Cannot say enough about Artful Weddings by Sachs Photography. As a Groom, I was pretty passive about most of the wedding planning, with the lone exception being the photographers. As someone who (likes to think he) knows a lot about photography..., I was very picky. My wife and I did extensive research online, and then with our circle of friends and fellow couples, and finally had in person meetings with our top 4 firms.
Artful weddings had by far the best samples, but they also took the most time understanding what my wife and I wanted for our photos. They helped us understand different styles and how those would translate into the final product, and then helped us build a package around that. Some of it was following our direction, but importantly, Sachs also used their expertise to guide us.
On the day of the wedding, Anne Sachs and her team were impeccable. She corralled a gaggle of guests and attendants into the necessary photographs, but never interfered with the celebration. She gave firm guidance when a pushy mother in law wanted to overstep some of the photos, but also was flexible when the groomsmen made a late decision to take some silly photos. She somehow always knew where a slightly drunk relative had wandered off to, which made the photos quicker and left more time for enjoying the wedding.
Also, and I think this can't be overstated, Anne somehow got the ring bearer and the flower girl, both under 3 years old, to cooperate and look great throughout what was a long day for both.
During the ceremony and reception, Anne and her team were unobtrusive to the point where my wife actually asked if she was still there. It was so nice to be able to enjoy our reception without being constantly told where to look and when to smile. And too top it all off, the reception pictures were amazing, so she was obviously there, shooting away!
Also, Anne and her team were very familiar with the venue (although our venue is a pretty popular one) which meant we didn't waste time scouting locations. Also, the use of natural light really shone in the final images, which is probably a combination of photographer talent and location experience. Anne shoots with an elegant touch.
The service was quick as well, we received an email that about 500 "preview" images were available during our honeymoon, and about three weeks after the wedding, the full DVD was ready, with just under 1200 images.
It should also be noted that Artful Wedding was extremely flexible in building a package of services that fit our needs. They are definitely in the high end range of wedding photographers, but some of the others we met with had a "my way or the highway" attitude. Not Artful Weddings, whom were willing to work with us on timing, the amount of printed images, and a few other key areas. We never felt like we were wasting money, and we never felt bullied into buying something we didn't want. They are by no means a "budget" service, but they also aren't overpriced.
Of all the decisions I made about my wedding, I think the two I did the best on were the woman I picked to marry and the photographers I picked to capture the memories.