Rococo themed styled session
Vienna, City of Music! There is
something quite magical and inspiring when you walk through the
streets of Vienna, seeing the beautiful architecture and Rococo
style interior of the Schönbrunn apartments. Sitting down for
Apfelstrudel and Coffee made me think back to the Rococo themed
styled shoot I did in June this year with a group of very talented
Wedding suppliers. It had that same “Vienna”
feel with the musicians, Phantasy Trio who took part in the shoot and
kindly played beautiful soothing music in the background.
The Rococo developed in the early part
of the 18th century as a reaction against the grandeur,
symmetry and strict regulations of the Baroque. Rococo was the
response to the grand overstated Baroque that embodied light
playfulness and more intimacy. It was the dawn of a simpler more
relaxed age. I was inspired by Rococo artists who opted for a more
jocular, florid and graceful approach. The approach was ornate and
made strong usage of creamy, pastel-like colours , symmetrical design
curves and gold. Witty and playful artistic but also elegant.
Serena from Petals and Confetti
absolutely understood what I was trying to achieve with this theme.
After a few meetings and lots of discussions she delivered the most
beautiful and unique table centre piece. I wanted her to make use of
flowers and fruit and different textures and shapes to show how all
natural elements can be used to create interesting colour schemes. I
mentioned witty and playful, and the miniature bananas used on the
base, falls perfectly in this category. Even the real cotton plant
looked unusually brilliant within the arrangement. All the detail in
this centre piece makes it interesting to look at from all angles.
Lots of little surprises can be seen on the detailed photographs.
The ivy-cage bouquet was truly a work of art! Within the ivy cage is a smaller
loose rose and carnation ball wrapped with stringed pearls. This
bouquet is surely the most beautiful and unique of it's kind and I
applaud Serena for what she has created. The bouquet is very
versatile and suitable for the more contemporary wedding as well.
Great work on the wedding cake by
Nelmarie from Papercup Kitchen. Nelmarie used the different tiers of
the cake to subtly bring all the elements of the rococo theme
together. The texture of the bottom tier provided good contrast to
the delicate finish of the second and third tiers. The use of fresh
flowers on the cake brings us back to my idea of using natural
elements within this theme. The replica of the bouquet is nestled on
stringed pearls and together with the ivy strands and roses on the
base, and flowers it all ties in beautifully with the table centre
piece. The gold cups with cupcakes just add the touch of grandeur to
the overall design.
Amy of Prim and Proper Vintage hire
had a marvelous selection of classic crockery. This was added to the
table as the shoot progressed. Every time I see a little gem in
Amy's collection I just couldn't help showing it off. The abundance
of tulle on table adds softness and romance. With a few props and
candles we could compliment the table setting by playfully adding the
miniature variations of the original centre piece on the overflow of
tulle.
Music was part of the theme as it was
an important part of the Rococo era. A violin used as a prop not
only added an interesting feature to the table but the wood of the
instrument also complimented the wooded effects and walnuts used in
the flower arrangements. The candles were decorated with sheet music,
tulle and golden ribbon and lace. These can be perfect for
decoration or even wedding favours. A lovely way for guests to
remember your special day.
The beautiful classic style vintage wedding dress, supplied by Caryl from Retro Weddings was the right choice for the Rococo themed wedding. The dress had the
perfect balance of the beaded and embroidered bodice, with a subtle
lustre and the full tulle skirt. How fabulous! The big satin bow at
the back just added the touch of flamboyance to the style. Hair and
Make-up was beautifully done by Sheila hair and make-up. A formal
hairdo with a playful twist. Appropriately the groom wore a classic
formal tailcoat jacket by Steve at Stephen Bishop Suiting. The off
white on white cravat was the classic and obvious choice. Although
understated, it complimented the dress perfectly.
The Rococo theme is perfect for the
bride and groom who wants to be creative without sacrificing glamour
and style. It is formal yet playful and allows for adding something
quirky to make it personal.
It was a great experience working with a group of dedicated and talented wedding suppliers. Many thanks to:
Petals and Confetti, The Papercup Kitchen, Prim and Proper Vintage Hire, Sheila Hair and Make-up, Retro Weddings, Stephen Bishop suiting, Phantacy Trio, Northcote House, and Plenty to Declare Photography.
Petra Opperman
