When Natalie Choi Events and Stephanie Gan Photography set out to craft a spring-meets-Japanese-minimalism inspirational shoot, they aimed for a refined, garden-style elegance. And ohhh, is that combo stunning beyond words. While I don’t typically find myself swooning over ‘the dress’, today’s Alexandra Grecco number that they paired with the whole look is airy, lovely and just. so. perfect. for this vibe. Would you wear this beauty or go for this look on your own big day?
From Natalie of Natalie Choi Events… Inspired by the minimalist traditional meets modern architectural style of many tea houses and cafes in Japan, Stephanie and I brainstormed a shoot that would reflects the understated elegance of that meeting. Tea houses in Japan are often characterized by a common space that is garden-facing, drawing attention to nature and blurring the boundary between garden and table. Similarly, we wanted to create a space where nature interposed the structures of our design while still maintaining a simplistic, refined aesthetic.
We chose the lush grounds of Villa Montalvo as our setting, drawn to the gorgeous historical structures surrounded by blooming vines and lush, green gardens. The black, iron gates leading into the garden were softened with an array of white blooms to soften the beams and create a magical entrance leading to the table. To celebrate the bounty of spring, our florist Laura chose all of the most delicate, whimsical blooms for the bridal bouquet and ikebana-inspired centerpieces for the table. Simple, handmade pottery pieces made in Japan were selected for the table setting, finished off with luxe touches of a gold-rimmed glass and rich velvet table linen. Wooden textures in the flatware and wishbone chairs were incorporated to infuse an organic, grounded element into our tablescape. Inky elements woven throughout the invitation suite, table, and cake provided a masculine contrast to the airy elements and neutral color palette.
We styled our couple to tell the story of two young newlyweds, happy and relaxed on their wedding day – soaking in the serenity of being surrounded by the beautiful gardens as they celebrate their love. With natural makeup and flowing hair, our bride wore a gown by Alexandra Grecco that featured delicate floral applique, a strappy open back, and a train so delicate it almost floated as our model moved. Our dapper groom suited up in a sleek black tux, and together they created the sweetest couple.
Photography: Stephanie Gan Photography | Design & styling: Natalie Choi Events | Floral Design: Laura's Floras | Dress: Alexandra Grecco | Cake: Etta Avenue Cakes | Ring: Grace Lee Designs | Hair & Makeup: Urban Beauty Loft | Tux: The Black Tux | Venue: Villa Montalvo | Venue: Villa Montalvo | Chairs: Blue Print Studios, Pleasanton | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Linen: BBJ La Tavola | Model: scout model and talent | Paper Goods: Paula Lee Calligraphy