All the attention to dandyism got me thinking about what inspired me to wear a bow tie to eighth grade english class — in short, it was Saturdays.
Those misty summer mornings were spent at the carwash with my dad. I wasn't allowed to put the windows down post rinse or the glass would streak. The stereo bumped 80s R&B over the air conditioning as we cruised to the dry cleaners to pick up his Sunday best. I remember helping him pick patterns for his custom attire, one of each shirt cuff embroidered with his initials. I'd choose his cufflinks out of the red-lined holder atop his dresser and spin the tie rack for fun too. Those nights I’d sit on the floor just outside of the bathroom and watch and listen to the sounds of him polishing his dress shoes for church the next day.
The guys! They taught me how to approach textiles, self care and personal style with intention. Which brings me to my main point: the day is not just for one partner. And this isn’t about gender-favoritism, it’s about perspective.
What some might consider masculine touches, often adds dimension to the story visually. Again, it’s about bringing the best of both of you to the grazing table.
Marrying a person = togetherness
Wedding planning is essentially curating a one hit wonder that will echo through time. We’re combining both of my photo expertise here: couples and branding. Your new family crest is your logo.
Marrying a concept = trendiness
It’s not a hot take that sometimes florals are used as fluff when you’re not exposed to the other options that exist, like a broach in the place of a corsage or ivy on European architecture if you consider your destination a featured detail. Personally I’d love to photograph more grooms in tailoring that fits their silhouette as well as more brides in vintage inspired looks, menswear and awe-striking color schemes — real reflections of their individualism. I love Pinterest as much as the next imaginative insomniac but you know where I’m going with this. Infusing meaningful details specific to a pair of people heightens the sensory experience thus making a core memory that sticks.
Whether it be intimate courthouse nuptials and a stroll through the city where your love lingers daily or a five figure vendor budget that allots for the iconographic floral bouquet of your dreams- this process is high level co-creation that sets the tone for the next years of your union. Collaborate wisely and design with pride.
thanks for being here!