DJ AJ10 with Mom (DJ AJ9). Photo by Heidzilla of Heidzillas.
We are pleased and proud to announce another "Something New" for your entertainment needs: please welcome our newest staff member! DJ Jasper "AJ10" Herman joined the Something New Entertainment family on March 20, 2012.
We are now accepting bookings for the 2027-2028 season with requests for DJ AJ10. Now is the perfect time to secure a Disc Jockey for your toddler's Sweet Sixteen party, a milestone anniversary, or an upcoming wedding with an extended engagement!
DJ AJ10 favors a unique blend of modern music on the cutting edge of calm (including new age, whale sounds, light classical, white noise, and the Ison Sleep System) sure to be perfect for naptime or meditation at your event.
TODAY, ONLY, we will be offering our 2012 rates for qualifying* 2027-2028 bookings. Hurry -- all reservations are first come, first served, and this offer will not be extended!
Please join us on the evening of Wednesday, April 4th, 2011 from 4:00pm to 9:00pm for the Today's Bride Cocktails and Veils Bridal Show at Quaker Station at The University of Akron. It's the perfect opportunity to meet over 50 of Northeast Ohio's best wedding vendors in a relaxed environment, including (of course) several of the disc jockeys from Something New Entertainment DJ Service! Plan your entire wedding reception in a single evening!
The first 50 brides in attendance wearing a veil will receive FREE admission AND a special surprise gift along with the current copy of Today's Bride Magazine, but just in case you haven't chosen your veil, yet, you can still become a Something New Entertainment VIP guest and attend the show for FREE! Just e-mail us at info@somethingnewentertainment.com or call us at 330-253-2900 for your complimentary tickets, while they last!
Don't forget to stop by the Something New Entertainment booth to learn about our exclusive show specials either! All brides who book at the Cocktails and Veils Show will receive a FREE Something New Bride tee shirt and a Lucky Silver Sixpence on-top of having access to the exclusive show specials. See you there!
Please join us this coming Tuesday evening, February 28, 2012 at 7:00 PM for an exclusive sneak peek at some very BIG things going on at Something New HQ! This is a perfect opportunity to meet and greet with the Something New Entertainment staff and to learn more about the lightscaping services we offer! Click on the invitation, below, to RSVP before Monday, February 27, 2012!
We're proud to announce that Something New Entertainment's own Disc Jockey, Master of Ceremonies, and Lighting Designer Anna-Jeannine "DJ AJ9" is at it, again, this time as a featured author writing for national DJ industry educational resource ProMobileDJ.com!
Anna-Jeannine's first article for the site went live today, exploring the range of mobile software applications for tablets and smartphones that may be helpful to her colleagues in the mobile DJ industry.
Anna-Jeannine is a member of the American Disc Jockey Association, Vice President of the International Special Events Society Cleveland, a Certified Responsible DJ by the School Dance Network, and a Graduate of Peter Merry's Professional Process (Peter is the author of the book The Best Wedding Reception, Ever).
Join the Something New Entertainment team of Disc Jockeys, Masters of Ceremonies, Lighting Designers, and Live Musicians next Sunday, February 26, 2012 for a unique bridal event unlike anything we've seen in Cleveland, before: an elegant and relaxed day of wedding planning in the signature white-gloved style that only the Ritz-Carlton can provide!
The event will take place at the Ritz-Carlton Cleveland and will begin at 2:00 PM, concluding at 5:00 PM. Come early to enjoy the many exclusive benefits afforded to attendees of this rare opportunity.
In addition to entry into show drawings and access to Cleveland's most sought-after wedding professionals, you'll be pampered with the attention of a personal coordinator to help you identify your wedding's ceremony and reception needs, plus complimentary valet service, complimentary champagne, and a complimentary dessert buffet by the Ritz-Carlton!
Due to the limited nature of space available, pre-registration is strongly recommended for this very special event. Pre-register for tickets for just $20.00 online, or (subject to availability) purchase tickets at the door for just $30.00.
Something New Entertainment DJs and Lighting Design is pleased to announce that one of our beautiful wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions was chosen to be featured as one of Today's Bride Magazine's Real Weddings. It was announced on the Today's Bride to Today's Bride blog last week! You'll love all the home-spun rustic country charm infused in this event. Special thanks, of course, to 831 Photography for capturing this perfect day!
