Nuptials seaside: who wouldn’t be intrigued and inspired? This was the thought process behind the selection of Copalis Beach, Washington as the location for a simple, muted styled shoot. "Our main inspiration for this shoot was not only the serene ocean beach, but [certain] textures – velvet, lace, chiffon, and metals – as well as a color palette with sea blue, greyed jade, white, and pops of rose gold,” reveals Tamara, stylist and planner for Simply by Tamara Nicole. They achieved a relaxed, shabby chic look against the overcast coastal backdrop with carefully picked details that brought out the natural beauty of the space.
In describing her reasoning behind incorporating a bolder metallic hue in the overall scheme, Tamara notes that the “rose gold color was complementary to the red color of the horses as well as the model's hair color, which added nice juxtaposition to the calm colors of the ocean and beach.” Small votives, vases, and the inked calligraphy in all featured paper goods were done in this bright tint – including the beautiful guest book quote: “I have found the one whom my soul loves.”
The invitation suite was adorned with a specialized insignia featuring the fictitious couples’ initials and names in a whimsical watercolor style. Their light wash perfectly coordinated with the laid-back, understated motif. The combination of scattered beach accoutrements and the green verdure included in the centerpieces, bouquet, and foliage-based accents paid homage to the alfresco setting. “Florals were kept neutral with pops of blush, and chalk full of texture,” Tamara says. “The horse’s garland: a favorite for sure! Both horses were beautiful, but the blue-eyed one was just stunning!”
The bride donned a couple of different bridal gowns that seemed to float on the sea air as she rode through the venue on horseback – what a romantic way to enter your reception! The phrase “mon amour” in rose gold calligraphy bedecked one of three cakes displayed on a rectangular table topped with a delicate white lace table linen and a lush, leafy garland as a table runner. “The trio of cakes were all coordinating, but different in textures and design,” Tamara tells. “The larger one was surrounded with buttercream ruffles, on a modern proportioned cake with a small rose gold top. The middle-sized one was painted in a watercolor greyed jade color adorned with wafer paper flowers.”
The small wooden table blended well with the sand and the surf. “[Everything] worked out seamlessly for the tablescape look I had in mind,” Tamara explains. “Adding in the fun baroque chargers, white velvet napkins, and rose gold flatware took it all to another level.” The concept incorporated a sheer ivory table runner, numerous long, white candles in rose gold stands, varying shades of alabaster and azure in the glassware, and arrangements filled with ivory and blush perennials mixed in with the earthy foliage. “We had so much fun styling and carrying out this shoot, and we hope it inspires some romantically classic beach weddings!" shares Tamara.