hello and happy wedding wednesday!

Do you ever wonder why so many photographers do styled shoots?  

That's actually a question I've always wondered when I first started out in the industry.  There are reasons that range from getting published in national blogs, to pushing creative limits, to cultivating inspiration.  For me?   I wanted to do some networking with a few my favorite local vendors, explore my shooting style, and to create some different and beautiful looks that may give inspiration to future brides!   It takes a crazy amount of effort to organize a styled shoot, from selecting models to getting them prepped by a hair/makeup artist, selecting a wardrobe, choosing inspiration, picking a locations, coordinating schedules, a day full of shooting and hours upon hours of editing!   But in the end it is beyond well worth it to create something completely unique and beautiful!  

So what was the inspiration for this particular shoot?  Well I guess you could say it has an overall ethereal vibe to it.  I chose one dress, but 3 different bridal separates and accessories to make it look completely different.  You could even say eclectic, (like my shooting playlists that my team teased me about which ranged from 80s pop to 90s hip hop to Jason Derulooooo to singer/songwriters of today.)  But that's a different story- and now back to wedding stuff.   

Often, I see brides opting to wear something a bit more demure for a ceremony... which is where the cape comes in.  Secondly, for a spring or fall wedding, brides are usually looking for a little more fabric and warmth, which makes the shawl a lovely addition.  Lastly,  we added a full skirt to the mix to give the dress a classic feel with a bit more movement which, as you'll see,  photographs beautifully!   All credit goes to the wonderful Miss Ruby Bridal Boutique for providing an elegant dress and all 3 accessories.  To finish off each look, I had amazing hairpieces from local bridal accessory designer Jaxie, as well as a stunning array of florals by the amazing Liz of Floral Alchemy.  

So what's your favorite style?  Scroll on down and decide for yourself!

same dress, multiple looks...  paired With a classic suit.

Willowby "Liberty" Gown by Watters, photo courtesy of Watters

Willowby "Liberty" Gown by Watters, photo courtesy of Watters

Willowby "Liberty" Gown by Watters, photo courtesy of Watters

Willowby "Liberty" Gown by Watters, photo courtesy of Watters

Joseph Abboud Silver Modern Fit Suit, photo courtesy of Joseph Abboud

Joseph Abboud Silver Modern Fit Suit, photo courtesy of Joseph Abboud

So what do these look like on a real bride and groom?  Scroll on down for a looksy!

Look #1: streamlined, elegant.

Real bride Dominika wearing the Willowby "Liberty" by Watters gown, paired with a Wtoo "Ellie Cape"

Real bride Dominika wearing the Willowby "Liberty" by Watters gown, paired with a Wtoo "Ellie Cape"

Real groom Daniel wearing a moisture-wicking dress shirt by Mizzen + Main; suit by Joseph Abboud

Real groom Daniel wearing a moisture-wicking dress shirt by Mizzen + Main; suit by Joseph Abboud

Jaxie Bridal Hair Accessory: "Adele"

Jaxie Bridal Hair Accessory: "Adele"

 
 
Beautiful calligraphy poem + wax seal by Shelby Made It, ribbon by Torn & Tied

Beautiful calligraphy poem + wax seal by Shelby Made It, ribbon by Torn & Tied

 

Look #2 - Boho chic, earthy.

Willowby "Liberty" Gown with a Ti Adora fringed lace poncho

Willowby "Liberty" Gown with a Ti Adora fringed lace poncho

Jaxie Bridal Hair Accessory: "Anji"

Jaxie Bridal Hair Accessory: "Anji"

 

Look #3: Classic, ethereal

Willowby "Liberty" Gown paired with a Robert Bullock Overskirt

Willowby "Liberty" Gown paired with a Robert Bullock Overskirt

 

Lastly, i couldn't leave out some behind the scenes entertainment.  

We like to have fun! And a day without laughter is a day wasted. :)

 

Also thanks to Wine Sellers Ltd for the delicious rose we enjoyed during our shoot. 

(And yes, it tasted as good as it looks!)

vendor love

A big heartfelt thank you to all of these wonderful contributing vendors!  Without you, this dream would still be just a dream.

  • Dresses/accessories: MISS RUBY BRIDAL (designs by Watters, Ti Adora, and Robert Bullock)

  • Menswear: Mizzen + Main, Joseph Abboud

  • Florist: FLORAL ALCHEMY

  • Hair/MUA: Jennifer Janssen

  • Hair accessories: Jaxie Bridal

  • Calligraphy Poem, wax sealed letter: Shelby Made It

  • Rose: Wine Sellers Ltd.

  • Photographers: GTB Imagery + Lottie Lillian (hey, that's me!)

  • Videographer: Domenic Pellicori (stay tuned for a behind the scenes look and promo video)