Making Baby’s Breath Look Sophisticated at This Black & White Affair
The Planning
Design / Vibe / Vision
Melissa wanted a classy, chic, sophisticated look, so she chose a black-and-white color theme with a modern vibe. She wanted to break away from a traditional Belgian wedding and opt for an elegant American look. Abundant white baby's breath and white roses were used for decoration. Initially, she wanted to set a 'black' dress code, but she eventually abandoned this idea because she expected resistance from the guests. It was already daring to have the bridesmaids wear black, but that look suited them beautifully, and in the end, it all came together beautifully.
Proposal Story
Melissa and Dion make a worldly couple. Due to Dion's profession as a professional football player, they have lived in numerous places. Dion had planned a romantic marriage proposal at a sunny destination that year; they were set to go on vacation to Dubai during the Christmas period, which seemed like the perfect location for him to get down on one knee.
Unfortunately, during that period, the situation required everyone to provide a negative Covid test to travel. Unexpectedly and without any symptoms, Melissa tested positive, derailing their holiday plans.
Dion remained as calm as ever, so Melissa remained unaware of his plans. Eventually, the marriage proposal took place on New Year's Eve, December 31st, during a heartfelt conversation. This was also the time when they had to move again due to Dion's work. During that moment, in quarantine with their little son, Dion got down on one knee and asked Melissa the question she had always longed to hear.
Getting Ready
Bridal Portraits
Flat Lays
The Fashion
Wedding Gown
For her wedding gown, Melissa opted for an Elysee A-line design with an elegant, extended train. Her choice exuded a modern and refined aesthetic, devoid of lace, and uniquely customized with a daring high split in the front. She was adamant about having this split and spent the entire day with the tailor, ensuring it met her exact specifications. The result was a stunning, contemporary bride. Her Hollywood glam hair and makeup complemented her look, perfectly capturing the essence of chic elegance. For the evening festivities, she slipped into a short, glamorous dress by Nadine Merabi. This dress retained its elegance but added a touch of fun and ease for dancing the night away. Both ensembles were impeccably paired with exquisite footwear by Rene Caovilla, embracing full-on glamour.
Bridesmaid Dresses
In line with Melissa's choice of a chic black-and-white theme, her bridesmaids donned graceful, floor-length black dresses. The two best friends looked absolutely stunning in their gowns, carrying white bouquets that added a touch of contrast and elegance.
Groomsman Attire
The groomsmen were elegantly dressed in sleek, all-black suits, while the groom himself stood out in a beige suit. This ensemble perfectly embodied the sleek sophistication of the black-and-white theme.
Wedding Party
Ceremony
Cocktail Hour
The Details
Food & Drink
In true classic fashion, champagne flowed continuously from the preparation phase well into the late-night festivities. A unique touch was the wall adorned with champagne glasses, each bearing customized name tags for every guest. This clever setup served as both a table chart and a delightful conversation starter. The pinnacle of the evening commenced with a magnificent champagne tower at the outset of the celebration, marking the beginning of an enjoyable night. As guests arrived at the ceremony, they were warmly welcomed with refreshing mocktails, which provided much-needed relief on a scorching day, given that the ceremony unfolded under the unrelenting sun. Adhering to the elegant black and white theme, the vibrant array of appetizers served during the reception added a delightful splash of color that illuminated the entire event.
Florals & Decor
An abundant floral decor was chosen for the wedding. Maison Julie put in her best work again to create a black and white dream. In line with the black and white theme, all white flowers were chosen. Seas of baby's breath accompanied the aisle with at the end an all baby's breath floral arch. At the dinner tables also all white florals were used in combination with black table cards and blac chairs. The famous stairs in the hall of Hove van Herpelgem were adorned with white florals as well. The modern, elegant but simple look of the venue formed the perfect background basis for the decor of black and white chairs and detail, with a few golden touches.
Wedding Cake
Not applicable
Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs
The couple opted for an intimate ceremony, one that revolved around their unique journey as the central theme. Surrounded by close friends and family, heartfelt anecdotes and cherished memories of the couple were shared, evoking smiles and tears of joy. Among the many touching moments, a standout occurred when the bride's brother and her maid of honor read a heartfelt message on behalf of their young son. Though too young to express his sentiments in person, this touching gesture conveyed just how exceptional they were as parents.
Special Detail #1
Melissa had a mirror made with calligraphy that welcomed the guests and was perfect to be used for beautiful selfies.
Special Detail #2
At the party, sun glasses with Melissa and Dions names were distributed, as well as slippers for painful feet to dance the night away.
Couple Portraits
Reception