For this blog post, we didn’t actually travel anywhere – physically.

Instead, I took a virtual trip around the world to create a memorable, one-of-a-kind wedding gift for Mike.

With help from strangers across the globe, I assembled a photo album filled with pictures of the same thing: a notecard with the sentence, “Mike, Emily’s love for you is so strong, it has reached [location].”

The only difference in the photos? The backgrounds boasted stunning views or iconic landmarks that were unique to each locale.

Take a look at some of the photos in Mike’s album and continue reading (or click here) to learn how I managed the project!

 

How I created the ‘My Love for You’ Photo Album

This project is extremely time-intensive, but the final product is well worth the effort.

First things first: Before you get started, make sure you have a landmark or scenic backdrop nearby that others will want to “trade” for. In other words, if you want someone else to take a picture of your note in front of a castle, you need to have a unique background to offer in return.

Next, search on Facebook for groups with the titles, “My love for you is so strong…” or “My love for you is so big…” – this is your network of trading partners. I joined three or four of these groups and chose the ones that had the most members (read: the most opportunities).

These groups often have a page owner who moderates and approves your request to join, but you’re usually confirmed within 24 hours.

Here’s where the fun begins!

Group members will post photos of the backdrops they can offer and if you’re interested, comment with a photo of your backdrop, a sample of a handwritten note and any additional information, such as how quickly you can take the photo.

Be sure to keep track of your commitments! I ended up taking over 150 photos in exchange for the ones I received for Mike’s photo album. I kept track of them by asking anyone interested in my backdrop to direct-message me for more information (and I DM’d others whose backgrounds I was interested in).

Once you’re privately chatting, you can tell your contact what text you want written on the notecard and ask what they want written on theirs.

Make sure you establish deadlines and only send the real photo once you’ve gotten yours in return. A good practice is to take the photo and use simple editing software (or your phone!) to add a “SAMPLE” watermark until you receive your photo.

The downside to this project is that you’ll be bombarded with Facebook notifications until you’re done, but trust me – it’s a gift your loved one will never forget!

P.S. Here’s one of the photos I took! It’s outside of the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis – right across the street from where I used to work.