You guys! I had so much fun with this styled shoot! I started thinking about this one back in January, when I did this blog post based on the 1996 version of Romeo and Juliet that stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. One of my favorite photographers, Becca Borge, approached me about bringing the vision to life and my answer was an immediate “yes!” Once I started to think about the reality of the story, there were some obvious themes to avoid (you know, just little things like murder and suicide) but I realized that, at its core, Romeo and Juliet is about the magic of first love, a starry blend of innocence and passion and the giddiness of possibility.
I immediately thought of the Wynwood arts district in Miami as the perfect setting. The bold red and black mural by the artist Shephard Fairey created a modern counterpoint to the softer romantic elements I envisioned and helped inspire the color palette. I loved the idea of using a long, reclaimed wood table and I thought that an interesting idea for the tablescape would be to create a living installation to symbolize the growth of fresh, new love. I built a series of containers that I planted with an assortment of ferns, orchids and greenery to create a live centerpiece (a great eco-friendly idea as well, since you can keep them long after your wedding.) The place settings were a mix of antique gold flatware, modern organic plates and bold black and white printed napkins. Each place setting was personalized with a brightly colored tropical leaf and a frayed red ribbon printed with the words, “A Legendary Love,” a subtle hint at the Romeo and Juliet theme. We also incorporated the word “Legendary” as a ceremony backdrop in bold red letters. The typography theme was continued with the ring bowl from Paloma’s Nest, which included the words “Amor Vincit Omnia” or “Love Conquers All”, in Latin. Romantic candlelight softened the mood and flickered in the twilight. The cake was an easy DIY piece, meant to look both bold and delicate. The invitation suite was an original piece by Megan Wells, who used watercolor and ink to create beautiful modern calligraphy that felt both classic and contemporary.
In the end, I loved the mix of vintage pieces re-imagined in a wildly contemporary setting. It was never the intention to be overt with the Romeo and Juliet references, but I believe we were able to capture the passion, innocence and ferocity that make the story a classic.
Photography: Becca Borge
Event Styling and Floral Design: Sugar(ed) Event Design and Planning
Paper Goods: Makewells
Custom Ribbon: The Lonely Heart
Ring Bowl: Paloma’s Nest
Hair, Makeup and Fashion Styling: HotPink Style
Rentals: Unearthed Vintage
Venue: Wynwood Walls and Wynwood Kitchen Background mural by Shephard Fairey
Very, very cool! I love all the details and the concepts! Great pictures!!!!!!
XOXO