Budding Brooklyn Romance

To create the whimsical look I dreamed of for this romantic, editorial-style wedding shoot, I reached out to some of my favorite vendors - and dear friends! - for help. The aim was to soften the industrial Brooklyn loft venue by creating a modern and elegant look centered around a more traditional red-rose color scheme. ENJOY!

We started by creating a lounge for our bride-to-be and her attendants, complete with cushy furniture, wire birdcages, and a champagne bar with fresh fruit. Likewise, we designed a sleek and masculine prep area for the groom, with leather chairs, a rustic wooden coffee table, vintage boxing gloves, and a stunning vintage American flag. For refreshments, beer and whiskey galore! (Vintage furniture by Patina Rentals)

In keeping with our floral theme, I decided on a cake inspired by the graceful shape of a rose. The bottom layer is meant to resemble enlarged petals, while the middle and top stand in for a stem and flowering bloom. To finish, the table is topped with fresh red petals for striking effect. (Cake by Cake Hero)

What to say about the dresses? I decided on not one, but two gorgeous frocks for the ultimate bridal experience. For the ceremony, I chose a long, flowing gown designed by Brooklyn-based designer Rebecca Shone of Shone Bridal and a flirtier, tea-length dress for the reception, paired with vintage kelly-green heels. The beautiful hand-made bridal accessories including the sash and crown came from the lovely Brooklyn based Hushed Commotion! The ever so elegant Shoko Wagner was our model for the day.

The tablescape I designed (Jove Meyer Events) was a vision in white, with an organza floral-patterned tablecloth, bright white candles, cream-colored plates, and napkins wrapped around glass chargers. Name cards were placed in mini glass vases with red roses; glass candle holders and bud vases served as centerpieces. A handmade, custom-designed chandelier with crystals, hanging candles, and more roses glistened overhead. (Rentals courtesy of Broadway Party Rentals)

For the ceremony, we used vintage couches for seating with two vintage doors framing the altar. We placed glass Cape Cod buoys at the entrance of the aisle, and used rose petals to spell the word of the day, "LOVE," down the middle.

We had two wonderful musicians who sang a perfect love song they had recently written! Thanks 3 West! Delicious + Local food courtesy of Brooklyn caterer Saucy By Nature

In the end, simple elegance was the driving force behind the day's design, and each item was carefully selected or created with whimsy and romance in mind. I was thrilled with the outcome - mission accomplished!

Photography by Amber Gress