Over the past year, we’ve seen brides choose fun, dramatic looks for their micro-weddings, and we can’t get enough! Bold fashion translates especially well on camera, and with that in mind, Montreal-based luxury wedding planner Chic by Nicole put together an editorial shoot with a French country feel.
She teamed up with photographer Will Reid, and they shot all of the imagery at Graydon Hall Manor in Toronto. Built in 1936, the rooms were designed by R. Marcum Slimon, and the manor was intended to be a “sportsman’s paradise.” “We wanted our shoot to have a European vibe along with the architecture and charm of an Old World mansion,” Nicole says. “So Graydon was a no-brainer.”
Mission accomplished—the house looks like it could be the setting for the second half of Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette…when Kirsten Dunst retreats to the country and frolics amidst the wildflowers. In this version, the main character still hasn’t transitioned to day dresses though and her motto remains go big, or go home.
From the beginning, floral design was very important, and Threads and Blooms did an excellent job with arrangements, installations, and the bouquet. The reception table, paired with chairs from Simply Beautiful Events Decor, looked dreamy set with vintage items from Glamorous Affairs Inc. and menus by Plume Calligraphy. The wedding cake by Finespun Cakes & Pastries was the final touch.
As for styling, the Millia London and Whyte Couture dresses that model Alice Li wore were the stars of the shoot. “I wanted to play with traditional versus more edgy options for footwear by incorporating a patent nude heel and a pair of Valentino Rockstuds for the more adventurous bride,” Nicole explains. OTM-favorite Bella Belle Shoes was also chosen “to provide a lighter and more conventional look,” she adds. Jewelry and other accessories came from The Loved One, Blair Nadeau, and Stór by Margot. And throughout the shoot, Shannon Petrolito Hair Artistry and Allyssa Helm Beauty & Co. were on stand-by to touch up the bride and help change beauty looks.
Overall, Nicole wants brides to remember that intimate weddings can include bold fashion choices. Her advice? “Wear that statement dress, accessory, or heel, and your pictures will turn out fabulous!”