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The New Mr. and Mrs. After an Amazing Afternoon of Dancing!
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Many of you may recognize Mark and Heather from a Something New Entertainment postcard or magazine ad -- we provided DJ and MC services for their May 29, 2010 wedding at Happy Days Lodge.
Make sure to check it out for a detailed listing of their non-traditional music selection as well as a list of all their vendors and even more pics from 831 Photography of all our bride Heather's handiwork! From cowgirl boots to calico pomanders, chalkboards, and wildflowers, this wedding and wedding reception had so many beautiful details!
I had commented at the time in that blog (July 2010) that these DIY projects were so well-made that they looked like they belonged in Today's Bride Magazine. Hey -- I guess I was right!
Many congratulations to this crafty Something New Bride on getting the recognition she deserves!
Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir Photography
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Just in time for Valentine's Day, here's a Wedding Pro Interview with a Glamour and Boudoir Photographer! Gift idea!
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The Something New Team (specifically DJ Justin and DJ Glenna "GFF") first met Jamie Jansen of Jamie Jansen Photography and J T'aime Boudoir Photography (Je t'aime is French for "I love you") at Alisa and Doug's wedding this past June at the University of Akron's Quaker Station and were impressed by the "go-with-the-flow" attitude that keeps him ready to capture special shots at a moment's notice, as well as his ability to spot action unfolding in the now and his nontraditional, stealthy shooting style.
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With his imposing stature, and easy, infectious smile, he's easy to spot, easy to get along with, and easy to laugh with, hug assets for someone who will essentially be your shadow for 8+ hours on your wedding day.
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Like Something New Entertainment, Jamie Jansen Photography is also a Fox 8 HOT LIST Winner, so you can rest assured you've made an award-winning choice!
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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We love Jamie's glamour, boudoir, and pin up portraits because of his skill in a range of different styles -- from edgy fashion photography to playful pin-ups reminiscent of some of the great American pinup illustrators of the 1940's and 1950's such as Gil Elvgren and Alberto Vargas -- providing a variety of fun and sexy options even for those of us who would prefer a more modest wardrobe for our shoot.
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Without further ado, please enjoy the following portraits and musings by Jamie Jansen!
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Something New Entertainment's DJ Anna-Jeannine "AJ9" Herman: What first interested you in photography?
J T'aime Photography's Jamie Jansen: I was working on an art project for class and wanted it to be, start to finish, my original work. So, I got with a photographer in town to help me photograph a model. I made the prints (this was old school, darkroom days). Then I created my piece from the photos. That was my first experience. I enjoyed the creativity of it, and that stuck with me.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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The catalyst for the business really came later when I was in Los Angeles working as an actor. My agent saw that I had a photography background and asked me to shoot head shots for one of her other clients. One thing lead to another and I wound up shooting about half of her clients. The photography was actually going better than the acting at the time So, when my involvement with the agency fizzled out, I decided to take a break, come home and try out the photography thing.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: How long have you been working as a professional photographer?
JJ: It's been 10 years now. Wow. I've worked traveling, I worked for a portrait studio, I worked for a commercial photographer, started shooting weddings 8 years ago, and about 3 years ago started the boudoir side of my business. Time flies when you're having fun. Right?
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What types of photography do you specialize in?
JJ: As I listed, I'm sort of a jack-of-all-trades, I've worked in pretty much all the fields professionally, not just playing around. I think in my heart though, I've always liked fashion and glamour photography the best. That’s why boudoir is such a great fit for me.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What makes boudoir photography so special?
JJ: Here’s what I tell all potential clients. My belief is that every woman is absolutely beautiful. My job is to help bring that out for you. Many women have confidence issues about their body that are mostly unfounded. I have worked with many different women with many different body types and they have all looked stunning. I mean it. Stunning! I am positive in my heart that you are gorgeous as you are and we'll gladly help you to be comfortable, relaxed and rock the best shoot ever.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir Photography
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: How would you describe your photographic style?
