Let’s make one thing clear: opulence doesn’t only equate with size, it’s much more of a feeling, a mood, a sense. And as strange as it was to see grand-scale weddings ushered aside in favor of smaller, more intimate affairs (due, of course, to COVID circumstances at first) – this new normal hasn’t struck opulence from the table, not in any way, shape, or form. If you’re still skeptical, please take our word for it and use this London-situated styled shoot for reference. Yes, it was small, but oh em gee was it opulent.
Keep on scrolling to see all of the posh photos captured by Tell Your Story Photography. Linda Insaidoo Florals & Events ideated every detail of this wedding shoot, including the beautiful #somethingblue florals you’ll see throughout. The Wedding Filmmakers was there to film as this I Do inspiration came to life at Shangri-La Hotel in London. All the images are in the full gallery, so take a peek at every bit and piece of the pretty and read on to hear more from the brains behind the scenes, Linda Insaidoo Florals & Events.
Scaling the event, but keeping the ambiance big and luxuriant (in the tallest building in the UK)
The shoot tells the love story of a contemporary and stylish couple, in a setting with a backdrop overlooking London City, the Shangri-La Hotel on the 34th floor of The Shard. Coming from African descent, I can appreciate large wedding celebrations with many loved ones in attendance. With small weddings growing in popularity due to the current climate, it felt necessary for me to give hope and inspire couples from similar cultures and backgrounds who may be dismayed that their big wedding couldn’t happen.The shoot aimed to show love, romance and opulence, and it didn’t have to try too hard: the hotel offers breathtaking and fabulous views of London and it’s pretty perfect for a pair with small, contemporary nuptials in mind.
Blue was the new [black] when it came to black-tie formality
I chose blue as the focal color, with white and accents of silver and black, as I wanted a bold, yet calm, fresh, and stylish palette. The bride wore a stylish Nicole Milano ballgown and a bespoke glamorous blue evening gown by Black British designer, Sarah Boadu, with complementing shoes, jewelry, hair, and makeup. I matched the groom’s look with a rich-patterned blue suit for a much more elevated ensemble.
A first look with a view
The shoot started off on the grand staircase, which shows a panoramic view of the city. There is nothing quite like the romantic and magical feeling of a bride walking down to meet her groom. The staircase was decorated with an oversized balloon garland to add a stylish trend to the overall design. In the small event room, blue and white gypsophila were stylishly designed with anthuriums and other blooms, for a softened, yet statement and contemporary effect.
A table with so much taste (pun intended!)
The tableware included black cutlery to add some sophistication and clear acrylic chairs to help keep the setting light against the jaw-dropping views. And the cake and stationery designs were kept fresh and modern, as well.
Limiting the guest list doesn’t mean glamour is forgotten
The shoot featured so many amazingly talented and like-minded vendors from different backgrounds in the UK wedding market. It was our hope to convey a message that just because you have to cut down your guest list, does not mean you need to have any less of a celebration, opulence, and fabulousness.
