Beth & Dom: A woodland fairytale

In the midst of an enchanting forest, ethereal bride Beth and strapping groom Dom meet at the altar for their first look. Framing their nuptials is an arch of taupe linen, draped gracefully between two trees, while in the foreground a plateau holds an assembly of rustic curios... The stage for this Pre-Raphaelite inspired shoot is set.

Beth, with all the poise of the eponymous subject of Waterhouse's The Lady of Shalott, wears a gown with a corset-style top and flowing train. Its sleeves are detached from the dress itself, adorning her arms while leaving her shoulders bare - so reminiscent of the Pre-Raphaelite muses.

Meanwhile, Dom wears a cedar-brown three-piece suit, evoking the cool-toned wood of the surrounding forest.

This earthy colour palette is brought to life by florals expertly curated by Rendlesham-based florist The Fleur Girl. Beth's bouquet features a warm blend of deep autumnal colours - maroons, burnt oranges, jewel purple, viridian - paired with lighter tones of parchment cream and soft blush. The stems are wrapped with an antique gold-coloured ribbon.

A flower arrangement rests in front of the enrobed table, showcasing the same colours, but this time with looser foliage added for fullness and texture.

Dom's boutonniere also reflects this autumnal palette, with the addition of a thistle - a symbol of strength, resilience and overcoming adversity, aligning with Celtic and Scottish heritage.

As we begin shooting, an ever-so-slight breeze picks up in the forest, creating gentle motion in the drapery. This just adds to the otherworldly feel of the shoot - a photographer's dream! At this moment, Beth comes into her own, adding graceful movements to her poses as I capture some solo shots.

As the couple comes back together, we reconvene further into the forest for some candid moments. Browning Bros provided a heavenly backdrop for this shoot - a truly wild venue nestled into the Essex countryside, the location provides natural surroundings for couples who favour beautiful scenery. The ancient woodland is impossibly magical, and it was a pleasure to shoot amongst its verdure.

Scroll on for more imagery from Beth and Dom's elopement-style shoot.

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Supplier Instagram tags:

Photography & Concept: @mikaelajadephotography

Assistant & Styling: @kerry_mac_photography / @pixiepostcards

Hair Styling: @glow_occasionhair

MUA: @abiloubeauty

Venue: @browningbros

Model Couple: @domandbeth

Dresses: @perlanovabridal @madewithlovebridal

Florist: @the.fleurgirl

Suit: @coes_stores

Headpieces: @clarelloydaccessories

Jewellery: @lunar.james

Stationery: @hl.designs_studio

Garlands: @aime.k.studio

This is a styled shoot, meaning that the beautiful couple pictured are models - but also a real couple (and you can see this in their tangible chemistry). Styled shoots create an opportunity for creative direction, to exchange ideas and work fluidly with other suppliers, to explore alternative styles and perhaps experiment with new technology and methods of shooting. I hope you've enjoyed perusing this shoot with the magnificent Beth and Dom. Please visit my portfolio to browse more real and styled wedding shoots.