JJ: I call my style, guerrilla fashion:) It’s highly stylized and artistic, but I try to keep things moving. I try to give my clients something that no one else can offer, the NYC treatment. I've spent years developing the best skills and expertise to treat you like a New York City Model. Our style is built around the best work from all of the major magazines, lingerie catalogs and glamour photography, with our own twist. Plus I have the skills, the location and the gear to do it up right. So, come be Jennifer Aniston for a day. We’ll primp and pamper you, take some amazing photos and treat you like royalty.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What do you enjoy most about being a photographer?
JJ: It’s simple, the joy and confidence I can bring to other’s lives. That means more to me than anything, that I’ve had that powerful and positive affect on someone’s life. That’s the only reason I do this.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir Photography
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DJ AJ9: What is the most important consideration ladies should make when hiring a boudoir photographer?
JJ: Uh, most? I think there’s several things to consider. Quality is my number one priority. I know I’m delivering a product that frankly isn’t possible unless you have the knowledge and know how to achieve the results. Plus a bunch of fancy toys. To a client, this may be a priority but not their utmost concern. I’ve also got to establish a comfort level and a safe environment. To most women, this is still an exciting, scary and somewhat intimidating prospect. I know from experience, that it tends to be very positive and empowering for every woman I've worked for. I just want to make sure that if you decide to do a shoot, that I do my absolute best to make you feel safe, comfortable and beautiful.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What are some ways that ladies can prepare for their shoot to help ensure better photos?
JJ: I like a pre-consultation. This way we can chat, I can show you where we’ll be, and begin to develop our relationship. You’ve got to trust me to take care of you. Then, I also offer the services of a fashion consultant. She’s wonderful at helping you to choose clothes that are flattering and are good for your body type. Clothes that fit properly can make or break a shoot. A stylist is also great. She’s awesome at revolutionizing your look but also stays through the shoot to be your assistant. There’s some other basic cosmetic things you can do before hand that need not be listed here:) Just contact me for more information.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir Photography
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DJ AJ9: What should ladies bring along with them to their shoot?
JJ: Definitely plenty of clothing options. The more we have to choose from, the better. Tore up jeans and a tank top is almost a standard for me. Several lingerie outfits. Jewelry and accessories are great. Your make up in case it’s needed. A favorite bottle of wine, your favorite music. Anything that’s gonna make you feel more comfortable and relaxed. A big plus is to bring things that mean something to your significant other. Favorite Shirt, Tie, whatever. It adds meaning to the photos.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What's your favorite "must capture" shot?
JJ: Actually, I can’t really answer that. I’m not meaning that in a sly way. Here’s what I mean. One of the first things I ask is, if it’s for her husband or boyfriend or whatever, what do you think is his “must capture” shot? Every woman knows.
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Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T'aime Boudoir
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DJ AJ9: What's the question I'm not asking you but you wish I would, or What's the question that clients usually don't ask you but you wish they would?
JJ: What comes to mind is simple. They should ask, “Why should I choose you?” Here’s what I would say. I’m bringing something to the table that I haven’t really seen yet. Not in Northeast Ohio, anyway. Because of my background, I have the knowledge and experience and the right equipment to get the job done. If you want to create your own, personal Maxim magazine, you need someone that can actually deliver that to you. Plus, being a man allows me to take a different approach than the other photographers, most of which are women. I’m going to see you differently than another woman would. It’s the same reason I rarely photograph guys. It’s not that I can’t or won’t do it. It’s that I’m not very good at it. I can’t look at them and see what’s sexy, I see...well...never mind. Myself, I guess. I see myself.
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Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Photography
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of J T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Photography by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir
Photo by Jamie Jansen of Je T’aime Boudoir Photography
Akron, Ohio - January 27, 2012: Something New Entertainment Special Event DJ Service and Lighting Design Service recently announced plans to establish headquarters in an office space near Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.
For Something New Entertainment, a special events entertainment and event lighting design company specializing in weddings, the larger, more formal office means convenience for clients, a dedicated space for staff training and development, and workspace for construction projects.
Something New Entertainment will now share a suite of offices, convenient to Chapel Hill Mall. "The new space will provide greater efficiency for our event staff, as well as improvements in how we serve our brides and grooms and more opportunities for team training and lighting and sound experimentation. We are very excited about the move!” said Chief Entertainment Officer, Justin L. Herman.
