Captured by A+M Badillo Images
Submitted by Lovely Steph Creations
Inspired by the adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story takes place in the 1950s. The feuding families in this case are two warring gangs, the Caucasian Jets and the Latino Sharks, whose previous gang member, Tony falls in love with young Latina, Maria. Star crossed lovers, Maria and Tony risk to overcome hatred, racism, and all tragedies with their hope, love, and dreams of a better future.
The photoshoot is based on an elopement style wedding inspired by the compelling runaway love story. The wedding dress is a short lace retro dress with the iconic red Maria belt and vintage bridal birdcage, both delicately handmade by the talented Handmade by Yamileth. The groom’s suit, provided by Friar Tux, is symbolic of the Jets’ shades of blue attire.
Maria’s best friend, Anita, is the bridesmaid and Bernardo is the groomsman. Inspired by the colorful era, Anita’s overall look includes a bright orange halter dress, curly retro hair and vintage red lip makeup. The groomsman’s suit, provided by Friar Tux, is symbolic of the Sharks’ shades of red attire. The iconic 1955 electric blue Chevy Belair is the perfect addition to an elopement wedding and seems as if it is transporting you to another time. The bright color florals on the car are decorated by the talented florist, Petals & Pricklys, providing wonderful details to the wedding and elopement theme. For Anita, her bouquet consists of bright summer colors that truly pop!
The overall vintage looks of the hair and makeup were created by the beauty dream team, Sandy Hillegaart Beauty and Beauty by Dannie. All of the jewelry from the engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, were carefully designed by Carlotta Collections.
Majority of the florals are symbolic of Maria’s red belt added with white wedding flowers. The color scheme has been used throughout the beautifully decorated ceremony and reception tables, by Little Moon Blooms, and the romantic sweetheart table by Yours Truly Design. The actual wooden tables were handcrafted by the amazing Rustico Rentals team.
Inspired by the story being set in New York City surrounded by construction, metal, and brick materials, industrial elements were also incorporated in various areas. All chairs being used were metal bistro chairs and copper pipe can be seen throughout the other scenes, such as the reception table, dessert table, and signage created by Lovely Steph Creations. The tablescape elements include copper chargers, tableware, neutral gray napkin linens, and white ceramic plates provided by Mun & Stars Co. The centerpieces give the illusion of being made of copper pipes and all pieces on the table provide an elegant, yet industrial feel.
No detail is overlooked! Even the invitation suite, vows, and place cards include copper elements. The actual invitation and vows are engraved in metal, which truly add to the industrial look of the story. The calligraphy on these pieces were designed by Taylor Design Studio and engraved by Sips and Soirees.
The wedding cake is definitely a focal point and a masterpiece! Carefully decorated by Sweet Darling Cakery, metal copper shades were incorporated as well as lyrics to one of the story’s most famous songs, “Somewhere (A Place for Us).” Other desserts such as the sugar cookies, were artistically decorated by the talented Cakes by Bina, incorporating images such as dancers, New York City skyline, classic retro Chevy, and music lyrics.
Every vendor that provided the small details to the larger installments, brought this story to life. Tying everything together is the historic The Clara venue located in Los Angeles. The industrial and downtown vibes brings New York City to the west coast, which is perfect for experiencing the true romance in the beloved tale of West Side Story.
Cake Designer:Sweet Darling Cakery//Model:Erick Cortes//Model:Ashley Fragoso//Model:Adi Rodriguez//Transportation:Brandon Jacobson//Cake Designer:Cakes By Bina//Linens and Coverings: Mun and Stars Co//Equipment Rentals: Rustico Rentals//Equipment Rentals:Bright Event Rentals//Jewelry: Carlotta Sarenas//Signage: Sips and Soirees//Invitation Designer:Taylor Design Studio//Tuxedo and Mens Attire:Friar Tux//Floral Designer: Petals and Pricklys//Floral Designer: Little Moon Blooms//Floral Designer: Yours Truly Design//Makeup Artist: Sandy Hillegaart Beauty//Dress Designer:Handmade by Yamileth//Makeup Artist: Beauty By Dannie//Reception Venue: The Clara Los Angeles//Design and Decor: Lovely Steph Creations//Photographer: A+M Badillo Images//
