Moderne Take on a Renaissance Inspired Wedding 

„Photographing this inspiration shoot felt like witnessing a modern take on a Renaissance-era royal wedding.“ photographer Janine Licare told us excitedly who presents us her pictures proudly. „Situated in the French countryside, Chateau de Varennes was built 400 years ago and this shoot will transport you back to the time period in which it was constructed.“

So much enthusiasm makes us curious. So we dive in and don´t get disappointed. Slowly, the heavy wooden doors of the castle open and gradually and reveal the past freely.

In the middle of the hall stands an imposing dinner table, reminiscent of the art of still life of this era. Flowing panels of fabric nestle against the backs of the chairs, magnificent flowers bend far beyond the vase to spread their scent over the entire table, and shimmering golden accents round off the living painting with a touch off elegance.

However, not only this room was so lovingly detailed. „Every detail was styled to perfection to bring the Renaissance vision to life, from the deep, rich reds in the florals of Moon Canyon, to the velvet furniture, soft mauves in the tablescape, gold trimmed moldings framing the high ceilings, and everything in between.“  Janine raves about event stylist Shannon Leahy, who took over the creative direction of this workshop.

Even from afar you can see the proverbial thread of the concept, on which workshop host Sylvie Gil Photography put greatest value. „Rich red velvet is a theme across the entire shoot.“ workshop participant Janine knows. „From the velvet furniture, the monogrammed invitation suite by Aerialist Press, the florals and ribbons decorating the chapel, the antique chaise, and the velvet ribbon lining the three-tiered cake.“

Not as antique but no less precious, the two wedding dresses by Naeem Khan seem to have made the bride shine both in the chapel and at the reception. Again, the focus was clearly on small subtleties that inspire with the unexpected and play with contrasts, while they fit seamlessly into the image of the Golden Age.

At least now we can empathize with Janine Licare’s enthusiasm for reviving this experience: „If there’s one thing these images prove, it’s that there’s nothing antiquated about incorporating Renaissance inspiration in modern day weddings.“ With this in mind, let yourself be inspired!

Photography: Janine Licare Photography
Workshop Host: Sylvie Gil Photography 
Planning & Design: Shannon Leahy 
Business Strategist: Ideaction Consulting 
Floral Design: Moon Canyon 
Floral Assistant: Laure Lalliard Design 
Paper Design & Gifts: Aerialist Press 
Production Manager: NKT Events 
Production Assistant: Edina Noobah
Makeup & Hair: Ava Belle 
Venue: Chateau de Varennes 
Gowns: Naeem Khan 
Accessories: Bekah Anne 
Shoes: Bella Belle Shoes 
Tuxedo & Men’s Accessories: The Black Tux 
Linens: La Tavola Linens 
Rentals: Options, Vaisselle Vintage 
Cake & Macarons: Cakes in the City 
Ribbons & Textiles: Tono & Co. 
Candles: Ester Erik
Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab