COVID has had a big impact on weddings. The isolation of lockdown and fear for the health of loved ones created a newfound gratitude for the family ‘nest’ wherein loved ones (including feathered and furred family members) can feel safe, included and loved. This has created a desire for smaller, more intimate and meaningful weddings. Gone are ideas for a large, showy wedding full of guests couples barely know. Smaller guest numbers means that budgets can be spent on gorgeous decor, florals and fabulous guest experiences.
The brief for this shoot was to reflect this change in attitude. To create an intimate, soft, romantic wedding where loved ones are warmly welcomed and included.
THE OLD FEVER HOSPITAL, SPCA WELLINGTON
Photography: Jo Moore Photography
Feathers And Fur
To this end, the talented wedding specialists who came together to create this shoot, using a warm, soft colour palette, delicate textures and plenty of pretty details to achieve a romantic and beautiful look.
The lace trim and softly draped silhouettes of the bridal gowns by Sally Eagle Bridal were the perfect base for the dreamy hair and makeup looks created by Zoe (The Makeup Artist) and Antoinette (Hair By Antoinette). Bride model Sam’s look was finished with delicate hair accessories and jewellery created by Lynda from Crystal and Cord Jewellery completed the look.
Groom model Shaydon was dressed in a classic blue check three-piece suit by Mandatory Menswear.
The adorable flower girls wore made-to-measure leotards, sashes and fabric flower crowns by Little Lace Flower Company.
As they say “Love is a four-legged word”. A major focus of this styled shoot was to show how beloved pets can be included in a wedding, starting with selecting a pet-friendly venue like the SPCA.
The ceremony draping was repurposed to create a gorgeous backdrop for an Escort Card display. This is a gorgeous alternative to the usual guest seating lists. Each card has the guest’s name written on the outside, with their table number written inside.
The table runners on the dining tables were made from the same patterned linen as the ceremony backdrop, continuing the look. Beautiful detailing reflects the ‘Feathers and Fur’ theme. The menu cards included a personal note to each guest - a really wonderful way to make each guest feel loved and welcomed.
In this shoot, the aim to make guests feel included and loved is reflected in the provision of spaces for all – the play area, the veranda Mimosa bar, the coffee and dessert retreat in the sun room. It can also be seen in the personal letters of thanks at each place-setting. A bonus of having a small, intimate wedding is that couples now have more time and money to add these meaningful details to their wedding.
For more and more couples, having a ‘feel good’ wedding extends to making ethical choices that reflect their values. Showcasing the beautiful spaces at the Wellington SPCA, this shoot aimed to encourage couples to support the charity by selecting it for their wedding. The shoot also showcases the talent and work of local businesses to encourage couples to buy and support local. Further, the shoot includes an eco-friendly, pet-friendly alternative to traditional wedding favours; sustainably foraged greenery, minimal single-use plastic and upcycled fabrics.
WRITTEN BY:
Lyndal McKenzie, Owner and Lead Designer, Little Lace Flower Company
VENDORS:
Venue: Kamalas, Wellington Zoo
Photographer: Ryan McCaulay Photography
Gazebos, Tables, Chairs and Linen: Carlton Party Hire
Styling, Floral Design and Decor Hire: Little Lace Flower Company
Bar and Catering: Nosh
Wedding Cakes: Sweet Vanilla Kitchen