We were so thrilled to hear that Jessica Poole of Storyboard Wedding had chosen our styled shoot to be posted on her blog. It is wonderful to have support in getting our work out to the rest of the world. Her lovely site is all about inspiring brides through beautiful photos and styled shoots, (like ours), advice from professionals and some of the top bloggers from around the web, DIY projects… basically anything that that will help brides prepare for their big day and anything things in between.
Once again, a big thank you to all of our fantastic vendors that helped make this shoot possible! We cannot wait to show you our next project!
WeddingLight Events is thrilled to be sharing our first ever styled shoot! This was our first attempt at creating an inspirational bridal shoot for our lovely international brides and we are thrilled with the results. We certainly could not have achieved this outcome without our phenomenal team of vendors whom without their assistance, dedication and contribution would not have been possible.
It started with a simple idea of doing something with a vintage chic theme, which was realized with the addition of our friend, Max Chaoul‘s stunning vintage inspired gowns.The Daisy gown is a 1920’s inspired look in a fluid low waisted satin design and a gorgeous embroidered lace top. The second is the Lana gown, which is a 1940’s inspired look in a empire cut with a romantic long sleeved crochet design. We then paired ethereal veils and romantic headpieces from Rhapsodie Paris, lovely artisanal (and ethically made) jewelry by Paulette à Bicyclette (yes, you’ve seen her on our blog before!) and whimsical florals by Edith of Une Fleur en Liberte in white and pastel peach and pink colors. To complete our models looks hairstylist, Lucie Letz and Los Angeles makeup artist, Melody Kennedy opted for one model with a bold look that included a daring pink lip and smoky eyes and the other model with a charming and natural look and playful curls. For the location we wanted to have a “Secret Garden” feel with all of its serenity and romance. We were delighted when a friend of our photographer allowed us to use his dreamy home, which is just location outside of Paris in the Parisian countryside. Everyone’s contribution was important, but without the amazing talent of our wonderful photographer, Olivier Lalin of WeddingLight Photography, this shoot would not have happened.
We certainly hope this inspires our beautiful brides to be! Keep checking the blog as we are in the midst of preparing for another shoot before the summer’s end.
We bring you our selection of the top spots to buy your wedding rings in Paris. There’s no more special way to remember your big day in Paris than buying your wedding bands on your trip. Especially since France is renowned for fashion and jewelry design worldwide. Whether you want a classic ring designer, unique boutique or antique piece we have the answers.
1. Cartier
The French standard
The epitome of luxury French jewelry design, Cartier has to be top of any French jewelry design list. There is nothing more classic or timeless than a Cartier wedding ring, and your friends will be stunned by its benchmark of quality. The house has a rich and royal background, with many exhibitions held under its famous name. It was founded in Paris in 1847 originally as a family company. They became most recognised for their pocket watches and symbolised by their panther, but it is their rings which stole the heart of diamond loving romantics worldwide. A name which has become truly synonymous with romance and excess. The only thing more special than a Cartier wedding band, is a Cartier wedding band purchased in Paris.
Cartier
17 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré 75008 Paris
2. Paulette à Bicyclette
Ethical Jewelry and Design Workshops
The number one spot for any bohemian couple Paulette à Bicyclette is founded on the principal of ethical jewelry, and specialises in wedding pieces. She loves working on rings which represent a couples love and happiness! In this artisan jeweller everything is made from recycled materials in an eco-responsible fashion. They have even been certified by Fairmined. She works to order so you can personalise your piece as you wish, and all her work is precious and poetic in style. Her wedding bands focus on using texture in their design. This is the best place in Paris for wedding rings made with love.
Paulette à Bicyclette
She also offers courses in jewelry making for both weddings and every-day wear so you can learn to create your own rings. This builds the perfect combination of ethical and remarkable wedding rings. There is no more special symbol of your love than making your own unique band in a Parisian workshop. It is important to order your jewelry here as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.
2 Place de Guignier 75020 Paris
3. Dary’s
High End Antique Specialists
If you want an antique ring then Dary’s is the number one address to go to. Specialising in ancient jewelry and contemporary 18th and 19th century high end pieces, this is an amazing place if you want something not only beautiful, but also something with its own history and story to tell. They are truly experts in their field and authenticity is 100% guaranteed. Consultations are free so you can benefit from their knowledge before committing.
Although still pricey you will save 30% on the original price of the rings if they were first hand, so this is the perfect way to get your hands on the must have Cartier or Van Cleef on a tighter budget. Unique and timeless this is the must visit store for any vintage bride.
