Fabulously elegant, modern and fun wedding inspiration from a talented group of suppliers and a gorgeous model couple at Moggerhanger Park. Today’s shoot was sent in by English Wedding member by Karolina Photography, and we’re absolutely smitten. The details are a perfect mix of soft and dramatic, the florals amazing and the dress by our lovely dressmaker member Felicity Westmacott is absolutely out of this world!
A styled inspiration photoshoot by:
Photographer, Videographer & Concept – www.bykarolina.com
Planner & Stylist – www.eventsbyeleanor.co.uk
Venue – www.moggerhangerparkweddings.com
Florist – www.charlesandfaye.co.uk
Dress & Veil – felicitywestmacott.co.uk
On the day coordinator – www.misscarlysleandco.com
Celebrant – https://debbiecoe.co.uk/
HMUA – www.emabridalmakeup.com
Accessories – www.rachelchaprunne.co.uk
Props & styling – www.victoria-plus-claire.co.uk
Cake & Desserts – www.silverleafcakecompany.co.uk
Stationery – www.tiggityboo.co.uk
Napkins – www.willowandribbon.co.uk
Chairs – https://rosetone.co.uk/
Model Couple – Eloise & Thomas
The inspiration for this editorial shoot came from the elegance and a modern touch that black can bring to the styling of a wedding without making it too alternative or themed.
Photographer Karolina is a self-confessed lover of using the colour black in weddings and wanted to show how it can be done using muted colours alongside metallic finishes. This allows the black touches to shine through creating a perfectly complemented final look with a beautiful contrast of the black. Karolina photographed the couple as if it was a real wedding day, made sure to make it fun with champagne pop and cackesicles, relaxing and intimate too.
Wedding planner Eleanor joined the team of amazing suppliers to help bring this vision to life. As a Wedding Planner & Stylist based in Buckinghamshire, Eleanor was excited to get creative with this talented team along with the help of Beth from Miss Carlysle and Co.
Moggerhanger Park served as the perfect backdrop, with its neutral exterior, contrasting black-framed arch windows which allowed the light to flood in. The different areas of this beautiful venue from the wow-factor staircase and landing to the walled garden, extensive grounds, and countryside views are what drew us to this venue.
Our beautiful bride Eloise wore a bespoke hand-made dress and veil by Felicity Westmacott.
Felicity designed and made this bespoke gown called ‘Celeste’ for Eloise in layered silver satin, sequins and flowing soft tulle. With hints of art-deco and boho-chic, the dress was designed to be timeless and modern.
Felicity created the dress in two layers, the sparkling underdress is perfect for an evening party while the flowing tulle overdress transforms the look for an ethereal bride.
The silver underdress with hints of Downton Abbey has a bodice with relaxed pleats into the waist, emphasised with a pretty beaded belt. Pretty scallop-edged sequin lace extends from the tiny, off the shoulder sleeves into the bodice pleats. More sequins creep across the sheer tulle that fills the deep v-neckline.
A dramatic necklace of diamante, pearls and Swarovski crystals extends from the shoulders and fills the open back. The underdress has a slimline skirt with a daring split to the thigh.
The tulle overdress is made from pale ivory soft tulle that cascades in two layers from the shoulders nipped in at the waist by a grosgrain ribbon belt. The tulle hangs in a soft cowl around the back necklace and dramatic waterfall open-sleeves over Eloise’s arms.
The skirt is softly gathered from the waistline and features a split on one leg to match the underdress. A constellation of pretty diamante stars on the belt finish this look.
Felicity made a matching cathedral veil in plain soft tulle to compliment the dress and headpieces.
The groom Tom wore an all-black outfit including a shirt, tie, and suit which was complimented by the buttonhole that matched the bouquet and other florals. All black attire for a groom complemented the overall look of the couple with beautiful contrast.
Hair and Makeup Artist Ema, created an understated, glowing look for Eloise’s make-up and iconic Hollywood waves. To complement the look, hair accessories were provided by Rachel Chaprunne.
Our talented florist Laura created the most vibrant bouquet with dark tones which was tied with burnt orange and black hand-dyed silk ribbons. The floral arrangements with a mix of dried and fresh elements were made specially to be able to move them to different areas of the venue as we needed to. We placed them beside Debbie Coe Celebrant – for the ceremony, moved them outside to dress the peacock chairs from Victoria + Claire and then repurposed them for the wedding breakfast table too.
Providing the décor & styling items for the day with their extensive collection, Victoria + Claire arranged several bottles and bud vases along the centre of the large table to allow all the colours in the theme to be showcased without it feeling too busy. Black glassware and candles brought the black element back once again. The large tablescape was brought to life by the decor and the space that it provided gave a grand overall look.
