AMONGST THE RUINS

Blackfriars, UK

Amongst the crumbling walls and towering ruins we wanted to breathe a sense of stillness; an etherealism that illustrates how the contrasting movement and softness of the fabric can instill a feeling of calm and belonging set against the stone.

Sustainable fabrics and floristry by Mia Sylvia and Millefleur were an important part of our design concept and the colour palette pulled from the venue itself, felt as if it had always been there.

Introducing fabrics into architecturally interesting venues is one of my favourite looks; in this space Mia Sylvia created high and heavy drapes with neutral and tonal fabric that was knotted and hung to catch the light and create pockets of hidden space throughout.

Alongside the florals, emphasis was with the layers of texture, from the pieces of stone to the copious amounts of fabric that felt like they had collapsed over the table; finished with touches of gold and handmade ceramics. It was important to draw eyes up to the vast and grand ruins above, we softened and complimented them with more delicate fabrics, all naturally dyed with plants or rust. Modern and minimal stationery in order to transport the tablescape back to the now, fit for a contemporary, soulful celebration.

Ascending from rustic cream glazed finger bowls, Pearl from Millefleur positioned the long elegant stems of dried love-in-a-mist intertwined with paper dry dahlia blooms, misty shades of cinnamon milk, that turned to shadow black, tangled in turn with the smoke like plumes of Queen Anne’s lace - This decadent meadow illuminated by the gentle glow of candle light.

Remember every detail is important when wedding planning, omitting certain design aspects can be just as important as personalising others. If you are wanting to achieve an ethereal wedding design never underestimate the power of fabric to soften open brick, stone, industrial spaces or even ultra modern spaces. If you are going for a venue steeped in history, paired with the right florals you can deliver a modern, high-end finish amongst the secret-rich walls.

I wanted to showcase how a simple, modern gown is the epitome of style in a space like this, Prea James provided this silk wedding dress that shimmered in the light and added yet another layer of texture to the design.

Dream Team:
Venue: BLACKFRIARS GLOUCESTER; Photographer: COURTNEY MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY; Planner and Stylist: REBECCA MARIE WEDDINGS; Florals: MILLEFLEUR; Fabric installations and design: MIA SYLVIA; Hair: JUTA ZORUBIENE; MUA: AMY ROSE; Dress Designer: PREA JAMES (Ivy and White Bridal); Cakes: MARBLE CAKE CO; Stationery: GRAY STARLING DESIGN; Handmade ceramics: EVERY STORY; Furniture Hire: VIRGINIAS VINTAGE HIRE