AN OPULENT FRENCH BAROQUE INSPIRED STYLED SHOOT
Have I ever told you how much I love flowers? They just make everything look so pretty! Photographer Nikki Kirk recently sent us this ridiculously romantic shoot, full of extravagant florals and fabulous dresses just in time for Valentines. Enjoy!
Floral designer Clare of Lilyfee Floral Designs was on hand to tell us all about the shoot and how you can use this as inspiration for your own day… “I was inspired by the intricate scrolls and swirls of baroque ironwork and and elaborate French Gothic style and needed a venue to match. Compton Verney Art Gallery, really is an impressive backdrop with masterpieces lining the galleries and marble interiors, the perfect space for a baroque banquet. I also wanted to include my love of a crushed raspberry and teal colour combination, specifically warm red wine and berry tones from merlot through to pink champagne.
I took elements of baroque ironwork and included this into the bouquets with large curls of nickel wire and made them loose and soft with long cascades almost touching the floor.
I wanted the long top table to be a full and festive wedding banquet. The breakfast feast was ready for the arrival of the guests. The candles were about to be lit and there was an abundance of fresh grapes, figs and polished plums, which were scattered amongst rose blossom along the dining table. The table was covered in an aqua coloured linen dressed with swags of of teale voile. All the stationery, frames, vases, trays, bowls, candelabra and the rest of the props were pewter coloured. Other details included raspberry and teal coloured glasses, textural teal ribbon and pewter charges.
The influence behind the large hair piece is the opulent, french baroque style of Marie Antoinette. It was constructed on a frame of moss covered mesh to which I then wired huge rose blossoms and buds.
If you are looking for a similar style for your wedding, it is vital to plan well in advance. Decide upon your colours, textures, vases and other details as soon as you can, for example, I decided to use old metal and pewter vases. Start to visit car boot sales, charity and vintage shops. Think about textures that work well together such as fruit, fabrics and props. Don’t include too much (less is more!!) and stick to your theme without getting distracted. It is most important that you don’t try to do it all, we are here to help and give you the peace of mind that your desired look will be as you hope.”
Super Suppliers – Designer, Styling & Florals: Lilyfee Floral Designs// Photography: Nikki Kirk Photography// Dresses: Cotswold Bride & Wedding Days of Cheltenham// Hair & Makeup: Wedding Paint// Venue: Compton Verney Gallery, Warwickshire// Stationery: Melanie’s Studio Designs//
WOW. just wow.