We didn’t get what we wanted but oh boy! we more than got what we needed!
Check out this styled elopement shoot collaboration at Blackhead Lighthouse. Imagine having an intimate elopement wedding at your own private venue, overlooking the Irish Sea. Surrounded by dramatic scenery on the Blackhead Path and close to the Gobbins Path. Our collaborators are mostly local to the area and will be delighted to help couples planning to get married in this beautiful part of the world.
Inspiration~
Kim @victorianafloral had been planning a photoshoot for weeks, contacting talented creatives and vendors and our willing real couple models. The inspiration for the shoot came from the stormy Irish Seas and to celebrate the re-opening of the Blackhead Coastal Path and the iconic Blackhead Lighthouse.
It was all planned, we would photograph outdoors with the lighthouse in the background against a cloudy sky. Well, the good old Antrim Coast weather had other plans! The wind and rain were horizontal, Kim’s flowery creations were going to be blown everywhere! We had to rethink our plans to make it work.
Blackhead Lighthouse and that Gown! ~
Blackhead Lighthouse is a listed building built at the turn of 20th century. The lighthouse keepers’ cottages are available to rent and have the most stunning views. The large sash windows let the light stream in and we were able to capture the moodiest, film-like romantic bridal portraits. When the rain eased off slightly, we ventured outside and managed to capture some mesmerising windswept images. Rachel looked absolutely breathtaking in her @enzoani gown, supplied and customised by Leagh @la_bridal_house_ni The hint of soft blue under the tulle skirt, complimented the shades of sea and sky and of course, that awesome light.
Floral Design and Bespoke Stationery ~
The bouquet by Kim @victorianafloral was a magnificently textured statement bouquet containing Delphiniums, Oxypetalum, Poppy heads Eucalyptus and some dried elements. The colours echoed the tones of the gown and the delicate bespoke stationery, lovingly hand made by Eimear @perchandplumedesigns.
Make up Artistry ~
Makeup Artistry by @hollymcnmakeup_ enhanced Rachel’s natural beauty and her make up stayed in place for the whole day without retouching. Natural skin tones are my favourite and photograph so well!
Hair Design ~
Ben @ben.ferris styled Rachel’s hair and it was magical, adding to the ethereal vibe of the whole shoot. Adam, our groom looked particularly striking in his bespoke suit from @northclothingbelfast with a floral pocket square to complement Rachel’s statement bouquet.
Wedding Cake Delight! ~
Inside, the table scene was set with the beautifully crafted wedding cake by Landa @ni_cake_design taking centre stage. The cake decoration encompassed elements inspired by the sea and again, was perfectly toned to fit our theme. Fresh sour dough bread, baked by local supplier Stephen @risingtidebread gave the table a warm and welcoming feel.
Real Couple Models ~
Our models Rachel @rachelferris1 and Adam @totaledpear were awesome! The got married last year and jumped at the chance to dress up and relive their wedding day, albeit in a very different venue. I think you’ll agree that they make a great couple and when we did the ‘first look’ shot, Adam looked so proud to have Rachel as his beautiful wife.
Videography ~
We were absolutely thrilled that videography done by Ricky from @rabbitandthefoxfilms ensured that the highlights of the day were captured and put together with a piece of music reminiscent of the enchanting seas.
Photography ~
I love it when couples are up for anything and don’t mind getting windswept or rained on if it means getting awesome natural images! I also love the quieter moments, the way couples in love look at and hold each other. It’s important for me to capture the ‘vibe’ of the moment whether it’s playful or romantic. If you like moody romantic portraits, the Lighthouse is simply perfect with its tall sash windows and cosy interior.
The weather, although not what we had planned was perfect. The light gave us the exact colour tones used throughout and a truly ethereal vibe, we couldn’t possibly have asked for more!
Stay a While ~
Blackhead Lighthouse is the perfect place to stay if you want to get away from it all and relax beside a log fire. It truly is the perfect location to have your elopement or a romantic weekend getaway.
Thank you to everyone who collaborated with us on this shoot. It’s always great to work with like minded creatives who totally get the vision and bring their own creative twist.
Special thank you to Pamela @irishlandmarktrust for welcoming us to stage our shoot in this beautiful venue.
Concept/styling/floristry by Kim @victorianfloral
Venue @ @irishlandmarktrust
Hairstyling by Ben @ben.ferris @hazeatno10
Make up by @hollymcnmakeup_
Enzoani gown supplied by Leagh @la_bridal_house_ni
Cake by Landa @ni_cake_design
Stationery by Eimear @perchandplumedesigns.
Models – Rachel @rachelferris1 and Adam @totaledpear
Sourdough Bread by Stephen @risingtidebread
Silk ribbons @betty_williamson_ribbon
Flower vessels @natashaswanceramics
Videography by Ricky @rabbitandthefoxfilms
Photography @tracysteelephotography
Adam is my nephew and i had no idea that they were doing this shoot,so so proud of them both.
Absolutely stunning !!!