What makes a wedding unique? How does one express individuality when planning, confronted with the task of choosing from a myriad of bridal gowns, seemingly identical wedding venues, or too-similar, overly ornate plate options?
In 'All That Shines', an editorial collaboration with event planner Jessica Hoang from Bisous Events and photographer Alyssa Wodabek that was recently featured in Australia's Hello May Magazine, we tried to create a bridal editorial film that, while showing what a Berkeley Bicycle Club wedding might look like, would reflect our personal preference for simplicity in all things wedding-related. (In that, Jess is very much a kindred spirit!)
Building on the venue's inherent qualities, such as beautiful wood panelling (and a magnificent alcove), gorgeous stained glass windows, and spacious rooms, we invited our models Alyssa & Justin to connect intimately but softly, to make themselves comfortable in those nooks of rainy-day light, to inhabit those moments of quiet contentment. Thus, we kept the motion simple, allowing them to simply 'be'. The resulting film is meant to inspire brides and grooms seeking a sense of respite in their wedding. Be it at dinner, hands intertwined as they listen in awe or in more abstract spaces, alone or together, we made everything about pace and soft breaths, withholding any kissing to focus on how the way he looks at her - and how she looks back at him - carries so much weight, so much truth, so much love.
With a dedicated team of Toronto wedding vendors crafting every detail of this bridal editorial, whose working title was 'Copper and Linen', we had the opportunity to create a collective vision that included a stunning gown from Maureen Patricia Bridal and a veil from Posh Veils, set into a beautiful hairstyle created by Puzzle Creations and accented by a sparkly headpiece by The Loved One. Our bride Alyssa, whose makeup was done by The Look Bridal, elegantly handled flowers provided by Ashley Elaine.
Meanwhile, our groom Justin was clad in an Indochino suit, accessorized by Tytan Ties accents (custom tie & pocket square).
Table-wise, Plate Occasions made magic happen, while stationery was designed by Castlefield Design Co. and Crumb & Berry provided us with succulent, delicate cakes.
We hope you enjoy watching 'All That Shines' as much as we enjoyed making it. Here's to the simple things in life.