but their cicumstances didn’t allow for a normal or “convieneint” relationship. For the entire relationship of 5 years, they sometimes lives as much as 12 hours away form each other. Againsit all odds of along distance relationship, they persevered. And it’s a beautiful “love story” as told by both of them in this highlights film.
We walked away from filming Wiley & Mallory’s wedding better people. We had a blast getting to know both of them, and filming parties like the one they had really makes us appreciate why we do what we do for a living. There was such genuine excitement all day from both of them. And by the way, it SNOWED at the beach! The day before the wedding I believe we got 4-5 inches of snow. It actually made for a pretty unique experience for everybody, because the majority of the friends and family came from out of town, and from all over the country. It was a treat for sure.
Wiley and Mallory established on All-Star team of local Wilmington vendors. Arguably the best DJ in town, Jay Tatum, rocked the house at St. Thomas Preservation Hall, and kept people dancing all night long. Kevin Millard of KMI Foto also delivered some amazing pictures of the event. Check ‘em out!
Thanks so much Wiley & Mallory for being the definition of an awesome client, and an awesome example of marriage. We hope this film takes you back, and helps you remember even more, what that day felt like. Let’s leave some comments people!
- Sandi Cash mother of groom - Thank you so much for the memories!! This is an awesome video. Since Wiley's dad was sick at the time and taking chemo. this has given us time to enjoy scenes we don't remember or did not see as we had to leave before the party was over. I know Wiley and Mallory will cherish this for ever and their children will love watching the greatest love story ever. You are great!!
- Mallory Brady - You guys are amazing!! THANK YOU!
- JoAnn Brady - This is so beautiful, I cried like a baby all over again ! What precious memories of my daughter and her husband, Thank you so much.
- Salvatore Sgambati - Mallory;s grandparents- What great memories you made for us,
we will enjoy showing them to family and friends who could not
atten. thank you
- Lauren - Wow! What a beautiful video! I can only imagine how great the entire video is!!!!!! Great job capturing the special memories and putting it all together so beautifully.
- Jet Kaiser - Wow, you're not kidding. What a epic intro!
- Rhea S - I don't even know them and I teared up!! Matt, you've done it again :) Hope you two are very happy together!
- Anita Silvestri - Wow!! Amazing video! Thank you Jo-Ann! I've never met Wiley or Mallory, but it made me cry anyway. They are a perfect example of what love is all about. What a way to start my day!
- Bethany Cox - This makes me want to RUN not walk, to my car and drive the 7 hours to get back to my house in the outer banks of NC and see my sweet husband. I miss him and now i miss him more. Work is keeping us apart for a few weeks and its killing me. I cant imagine these two. God Bless their marriage. I want to be friends with them. They are genuine people.
- Jamie - I have been waiting to see that highlights video for a loooong time and it did not disappoint. Matt, you have a gift :) Congrats Wiley & Mallory!!
- mallory brady - Matt and Melissa,
We keep watching this video over and over. I know I have already told you how much I love this, but I just want to let you know again that we are blown away! What an amazing thing to have with us the rest of our lives. Everything seems brighter and more beautiful after I watch this video. I love every part of it and really love that you got shots of wilmington (in the snow) in there! Thank you again!
- Marta Thorup - I am utterly amazed at the quality of this film and how touching it is to see two people in so much love. It was just perfect!
- Daniel Dunn - Matt, that was really beautiful. Thank You for sharing with all of us.
- Ashley - I'm just speechless.... The first two minutes had me balling like a little girl and I don't even know them. Beautiful.... absolutely beautiful.
Read EVENTDV Magazine’s Cover Story HERE on Life Stage Films.
Wow.Very humbled to share with everyone a very big milestone in our business. Event Filmmaking’s trade magazine, EVENTDV, rolled out their June 2010 issue with Life Stage ON THE COVER! The cover story is all about our history in the business, our mission and some not so common knowledge about how we were able to grow so quickly and become as successful as we did, even in a recession. Please, take some time to read the cover story here. I can’t tell you all how excited we are to able to get this exposure, not only to highlight what makes us unique with filming weddings, and helping other videographers/business owners with our Coaching Program, but to be able to share with everyone WHY we started the business, the PURPOSE of our business, and WHERE we get our talent from. I am thrilled that I can point to my creator and illustrate how he gave us a God given talent to capture small but important moments that impact future generations. Thanks for taking the time to learn more about us through this article, and thanks for supporting us in our adventure. We are just getting started!
