Old-World Philadelphia Inspiration Shoot

I’m going to warn you right now — you’re probably going to want to carve out a few minutes to take in all the details of this Old World inspiration shoot dreamed up by Jennie of Love ‘n Fresh Flowers and captured by Maria Mack Photography. An all-star team of vendors came together to bring Jennie’s vision to life, including our very own Blue Label members Maggpie Vintage Rentals and Tree of Life Films (yes, keep an eye out for a behind-the-scenes video at the end!).

From the floral designer, Jennie of Love ‘n Fresh Flowers: When I was introduced to the Woodlands estate, I was smitten by its story: it was home to William Hamilton, a colonial Philadelphian who could afford to indulge his passions in architecture and botany on his large estate. In the 1780s, he voyaged across the Atlantic to study English gardens. When he returned home, he transformed his home into an imposing riverside villa to rival any he had seen. He became known throughout the colonies for his horticulture expertise, working with Jefferson to design the grounds of Monticello and also to cultivate the rare seeds brought back by Lewis and Clark. It is without a doubt that William was an intense and eccentric man. His imposing character inspired much of this shoot. The Woodlands mansion and barn survive largely unaltered today, a National Historic Landmark perfect in its deteriorated, yet elegant, state. During collaboration, I shared this romantic (and largely fictional) storyline with the team of vendors to inspire the vibe:

William returns home from his long European explorations just after the war to marry the innocence and quiet girl, Gwendoline, he fell in love with at age twelve. Their simple but heartfelt wedding day is interwoven with reminders of what they held dear during their time apart – he with his plants and she with her hand-worked lace. The mansion has fallen into disrepair during his long absence, creating the perfect romantic setting for these intimate spring nuptials.

See Also

Fall Wedding Inspiration at Philbrook Museum

Shoot Location: Philadelphia, PA / Wedding Flowers, Floral Jewelry and Event Styling: Love ‘n Fresh Flowers / Wedding Photographer: Maria Mack Photography / Wedding Venue: Woodlands / Model and Prop Styling: Belovely Events / Vintage Props and Furniture: Maggpie Vintage Rentals / Desserts: Joshua’s Catering / Bride’s Dresses and Belt: Watters / Groom’s Jacket: Ralph Lauren / Hair and Makeup: JustBBeautiful / Stationery Design: Nicola Black Design / Letterpress Printing: Cleanwash Letterpress / Videographer: Tree of Life Films

Tree of Life Films, Maggpie Vintage Rentals, Maria Mack Photography and Love ‘n Fresh Flowers are members of our recommended resource guide Blue Label