We added grey, botanically dyed napkins by Willow & Ribbon and geometric gold chairs by Rosetone Event Furniture to complete the look and bring a modern edge.
Created by Tracey from Tiggityboo Wedding Stationery, the stationery featured a bespoke design of floral elements on a white textured card with contrasting black envelopes. The set included Save the date, Invitation, RSVP and Information cards.
The stars of the show were the cakes and desserts made by Parul from Silverleaf Cake Company. Parul wanted to showcase several designs within the black elegance, metallics and neutral colour palette. She created a perfect contemporary style wedding cake with elegant muted gold bas-relief detailing, accompanied by an array of mini-cakes and matching cakesicles and doughnut favours for the tables.
All of the suppliers came together perfectly and created this beautiful black inspired wedding scenario for the couples to see how no one should be scared to incorporate black into their wedding day.
Weddings with personality are always incredible. Alex and Folco’s unique Kent wedding is wonderful, with a stunning bespoke dress by lovely Felicity Westmacott and the picturesque backdrop of Hever Castle. History is important to this lovely couple, and everything about their day slots together just beautifully. Congratulations Alex and Folco, and thank you as well to talented Teri V Photography for allowing us to share the images of such a fabulously unique wedding on English Wedding today.
Wedding photographer’s website
https://www.terivphotography.co.uk
How did you choose your photographer?
Teri V was on a list of suppliers from the venue (Hever Castle) and we loved her style of photos the best.
Were you pleased with your wedding photographer? Do tell… we love a brilliant review!
Absolutely! She captured not only all the key moments but also the intricate details and the composition of her pictures is amazing. Five stars all the way! Incredible. Many people have commented that the photos are the best wedding pictures they’ve ever seen. All credit to Teri!
Tell us about your venue – what made this place special for you?
Hever Castle – I am very interested in Tudor History and had visited Hever before. It was Anne Boleyn’s childhood home and she was a dynamic woman who intrigued me. Although her wedding to Henry VIII didn’t end well, I still find the castle romantic.
Did you love wearing your outfits? How was the dress / suit shopping experience?
I knew I wanted to get a dress made for me from the very beginning; I’m curvy and often things off the peg don’t fit. What better opportunity than my wedding day to get a cutom made dress?! I was directed to the wondrous Felicity Westmacott who was willing and happy to work under time and pandemic constraints. The result was my amazing smoky pink silk dupion gown, with inspiration from the 80s, the 50s, the Victorian and Tudor periods. I will always love my dress and Felicity is truly the dress alchemist!
Folco’s suit was from Hugo Boss complete with a handmade tie that Felicity fashioned using the same silk as my dress.
From Felicity Westmacott, bespoke wedding dressmaker:
Alex contacted me about her dress right in the middle of lockdown #3 when no one knew what the next year would bring. I was so excited to have a bride enquire and be enthusiastic about wedding plans again, I couldn’t wait to get started!
Alex wanted to meld 1950’s and Tudor vibes to create something unique. Taking inspiration from history but not being held back by a sense of things having to be ‘right’ or ‘accurate’ is my ideal design atmosphere. The long sleeves and boned bodice hint at the Tudor history of her wedding Venue, Hever Castle, while the gathered seam detailing and full skirt are all 1950’s glamour. Alex has an amazing figure, tall and shapely, the perfect way to set off acres of fabric and statement design elements like the oversize bow-back train.
We emphasised Alex’s waist with a waist-cinching hidden lace up corset with the potential to pull in Alex’s waist line up to 4″. The dress closed over the top with a real button and loop back closure. I designed shaped panels on the bodice and underbust gathers for texture. The off the shoulder neckline swept to a slight point at centre front and revealed Alex’s decolletage. Long, slim sleeves fastened with real buttons and loops to echo the dress back.
The skirt was cut as full circle with a small, proportional train sweeping behind but then a big, long, statement bow with ‘sash ends’ extending far beyond the dress. Both the dress train and the sash ends had a wrist loops and bustle hook-up for dancing, of course!
Alex’s wedding date was originally planned for winter and we would have made the dress in a beautiful red velvet. But when plans changed to a summer wedding we simply lightened the colour and fabric weight to this beautiful dusty pink silk dupion to keep all the elements Alex wanted.
I also made Alex her cathedral length veil in soft grey to compliment the muted tones of her silk dress.
Did you hire a florist? Tell us about any floral amazingness
The wonderful Emma Fuller designed the bouquet, buttonholes and table flowers. She had worked at Hever as a gardener for many years and fashioned my beautiful bouquet in greens, whites, dusky pinks and lilacs.
Did you hire a wedding planner?