Dary’s
362 Rue Saint Honoré 75001 Paris
4. Boucheron
The original on Place Vendôme
Boucheron was the first jeweler to open its doors on Place Vendôme, the heart of France’s luxury jewelry market, and one of Paris’s founding ring makers. They stand alongside Cartier as trail blazers of the French luxury jewellery market. Clients have included tsars, princesses and maharajahs. Boucheron set out to find the best stones which are then worked on by the best craftsmen, controlling quality of raw materials and workmanship at all levels.
Boucheron
26 Place Vendôme 75001 Paris
5. Chanel Fine Jewelry
High Fashion Meets Bridal Elegance
The fashionistas choice, Chanel entered the jewelry market with her first collection in 1932 . Originally developing a niche with designer costume jewelry, mixing real and fake stones Chanel changed the jewelry market as she had the fashion industry. The houses wedding pieces are however of course all about the diamonds.
“If I have chosen diamonds, it is because they represent the highest value in the smallest volume” Coco Chanel.
Diamonds symbolise the elegance and sophistication which embodies Chanel. Classic cuts and the best chosen pieces are the basis of the jewelry line. We love this gorgeous ribbon ring in 18k white gold and diamond.
Chanel
Their store on Place Vendôme now also has a workshop upstairs, making special orders on site.
18 Place Vendôme 75001 Paris
Hopefully you find your perfect wedding band from one of the boutiques on our list! If you’re coming to Paris for your engagement then be sure to also take a look at our Top 5 French Engagement Ring Designers.
After choosing your perfect dress, the biggest statement you can make is through your bridal head-wear. Whether you want to be classic in a veil or breaking boundaries with a more unique piece, WeddingLight Events collated this season’s top hair accessory trends. Tying together your personality and wedding theme will be completed with one of these fabulous looks. Don’t forget to check out our Top 5 Hairstyles to discover the ultimate combination of style and accessory.
1.Gatsby Style Rhinestone Headdresses and Juliet Caps
1920’s glamour continues to inspire brides, and what better way to add nuances of the jazz era to your look than through head-wear. Rhinestone head bands offer a perfect bridge between tiara and hair-band. This look has a timeless elegance which transcends the ages, whilst evoking the fun and recklessness of the period. With many different accessory styles to choose from you should have no problem finding one which compliments your face shape, hair style and dress.
Juliet caps have also made a big comeback with brides. This look is unmistakably vintage and romantic. They can be worn simply or used as a more interesting way to incorporate a veil into your look. The lace adds extra prettiness to any bridal look. Both are perfect for adding a little Gatsby majesty to your reception – just make sure you’ve perfected your Charleston so you can live up to your look!
The staple bridal look will never change, and if you’ve always imagined of the man of your dreams lifting a veil from your face what other choice do you have but to go for it? After all this is your one and only chance to pull it off. Of course just because you know you need to have a veil there are still many decisions to be made! Floor length cathedral style, or shorter and layered? Detailed or simple? Thinking about practicalities is also an important aspect in veil choice as you may want to be able to easily remove it for certain photographs. Floor length veils are the most traditional and are always flattering. Whilst shorter styles can be more playful and inject some personality however it’s important to make sure your whole silhouette is still pleasing to the eye. We love this soft romantic blusher veil from Twigs and Honey.
For the bohemian bride floral crowns are the perfect free spirited expression of beauty. Celebrating natural elegance and romanticism, they create a unique look. From pale and delicate headbands to larger and brighter crowns, the floral trend offers a spectrum of diversity and the perfect motif for a spring/summer wedding. This has to be the biggest trend right now. Your bouquet can also be tied into your look making your favorite flowers play a starring role in your big day. Check out our blog on top bouquet trends for even more inspiration on which flowers to choose, as well as our interview with our wonderful florist Estelle. Adding a splash of colour to your look with bright flowers can also change up the style, and allow you to add in the tones which most suit you. Your floral crown will also of course be completely unique, which is exactly what you want for your big day. Floral crowns are particularly stunning when combined with loose natural curls, for a soft ethereal elegance.
It’s your big day so all eyes must be on you, and nothing will ensure this better than a statement fascinator. Intricacy of design and an array of materials can combine to form a work of art. An excellent choice when combined with a more simple dress. Adding feathers, lace, or rhinestones creates endless possibilities. This gives you an excellent way of bringing in any colours or materials you want to incorporate into your look. Fascinators have made a big comeback since the Royal wedding, even making a splash within mainstream fashion. Of course there are also many smaller fascinators out there if you want a more subdued take on this look. Dare to be different!
