This inspirational editorial pays homage to the remembrance of a dreamy summertime wedding celebration amid Kwanzan cherry blossom trees and jasmine vine in full bloom. Both of these floral muses are evocative symbols of love’s fragility and beauty, yet also its tenacity.

The spread represents the integration of Western and Eastern elements, all beautifully styled to create looks that are aimed at the bride who wants to look feminine, beautiful and youthful on her wedding day.

The three key elements of this shoot were fashion, Flowers, and Fine Jewellery.

Stephen believes that there is nothing more creative and powerful than simply creating innately and instinctively from his heart and not by following definite bridal trends – and it is with this approach that he designs each bespoke bridal gown.

For this 6-piece capsule (5 Bridal Ensembles + 1 Flower Girl Ensemble), the designer drew inspiration from the old-world opulence of both Western and Eastern cultures and as always, attention to detail was paramount when these ensembles were conceptualised. Stephen juxtaposed simplistic A-line silhouettes with intricate beadwork, one-of-a-kind embroidery, lace details, and structured origami pleats in Silk Lame Taffeta. All these elements are synonymous with his design aesthetic.

All the looks are figure-flattering and tailored to accentuate a woman’s body, slightly elongating the torso and narrowing the waist with bow belts.

Multiple layers of bridal and Italian tulle contribute to the lightness of the designs, and the way the fabric is cut creates authentic volume in these ensembles that add to the natural effortlessness of each design.

Subtle tones of blush, taupe, winter white and pearl in combinations with the various finishes of the fabrics create interest, depth, balance and above all a luxurious feel.

This capsule gives an implicit understanding that you are witnessing something magical, unique and above all, dresses made for Happily Ever After!

The flowers were inspired by the eastern influences that featured in elements of the shoot.

Japan is well known for its cherry blossoms and Jasmine. An ornamental cherry tree in our garden gave us the perfect opportunity to celebrate that beautiful aspect of Japanese heritage.

We incorporated the blossoms into a veil, that we covered in fresh blooms and petals, to give the idea that the bride was walking through a grove of cherry blossom trees and that the delicate blossoms were gently falling from the trees and onto her veil as she strolled – what a beautiful sight that would be.

In addition, we made use of a Japanese-inspired parasol and again adorned it with blossoms that resembled a cascade of soft pink hues that were gently draped over the parasol.

And our little flower girl had to have a parasol to match! The bridal bouquet was soft and whimsical, with a slight cascade of jasmine and cherry blossoms to bring continuity to the styling.

A sandalwood fan, onto which we attached Phalaenopsis orchids and some tassels, made for the perfect accessory on a balmy summer wedding day.

For the finale centrepiece, we draped a gorgeous chaise longue in soft grey, pink and white flowers and various foliage, on which our beautiful bride reclined during pre-drinks. With this shoot, we established that flowers and fine jewellery are the ultimate luxury accessories to beautiful bridal couture.

Fine Jewellery by Uwe Koetter was used as the perfect match for the finely crafted couture wedding gowns. Uwe Koetter – a well-respected South African jewellery brand was established in 1968 and today, after more than four decades, is a distinguished manufacturing jeweller with an international reputation for innovation, design, superb craftsmanship and personalised service. All the jewellery pieces we selected for the editorial were delicate, subtle and beautifully complemented our bridal muse’s ensembles. A selection of tantalising pieces crafted from the most precious materials and gemstones like Rose – & White Gold, Diamond, Sapphire, Morganite, Quartz, Tourmaline and Topaz. Jewellery that is timeless and classic, with intricate details that are unconventional and modern.