No, although I did consult Laura at Devine Bride to find a dressmaker. She was really helpful and directed me to Felicity Westmacott.
As cake lovers here at English Wedding we’d LOVE to know who made your cake, and how delicious it was?
My amazing sister Charlotte O’Kelly of Astrid Bakery made our cake. A two tiered delight, one lemon (groom’s favourite) one chocolate (my favourite) all finished off with a silk bow to match the one on my dress.
Tell us about any special personal touches, or creative projects you made yourselves
Jars of jelly baby favours.
Did you personalise your vows or have any wedding readings? What were they?
We weren’t allowed any readings in the ceremony because of covid regulations so at the drinks reception we had some poems and songs accompanied by the harpist.
How did the pandemic affect your wedding plans? Do you have any advice to share with couples planning their weddings right now?
We weren’t allowed readings and the guests had to wear masks in the ceremony. Of course the number of guests was limited too to 15.
Favourite wedding suppliers
https://sjbhairandmakeup.co.uk/
https://www.terivphotography.co.uk
https://felicitywestmacott.co.uk/
We’ve LOVED scrolling through today’s styled shoot – it’s fun, flamboyant, creative and dramatic. If you love a little alternative wedding inspiration, you’re going to adore this!
All images are by Doodah Photography
Our models are two gorgeous burlesque performers, Carousel Hart and Lux DeLioux. (And it’s a cheeky shoot, which is so much fun!) Styling touches include elven details on the most incredible bespoke dresses, gothic lettering and Dungeons n Dragons detailing on the stationery, dragon skulls, moss and a dramatic burgundy colour palette.
Beautiful ‘princess bride’ Carousel told us she was excited to be part of this shoot, “especially as I’m a disabled model and Burlesque artist and an always pleased to see disabled people represented in the media. This was my very first wedding photo shoot and it was a magical experience. The whole day was planned as if it were a real wedding and swishing about the grand old house in a stunning gown, saying some heartfelt vows to my fellow model and “wife” on the day and cutting the cake with a sword, made me wish it were my actual wedding!”
Planner: @x_planit.pixie_x
Stationery: @primandglad
Cake: @kitchenwitcherynotts
Calligrapher: @thecheshirecalligrapher
Photographer: @doodahphotography
Arch: @beautifularchesweddings
Celebrant: @vmceremonies
Dresses: @felicitywestmacott
Hair & Makeup @derbyshire_bride
Stylist, ceremony & table flowers: @foxgloveandblack
Little Bottles @littlebottles_1
Velvet linens @theprettyaccessory
Bouquet and floral hoop: @maddison.rocks.floral
Models: @carousel_hart and @luxdelioux
Videographer: @kryslersoriano
Merch: @critituk
Rings: @bespokeweddingrings
Venue @dunwoodhallestate
Tables & chairs: @cestrianeventhire
Antlers: @glenartneyantlers
We’re lucky to have some words from the key suppliers on the day, explaining how the theme inspired them to create something truly magical! We’ll begin with lovely English Wedding member Felicity Westmacott, who submitted the shoot for us to share with you.
Felicity Westmacott: Dress Design
I love working with brides with a passion that can inform our design, this Dungeons and Dragons shoot was so much fun! I designed one ‘elven’ dress with draped Gercian styling and gold leaf trim. Loops on the shoulder train pieces mean it can become wings!
The other dress is more for a human princess with a tudor shape neckline in soft grey with statement lace overlay. I loved designing a dress for a model with curves, if you are a plus size bride don’t allow thoughts of what you ‘should’ wear to hold you back, you should wear anything you want to!
The grey dress has a tulle overskirt and halter neck that can be removed for a different look later on your wedding day. A fantasicial theme doesn’t mean you won’t look elegant, a bespoke wedding dress means we can meet all your expectations. To recreate looks inspired by your favourite games or fantasy story look out for grecian or medieval style gowns with draping sleeves, bold colours and celtic trims.
Pixie Knowles of Plan-it Pixie: Planner
I wanted to create a wedding which reflected the love and passion Dungeons and Dragons fans have for the role playing game, without the appearance of cosplay. A wedding that can be enjoyed by all without non- D&D players feeling ‘out of the loop’. Taking elements of the game and injecting the character into both the ceremony and the reception. Including an optional session of the game itself as reception entertainment. All whilst still having a style / using a colour palette which isn’t necessarily dictated by, but is still in keeping with the game. Using a venue which speaks to the feel of the game was key. As was using amazing suppliers who understood what I was looking to achieve. Many players of D&D themselves. For me, reinforcing the magic you can achieve with suppliers who share and understand your style and passion.
