A Coastal Grandmother Inspired Editorial Overflowing with High Fashion and Natural Elements

Melissa Hammam
September 8, 2022
Categories: LGBTQ+ Weddings, Photo Shoot, Seasonal Wedding Trend, Summer, The Blog, Wedding Style

The coastal grandmother aesthetic has arrived and we are here for it! The trend revolves around relaxed elegance and oceanside minimalism. This inspired editorial shoot planned by Belle Amour Wedding is all that and more. Flowers by Hummingbird Floral Studio are equally timelessly chic. You’ll love the mix of high fashion and natural elements all artfully captured in imagery by Dee Olmstead. Say hello to all the lovely in the full gallery.

From Dee Olmstead… One of the female models, Kaitlyn, was a real bride of mine. During her engagement she realized that to be true to herself, she had to call off her engagement to her then fiancé. I was devastated because she was so sweet and beautiful and I had been really looking forward to shooting her wedding. Kaitlyn felt empowered after this to embrace her true identity and began dating women. Since she had already purchased nearly everything required for a wedding and was still so excited about putting on a wedding dress; we decided to create an editorial where she could really play out those wedding day dreams. But in a safe and fun space. We also included a second couple, Timesha and Nyoki, who were just dying to dress up and relive their wedding day all over again.

From Kaitlyn… Last September, my best friend and partner of almost 6 years proposed to me and I said yes. He was and still is one of the most incredible people that I have ever known, so saying “yes” was very easy. We began dating when we were 19 and 20 so we truly watched and helped each other grow into the people we are today. Most importantly, we taught each other what genuine and wholesome love is. Our relationship was beautiful from beginning to end and I wouldn’t change my time spent with him for anything. Although I was engaged to the most wonderful man, the struggle with my sexuality didn’t go away. I have been both curious and confused with my sexuality my entire life, but growing up in a religious household, I was not presented the option of being gay. I eventually had to make the hardest decision I have ever made—to end my engagement. It was easily the most difficult thing that I have ever done. Regardless of the pain that would follow my decision, I knew that I had to be true to myself for not only my own happiness, but for his. Him and I both deserved to find a love that felt effortless and right in every way. We are both so genuinely happy now and I am so grateful for every moment that led us here. I was so excited when Dee asked me to be a part of this shoot. It was so fun modeling with my friend Allison and I love what Dee captured. This shoot gives queer love the platform and representation that it needs and deserves.

From Nyoki and Timesha… Our story began in 2019, with a blind date that was arranged by a good friend of Nyoki’s and Timesha’s sister. While a blind date may be awkward for some, there was an instant connection. Shortly thereafter Nyoki moved to Houston, Texas for work. While long distance relationships are challenging and demanding, we were committed to each other despite the barriers. We viewed Nyoki’s relocation as an opportunity rather to grow together in faith and live rather than a obstacle. After 2 years of dating, Nyoki proposed in June of 2021. We have been married for four months and we are looking forward to creating a rich and fulfilling life together.

Our vision for this editorial gathered some of the most talented vendors from the New Orleans wedding market to create a high fashion scene of citrus and blue amongst an Italian, coastal inspired, rustic venue. We were striving for a coastal grandmother aesthetic infused with sunny yellows, natural textures, and just a touch of old-world romance.

From Blakeley at Belle Amour Wedding… My vision for those shoot was to present a coastal, Italian vibe inspired by the concept of a shared celebration, with long tables over great conversations, food, and wine which is something I personally love! Everything turned out so beautiful. From the fabulous tablescapes to the overall design of the flowers, gowns, furniture- this styled shoot showcased a romantic escapade with an Italian vibe and our vision came to life right before our eyes.

From Annmarie from Hummingbird Floral Studio … We were inspired by the European stylings of Il Mercato, the timeless wood floors and stucco façade. Feels like you are being transported to the Amalfi coast, in the middle of New Orleans. We chose soft toned blooms for an effortless feel, enough color to feel fun but muted enough to be timeless. Delicate textures and whimsical shapes evoke a garden feeling.

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