When we started shooting for our book Storied Weddings we had our chapters aligned and our vision clear. We knew we wanted to offer an assorted range of designs for different aesthetics, hoping that couples could pull bits and pieces from the pages and form them into their own visions and story. The fun was picking and choosing linens and florals to accompany the gorgeous properties we’d chosen – for this spread we flew to Napa and photographed at the beautiful Whetstone Wine Cellars, a vineyard that feels like it could be two centuries old.
One of our favorite design spreads we called Old World Charm – a dreamy and romantic wedding that could have taken place virtually anywhere and during any decade (minus the awesome car). The setting was such a great match and left us feeling charmed and like we’d been part of something from another era.
Envisioning something quite timeless and romantic, we chose decadent table settings and velvet linens, gauzy overlays, and flowing blooms (we made in a crystal footed punch bowl). We wanted this setting to feel luxe but also attainable and not too over-the-top.
If you’re planning a design like this, we have a few pointers:
-Keep it understated – focusing on elegant place settings will create a romantic feeling, but only place what your guests will use. For example, if you won’t be having 9 courses, don’t fill your place settings with 9 forks.
-Use a luxe base – a textured linen like velvet can set the tone for something that’s really regal, but can also be dressed up or down.
–Candles can add the perfect dash of magic – peppering in a mix of taper candles and low votives lends a great balance of light.
What do you love most from this spread?
Team Details: Planning/flowers/styling: Valley & Company Events || Photography: O’Malley Photographers || Venue: Whetstone Wine Cellars in Napa || Dress: Sweet Caroline Styles || Paper goods: Momental Designs || Rentals: Theoni Collection || Linens: La Tavola
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