Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Ridder.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In 2022 I began documenting family and friend’s weddings on my handheld camcorder, and became obsessed with capturing wedding days. I went on a search to see if anyone was still filming weddings the way we used to: unposed, candid, and full of real emotion, but I realized that style of wedding videography was surprisingly hard to find.
That’s how Julie Marie Film came to life. My goal is to create wedding films that feel like the home videos we all treasure: imperfect in the best way, full of genuine moments, and focused on how the day actually felt. It’s been incredibly rewarding to connect with couples who value authenticity and nostalgia as much as I do, and to preserve their memories through films and raw home video footage.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are always new trends, cameras, and editing styles to chase, and that can feel overwhelming – but I’ve found that the best thing I can do is stay true to what makes Julie Marie Film different. I exclusively film on handheld camcorders because that’s where my work feels the most authentic. Rather than trying to be everything to everyone, I’ve focused on doing one thing really well, and I think couples can feel that.
Instead of looking to trends for inspiration, I look to things that stand the test of time; home videos, music, vintage films, and the thoughtfully planned details that make each wedding unique. While my style is consistent, every film is crafted to reflect the couple and their story, so no two ever feel the same.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Julie Marie Film creates nostalgic wedding films inspired by the home videos many of us grew up with. I specialize in documenting the moments that can’t be recreated; the in-between glances, the laughter, the happy chaos, and the little interactions couples may not remember happening.
What I’m most proud of is hearing couples say their films don’t just show what their wedding looked like, they remind them what it felt like.
While the camcorder is certainly part of what makes my work recognizable, I think what truly sets it apart is the experience it creates. My approach is intentionally candid and unobtrusive, allowing people to be fully present instead of feeling like they’re performing for the camera. I want the footage to feel personal, real, fun, and unmistakably their own. I think of the modern day home video as a true living and breathing keepsake for your family to cherish and rewatch over and over.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Some of my favorite memories are from spending summer mornings with my grandpa. We’d drive two hours to pick up fresh peaches, stop for coffee with his friends, then head home to play cards together. While ordinary at the time, those memories with him are now some of my most cherished.
I think that’s helped shape the way I see filmmaking today. The moments we end up holding onto aren’t always the big milestones; they’re the simple, everyday memories that become part of who we are. That’s the feeling I hope every couple finds when they watch their wedding film years from now.
Pricing:
- Average Spend: $2500
- Elopements/Partial day footage starting at $650
- Custom Pricing Available through inquiry
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.juliemariefilm.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliemariefilm?igsh=N2d0aWQ5Ym9nNGxo&utm_source=qr