Renovations of the new space are scheduled to be complete by the end of March, at which time, Something New Entertainment's new physical address will be:
1340 Home Avenue, Suite E Akron, Ohio 44310
Contact telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, and the Something New Entertainment website will remain the same. In order to continue to allow ample attention to each client's needs, consultations with Something New Entertainment staff will remain by appointment, only, and please continue to send mail to our secure box at
P.O. Box 13744 Akron, Ohio 44334-3744
For more information about Something New Entertainment, visit http://www.SomethingNewEntertainment.com or call 330-253-2900
Not long after, another of our teams had the good fortune of working with him *again* on New Year's Eve at Tricia and Todd's wedding reception at Avon Oaks Country Club. Twice in one season with a photographer is somewhat of an unusual occurrence, just based on the number of wedding photographers and disc jockeys in the area, so I took it as a hint from the universe to get him on the blog ASAP! ;)
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Like all wedding professionals featured on the Something New Entertainment blog, Hunter appears by virtue of and as a testament to his talent as well as to his great personality. Here's what the Something New Entertainment staff loves about Hunter: is organized, professional, friendly, and his work has a very "clean," modern style to it that you'll immediately recognize.
Enough prologue! On with the interview!
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Something New Entertainment's DJ Anna-Jeannine "DJ AJ9" Herman: What first interested you in photography?
Hunter Photographic's Hunter Harrison: I picked up photography at a very young age. My father was kind enough to gift me a really old Nikon SLR camera. Thereafter, I really could not get enough of photography. For the longest time, it was my oldest and most dear hobby. Photography is deeply personal to me and it has always been something I turn to purely for enjoyment. As time went on, it only made sense to turn my personal passion into my career as well.
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DJ AJ9: How long have you been photographing weddings?
HH: For a little over four years, but things have really taken off in the past couple years. After some early hard work, I was able to leave my previous career and focus solely on photography. Looking forward, we see nothing but great things on the horizon. I'm really excited for what the future holds.
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DJ AJ9: How would you describe your photographic style? HH: I have a bright and romantic editorial style. For my clients, I aim to capture photos that are emotionally driven. I really want photos that are both organic, but romantic was well. More generally, I blend photojournalism and fine-art portraiture to create an editorial style similar to what you would see in magazines.
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DJ AJ9: What do you enjoy most about being a wedding photographer? HH: Simply put, happiness. I have blessed to work with couples during the happiest period of their lives together. I have the most extraordinary and endearing clients you could imagine. Their happiness rubs off on me and really makes my entire life that much more worthwhile.
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DJ AJ9: What is the most important consideration couples should make when hiring a photographer for their wedding? HH: Strangely enough, it's not the photographers style, although that is important too. A good personality match is most important for me. I believe couples should find a professional photographer with a great personality. After all, the photographer will be the couples shadow throughout the entire day. The photographer must also directly interact with the family and guests. Having a friendly person to work with really makes the difference. Second and third considerations would be experience and photographic style.
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DJ AJ9: What are some ways couples can prepare for their wedding to help ensure better photos? HH: Talk to their photographer and listen. Take time with the photographer weeks before the wedding to complete a good plan. Make sure to express your desires regarding the photographs. Give the photographer specifics about what you want, but also general themes. For example, a theme of "intimate romance" or "fast-paced energy". A good photographer will know how to translate these themes into great results. Also critically important - listen to your photographer. A professional photographer will have a good sense of timing, style and execution. The couple is paying for the photographer's experience, so be willing to trust and listen. This is why I always include unlimited planning time. Clients know that I am always here as a resource.
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DJ AJ9: What's your favorite must capture moment during the wedding day? HH: Leaving aside the obvious moments, there are a couple I really look for. The first is an honest and peaceful moment between the couple. Something natural and not posed. The other is a look of pride from the parents. A wedding is a big day for the parents as well, and I want to make sure their joy and pride is captured as well.
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DJ AJ9: What's the question I'm not asking you but you wish I would, or What's the question that clients usually don't ask you but you wish they would? HH: I never get asked about photo editing. For example, how I select the final photographs from all the ones captured at a wedding. Being able to pick the best work is as important as knowing when to press the trigger. A simple way for couples to learn about a photographer's editing skill is to request access to a full wedding gallery. A single wedding gallery should demonstrate skill, consistency, emotion, and a progression of the wedding story. I'm always willing to show complete weddings and wish couples would ask more. Generally, I volunteer to show my work.