Emma Duder: Doodah Photography
Weddings with alternative, quirky and geeky themes are my absolute favourite to photograph, so when I heard the plans for this D&D shoot, I had to get involved. As a wedding photographer, it’s easy to take very similar shots time and again, so a shoot like this where all the suppliers are producing bespoke and unique work is a real joy to work on. I tried to make sure my images were an honest portrayal of what was being presented, whilst also fitting in with the mood of the shoot.
I kept the lighting natural wherever possible, this was easy in the gorgeous sun room at Dunwood Hall where ceremonies are held, and for the outdoor shots. The darker rooms were really atmospheric and fitted well with the theme, so I just used minimal light to pick out details of the rich dark colours used in the styling, cake and props which might otherwise have been lost. In post production I tried to keep the vibe opulent, rich and quite muted with some minor colour adjustments.
Alaina Turner from Derbyshire Bride: Make-up Artist
My thoughts when creating these truly unique looks for truly unique people, was how can I instil confidence and help make an entrance with bold, creative looks, that still compliment each other beautifully.
Models oozing with personality, and in a venue with so much character, I wanted these looks to live up to their surroundings and be effortlessly chic. I feel I did this by featuring bold, electric yet warm inviting colours around the eyes, to really make you look at the emotion of the face, which for me is always felt through the eyes.
Paired with a strong colour on the lips to complement the eyes and the colours within our models tattoos and florals, softer hair and light, dewy, glowing skin balanced the look to ensure we still gave off bridal – with an edge!
Samantha Garner:Stationery
I designed the invitations with beautiful deep burgundy & purple florals with a hint of the Dungeons & Dragons theme, a couple of dragons flying over the page & the iconic ampersand from the game.
I also included a boho skull, some weaponry & a couple of DND dice to finish it off. Other items I designed included a menu card, table name & little name tags. I always want to show that you can have anything you want for your wedding, be it fully themed, a hint of a theme or traditional & pretty, it’s your wedding, do it your way!
Maddison Rocks: Florals
As an alternative florist I love nothing more than twisting up my florals.
I knew more or less straight away that I wanted to create a long cascading bouquet with the subtle yet striking inclusion of a dragon’s skull, which incidentally lent itself perfectly to the shape of the bouquet. It took a while longer to source the oversized dnd dice, but felt these were a must to make the bouquet pop and bring the bouquet to life! The floral and fauna were selected according to colour, shape and texture.
Before I commence work on any piece, I extensively research the theme and only once I can visualise the finished piece in my mind I begin work.
The moon floral hoop on the other hand was literally a last minute happy accident. I’d actually had the moon hoop for sometime prior, so this project felt the right moment to breathe life into it and create something extra special.
The fact that the moon hoop was so much lighter in weight meant that the bride was also able to carry it alongside (and at times attach it to) her walking cane.
The florals and D&D dice used, were chosen to compliment the cascading bouquet and for a little added “ump”, neon lighting was highlighted around the crescent of the moon. (After all you can’t have a moon that doesn’t shine!)
And by the light of the moon they were wed
Kitchen Witchery-Cake
To design the cake for this shoot I started by thinking about how my Dungeons and Dragons campaigns usually go, then realised that they never go to plan. That’s how the hidden section came to life. The front of the cake with the dice tumbling down it, all of them high numbers, is how every player wants their campaign to be but the hidden section is how it usually ends up. Creatures trying to kill you, mimics tricking you, and the prospect of a new character having to be rolled.
The cake itself is decorated in a black fondant over all three tiers, the dice are real held on with edible glue. The hidden section is grey fondant with modeled brickwork to resemble a dungeon and the Kraken bursting round the door, chest mimic, and death saving throws are all created using modeling paste.
I made a topper that resembles a Dungeons Masters screen with the words “Roll of Initiative”, words any dnd player dreads, hand-painted on in edible paint.
Laura Rodger: The Cheshire Calligrapher:
The theme for our shoot was the perfect excuse for me to use a flourished gothic lettering style. All of the calligraphy was created using a traditional dip pen with the super versatile Brause EF66 nib.
I used a handmade paper for the large scroll with a custom, rich brown ink made from gouache. For the bottle labels, brown kraft card with twine gave the slightly rustic, weathered feel needed for a little medieval magic.
Erika: Dunwood Hall Estate
Dunwood Hall is a family home. It has been in my husband’s family for 4 generations and lots of love and hard work went into the estate to keep it going. Dunwood Hall Estate has won two English Wedding awards as a best local venue in 2016 and 2017 and it was shortlisted in 2018 as well.
