Once Upon a Timeless Bride

I grew up reading fairytales, and in the bridal world, the idea of "the Princess" is one of the underlying themes. We talk a lot about fairytale moments, and that's understandable, since a wedding does evoke a bit of magic, along with happiness and love. But the idea of "happily ever after" has some baggage that's been passed down to young girls for generations. We've adopted these ideas of true love from stories that propagate the assumption that women must be saved (by a man no less), her physical attributes are her only marking of worth, and heterosexual relationships are the only ones accepted. But I never really bought into that whole "knight in shining armor" idea, and my version of a princess tends to lean more to the ethereal, mid-summer night, and goddess-like female icons. This styled shoot dreamed up by Lorie Lau of HL Lovely for a photography workshop with Playful Soul Creates definitely evokes fairytale vibes, and I'm so in love with this creativity and beauty captured by one of the attendees, Cheyenne Baklayan Photography. And in this story, I like to think that our princess is strong, independent, and definitely doesn't need any saving!
In lieu of a ballgown, this princess bride wore our elegant and vintage inspired Lucinda gown paired with our Marie sleeves. The Lucinda gown is a strapless beauty from the Timeless Collection, lined in blush silk charmeuse and layered with the most delicate floral embroidered tulle skirt. This gown is adorned with vines and 3-D beaded flowers and shows off your back through the sheer bodice while the delicate cotton eyelash Leaver's lace frames your décolleté and upper back. A perfect addition to this romantic dream, these French lace bell sleeves are a unique vintage-bohemian vibe for a fairytale occasion! What's a dramatic bridal moment without a sweeping train and veil? The bride wore our elegant Vintage Vine veil that pairs perfectly with her entire ensemble and the rich florals by The Petal Exchange. The way the layers of silk, embroidery, tulle and lace all drape together enhances the romantic setting and regal opulence. These thoughtful details are what I hope for when designing pretty dresses and veils...all of the elements together tell the story. From the dress and accessories, to the seating and table settings...a butterfly theme invitation suite by Inquisited doesn't hurt either! A slice of cake and a stroll along the fountain terrace...what a perfect day! I love these images by Cheyenne Baklayan Photography because they allow me to experience a different world, and even a different time, while still feeling somehow modern. Sadly, we don't generally traipse around in floor length couture gowns carrying bouquets of flowers in 2021, but imagine if we did?! I like to think it would look something like this gorgeous situation...and honestly, aren't these some of the highlights of a wedding?! Getting to dress up, have a day dedicated to love, and dreams, and celebration?! No, life isn't always a romance novel, but a wedding can be!

I hope that all of my brides (and every bride!) feel 100% themselves on their wedding day, whether that involves fairytale vibes or not. There's nothing wrong with a little nod to stories of true love and heroism, but let's remember to celebrate independence, SELF-love, and the inspiring female forces in our lives. A wedding is a perfect occasion to bring all of our fairytale dreams to life, just make sure to write your own story.

 

Dress: Lucinda by Claire Pettibone
Planner: @hllovely
Photographer: @cheybaklayanphotography
Host: @playfulsoulcreates
Hair & Makeup: @louderwithpowder
Florist: @thepetalexchange
Venue: @lechateaurosela
Cake: @nicolebakescakes
Tabletops & Rentals: @sundrop_vintage
Linens: @mikasaeventrentals
Groom Attire: @friartux
Stationery: @inquisited
Decorative Signage: @lovely.steph.creations
Lace Boots: @houseofelliotlaceboots
Bride: @jacquelinee_reyess
Groom: @camdenthacker