Daughters of the Dust Inspired Destination Wedding Inspiration
This stunning post was sent to us by dress maker Ensi Mensah of Seni Dey, a young fashion label based in London. We can't get over the beauty of this “Daughters of the Dust” inspired shoot with its sensuous cinematography and dreamy images of women in nature, this bridal shoot features natural aesthetics and effortless bridal styling.
Daniel Korel beautifully captured this gorgeous inspirational shoot styled by Ensi Mensah of Seni Dey and Tamara Semilet. You'll see the jewelry of Danielle Lilley featured along with florals by Mille Fleurs Atelier and stationery by Pen & Fold. You can see all the images in the full gallery.
Daughters of the Dust Inspired Destination Wedding Inspiration
Well hold onto your hats... and parasols apparently, because we have a truly dreamy bridal photoshoot ready for your viewing pleasure. It is inspired by “Daughters of the Dust;” a 1991 film by Judie Dash, praised for its sensuous cinematography and non-linear storytelling. Set on an island, dreamy shots of its characters walking along the shoreline, communing in the sand or resting near trees define the movie’s visuals.
Lagoa de Albufeira in Portugal was the ideal setting for this shoot. Though not an island, it boasts stretching miles of sand with the ocean on one side of the beach and the lake on the other side, evoking the feeling of being surrounded entirely by water. The colour palette was kept relatively muted with a subtle splash of colour brought in by the tropical florals and surrounding vegetation.
The outfits, provided by Seni Dey, were a modern, laid-back take on the mostly white, victorian inspired gowns from the movie. They took victorian styling details like high necklines, defined waist tailoring, puffed sleeves or wider, flowy skirts and transformed them into simple, modern bridal outfits, perfect for an elopement wedding. Inspired by the idea of getting married outside, Seni Dey emphasized on breathable, comfortable bridal wear in which you can move around with ease. Soft, thick wool blouses crafted to keep out the cold. Full tulle skirts which dance in the breeze. A daring wide brim hat and parasol to protect from the elements.
Hair and makeup were kept true to the theme, with an emphasis on natural, effortless styling. Tamara Semilet created the stunning looks which focused on healthy, dewy-looking skin and emphasizing the models’ natural beauty. A low bun with minimal, lightly applied make-up was brought straight into the 21st-century bridal scene with a touch of bold red lipstick. By incorporating pearls into an elaborate updo and braids, she created unique, modern looks with a subtle nod to both African American and Victorian hairstyling. This was topped off with lovely jewellery from Danielle Lilley, made from sustainable raffia and freshwater pearls.
The gorgeous flowers and decor was dreamt up by Mille Fleurs Atelier and merged wonderfully into the golden beach scene. With a preference for modern, wild-looking blooms, he provided tropical grasses and organic natural materials like wood, linen and straw that alluded to the movie inspiration. To create a romantic yet down-to-earth setting, he decorated with natural cotton, driftwood, locust beans, fruit, bread and honey. Just like the bouquet made of roses, hortenses, amaranths and huge tropical proteas, this was inspired by the idea of decorating with materials gathered from the immediate surroundings. The set-up was beautifully complemented by laser-cut stationery provided by Pen & Fold, who effortlessly incorporated the laid-back, tropical vibes of the shoot into their chic, unique style.
Last but most certainly not least, was the beautiful photography by Daniel Korel. Specializing in candid shots which evoke raw emotion, Daniel did an incredible job of capturing the entire photoshoot, making it fun, easy-going and natural.
If you love movie themed photos shoots, be sure to check out more with this True Romance wedding inspiration wedding inspiration, this Pretty in Pink wedding inspiration and how to create your own special vows using inspiration from your favorite song or movie.
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- Dress & Apparel: Ensi Mensah
- Flowers: Mille Fleurs Atelier
- Hair, Makeup & Beauty: Tamara Semilet
- Jewelry: Danielle Lilley
- Paper Goods & Calligraphy: Pen & Fold
- Photographers: Daniel Korel