Stepping into Matthew Ree’s and CLY BY MATTHEW’s pics from a recent trip to Havana is like going back in time, from the vintage cars that rule the road to the old world romance radiating from every single image captured. With the styling expertise of Designs by Hemingway on full display, we’re whisked away to this magical space and I don’t want to leave anytime soon. See it all in our Vault right this way!
From Matthew Ree… The trip felt like we were in a time warp traveling back to the 1940’s and stepping onto a movie set that someone forgot to tear down. Within an hour of arriving, we were wandering and exploring on foot through the streets of Havana. Drawn to the weathered patina colors, amazing textures, patterned tiles, narrow lanes and mysterious dilapidated stairwells inside of old but beautiful faded buildings. The layers of distressed colorful and chipping paint everywhere makes Havana an intoxicating backdrop to style a photo shoot.
Our styled shoot began at the famous Cuban parador, La Guarida in Central Havana. This crumbling yet grandeur building was the inspiration for our couple shoot. The grand and ornate staircases go up to three separate levels with a rooftop bar that has a splendid view of Havana. Our model, Carla, wore a Claire Pettibone dress “Raphaella” so beautiful with winged sleeves and a blue silk lining. Everything came to life after designing vintage brass candlesticks leading up the grand staircase. Flowers were in short supply and you can not ship them in so Debbie had to forge everything from locals which was fun in itself. With a dress change to a Claire Pettibone “Alma” dress, we took the shoot onto the streets of Havana. Old vintage cars are roaming around on every corner, the cobble stone streets and amazing colors and textures are everywhere! This place is seriously magical!!
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Photography: MATTHEW REE PHOTOGRAPHY | Photography: CLY BY MATTHEW | Event Styling: Designs by Hemingway | Floral Design: Designs by Hemingway | Wedding Dress: Claire Pettibone | Invitations: Written Word Calligraphy | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Men's Attire: Hugo Boss | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Groom's Shoes: Antonio Maurizi | Makeup Consultant: Heather Bell