Springtime Bridal Tea Party in the Pacific Northwest

There are few places on earth so beautiful as the Pacific Northwest.  Even in the early days of spring, when a chill still lingers in the air, the blue skies and wealth of rich, green forests already whisper of the warm weather to come.  Desirous to create a styled shoot that would reflect the excitement and exception of these nippy Seattle days, Jen Leslie of Jen Leslie Events combined the freshness of new blooms and the warmth of tea in a perfectly lovely, intimate bridal tea party!  Set up at The Corson Building, the scene was the epitome of feminine charm.  Floral arrangements of pinks, creams, and deep green were displayed atop the wooden table, glowing pink candles in brass candle holders providing an extra touch of elegance.  Dainty treats of macarons, finger sandwiches, berries and pastries were relished from china plates, after which the pretty ladies enjoyed conversation and laughter over deliciously hot cups of tea.  This gorgeous inspiration is brought to you by Tonie Christine Photography!

THEME
The theme of this styled shoot is a bridal tea party. Pink, lace, gold, fine china and greenery were also themes used throughout the design.

COLORS
Pink, cream, gold, floral patterns and green.

ITEMS TO INCORPORATE
The key to this look is the florals. The arrangements bring the table together. The pinks and purples in the floral pattern of the fine china compliment the floral arrangements along the table. The brass candle holders and pink candle sticks added soft lighting while making the overall event feel more sophisticated. I used a sheer table runner to add more pink to the table top, but you could use a burlap runner, cream, or go without.

FLOWERS
Flowers included pink roses, white ranunculus, ferns, bell flowers and lamb’s ear.

PERFECT FOR
This styled shoot is perfect for a mother of the bride looking to plan a bridesmaid brunch, or the maid of honor planning a bridal shower or bachelorette party. I designed this shoot for someone who wants a feminine affair that is elegant, yet simple. Tea party treats such as cupcakes, finger sandwiches, berries, macaroons and pastries create a perfect menu. This style could also be replicated on a larger scale for an afternoon wedding.

THINGS TO REMEMBER
This wedding style is best fit for the Spring, but could be adjusted for any season with a simple change of colors. For example, if I was to do this for a Fall wedding I would swap out the pink for orange or a deep purple. If this was for a Summer wedding I could add more peach or coral into the mix. This style fits nicely with vintage, rustic or ornate wedding venues.

WHAT TO WEAR
Believe it or not, majority of the dresses in this shoot were sourced from Forever21, stylish looks don’t always have to be expensive! I sought after knee-length dresses that were neutral or pink in color, light-weight and had some sort of texture or pattern. We paired this look with accessories such as statement necklaces, a belt, bracelets, and of course stilettos. This look could easily be replicated for mix-match bridesmaid dresses.

SIGNATURE COCKTAIL
Pink Lemonade Cocktail or Spiked Punch would be perfect for a party like this.

TAKE IT UP A NOTCH
If I were to take it up a notch I would use this design for an event with multiple long tables, preferably an outside venue. I would also add more lounge furniture to create additional seating areas so guests could feel more comfortable. Larger, taller floral arrangements would also be a nice touch.

Shoot Professionals
Planning & Design: Jen Leslie Events | Photography: Tonie Christine Photography | Venue: The Corson Building | Floral: Columbia City Bouquet | Hair: Lauren Otto | Makeup: Sorrida Salon | Rentals: Vintage Ambiance | Paper Goods: Wolfhouse Paper Co.