- Troy Rives - Hi Matt its been a while. Im getting married soon and was checking out your website i plan on showing it to my fiance hopefully ill be calling you soon. congrats on all the sucess
Simple, classy, and yet full of fun. That’s a great description of Claire & Travis’ wedding day. Although we were relegated to the balcony during the ceremony, we were able to capture some heartfelt moments during Travis and Claire’s ceremony, and the historic Myers Park Methodist Church near downtown Charlotte was spectacular at night. Even upon entering, Travis and Claire had a bagpiper playing. Very cool ambiance. The band, Peace and Love, kept everyone dancing all night at Carmel Country Club…especially Claire! We LOVED that she never left the dance floor! I think we even caught Travis dancing from time to time. One of the best parts about this wedding for us was working with Dustin and Diana Ledo, from Bella Loren Photography. I love laughing, and Melissa and I enjoy our jobs so much more when these two photographers are working with us. Not only are they talented, but they rocked the house with a photobooth that all the guests had a blast with! Travis and Claire, thanks so much for making us a part of your wedding. Enjoy your highlights!
Singing, dancing, playing instruments…Jenny & Zach did it all on their wedding day! Starting off the day at downtown Wilmington’s First Presbyterian Church the day’s events were a true reflection of the love and joy shared between not only the couple but their entire wedding party. Amy and Josiah had a blast capturing this wedding for one main reason - Zach busted out his guitar skills during the reception TOTALLY upstaging the band! It was awesome! Very talented groom. The Figure Eight Yacht Club also looked as elegant and as classy as it always does. And a special thanks to Lisa Brown with Bella Rose Photography for being great to work with (as usual) and making Jenny & Zach’s wedding day flow perfectly! Enjoy the highlights!
Don’t you just want to hang out with these two?! Such a cool group of people at this wedding. We didn’t want it to end.
I knew Brooke was a smart girl when she planned her wedding in one of the most beautiful locations for a wedding in NC….during Azalea season! The day turned out beautifully at Orton Plantation. This was just one of those weddings that had style, personality, and emotion all around. I think this is one of the most amazing weddings Wendy at A Beautiful Event designed. She nailed the flowers and reception decor. But The Balcony on Dock is due some credit as well. It’s hands down the best venue to have an eclectic wedding downtown. But back to Brooke and Chris. One thing I appreciated about both of them during the day, is they were genuine. And I feel we are also able to get some pretty amazing footage of them, because we were able to immediately create a relationship. That is such an important thing, when families can feel comfortable with their vendors during the day.
I chose to edit this film to an instrumental song, because there were so many powerful moments spoken during the ceremony and especially during the vows, that lyrics to a song, just weren’t needed. I hope you agree. One of my favorite moments we have EVER filmed, is when we caught Chris’ dad give Brooke a kiss on the forehead as they watch Chris dance with his mom. Such an intimate moment. Needless to say, we love our job. Enjoy this film Brooke and Chris. You both were amazing people to be around.
Comments people! Let them know it was a beautiful wedding!
- Brooke - LOVE, LOVE, LOVE! But you already knew that!!!! ; )
- Shane Kerr - A masterpiece. I love it. If there's an oscar for best wedding video, you just won it.
- Sara - Loved this one!
- Jenn Paratto - Hey wow, that was seriously awesome!!! I teared up!
- kelly - what a beautiful wedding, and a beautiful couple! i don't know you, brooke and chris, but based on the words of your minister and friends and the joy that is evident in your smile, you're headed for a lifetime of happiness!
- Daniel - Great film, Life Stage crew!! I agree Matt, we are very lucky to be able to catch those incredibly precious moments.
Awesome, really, really awesome!
- YourBridalPlanner.com - You folks do some great work. How do you get the video to look so clear? I'll be looking at more of your work.
- Hilda - I thought it was one of the most elegant wedding videos I have seen. Thank you .
- Julie - Loved this! One of my favorites for sure. What was the song? I would love to have it.
- Donna - I love this video actually better than I like the pictures. This really captures the day and I can't wait to see the final product .