If adding a little royal touch to the day is important for you, then you can alternatively embrace the princess theme with a tiara. Now is the time to truly channel your inner Kate Middleton, after all who can deny how stunning her vintage Cartier piece was? A delicate and somewhat traditional accessory choice, a tiara can easily be incorporated into your chosen hairstyle. They are also perfect for adding a little sparkle to a structured hair do. So if a formal chignon is your style of choice a tiara will be the perfect accompaniment! Excellent if you don’t want too much attention to be on your hair. Tiaras are less of a hot trend right now but they will always be a classic and regal wedding look. They’re also perfect if you’ve chosen stunning jewellery and want to emphasise your chosen pieces with a matching tiara. Glitz and glamour galore!
Hopefully this has inspired you to find the perfect wedding hair accessory for you. For more advice on choosing your perfect bridal hairstyle to go with your hair accessory and on how to prepare for the big day, take a look at our interview with Muriel, our favorite Paris wedding hairstylist (and stylist to the stars!).
After your big day is over, your wedding photographs will keep the wonderful memories in Paris alive forever. Of course your Paris wedding photos will be particularly important as this is how you will share your beautiful celebration with all your friends at home. The pressure is therefore definitely on to make them perfect!
We interviewed our very own talented photographer Olivier Lalin in Paris to get his expert advice on preparing for your wedding photography.
Q. What’s the best piece of advice you can give a couple in preparing for wedding photography?
Practice makes perfect! Don’t shy away from practicing your poses in front of the mirror in the lead up to your wedding day. You need to appear natural yet elegant, be comfortable in your own body. It may seem vain or embarrassing but remember it’s the finished product that everyone will see.
What’s more practice as a couple! Make sure being with your loved one doesn’t affect your posture and that you find a stance that suits you both. It can be difficult to resist temptation to slouch if one of you is taller, you need to make sure how you fit together looks good on camera.
Q. What should a bride be thinking about when practicing?
Keep your arms slightly away from your body for a slimmer look and be aware of what you’re doing with your hands. You don’t want them to be distracting from the rest of the look. Always keep your chin up and your shoulders back – good posture and being poised is essential. Also learn to smile with your eyes; this will completely light up the photo.
Q. Is there a dress style which looks better in photos or is easier to work with?
Thinking about the dress itself is very important. Different styles are going to emphasize different parts of your body and you need to work out how to best utilise this to create flattering photographs. Of course choose something which best suits you but also something which you find comfortable and easy to get around in. A mermaid dress for example contours a bride’s figure and can slimming when positioned correctly in photographs.
Also be aware of your outfit and accessories, you want to be showing off your dress and bouquet to the best of their advantage. You bouquet should be in the shot but not covering you or the intricate detailing of your dress. Holding the bouquet as low as possible actually creates the best lines. When you practice, do it with the full outfit!
Q. Should you follow a regime to get in shape before the big day?
Whatever you do make sure you’re not tempted to hold your stomach in for photos. If you’re self-conscious about your weight by all means get in shape for the wedding. The most important thing is that you look natural and happy. Do make sure you work on your posture in the lead up to the wedding, this is highly important for getting graceful shots.
Q. What about the all-important kiss photo?
Kissing isn’t something you normally do for a camera which makes it harder to perfect than other poses. Of course this is going to be a big element in your most romantic shots and I’m sure this is something won’t mind practicing! Make sure you extend your necks and are an equal distance apart in order to create an elegant silhouette. If you want a dip kiss photo you really have to practice this in advance – unfortunately romantic spontaneity really isn’t the best strategy in wedding photography!
Q. Any advice for the day itself?
Try to relax and have fun, we normally visit many iconic locations in Paris to take photos and it’s important to be in the moment. Don’t feel distracted or self-conscious if tourists stop to watch. Remember everything you’ve practiced but most importantly enjoy it! The most beautiful photographs happen when you feel truly happy and serene. Our Paris wedding photographer will guide you every steps of the way with his advices and good humor. You are going to make your girl friends back home so jealous when you show them all those beautiful wedding photographs taken in Paris with your love one.
We hope all this advice helps you to prepare for your moment in the spotlight, and become a natural under the lens! For more advice on your destination wedding check out our other blog posts, and Olivier’s amazing wedding photography!
