When tradition meets modernity: a Christmas wedding
Vision
An elegant Christmas wedding with a nod to Dickensian tradition, interwined with sophisticated and modern styling.
Location
Nestled in the historic and prosperous market town of Stamford, the William Cecil hotel is a landmark within it. Set on the Burghley Estate, this stately Georgian hotel offered the perfect backdrop to provide the traditional touches we required – a magnificent fireplace for example, which added to the grandeur and helped to sprinkle this wedding with Christmas nostalgia.
Inspiration and styling
We set out to create a luxurious winter wedding scene that combined innovative styling with traditional elements. Contemporary artistry with our cake and stationery designs was complemented by vintage tableware and experimental florials and foraging, which pushed boundaries in wedding fashion.
We wanted to create a scene that would inspire couples and open up what a Christmas wedding could be. We embraced the traditions of Dickensian ideals – Christmas wreaths on the backs of chairs, the use of dried fruit and candles – but added modern twists like trailing ivy from ceiling lights and foraged florials draping the fireplace.
Fashion and beauty
The bride wore an elegant dress from Anna Couture Brides, a bridal boutique in Stamford itself. The gown featured a beautiful pattern and belted train that could be removed in the evening to create a fresh new look. The bride wore a wave in the her hair to reflect the nostalgic theme, and accessorised with a gorgeous pearled clip, paired with red lips for a modern pop.
Anything else
Our stationery embraced the use of modern calligraphy, coupled with traditional hand-drawn and painted illustrations: Christmas ribbons, lanterns, holly and pine cones. Together they perfectly reflected the white-laced tiered cake, with its use of handmade sugar flowers and foliage. The bespoke artistry of these disciplines embraced the ethos of this shoot, taking a tradional concept and creating something beautifully contemporary.
Collaborators
Venue William Cecil
