We spoke to Neal Zipser, who launched ShutterBooth’s Triangle/ Central/ Eastern NC division in 2008, about the future of photo booths in weddings.

“We brainstormed, we researched, we identified gaps in services and, of course, we spoke to brides,” Neal says, “We decided that being a trend setter is better than being a trend follower.” Neal told us about a few ways ShutterBooth has predicted the needs of brides and incorporated technology to do stay fresh.

ShutterBooth identified a gap in spontaneous video, as well as personalized footage of guests other than the wedding party. They added ShutterVideo (still behind the curtain of the booth), where guests have the option to leave a taped message to the newlyweds.

Then, they looked at the affordability issue. Neal says, “While I believe a ShutterBooth is a ‘must have,’ the reality is that it typically is something that brides want badly but sometimes can’t afford.” So, they created the revolutionary ShutterRegistry, which allows brides to register for a ShutterBooth, so their guests help pay for the service.

In our TMZ/celebrity world, they also found a desire for a “red carpet” experience.  So, ShutterBooth now offers the option of the booth without the curtain, so that spontaneous photos can be taken against branded backdrops. The creative possibilities here are endless.

And finally, while a photo booth provides instant gratification with on-the-spot photos, guests still want the availability to access their photos online as soon as possible. With the new Shutter and Share, guests sign up on a laptop at the wedding to have an email notification sent to them when the photos go live.

Tie the knot at All Saints Chapel before moving on to a fabulous downtown reception. This is a beautiful, nondenominational chapel for the modern bride who wants to walk down the aisle.

The venue choices range from grand hotels like the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, and the Marriott Raleigh City Center, that offer a choice of luxurious banquet spaces along with the convenience of room accommodations with special rates for all wedding guests. It’s so nice for both the host and the guests to have their “room away from home” central to the weekend events.

Unique event spaces have opened in downtown that appeal to the bride who is looking for lots of personal choices to display distinct style. Cobblestone Hall, stands out in historic Moore Square at City Market. The all-red brick building has 20-foot high ceilings and an Old World look. Another new favorite is The Stockroom, an urban venue with big city “loft” flair situated on the second floor at 230 Fayetteville Street.

Although the name implies the past, sophisticated or avant-garde might well describe the grand three-story lobby and curved staircase, soaring granite columns, cathedral ceiling and glass walled entrance of The North Carolina Museum of History.  Views encompass the State Capitol and other downtown landmarks. The Museum of History should also go on your recommended lists of activities for guests no matter which downtown venue you choose.

Elegance abounds in downtown Raleigh with the distinguished sister clubs, Cardinal Club and Capital City Club, each designated as   “downtown’s best views to say I do”. Our newest “old” club is the just opened Grand Ballroom on 16 Martin Street, a 1930’s historic men’s club newly refurbished and ready for wedding affairs on the penthouse floor.

Caffe Luna creates great Italian wedding menus and offers top-notch service in their three art-filled private event rooms as well as specializing in off-site catering. 

These many beautiful event choices above, paired with the excitement of the downtown capital city gives any couple the chance to enjoy their own unique day.

Top photo by Neil Boyd Photography; Other two by Brian Mullins Photography

Whether you’re thinking a destination wedding or a local affair, check out Southern Bride and Groom for ideas and news.

Photos by Bella Rose Photography