80s Wedding Inspiration

Okay, I can admit it… there’s a little part of me that’s a sucker for all things eighties. Just taking one look at this styled shoot from Soirée Weddings and Events and shot by Cristina G. Photography makes me remember why — how can you not smile looking at the pops of neon, Tetris socks, and “gag me with a spoon” drinks? Pop in a John Hughes movie and sit back to enjoy this shoot!

From the event designer, Soirée Weddings and Events: The 80’s were about peace, free will, lots of color, punk attitude, pop culture, teenage rom-coms and alternative music. Not to mention the outrageous fashion statements as well! I wanted the shoot to be current – with only hints of inspiration from the 80s. We wanted to play on the current runway fashions that we are seeing now, everything from bright neon to color blocking. Today’s designers are taking what we loved about the 80s, but doing it right! We wanted to show today’s bride how to take a modern trend and translate into bridal.

Fleur added some color blocking elements with monochromatic arrangements of purple, hot pink and lime green flowers. Romantic blooms like peonies and lilacs added the perfect touch of bridal, which was juxtaposed with the structured and modern calla lilies used on the rectangle banquet tables.

The menu with a game of MASH on the reverse side to serve as a fun favor and entrainment for the guests. For the bar, coasters that read “Cocktails and Dreams” along with the couple’s names and wedding date and one for the signature cocktail, “Pretty in Pink.” The adorable tape cassette place cards added the just the right amount of 80’s to the table.

We also created a photo booth – equipped with bold 80s props and a DIY paint splatter back drop! The pièce de résistance was the Monique Lhuillier “Bouquet” gown from her Fall 2012 Collection. Some hot pink pumps, edgy accessories and big hair created just the perfect styling to bring the whole look together. The bridesmaids wore Coren Moore and LuluKate dresses in pink, purple and green. Some colorful geometric earrings and bangles to add some flare and their hair and make-up is what really tied it all together! I kept the guys very simple, but added pops of color with their pocket squares and socks. My favorite were the Tetris socks I found for the groom! Just perfect!

View all images from this shoot in the gallery

Wedding Vendors (Chicago, IL):

Wedding Venue: Aérée Loft, Room 1520 / Wedding Photographer: Cristina G. Photography / Event Design: Soirée Weddings and Events / Wedding Flowers: Kelly Marie Uss of Fleur / Wedding Dress: Monique Lhullier via Ultimate Bride / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: LulaKate and Coren Moore / Hair: Sara Jean Stevens / Makeup: Jen Brown / Wedding Caterer: Boutique Bites / Sweets Table: Sugar Chic Designs / Wedding Cake: The Bleeding Heart Bakery / Rentals: Tablescapes / Linens: Private Label Linens / Wedding Stationery and Paper Goods: Lily Red Studio