Brodie and Erika are the visionaries behind Dunwood Hall, striving to propel the estate into a new era. ‘As it’s custodians, we wish to protect its rich history and keep its legacy alive. At the same time, we are passionate about what Dunwood Hall is today and can be in the future. We love it and we invite creative people to share it with us.’
So when I saw Pixie advertise that she was looking for a venue for her D&D photoshoot we knew that the Neo-Gothic style of Dunwood would be the perfect fit.
We had a planning session with Pixie and the Stylist, they fell in love with its charm and the rest is the history!
Becky Smith: Stylist, ceremony & table flowers (Foxglove & Black)
‘As an alternative wedding stylist, I believe a wedding should showcase a couple’s personality and be unique to who they are. And what could be more unique, than a Dungeons & Dragons themed wedding?! Using a rich colour palette of red & burgundy for both the linens and floral arrangements, I contrasted this with an ‘outdoors’ feel with moss on the table; ivy winding up the ceremony stand and wooden place settings.
I added in quirky elements to add personality, such as dragon eggs; antlers and dice, alongside candles to create a romantic setting. Overall the style created represented the theme, but also proved that a ‘themed’ wedding doesn’t have to mean tacky!’
Critit: D&D pieces
Critit.co.uk specialises in all things RPG. As long time gamers spanning decades it’s always important for us to offer original products, made with quality and the gamer in mind. When we were asked to take part in this amazing wedding shoot we jumped at the chance to send some of our finest items which we handmake here in Norwich, Norfolk. Relishing in custom work we are always open to work alongside any client and ensure we help them acquire original, innovative products for theire gaming (or wedding!) table.
Natalie Beer: Celebrant
With the ceremony I hoped to reflect what a couple who loves D&D would include; from a reading adapted from the popular D&D show Critical Role, to multiple symbolic elements including a handfasting and ring exchange.
The most unusual symbolic element I included was a dice unity ceremony, similar to a sand ceremony but using two sets of D&D dice. The two sets were poured from their own jars onto a dice tray. Carousel and Lux took turns to read out a meaning for each dice as they placed them into a jar labelled ‘Together’. The d4 (four-sided dice) represented the stable foundations of their friendship, the d6 (regular six-sided dice) represented joy in everyday normality, and so on and so forth. The final dice, a d20 (yes, it is a twenty-sided dice), represented future possibilities and the highs and lows they would face together. Before placing these dice in the jar I asked them to ‘roll for initiative’. In D&D this dice roll dictates the order you’d be in battle, but here it was a nice way to lead into the vows and decide who read theirs first!
I loved being part of this shoot and having the flexibility to set up a ceremony that I felt would really connect with a couple who love D&D, and it was wonderful to see it come to life before us.
Jenna: Arches
At Beautiful Arches we specialise in unique ceremony arches & backdrops.
For this shoot, we loaned our gorgeous Woodland arch to Becky at Foxglove & Black, for her to create the ceremony backdrop. With the beautiful velvet drapes, tonnes of foliage and Becky’s dramatic styling, the look came together to great effect.
Kysler Soriano: Videographer
Krysler Soriano (known professionally as KS Films) is a cinematic wedding videographer &
filmmaker based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. A filmmaker who isn’t afraid to seek out those hidden angles that you perhaps wouldn’t have even thought of. You get a roundup of the best 24 hours of your life, compressed into your very own cinematic fairytale. One that you can relive for years to come.
Philip Ellwood: Rings
BWR-London were asked to provided the bespoke wedding rings for this shoot. The theme Was Dungeons and Dragons which conjured up an ancient mythical world of royal castles and terrifying creatures with huge wings breathing fire and brimstone. The resulting pictures did not disappoint. Opulant backdrops set in a real castle, rich and deep colours captured by the photographer and an amazing group of suppliers who really smashed this brief.
BWR-London make beautiful bespoke wedding rings to each clients specification. As each order is bespoke we carry very little stock so we had to dig deep and we provided beautiful Rose Gold shaped and plain rings to reflect the rich tones captured in the photographs these rings were set with exquisite round cut diamonds, the immortal Queen of gemstones with that deep magical brilliance that has fascinated and been coveted by humans since the dawn of time. Absolutely stunning.
This beautifully written article is a must-read for every bride: it’s uplifting and an absolutely compelling read by our fave, lovely bespoke dressmaker Felicity Westmacott. Grab a cuppa, you’ll love this!
Wedding dresses should tell a story, the story of YOU.
Choosing your wedding dress can feel very daunting. With all my experience helping more than a thousand brides the most important advice I like to give is: “Please yourself!”
You will love your dress but no one else will love it as much as you do. Your opinion must come above all others. Don’t compromise on anything just to please someone else.
