Want to have a picturesque destination wedding, but have it take place in the four counties?
Sofia of Sofia’s Weddings and Events got together with Emma from Purple Rose Photography to create just that!

The Inspiration

When I first visited Chafor Vineyards just outside Buckingham, I immediately had an idea for a styed shoot with a Tuscan feel. Being Italian myself, I felt transported back to my Country, and I imagined a glorious summer’s evening with my dearest, celebrating my wedding. 

The Venue

This setting (CHAFOR Wine Estate), although in a vineyard, can be replicated in a garden of a Manor House for example, without having to compromise on views, and the objective was to recreate a colour scheme that would easily be transferable to other venues. The inspiration is aimed to couples who love outdoors, but also the Mediterranean feel without having to compromise on location. 

The Styling and the atmosphere

What I tried to achieve with this shoot, was simplicity at its best with a touch of lux. The table is laid out through the vines, with drapes as a cover to protect from the sun. I wanted to create a different feel overall but also show that simplicity is fantastic in the right setting. This can be an alternative seating arrangement, with a possible marquee as a backup. 

Richard with the styling and Suzanne with the floral arrangements both beautifully captured the meaning of ‘simple lux’. To complete the harmonious look, I invited Noah to play her harp, who accompanied the shoot with classical music.

The Video

Video Credit: Veiled Productions

The Bride

I wanted a gown that was flowy and create a beautiful movement when the model walked through the vines and Lisa Lyons had the perfect match with a bespoke creation of layers of chiffon, long sleeves all completed with a floral lace bodes and tie detail.

The style was designed with a specific bride in mind, with delicate lines and ginger hair. Fern was absolutely the right fit and Jema highlighted her natural beauty with warm eyeshadow suited for Fern’s skin tone. Nicola did an amazing job with a classic updo, with a loose feel to fit with the overall flow. The accessories used were from Rachel and again they contributed to the overall simple but elegant look.

The Shoot

The style of photography and videography I was going for, was natural light and bright colours to highlight once more, the venue and the beauty of the English Countryside. Emma, Grant and Rachel have achieved the result, and nothing was too much to ask. 

All my shoots are as collaborative as possible, giving the artist the creative input, but letting them explore new possibilities. Same for the little details of all other supplies: cake, stationary and biscuit favours. Their attention to detail has been second to none and is incredible to see how all comes together, despite the distance and without seeing each other work. 

I am amazed all the time of the human capabilities when a styled shoot comes to life. It is incredible to see how from an idea that was in my mind, the collaboration of all involved, made this become a tangible reality.

The Suppliers

Concept, planning and Coordination: Sofia’s Weddings and Events
Venue: CHAFOR wine
Florist: Flowers by Suzanne Randell
Photography: Purple Rose Photography UK
Videography: Veiled Productions
Styling and Furniture: Something Borrowed 
Stationery: Tiggity Boo Design
Cake: Cakes and Leaves
Make Up: Jema Jakes mua
Hair: Bespoke Bridal Hair by Nicola
Model: Fern
Dress: Lisa Lyons Bridal
Harpist: Noa Davies
Biscuit Favours: Angela Jane Cake Design
Tableware: A Place Setting
Linen: Northfields Linen
Hair Piece and Jewellery: Rachel Sokhal Bridal
Car: Figaro for Wedding HireAngela Jane Cake Design