A DREAM OF SWANS
This firework of stylish wedding ideas has us immediately under its spell.
Andreea Bucur of Teastyle Weddings was inspired by the ballet “Swan Lake” and designed this dream world with a lot of creativity and sense for aesthetics.
The photographer couple Jacob & Pauline captured this bewitching diversity in unique images and an extraordinary video.
Andreea Bucur of Teastyle Weddings told: “The concept was born from the details of the two bridal gowns exquisitely crafted by Cynthia of Oui Madam for this shoot. The black and white contrast and the feather embroidery and appliques of the gowns immediately made me think of “Swan Lake”. And while I adore the original story, I wanted to bring this story home, to a modern bride, who is as in love with a classic romance as she is with the more daring and sensual, contemporary love story. I wanted to inspire the modern woman who is complex, confident and stylish, and who wants a little bit of both worlds.
We started with a boudoir session, which we designed in an alcove, to resemble an intimate nest, where our bride would prepare for her wedding. Wedding days are always busy and can often turn stressful for brides. So, I wanted to include a few intimate minutes of reflection, when a bride can breathe and starts to take in the wave of emotions that the day has in store for her.
Dressed in her white stunning gown, with delicate feathers embroidered with gold and white thread, our bride glided in for her ceremony, with her groom in a contrasting, modern black tuxedo. We designed the ceremony space with a flower installation by Bloominghaus inspired by the lush grasses that grow around lakes, with heads of white blooms, hinting at swan heads peeking from the vegetation.
Similarly, we designed the reception table to look as if immersed among these islets of grasses and climbing vines, with sparse nests of white blooms on the tabletop, departing from the usual centerpieces. For the place settings I chose to pair classic, highly ornate chargers and cutlery, with modern marbled plates and simple, black silk napkins.
Overall, the inspiration for the shoot were the swans. Each aspect of the design made use of elements from nature and the ecosystem of the birds, as well as from the original “Swan Lake” story. We brought in a touch of wild, and nature, into this stunning Georgian townhouse in the heart of London. We used the white and black combo throughout, mixed with light greens, soft creams and blush borrowed from the colors of the venue to create a smooth transition between the space and the natural elements we brought in. I added gold accents here and there, to elevate the design, and give it an extravagant look, hinting at the more opulent style portrayed in the ballet.
Later on, our bride transitioned into her black gown, and the groom changed into a white coat tux, continuing the black and white theme. We finished the day with the couple back on the boudoir sofa, relaxing and enjoying the last part of their special day.
The main objective of our shoot was to show exquisitely crafted details and bespoke elements (beautiful heirlooms in time), in order to shine a spotlight on handmade, sustainable beauty, and conscious luxury. From the superb hand-made details of the bespoke gowns, to the delicate fondant feathers of the cake of Botanico Cakes, the bamboo paper of the hand made stationery, the organic cotton and bamboo silk for the table linens, and all the way to the foam-free and seasonal floral installations. Ultimately, we wanted to put forth bridal inspiration that is stunning, indulgent and luxurious, yet conscious and relevant for our time.”
And now let yourself be inspired by this variety of elegant and contemporary ideas that Jacob & Pauline have captured in a magical world of images.
Creative Direction, Planning & Styling: Teastyle Weddings
Photography and Videography: Jacob & Pauline
Bridal Gowns & Boudoir Gown: Oui Madam Flower Design: Blooming Haus
Stationery: Teastyle Weddings
Cakes: Botanico Cakes
Hair: Jo Elizabeth
Make-Up: Lawson Makeup
Bridal Jewellery: Hermione Harbutt Engagement Ring: Lily Arkwright
Boudoir Lingerie: Fleur of England
Bridal Shoes: Freya Rose
Groom’s Attire: Moss Bros.
Furniture & Tableware: Classic Crockery Venue: Carlton House Terrace
Models: Ishika Sharma & Tom King