When I was little and my birthday rolled around, I was allowed to stay outside and play until it got dark because my birthday falls on one of the longest days of the year. 9:30 p.m. is a big deal to an 8-year-old, and it was, quite possibly, the greatest thing in the world.

As I've gotten older, my birthday hasn't been as big of a deal. It's kinda sad that the excitement wanes, and this year, I wanted to do something about that. I love giving back and I've wanted to incorporate that into my photography business, SO … drum roll please …

I'm giving away a 2013 wedding photography package! Yep, a COMPLETE package that will allow you to go a little easier on your wedding budget. No strings attached.

Here's what you need to know:

No purchase necessary.
The giveaway includes full-day wedding coverage; two photographers; a DVD of high-resolution, edited images (color and black and white) with rights to print; and an online gallery to share with family and friends (more than a $1,700 value).
You can nominate you and your fiancé(e) or a deserving couple (couple must be engaged and have a 2013 wedding date set).
I repeat, this giveaway is for a 2013 wedding (I am already booked for a few 2013 weddings, so if your date doesn't work with my schedule, I will let you know as soon as I receive your entry).
I will travel! Literally anywhere (Travel fees [airfare/car and hotel] will apply to weddings outside of greater Cleveland and greater Cincinnati).
Please consider your contractual obligations with another photographer before entering (those nominating: please verify this with couple).
Current LBP couples are not eligible.

Here's how you apply:

E-mail me (subject: "Wedding Giveaway" to lane@lanebaldwinphotography.com) with the following information:
- Names of the couple.
- Wedding date, location and venues.
- Couple's contact information.
- A paragraph about why you think receiving this giveaway would be fabulous!
- A paragraph about how YOU (or the couple) give back.
- The theme of the wedding.
- A photo of the couple.
Like my Facebook page (if you don't have Facebook, let me know in your e-mail).
Click "Like", "Share Post" or "Tweet Post" below and tag me in your post (Note: I'm not on Twitter but sharing on Twitter will be accepted).

Submissions will be accepted until July 4. On July 5, I will post the finalists* (chosen by yours truly) and open up voting to YOU to decide the winning couple. The runners-up will receive 10% off their package price if they choose to book.

Ready? GO!

*Having never done this before, I have no idea what the response to this giveaway will be. I'm hopeful I will have more than one applicant. :)

You all know that I'm a Cleveland photographer, but what some of you might not know is that I spent two awesome years second shooting with Amanda Donaho Photography in Cincinnati. I've missed her guidance, inspiration and hilarity since I've moved to Cleveland, and a couple weekends ago I had the opportunity to shoot with her again! :) I traveled to Cincinnati (miss that place!) and helped Amanda shoot a beautiful couple's wedding in the city. What an amazing 1920s-themed event! If you like the pictures below, you should check out Amanda's full blog post here.

Corey and Brian had a first look before the ceremony. This allowed them to take most of their portraits at the beginning of the day so they could go right into their reception after cocktail hour.

So, so pretty!