We are excited to announce some very wonderful news coming out of the Life Stage studio! As many of you know, our very own Matt Davis was named one of EventDV’s Top 25 Hottest & Most Influential Event Filmmakers and has spent the past year working with hundreds of videographers from all of the world as the Head Coach of Wedding Videography. As a true labor of love his mission is to help other videographers become better business owners so that they can best serve their amazing clients. As videographers, we are privileged to be an important part of a couple’s wedding day as they begin their incredible life journey together.
With almost 500 videographers, photographers and business owners registered to attend, we recently hosted the online seminar “Top 10 Mistakes Most Creative Artist Make As Business Owners” on Tuesday. The audience turnout was tremendous and we again have to thank everyone who took an hour out of their hectic lives to make it such a success! Throughout the webinar, audience members were able to simultaneously communicate within the Twitter and Facebook online communities about the topics they found most beneficial. It was truly amazing to see the real time feedback from fellow videographers about how impactful they felt the tips being given were to their businesses. You can check out just some of the Tweets from that day below!
In addition to the successful webinar, Matt launched his latest line of educational resources for creative artists! Whether you are struggling with sales, marketing or just finding a balance of work and home, we have provided some stellar information to help you become a better business owner. We want to show others how to mold your career into something you LOVE to do, instead of something you HAVE to do.
Audio Seminars Topics Include:
Find Your Identity: They Will Come
Taking Back the Sales Process
Take the Guesswork Out of Packages/Pricing
Are You Running Your Business or Is Your Business Running You?: 90 Day Plan
You can also pick up our business documents we have taken years to perfect!
Sales Script
Pre-Wedding Questionnaire
Filming Agreement
“What to Expect” Sheet for Clients
Head on over to our website, Video Business Coaching, for more details about all of the available products! And be sure to check out Matt on the cover of the latest issue of EventDV magazine available June 1st!
Nate & Sarah are hilariously “geeky”. So much so, that the theme of their wedding was based on their nerdiness. But it wasn’t without a great sense of style.
They formed a great team of Wilmington’s best vendors to make this wedding incredible. As we were walking around during the cocktail hour, we heard multiple guests say that the way the Bellamy Mansion was set up, with the combination of Salt Harbor Designs decor, was like something out of the Great Gatsby. I agree. And the “icing on the cake” was the cake itself, or should we say artwork, by Nicki’s Cakes.
To start off the festivities, Nate & Sarah (along with their dogs) led a literal PARADE of their guests with streamers, music and laughter down Market St. from the church to the reception, with the finish line on the front steps of Bellamy for a massive group picture! One of the best bands in the land, Chicago Spazmatics, (80’s nerd band) rocked the party all night, even incorporating a “cowbell” at times. Hilarious. And instead of a typical introduction at the reception, Nate & Sarah came barreling out dancing and jumping around to the tune of Black Eyed Peas, with nerd glasses on! You can see it in this short film of their wedding day, that we edited THE SAME NIGHT. Nate & Sarah were so overwhelmed at the end of the night when they saw this. They just couldn’t believe we put it together for them to see that instantaneously. It was a great moment for them both to be able to relive the day at the end of the night like that.Especially being able to see their “first look”, where they were able to see each other privately before the wedding ceremony started.
Enjoy this film friends. Nate & Sarah, THANK YOU for allowing us to witness this incredible event. This was one for the books.
- Sylvia - What a FUN couple!!!
Great SDE, especially considering it's your first one
:-)
- Millie Holloman - Great stuff Matt! So great working with you and the team. What a fun wedding!
- Inez - This is an awesome wedding! Their personalities just shine through. Congrats to the newlyweds and as always great job LSF!
- Heather - Love it! I think y'all do fine with SDE!
- Victoria Shirley - How in the world is this a SDE?? It is so fabulous!! I love it!!
- Daniel - Wow, not only a super cute couple, but super fun looking. Great job on this, Matt and crew, you guys always do such a heartfelt, in-touch job. In-touch with the couple, you get to know them, and let me get to know them. Awesome.
And this was your first Same Day Edit, OMG!!, that was so cool. Congrats to Nate and Sarah, but also congrats to Life Stage Films, you guys work so hard, and so smart, you deserve major props right now, enjoy your time in the spotlight. Nice work!
