Fragrant roses climbing crumbling stone walls, lavender bushes full of nectar-gathering bees, and wild-flowers blooming where they wish. There is nothing more quintessentially English than a lush overgrown garden. And Ludwig’s Roses, with its relaxed grandeur, was the perfect setting for this most floral of editorials…
Set against the backdrop of the charming Rose Cottage at Ludwig’s Roses, the shoot took inspiration from the floral surroundings of an English country garden. I truly am at my happiest and most inspired when working in country estates and surrounded by nature, and I passionately believe that South Africa has some of the finest architecture and most beautiful landscapes in which to hold your wedding celebrations. This particular editorial was designed to be a flower lover’s dream with each element carefully curated to be placed in this unique setting…
The invitation suite, which was beautifully hand lettered by Rabbitstrail, set the tone for this understatedly elegant country-style vignette. Tones of white and blush with touches of sage ensured the look was romantic yet mature. The stationery continued throughout the day with personalized menus, placement cards and signage. A bespoke Berry Rose Spritz trolley was designed to encourage guests to help themselves to a cordial and slice of cake.
The florals had to be natural; to feel as if they were part of the garden, and the incredibly talented Nyoka from Wild Leaves Floral Design handpicked a selection of English-style roses and blooms from the surrounding gardens. From the fragrant and full bouquet, to the adornments on the tablescape, the floral design was key to this inspiration and was simply gorgeous.
Wanting to incorporate an intimate table to the shoot, I envisaged the bride and groom enjoying their wedding breakfast surrounded by their nearest and dearest. I designed a living table; the crockery and cutlery set upon a natural cushion of flowers, foliage, and seasonal fruit. Delicate glassware and simple flatware completed the look alongside the bespoke stationery.
The simple and petite wedding cake was designed by Aux Petit Four who makes the most delectable treats. Mirroring the natural and charming feel of the setting, Jeanene created a vanilla sponge with cream icing which was embellished with delicate blooms. The cake was a perfect fit for such an intimate affair.
Our beautiful “English Rose” looked divine in a bespoke gown by Bloomingtale. Featuring silk organza and soft tulle, the gown felt like it was out of a fairytale. The fabrics had such wonderful movement to them and subtly carried through the floral inspiration. Her outfit was finished with heirloom head-pieces and jewellery from So Jy Soet Afrika and natural hair and make-up by Jessica Herman.
This garden inspiration was designed to create a look that was floral-filled but not flouncy or frivolous; a simply beautiful and elegant celebration in the most natural of settings…
Suppliers
Planning, Concept and Coordination: By Blythe
Photography: Hello Love Photography
Venue: Ludwig’s Roses
Flowers and Styling: Wild Leaves Floral Design
Décor: Wild Leaves The Collection
Vintage Crockery: China Blue Hiring
Scatter Cushions: The Picnic Pantry
Napery: Tablecloth Hiring
Candles: Candle Lite
Stationery: Rabbits Trail
Confectionery: Aux Petit Four
Berry Rose Spritz: The Duchess
Gown: Bloomingtale
Jewellery: So Jy Soet Afrika
Hair and Make-up: Jessica Herman