A 'Victorian Love' Styled Wedding Shoot

We love a bit of old fashioned romance, and today’s shoot tells the story of just that. Photographed by Matthew Bishop Photography, this timeless bridal shoot ‘Victorian Love’ oozes elegance and romance, with an abundance of nostalgia. We love the styling details that help create this sophisticated look. We hope you enjoy the story these pictures tell…

“The Victorian style draws inspiration from nature, geometry, symbolism and nostalgia. The early years of the Victorian era were described as romantic or sentimental, and reflected the youth, courtship and marriage of the young queen, Victoria.

“Restraint was not part of Victorian decorating, and in the hands of the group of skilful and talented wedding suppliers, a refined, sophisticated, complex and warmly romantic atmosphere is created. Using elements of Victorian design, art and literature, I wanted to design a wedding style that is rich, not necessarily only in decoration, but also in atmosphere and sophistication.

“Pink suggests romance, and by choosing a monochrome colour scheme and using a variety of shades and tints of pink a sophisticated romantic scheme was created. Making use of architectural rose border etching, the stunning design of the stationery looks very authentic, and the burgundy colour is gorgeous and perfect for this theme.

“Pot roasted Chiltern Lamb shank, roasted quail, grilled chicory and butter glazed vegetables are some of the creative dishes served in little copper pans. The oven-fired vine cherry tomatoes and rosemary add lovely colour and texture to the ingenious dishes. Potted Test trout and Wye salmon, and whipped goats cheese with roasted garlic are presented in glass jars on a wood tray. A very rustic addition to a grand table setting provides a delightful contrast and is visually effective. A scrumptious Eton Mess, made with macaroons, Cotswold diary cream, red berries and crushed meringues, is a delightful pink sweet joy on the table.

“The delicate white wedding cake is beautifully designed with elements of the Victorian theme. The unique caged lace effect is a special feature of this cake design, and beaded garlands and lace match the lace and pearls on the wedding dress. The base, created by fresh flowers, adds colour and matches the flowers used in the table decorations.

“The harp is the most romantic of instruments, perfectly fitting for a refined, sophisticated atmosphere. The eye-catching features of the carving of the instrument, the gilding and the beautiful colour of the wood, look graceful and elegant.

“The table centrepiece adds height to the table decorations, and with the declining height of the arrangements on either side, a beautiful line is created to where the arrangements on the ends of the table almost look like a waterfall of flowers hanging to the floor. The bride and groom’s chairs are beautifully decorated with flower wreaths, tied to the chairs with pink satin ribbon, and elaborate full design of the bridal bouquet looks opulent, lavish and showy. Pink floral vintage crockery, a beautiful white cotton and lace table cloth, and stringed pearls are all stunning accessories that completes the grand Victorian styled table.

“The classic black tailcoat with grey and black striped trousers is always a dashing look for the groom. A subtle pale pink cravat and grey waistcoat looks stylish and works perfectly for this style. Matching the pearls on the wedding gown, the groom wears freshwater pearl cufflinks.

“There is something very regal about the stunning wedding gown, made from Silk Duchess Satin, with appliqué lace and hand stitched pearls, ensuring a grand entrance for any bride. The silk veil and beautiful unique pearl tiara adds something old fashioned and romantic to the look, and the elegant Victorian style pendant accentuates the gorgeous neckline of the wedding dress.

“The matching earrings look stunning with the classic hair up-do. Defined curls, secured in a large bun, with heavy side-swept bangs gracing the front give the hairstyle an authentic look with a modern flair. Using lighter shades of browns and lush lashes, the make-up is naturally elegant.

“Victorian love, nostalgia, art, and novels are fabulous inspirations for wedding themes. With so many different elements to inspire, something unique and personal can be designed in a way that can be creative, artistic and absolutely romantic. A true celebration of your love.”