- Sarah - Matt matt matt matt matt matt matt! I watch this bout 7 times/day presently--wow! That tiny little camera thingy you have that is actually video is amazing--we never knew you were filming so you got all these great candid moments. Cannot wait to see the movie you're crafting! Oh, and Miss Bea thanks you for her closeup with her tongue hanging out--you got her good side!
For those of you that have heard me speak at IN[Focus] or at a professional video association (PVA), you learned how we got into weddings, and what the mission of our business is. We are all in such a powerful and important position to impact families and couples in a positive way. We owe it to them to make a killer film for them, because in my opinion, if we make a film they want to watch, that might be one of the things that keep their struggling marriage together down the road. I like to think so at least. Well for me, the same positive impact is true for other projects we produce, and a big part of our business is producing Humanitarian Aid promos and documentaries. I wanted to share our most recent project completed for an aid organization in Managua, Nicaragua. It’s called Save A Generation, and they build homes for jungle villages, as well as provide medical care, clothes and food. They found us through a referral from another aid video we produced, and wanted a video to show churches and large businesses in order to raise support and awareness.
A team was compiled of people from North Carolina and Florida; all with different skill sets, but all sharing the same passion and vision for what God is doing in Nicaragua. We ventured off the beaten path, away from the large capital of Managua, into the mountains. Not sure how we would have found these remote villages without someone knowing they existed.
It was hot, dusty, and smelly! But the food was great, the volcanoes were beautiful, and most importantly, the people were amazing. I get so fired up every time I get to use my gifts and skills to impact not only this generation, but the next. Enjoy this promo/documentary we produced for them. And be fortunate. You are blessed…
Friends and family gathered from all over the world to celebrate with Jim & Rhea on this amazing fall day. We absolutely loved how unique the day was with a blend of Indian and Catholic traditions. You’ll also notice a very important Indian tradition of the groom playing Wii with his buddies before the wedding. Oh wait…
Rhea had an all-star team of vendors to support her in bringing her wedding day to life, including high class/ high impact DJ Mav keeping the dance floor full with a mix of “Bollywood” style dance songs as well as popular favorites. I was so excited about DJ Mav and Rhea’s collaboration on the professional lighting of the event. I can’t stress to our couples enough the importance and impact creative professional lighting has not only on the ambiance of an event, but also the video and photos. Can’t you tell such an amazing difference in the quality of the event with the lights? Jim & Rhea would have been in the dark without them! It was also a pleasure working with Kristin and Aaron, husband and wife photography duo!
Jim & Rhea, we hope this short highlights film brings you back to this day. We hope it shows you things you didn’t even realize happened. Thanks for inviting us to capture these moments for you.
- Kristin Byrum - AMAZING! Don't have the words to describe how awesome your work is! So full of emotion, love it. It was such a fun day with you guys....we want to see you again soon! Loved working with Jim + Rhea for this awesome wedding!
- Rhea - MATT! LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! Thank you so much for all your hard work. We're so grateful that we were able to book both you and Melissa for our wedding. This video lives up to everything I've seen from Life Stage so far :) You certainly have a talent for picking the clips with all the emotion, and piecing it together to tell a story, seamlessly with the music! We've already watched it a handful of times, and I'm sure there will be more this weekend :-P. Can't wait to get the full thing now! :D You guys are the best, thanks again!
- penny - You know I think you guys rock...that one brought tears to my eyes, just so beautiful, full of life and love. You've done it yet again. Wonderful.
- Sam Harward - A gorgeous video to remember a spectacular day! I can never thank the two of you enough for letting me be a part of it!!!
- Susan and Chris Mitchell - Beautiful!!! Love it! Congrats again!
- Craig - Awesome job Matt! You guys did it again.
It’s wedding season which means we are running full speed without breaks until November. Do you continue telling yourself, you’ll catch up on edits, sleep and personal time next month then six months later you are still saying the same thing? Don’t get caught up in the same cycle as years past! If you find yourself drowning in your work with no time for yourself, family or the business, you don’t want to miss this FREE webinar May 11th at 1pm EST! Sign up today to take advantage of hearing from two of the industry’s most influential filmmakers with tips on how to improve your business.
Hosted & Presented by Matt Davis of Life Stage Films & Head Coach of Wedding Videography
Co-hosted by Chris Jones Owner of Mason Jar Films & Co-founder of InFocus Video Conference
by Matt
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