NYC Wedding Film wins a Lucent Award for “Best Picture”

“Lucent by definition means, brilliant, radiant, luminous, bright, emitting, and reflecting light in large amounts.  Certainly the winners tonight have met or exceed the definition. The Lucent Award is the celebrating of this independent storytelling spirit. A time to honor those who have inspired, provoked, and entertained, as they continue to light the way in the industry.” – Terry Taravella, Co-Founder of IN[FOCUS]

This was the first year I couldn’t attend the IN[FOCUS] Event in person. Last night I tuned in via a live stream from the Banff Centre in Banff Canada to watch the very first Lucent Awards Ceremony taking place in LA. I am humbled and honored to have my film of John and Allyson’s New Years Eve, New York City wedding take top honors in the “Best Picture” category. I have been overwhelmed by all your kind words and compliments on instagram,  my personal and business facebook page. It was awesome to be a finalist among such incredible talent from all over the globe.

“I told the happy couple I want a micro mini flat panel tv installed on my front tooth playing your masterpiece 24/7, then everytime I smile people can watch your creation.” – Best Man Danny after seeing the film the first time.

“Allyson and I always say the same thing after contemplating why you are so great, and why we love you so much, besides all the obvious reasons, you just get it. We had no idea you would have such a part in our lives and special day. We really do watch the video All THE TIME.” – Groom, John

“Wow Meg this is an amazing accomplishment! You deserve this recognition! We were just happy to be part of this magnificent piece of work you created. Your heart & soul was poured into this movie and highlighted our love story (and wedding) and the beginning of our lives together. We treasure it and our friendship with you.” – Bride, Allyson

Reflecting back on this monumental occasion, this is a wedding I don’t think anyone will ever forget. Over the past year friends, family, and even strangers have emailed to comment on how charismatic the groom is or how contagious their love is for each other and their family. Of course Best Man Danny may have a fan club of his own. He was such a huge help in making the film providing the iPhone footage sprinkled throughout. It is like a reality TV show, you will want more… I want more and I made the film! Ha ha! I love that even non-wedding filmmakers have enjoyed the life lessons to gain in this film…. “Only the spoon knows what’s going on at the bottom of the pot.”  This was a moment in time, and one that almost didn’t happen. I must give credit to photographer Bill Lee who was up in VT visiting friends on Labor Day 2011. It just so happened John and Allyson were invited to join. Bill mentioned my name and the rest is history. Thank you Bill!

Thank you to the judges of the Lucent Awards who sat through the hours of videos from filmmakers all over the globe! Your time and thoughtfulness was very much appreciated.

Wedding Film: Meg Simone Wedding Films
Ceremony and Reception additional camera: Amy Staub, NYC – thank you AMY :)
Special thanks to David Nicholas (Roberts assistant) for the Ballroom Timelapse.
Thanks to Best Man Danny for providing behind the scenes iPhone footage.

The Wedding: The Pierre (Mark Hunsch and Chris Edmonds)
Rehearsal Dinner: 21 Club
Photographer: Robert Evans
Floral & Design: Mark Rose Flowers & Events
Entertainment and After Party: Vali Entertainment
Painter of the Moment: Rich Flynn (CA)
Cake: Sylvia Weinstock
Wedding Dress: Reem Acra
Grooms Tux: Tom Ford

Music Licensed Through The Music Bed and Song Freedom
The Music Bed
Tim Halperin – Memories On The Ground
Ben Rector – When I Get There (vocal & instrumental)
Ben Rector – Song for the Suburb (instrumental)
Stars Go Dim – Seventeen (instrumental)
Stars Go Dim – Incredible (vocal & instrumental)

Song Freedom
Andrea Hamilton – Are You Feeling The Sunshine (instrumental)
One Republic – Good Life
Tyrone & Elina – Lucky (instrumental)