From Inspiration to Reality #2: The Design, II

I keep bragging about our new From Inspiration to Reality feature. I really can’t shut up about it. I think that the idea is so freaking cool and seeing that we work with some of the more incredible vendors out there, it seemed like a genius way of blurring the line between what they do and what our readers want. It’s a great way to bring our two loves together and celebrate a really inspiring design adventure.

And man-oh-man am I glad that the shoot captured by Agnes Lopez and team was one of our debut features. It’s so good, that it makes me feel really stinking proud of myself for coming up with the concept and really stinking proud of the vendors that I have the sheer pleasure of working with. It’s a total dream of a shoot and one that I KNOW will be used as wedding inspiration from now until forever!

Agnes wanted to bring a little bit of the Vintage Winter Inspiration to the shoot. Seeing that they love all things fashion and all things vintage, this particular inspiration board seemed like the perfect fit. Plus, they got to bring a little bit of snow to Florida which was just too good to pass up. Here’s what Liza Chung, the florist and designer, had to say…

We chose the board because we are drawn to all things luxury and fashionable. We adored the Vera Wang gown and authenticity of the styling with vintage frames. The florals spoke softly of winter and we love beautiful jewels and couture shoes. The board allowed for our own interpretation to expand to a realm of high style bridal fantasy.

The picture of the entire tablescape against the blue sky is enough to send me clear over the edge. It’s not exactly doable for a wedding, but when you look a little closer, you’ll see that there are so many incredible ideas tucked inside. Oh and if one perfect gown isn’t enough, the team added in another that is equally as gorgeous, equally as drool inducing. This one, by Caroline Herrera.

OK. So, what I really want you to get from these posts are real, solid ideas that you can infuse into your own wedding. SMP is about inspiration, about finding ideas tucked inside each and every photograph. So, here are a few ways to translate this gorgeous shoot into a wedding…

1. Place sweet treats like chocolate covered oreos on sticks, chocolate martinis and cinnamon dusted marshmallows to add to your hot chocolate all around your reception space. A hot chocolate bar is a classic way to add a bit of charm to your day.

2. Have large pieces of faux fur draped over display tables to add a warm and cozy style. Then, think in terms of layers. Tuck in antler details, through candle holders, picture frames or wall art. Bring in a collection of mismatched crystal candle holders (found at flea markets and antique stores), use mismatched rentals for your plates, layering in different patterns and textures, rent copper hued glasses or start collecting them from places like ebay.

3. Rather than using all flowers, add in a few standing crystal chandeliers on tables. Ask your florist about renting crystal candelabras or standing chandeliers.

4. Use a basic white linen, then layer in a piece of lace or a vintage table cloth. This will add texture and dimension to your look. Copper hued napkins will add the warmth.

5. Keep your flowers simple, subtle and sophisticated. Mix in berries for a bit of charm.

We have the amazing video of the shoot coming up next, so make sure to check back in just a bit and see how the day unfolded! PURE GORGEOUSNESS.

Here is a list of vendors who participated…

Photography by Agnes Lopez / Bridal Gowns by Bleu Belle Bridal, Savannah/ Bridesmaid Dresses by Bella Bridesmaid, Jacksonville /  Set + Event Designer: Liza Chung / Cinematographer: CollabCreation Films / Make-up by Jackie Neal /  Hair by Grazyna Mercado /  Food Displays by Chef Michael Mcmillan of OPUS 39 Restaurant & Food Gallery St. Augustine /  Cake by Jaycel Adkins, Etiquette of Chocolate / Invitation by Vera Wang with custom fur envelope by Liza Chung.