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DJ AJ9: What do you look for in a great DJ and what are your DJ pet peeves? How can your DJ "co-workers" help you, hurt you, or irritate you throughout the day? HH: A great DJ:
Brings the mic to the Best Man/Maid of Honor and encourages them to stand beside the couple for the toast. This allows for great eye contact during the toast, a photographically clean image, and limits stereo system feedback.
Can get open dancing started with a bang and keeps people on the dance floor
Is painfully polite and professional
Understands that the MC and photographer must work in tandem during the reception and takes a moment to review the schedule with the photographer. Also, helps to spot changes and keeps photographer informed.
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HH: DJ pet-peeves:
Over the microphone - "It's time for the cake-cutting. Grab your cameras and get a picture of the happy couple", with no mention of the photographer. I've lost a few shots because of this in the past.
Overly talkative on the mic or creates a sense that the DJ is the show. Even worse, rudeness of any kind (but this is just my personal taste).
Changes in schedule without a head's up to the photographer. I almost missed a first dance because of this. We got it, but I was none to happy. It's really easy - just look to see the photographer is in the room before starting an important "tradition" moment. The photographer can then handle it from there.
Truthfully, I always take a moment to check in with the DJs when I see them. I definitely have a responsibility to be nice and help as well. We are all busy professionals with different needs and goals. If we all help, then everything goes great for the couple.
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Hunter Harrison of Hunter Photographic
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About Hunter Harrison: My name is Hunter Harrison and I’m a passionate lifestyle wedding photographer. Other fun facts? My wife is Brooke, our dog is Moxie, I have a serious addiction to auto racing, and a crippling phobia of tomatoes.
About Hunter Phoographic: Our philosophy is to provide personal service and treat all clients as close friends. Our aesthetic is a mixture of photojournalism and fine-art portraiture, with a focus on romantic, organic and absolutely timeless imagery. To achieve this aesthetic, we use a mixture of digital, film and polaroid cameras. Our work has been published in The Knot Magazine (Ohio), Professional Photographer magazine and on blogs such as Navy & Lavender Notes.
Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
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Thanks so much for visiting us at the Cleveland 2012 Winter Today's Bride Show last weekend, January 14 and 15, 2012 at the IX Center in Cleveland! We had a great time catching up with our colleagues, meeting all of you, and -- once again -- being honored with the task of providing lightscaping for the Gallery of Reception table Ideas! Check out photos of last year's Gallery in our 2011 Facebook album!
Several members of the Something New Entertainment team of Disc Jockeys, Masters of Ceremonies, Lighting Designers, Musicians, and Dancers were on-site to assist with your questions and hear about your exciting upcoming plans!
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Booth and Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
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DJ AJ9, MC Justin, MC Tony, DJ Mike, MC Jack, DJ Abby, and Assistant DJ-in-training Rachael (our thirteen-year-old sister) enjoyed meeting many lovely brides while showcasing some of our repertoire of lighting design and lightscaping options in the Today's Bride Gallery of Reception Table Ideas downstairs. We hope you voted for your favorite table in the gallery, and we can't wait to hear who the winner will be. there were so many truly stunning designs from local wedding professionals including our friends at the Clifton Barn, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Browns, L'Nique Specialty linen Rental, Normandy Party Center, Gervasi Vineyard, Party Decor, and more!
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Uplighting by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lighting Designed by Something New Entertainment's DJ AJ9. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
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DJ AJ9 chose several colors of lighting to compliment the variety of table designs featured in the gallery, creating a stunning overall lightscape for the room, including uplighting in a deep plum violet-purple, a warm yellow amber gold, and a bright watermelon fuchsia pink, as well as a "lighted monogram" of the Something New Entertainment Logo, below.
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Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
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Check out more of these beautiful shots of the Gallery, below, generously provided by Dale McDonald of Digital Photos by Dale. Thank you, Dale!!!
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Booth and Lighting Design by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping and Lighted Monogram by Something New entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Uplighting by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Uplighting by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lighting Designed by Something New Entertainment’s DJ AJ9. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
Lightscaping and Lighted Monogram by Something New Entertainment. Photography by Digital Photos by Dale
So, when my involvement with the agency fizzled out, I decided to take a break, come home and try out the photography thing.
