The snow is billowing outside my window, and the kettle’s whistle has finally settled me at my desk with a calming cup of green tea. And then, I saw this fashion shoot from Trent Bailey and Jackie Weppner of Merci New York. If ever we needed a reminder that spring’s blooms will surely be here soon, it is a day like today. This fashion story can only be described as a romantic cherry blossom breeze, and it features a Jenny Packham gown with a Preston & Olivia headpiece that is stop-in-your-tracks angelic. Find more of these breathtaking images over in the gallery or head to SMP New York for the accompanying engagement session crafted by this all star team.
From the Trent Bailey Photography… On a recent visit to Gabriella New York I spotted the GORGEOUS Astrid gown from Jenny Packham and thought it was so incredible. Later that day as I went for a run in Central Park, I was inspired by all of the blooms that were making their way out of a long winters nap. Spring was here and instantly I knew I had to photograph this ethereal romantic gown under the blossoms in the park. Combining Jenny Packham’s Astrid with a men’s look that was just right proved to be difficult. I called my friends at Billy Reid and of course they had the perfect suit for the shoot. I share the same Louisiana hometown with Billy, and his clothes remind me of my roots, with such a relaxed feel. Pairing Billy Reid’s southern gentleman charm with Jenny Packham’s organic ethereal look was a wonderful match for a spring day in Central Park.
We were blessed with gorgeous light, and a location that provided a serene escape from the busy Manhattan pace. At one point the wind picked up and the cherry blossoms began to rain from the branches of the tree, as the couple embraced and laughed. It was a moment I will never forget and I am so grateful to have captured it on film.
From Merci New York… For this shoot, we had access to some really beautiful fashion pieces. Trent and I went to the Billy Reid showroom together, and our jaws dropped when we saw this cream dinner jacket from Billy’s recent runway show. Funny as it may seem, my male clients always seem to have this “should I or shouldn’t I” complex about wearing a dinner jacket. They love the 007 vibe, but wonder if it’s “too much” for their weddings. (It’s not!)
In this shoot, I think we really showed how a cream dinner jacket can be totally appropriate, especially when the bride is dressed in soft romantic and elegant pieces, such as this Jenny Packham dress and ethereal Preston and Olivia headpiece… What’s old is new and somehow really refreshingly chic (especially with those falling cherry blossom leaves – l.o.v.e.) It was such a pleasure to style all the fabulous eye candy in this shoot!
Wedding Photography: Trent Bailey Photography / Wedding Stylist: Jackie Weppner of Merci New York / Wedding Hair + Makeup: Facetime Beauty Concierge / Wedding Florals: kat flower / Bride’s Flower Halo + Groom’s Bow Tie: Preston & Olivia / Wedding Dress: Astrid by Jenny Packham via Gabriella New York Bridal Salon / Groom’s Attire: Billy Reid