Helping brides find their dress style
I am so lucky to do a job I love so much. It’s just wonderful to see so many happy people enjoy the work I do and know that it makes them feel good. A well designed and well fitted dress will make you feel truly out of the ordinary. Even dresses that now seem old-fashioned, or too normal to someone of alternative tastes are very out of the ordinary compared to what we all wear in everyday life.
Photography: Jessica Jill Partridge, Dress by Felicity Westmacott, Styling by www.foxandpartridge.com
Model Vanessa Assare, Hair by Very Bettie, Make up by www.charlottemuapro.com, Hat and headpieces by Jen Levet, Bouquet by Muscari Whites
As a bespoke dressmaker I don’t sell ‘my style’ unlike off the peg designers with their collections.
What I love most about my job is the new challenge each bride brings. How to dress her to her best advantage, hitting all her priorities; body shape, budget and taste. Brides come in all shapes and sizes and with hugely varying tastes. I don’t have favourites, whether I’m making an elegant satin shift, a Victorian style corset or all over beaded sparkles, I enjoy every style for its own merits. And when I’ve done my job right (which is always!) I get thank you letters like: “You understood me, the design was exactly right, I feel amazing, it was as if you read my mind, this is the most beautiful dress in the world.”
Every bride is unique
But it’s not just my work that does the magic. It’s this bride, in her dress, on her special day.
Each dress is special for the bride who wears it and would not suit just any other woman. Even if it had been fitted properly and with a professional photographer and hair and make up making the best of it. We professionals do our best with styled photoshoots and models, but there is a very good reason why real weddings are the most popular articles on wedding blogs. The unique magic is having your own dress, that shows you to your best advantage and as you want to be seen.
What is a wedding dress?
Photographer Paola de Paola, Wedding dress: https://felicitywestmacott.co.uk/, Model @emilygossip, Fascinator by Laney Jane, Hair and makeup by @lawsonmakeup, Venue Sparkford Hall
I see my job as creating a very special dress or ensemble, almost a costume but not quite, more a ceremonial garment. I’m not hoping to change my brides into something they are not. But I aim to bring to the foreground each client’s essence, something of her inner self. My designs unleash all our inner princesses; be your princess a gothic vixen, classic English rose or modern fashionista.
Other people’s wedding dresses
Your wedding dress should be everything to YOU, but it is a mistake to assume this means it is as special to the people who see you. Your dress will make you happy and confident and beautiful and your friends and your mum will agree and tear up; despite all this, it is still NOT ‘the most beautiful dress in the world’. And no one else would choose your dress! Sounds a bit extreme, yet it is true.
To illustrate, think about a wedding you have attended. Unless you were the bride’s mother or her best friend, how many of the dresses do you really remember in detail?
For most observers at any wedding the dress really doesn’t make much impression beyond the day, as long as it fits and is vaguely the expected aesthetic for the bride’s personality.
Half the guests are male and brought up to be less interested in fashion (what a shame, thank goodness many break the mold). Of the female half some still don’t care, and for those that do half again come from the previous fashion era. So they can’t appreciate the subtlety of your choices as you wouldn’t appreciate all the elements of their wedding dress choice. The context, the ‘fashion now’ is missing. And the last few people, your best friends and family will all have varying tastes, no one exactly the same as yours. If they are good friends, they will love your dress as they see it on you, but they wouldn’t want to wear it themselves.
Other people’s opinions of your wedding dress
Planner & Stylist Events by Eleanor, Photographer By Karolina Photography, Venue Moggerhanger Park, Couple @thehollandhares, Florist Charles and Faye, Dress & Veil Felicity Westmacott, On the day coordinator Miss Carlysle and Co, HMUA Ema Bridal, Accessories Rachel Chaprunne
I find it hard to stay quiet when I watch a bride have a wobble about her dress choice because of someone else’s opinion.
Whether that is a voiced opinion from mum-in-law “A short dress! Not white?!”. Or the imagined criticism of guests; “What if they think it’s a meringue” or “I don’t want people to think my dress is boring”.
Especially when I know the dress really suits the bride’s figure and wedding plans and she loves it. Even if other people think your dress looks like a tablecloth – so what?!
I make all styles of dress but I specialise in alternative styles, be that colourful, historical modern sequin jumpsuits or OTT spectacular.
I make plenty of ‘normal’ ones too, if wedding dresses can ever be described in such a pedestrian way.
It is sometimes a surprise to people how different our tastes and outlooks are. What feels boring to one bride feels beautifully traditional to another. A neckline that feels too daring and provocative to you might make another woman feel a million dollars. And protests against conformity come in all forms, I’ve seen a bride choose a very conservative wedding dress to break free of her hippy parent’s oppressively outlandish expectations.
