A Newport Love Story: A Fusion of Style and History

Set amidst the newly unveiled Gardiner House, a luxury boutique waterfront hotel meticulously designed to embody the essence of Newport, our editorial unfolds as a jubilant celebration among lifelong friends. Laughter echoes through the halls adorned with exquisite art, martinis are expertly crafted, and tales of love, both ancient and newfound, intertwine, creating a vivid tableau of Newport's enduring spirit of hospitality and joie de vivre.

The fashion for this event drew inspiration from a blend of old-world charm and classic Newport elegance, with a hint of vintage that captured the essence of timeless glamour. Think-tailored Aaron Slims paired with modern accessories, creating a sophisticated silhouette reminiscent of classic resort wear. Soft, grand millennial colors like muted pastels and floral prints echoed throughout the attire, offering a fresh take on nostalgic patterns. Delicate lace details, pearl embellishments, and bold statement jewelry added layers of refinement, weaving traditional elements into a modern narrative. The overall look was a nod to bygone eras, elevated with contemporary touches that made every outfit feel both timeless and chic.

The aesthetic of this shoot and event was influenced by the grand millennial style, with twists of traditional and modern maximalist patterns and vibes. We wanted to design with a lot of color, pattern, and texture, evoking the feeling of being at an intimate dinner party in a historic Newport home, where every corner tells a story and every detail delights the senses. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant blooms and fresh hues of spring, we incorporated an abundance of florals, with lush arrangements in soft pastels and vivid brights that mirrored the season’s renewal and energy, adding layers of natural beauty to the overall design.

There are so many favorite design elements, from incorporating the original artwork into the design, the florals, and linens to the stationery. One of my favorite design elements for this event was our custom candle, featuring artwork from Katie Fischer Design. The candle perfectly captured the essence of the shoot with its soft, elegant visuals and carefully chosen scent. We selected a blend of white tea and fig, which evoked a fresh yet warm aroma, adding a sensory layer to the experience. The candle served as a beautiful decorative piece and tied the whole design together, creating an intimate, inviting atmosphere that left a lasting impression on the guests.

Here are some tips for pulling off a wedding or event design inspired by this grand millennial, old-world style: 1. Start with a Thoughtful Color Palette: Choose soft, timeless colors like blush, mint, and dusty blue mixed with bolder accents like emerald, coral, or gold. These hues will set a warm, nostalgic tone while feeling fresh and modern. 2. Incorporate Vintage-Inspired Fashion: Choose classic silhouettes like tailored suits, delicate lace dresses, or statement sleeves. But don't forget to add your personal touch. Accessorize with vintage-inspired jewelry—think pearls, brooches, or heirloom pieces—to add a unique air of refinement and history to your look. 3. Use Florals to Elevate the Design: Lush, overflowing arrangements featuring classic spring blooms like peonies, roses, and hydrangeas will evoke a garden feel. Incorporate a mix of colors, textures, and greenery to add depth and dimension to your tablescapes and ceremony spaces. Another key aspect of the grand millennial style is the art of balancing tradition with Modernity. Incorporate traditional elements like intricate china or crystal glassware, but give them a contemporary twist. Use bold patterns for linens, modern lighting fixtures, or sleek, minimalist furniture to create a dynamic blend of old and new in your event design. 5. Pay Attention to Details: The grand millennial style thrives on layers of detail. Think patterned wallpaper backdrops, embroidered napkins, and ornate, vintage-inspired stationery. These small touches, when personalized to your unique story, will help transport your guests to another time while keeping the event intimately connected to you. When planning a grand millennial, old-world-inspired event, the choice of venue is paramount. Opt for spaces with historical charm, such as a stately home, garden estate, or restored inn. The architectural details of these venues—wood paneling, grand staircases, and manicured gardens—will naturally enhance your old-world vision and set the stage for a memorable event. 7. Add Personal Heirlooms: Your event is a canvas for your unique story. Incorporate meaningful, personal items such as family china, antique décor, or vintage fabrics passed down through generations. These heirloom touches will make your event feel intimate and full of your personal history, adding a significant layer to the grand millennial style. 8. Make It Feel Like an Elegant Dinner Party: Design your reception to feel like an intimate gathering at home, but with an added touch of sophistication. Use cozy seating areas, long banquet tables, and soft lighting to encourage conversation and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. By blending vintage inspiration with thoughtful, modern touches, you can create a wedding or event design that feels both classic and uniquely personal.