WeddingLight Events – Elope to Paris

Category: WEDDING JEWELRY

Styled Shoot: A Dreamy Vintage Inspired Styled Shoot

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.

To see more of our lovely photos, please visit our photographer’s site: WeddingLight Photography’s blog.

Dresses: Max Chaoul | Veils: Rhapsodie Paris | Jewelry: Paulette à Bicyclette | Makeup: Melody Kennedy | Hair: Lucie Letz | Florist: Une Fleur en Liberte | Coordination: WeddingLight Events with the assistance of stylist Birendra Le Guevel | Photography: Olivier Lalin of WeddingLight Photography

July 15, 2015
Top 5: Where to Buy your Wedding Bands in Paris

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 18^thand 19^th 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.

Happy ring shopping!

August 4, 2014
Inspiration: 2014 Bridal Hair Accessory Trends

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!

Source www.weddinghandmade.com

2. Classic veils

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.

Source Twigsandhoney.com

3.Ethereal Floral Crowns

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.

Source www.alterblooms.blogspot.co.uk/

4. Extravagant Fascinators

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!

Source stylemepretty.com

5. Royal Tiaras

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!

Source hairstyle-for-weddings.com

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!).

July 18, 2014
Top 5 French Wedding Ring Designers

What a better way to say I love you and propose than with a French engagement ring?

We ladies know that “A kiss on the hand may be quite continental but diamonds are a girl’s best friend…” and wouldn’t we all want to be swept off our feet with a luxurious Cartier engagement ring? Yes, please!

Today we wanted to continue with our TOP 5 PARIS picks and talk about some of the major names in the French jewelry (specifically engagement and wedding rings) industry. We’ve dug up some historical facts, recent news and thrown in a fun pronunciation guide that should have you sounding like a true Parisian in no time!

1. Cartier (pronounced Car-tee-eh)

Louis-Francois Cartier founded this luxury jewelry company Cartier in 1847 after taking over the workshop of Adolphe Picard. Established at 29, Rue Montorgueil in the 2nd arrondisment of Paris, the headquarters are still in the city, with an address on the elegant Rue de la Paix.

Since its beginning, Cartier has attracted high-profile clientele and royalty. The jewelry house became the official purveyor to the kings and heads of state of England, Spain, Portugal, Russia, Belgium, Serbia, and Siam.

Evalyn Walsh McLean wearing the now famous HOPE diamond

Cartier is also the maker of the famous Blue Hope Diamond, sold to American mining heiress and socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean in 1910. Harry Winston later purchased the necklace from Evalyn Walsh McLean in 1949 and donated to the Smithsonian Institution on November 10, 1958.

The creation of the Trinity in 1924, a “three-band ring and bracelet combining gold in three colors,” brought fame to Cartier once again. The style became very popular in Parisian society after Jean Cocteau adopted the design and is still one of the most popular statement of understated luxury.

Cartier’s history allows it to have an elaborate spread of stores around the world, plus historic collections of the pieces that are in metropolises like Paris, London, and New York. Their survival through world wars and economic crises have guaranteed them a place in the jewelry market forever, plus some of the best real estate in the city. One of their most famous boutiques is located at Place Vendome, a boutique they have had since 1899, which shares the plaza with the Ritz Paris (link back to other article), a Chanel boutique, Dior Jewelry, and Van Cleef & Arpels, another top French ring designer, two of which also made it to our list of Top French Wedding Ring Designers.

Cartier is the French power player in the jewelry world, whose elegance and style are matched by few.

2. Van Cleef & Arpels ( pronounced Von cleef eh Ar – pel)

Messieurs Alfred Van Cleef and Charles Arpels founded their namesake company, Van Cleef & Arpels, in 1896, opening their first store a decade later in the famed place Vendome in Paris. While Cartier has a patent on the “invisible mount,” Van Cleef & Arpels pioneered their own gem-setting technique, christened the “Mystery Setting.” The firm is known for their remarkable work with rare stones; their designs strive to enhance the gems themselves.

Those looking for an engagement ring from Paris, look no further.

One of their standout pieces include the engagement ring John F. Kennedy presented to Jacqueline Bouvier: one 2.88 carat diamond mounted next to a 2.84 carat cut emerald with tapered baguettes.

Van Cleef & Arpels boasts not only sophistication, like its neighbor Cartier, but also revolutionary designs and techniques.

Not to mention they are a staple on every single red carpet. Who remembers that green emerald necklace by Ginnifer Goodwin?

(more…)

May 12, 2012