Fashions seem different to different people
It would be foolish to try and predict what other people will think of your wedding dress.
A simple Grecian style dress evokes classic beauty to some but is boring, shapeless or dated (“like my mum’s 70’s dresses”) to the next person. A big dress is gorgeous to one observer but too much, an overwhelming meringue, to another (oh don’t get me started on that awful phrase, ‘a meringue’ – we must stop using it).
When we take such care to find all the details we wanted; perhaps a sweetheart neckline, a button up back, a delicate lace fabric, and a fit and flare skirt, trying for modern but traditional simplicity; it is frustrating to realise not everyone will see what we hoped.
The associations you have with any given design element are not the same as anyone else. We’ve all had different life histories and formed different opinions. And even if they do see modern-boho when that’s the vibe you wanted they still may not like it!
So how does this help me choose my wedding dress?
Concept, Organiser, styling & Floristry So Blooming Beautiful, Photographer Andrew Wilkinson, Planner Your Wedding Friend, Model @asweetrohmance, Hair accessories Vintage Adornments, Hair & make-up Jemma’s Hair and Makeup, Dress Felicity Westmacott
Do I seem very negative? Bear with me, there is a method to my madness.
Even though all the above is true it is still my life’s work to make every detail matter. I want it to matter to you and I want us to mull over every detail in pursuit of the perfect whole. During the design and fitting process I want you to feel the magic of seeing your ideal dress swim into focus in the mirror. But it is important to understand that it is perfect only because YOU are wearing it, and you are seeing it in YOUR reflection. For anyone else, it is only a dress.
Wedding dresses should tell a story, the story of YOU.
Photographer: Charly Mae Florist: @vickisflowers, Hair @yukiblackhairdo, Make up Lauren J, Dress: Felicity Westmacott, Hair accessories: Vintage Adornments
So, if I have done my job as I should, anyone who sees you would agree that this is the dress that tells the story of you and your wedding day. No other dress would have quite hit the mark with the same punch. Hopefully many people will also think the designs I create are objectively beautiful too, or the dress you find off the peg is really splendid. But to expect anyone else to think your dress was perfect above all others would be unrealistic. We are searching for YOUR perfect dress, not anyone else’s!
And why do we expect other people to love our choices? Why should it matter so much? The point of your wedding dress is not to please anyone else, or to set a new fashion, or to be my best work ever, or to make your mother in law happy. The dress is meant to please you, and no one else on earth matters.
If your wedding dress makes you happy, you will stand confidently and other people will see your inner beauty more clearly, as if the wedding dress is a magic mirror for seeing the real you. The dress is a frame, you are the picture. Choose your dress as best you see fit; with care, with love and with attention to detail; or choose instinctively in one appointment only; but above all, choose to please yourself!
Venue: https://www.trafalgartavern.co.uk/ Photography: http://fleurchallisphotography.com/ Stylist: https://theweddingowl.com/ Planner: https://e-lope.co.uk/ Wedding dress: https://felicitywestmacott.co.uk/ Flowers: http://mimifleur.co.uk/
Header image credits: Models @megsnmichael Concept/Photographer Jade Marie Photography Florist Holly & the Ivy Dressmaker Felicity Westmacott Make up/Hair Stylist – @emmaartismakeup Jeweller
Cathy Sutherland
With cloudless blue sunny skies today feels perfect for sharing this Indian summer wedding inspiration with you. With bridal wear by English Wedding member Felicity Westmacott, gorgeous photography by Fleur Challis and vibrant florals from lovely Mimi Fleur, it’s a breathtaking blast of wedding loveliness I just know you’ll adore! It’s a wonderful thing to be able to showcase Felicity’s bespoke bridal designs with you: not only is her work beautiful, choosing bespoke for your wedding dress or outfit will bring you so much choice in what you wear for your big day, from fabrics to style and silhouette to the tiniest little details.
Have a magical weekend, everyone! 
As Autumn draws in, a last burst of summer weather is known as ‘An Indian Summer’ – lifting English hearts with the last of the longer days. This team of professionals used the inspiration of summer colours to compliment a fusion English/Indian styled shoot. They were hosted by the beautiful Trafalgar Tavern in Greenwich which was dressed by Mimi Fleur in hot pinks and oranges including traditional Indian Mala garlands.
The beauty of a fusion wedding is that one has so many cultural influences to be inspired by and it is in honouring both the bride and groom’s background that a very rich and personal wedding day is created. The grandeur of the day was captured with skill by Fleur Challis Photography whose unobtrusive methods captured all the unique details and the beautiful colours.
The shoot was organised by Sam, ‘The Wedding Owl’ who used her wide contacts to bring together the fusion wedding look. Sam also runs E-lope, collaboratively with other members of the shoot team, organising micro weddings in Kent for couples looking for an intimate ceremony.
