The Rhode Island Wedding Group is a network of event professionals, photographers, and venues. The goal of this styled shoot was to showcase wedding trends and diverse venue options that exist in Newport, RI.  Nicole Gesmondi, a talented photographer and member of the RIWG, tells us more about the shoot…

We included three venues in this shoot – Newport Wedding Trolley expertly got us where we needed to be! By offering a venue option for getting ready/first look, ceremony, and reception, we were able to incorporate venues that really represent the diverse possibilities of a Newport wedding. Resort: Gurney’s; Beach: Rotunda at Easton’s; Historical: Tennis Hall of Fame.

Consistent with our diverse venues, the entire look of the shoot was a mix of fun and elegance. Gorgeous gowns and gilded details mixed with colorful corals and deep hues, reflective of Newport’s summer season and long history. What was once America’s summer playground for the elite is now a summer retreat for couples looking to entertain guests and offer them a bit of everything. From lawn games to spa days – the RIWG in Newport has got you covered!

The talented designers at Jubilee Events teamed up with Beth Chapman of The White Dress by the Shore and Flowers by Justine to style a shoot showcasing the beauty & coziness of a winter wedding. 

Senior Event Designer, Diana Chouinard of Jubilee Events talks about her vision in detail below!

1. What was the inspiration for the shoot and how you felt this style spoke to your design aesthetic?

Because many weddings and events happen in the prime of Spring, Summer, and Fall, we wanted to give a little love to the winter season. Through our use of moody tones and texture we highlighted the beauty of an indoor space. We brought in natural texture through an abundance of greenery that we dressed down the center of the table and around various details of the day – signage, cake, and the ceremony tree. Because of the chilly time of year, we wanted to add a bit of warmth, not just through gold accents, but by a full candle runner down the center of the table. It’s always a fun challenge to see how you can take a trend and build it to add personality or a signature touch – much like we did with the decorative runner!

2. If this shoot were a real-life event, what would you envision it to be about? 

The tree decor where the ceremony would take place was one of my favorite elements of this shoot. I love that couples are bringing their story and flair into tradition and making the wedding day their own. By creating this shoot, we remind our couples that they can invoke their interests and history into any part of their day! Our table evoked a sense of coziness… an intimate experience to be shared with the ones you love. The guest experience is one of the parts of a wedding or event that is nearest and dearest to our hearts.

3. Tell us about all of the lovely and amazing details you included in this shoot.

The color palette, aesthetic, rental selections, and layout of our table started in my mind, but our incredible vendor team made it a beautiful reality! That tree decor and the greenery down the table was absolute magic thanks to our florist, Flowers by Justine. The textures throughout the space and table were highlighted by Beth Chapman’s incredible selection of gowns from The White Dress by the Shore.

Refined glamour… stately styles that embody luxury, grace, and opulence. We have rounded up a few of our favorite things that evoke this very style. Happy scrolling BLISS loves! 

This regal invitation suite with a custom-designed crest in shimmering gold sets the tone for a black tie affair. Designed by Paper & Pearl.

Opulent architecture sets the vibe for this elegant table design featuring golden candelabras and lush white floral arrangements by Sayles Livingston Design. Photographed by Bénédicte Verley Photography at Rosecliff.

Spice up your table setting with gilded china from art-deco to traditional patterns from Party Rentals LTD.

Defy tradition and rock the Kelly Faetanini Gwendelyn gold embroidered strapless gown on your wedding day. Available through A Little Something White.

Vintage-inspired glamour is defined by this dainty hairpiece from A Little Something White.

Fairy tales come true when you walk down the aisle in this stunning Mira Zwillinger silk bridal gown featuring a floral drape cap sleeve. Available at A Little Something White.

A diamond halo engagement ring is a classic cut that never goes out of style. Available at Long’s Jewelers.

A magnificent 7-tier cake crafted by Something Different Cake Couture features glittering layers mixed with layers adorned with sugar flowers.

Taking a page out of the history books, this styled shoot marries colonial New England winter with a touch of whimsical romance.

Built between 1736 and 1739 the old Newport Colony House has been perfectly preserved to reflect the architectural design elements of that time. The vision of this styled shoot was inspired by the regal, historical events that took place over the years, but adding an element of fun to the mix that Joyce Holland of Stoneblossom best describes as a “the royal order of fun.” The head table was draped with a sumptuous velvet linen in forest green, setting the stage for a faux fur runner in black, beige, and cream hues. Lush flora in deep cranberry, plum, and icy peach hues mingled with pheasant feathers, winter berries, and antiquated gold candelabras, forming a wintery garland that lined the head table. The surrounding farm tables were scattered with fresh pine cones mixed with evergreen branches and a few furry owls for a touch of whimsy. The fashion blurred the lines between old world classic and modern elegance with updated versions of timeless silhouettes.

Calligraphist Sharon Morgera designed an invitation suite that embodied the winter season.

Rich with history, the old courthouse was the perfect ceremony site with its architectural accents and gilded lighting dating back to the early 20^th century.

A classic long-sleeved lace gown from A Little Something White is updated with a modern off-the-shoulder neckline evoking stately elegance.

Rich, scarlet blooms pop against a textural bouquet of winter flora.

Light poured through the grand doors of the Colony House casting an ethereal glow on the head table.

Lush color and texture combined to create a wintery table setting reminiscent of old colonial New England.

Furry little owls perched on pine cones infused the tables with wit and wonder.

Winter berries mixed with icy peach blooms filled golden goblets at the head table.

Gilded place settings were topped with plaid linen napkins with aromatic dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and a piece of a faux antler.

A velvet jacquard blazer from Aldo’s House of Formals is modern take on a classic silhouette pairing flawlessly with the delicate lace dress. 

Blackstone Caterers captured the flavors of the season in every dish from minced meat pies to creamy soups to herb-roasted chicken.

This seasonal winter cocktail featuring fresh cranberries and cinnamon is best served warm.

The grand staircase offered the ideal backdrop for a cozy lounge area complete with a vintage-inspired settee from Exquisite Events.