Our stylists dressed the tables with ochre coloured cloths, atmospheric cream, burgundy and gold lamps. They layered gold edged platters, beneath ochre linen napkins finished with cinnamon sticks for a hint of ‘spice in the air’. Sam sourced traditional Indian glass and silver to make some guests feel exotic and others at home.
Flowers in hot colours, fuschia, orange and gold as well as light as a feather pampas grass complimented the ornate interior of Trafalgar Tavern. Couples can exchange vows against views over the Thames from the huge windows shedding beautiful light on the whole set up. The catering team at Trafalgar tavern treated the shoot to delicious tastes of their menu (for photography, but we couldn’t let it go to waste!) and Sam added Indian silk brocade to the serving trays to keep everything on theme.
Our bride looked perfect in a thoroughly modern mix and match ensemble from Felicity Westmacott, Bespoke Bride with touches of India as a nod to her future husband. Felicity says “I layered silk satin, embroidered organza and Indian trims to create this fusion bridal look. I love creating ensembles with elements that can be added and removed, so my brides can change their look through the day. I designed wrap over silk crepe trousers that are split up the sides, they move beautifully and reveal metallic ribbons sewn on the inside hems when our model walks. I made a tiered skirt in embroidered silk organza to wear over the top, so the sexier trousers are a surprise for the evening party.
I love the top which was both modern and simple with a plain loose fitting front, revealing the ornate gold and pearl belt worn underneath. I designed an elegant low, draped back with a nod to the fusion look by adding traditional Indian blouse tassels (latkan). My favourite part of the whole look were the organza balloon sleeves, trimmed with more Indian trim to echo the gold and pearl belt. And because you just can’t hold me back I also made another pair of sleeves, this time coming from the shoulder and finished with wide buttoned cuffs. To recreate this look: think about layering elements that contrast sheer and opaque, using a neutral base to highlight bright or metallic trims and being sexy in a modern and culturally appropriate way.”
Another incredible bespoke maker provided ornate wedding capes, trimmed in gold and colourful petals to transform the modern look into something truly bridal.
The bride’s hair was dressed in two different styles to compliment the daytime and evening looks with pearl ornaments and jewellery also designed by Felicity Westmacott. Both the bride and her maid of honour (wearing a lace top and yellow skirt from Matchimony) had their make-up done in soft colours to really bring out their best features. It’s nice to change your hair and make-up for the evening part of the party if your MUA/stylist can stay.
The handsome groom, Piyush, wore a summer linen suit in a neutral stone colour. He also changed his tie and waistcoat to compliment his new wife’s more relaxed evening look. And our gorgeous bridal model, Evie, brought along her very friendly and relaxed dog, who let us dress them up in tassels and pose for photos as part of the shoot!
Stationery design with prints in colours to compliment the theme included table plans on a hoop, name places with golden trim and invitations fit for Indian Royalty. The wedding cake was understated in size, as suitable for an intimate, city wedding and decorated with brightly coloured flowers each hand made in sugar.
It can seem intimidating to walk the balance between your own familiar culture and a new one, but with the right team of professionals on your side everything will come together perfectly. Planning a fusion wedding, whether English/Indian like this one or any combination provides so much scope for imaginative ways to honour the blend of cultures created by your new beginning in marriage. Trust your team, and your instincts and your perfect Indian summer wedding may be the end of summer, but the start of something truly magical.
The amazing team who brought this fusion wedding inspiration to life are:
VENUE: https://www.trafalgartavern.co.uk/
PHOTOGRAPHY: http://fleurchallisphotography.com/
STYLIST: https://theweddingowl.com/
PLANNER: https://e-lope.co.uk/
WEDDING DRESS: https://felicitywestmacott.co.uk/
FLOWERS: http://mimifleur.co.uk/
CAKE: https://www.simplyirresistiblecakes.com/
GROOM MODEL @piyushnigammusic
BRIDE MODEL: @misseveiewray
VEIL & CAPE: https://www.adornbyashley.co.uk/
HAIR STYLING: https://www.lalohairandmakeup.com/
BRIDESMAID WEAR: https://matchimony.co.uk/
TABLE LAMPS https://www.tablelamphire.co.uk/
WEDDING DECOR https://www.angelsandgypsiesevents.co.uk/
STATIONERY: @ribbonsnwren
LINEN HIRE: https://www.specialoccasionlinen.com/
MENS WEAR: https://www.thekentweddingcentre.com/grooms
Bespoke bridal designer Felicity Westmacott is an English Wedding member
Web: https://felicitywestmacott.co.uk