In today’s world of all-white weddings, it’s rare to find nuptials that dare to utilize color in a big way. When looking for inspiration for an opulent wedding styled shoot, Michelle Durpetti landed on the idea of theming the shoot around the gorgeous city of Marrakesh. The country of Morocco is known for their vibrant colors bedecking all kinds of celebrations. With this in mind, Michelle and her team of professionals, including the expert stylists from Dimitra’s Bridal Couture, set out to create a bold wedding reception concept in the ballroom of a famed Chicago hotel – and thus, “To Marrakesh With Love” was born.

“We were really inspired by the bold colors, patterns, and textures that are so rich in that area of the world and we wanted to use that to really create something that none of us had worked on before,” notes Michelle. The team crafted multi-colored tablescapes on long, oval tables by using striking turquoise linens from Nüage Designs contrasted with hot pink napkins atop gilt, ridged charger plates. Shimmering gold chairs encircled each table, enhancing the color’s existence within the overall palette of the room. Gilt-rimmed wine glasses dotted each place setting as yet another nod to the royal hue. 

Each table held numerous arrangements to create the overarching centerpiece. Some features were tall and displayed a large cluster of pink, orange, and purple blooms outlined with verdant greenery. These arrangements were flanked by multiple candles in varying levels on the table, all held in gold vessels lined with the same perennials featured in the tall piece. Finally, the stands of each centerpiece were encircled with low, colorful florals that completed the look.

The model couple sported elegant and trendy wedding attire – the bride in a lovely lace ensemble straight from the racks of Dimitra’s Bridal Couture. The two posed in various locations around the dreamy set-up, evoking the exact sense of romance required for the motif around them. The bride showcased many delicate accessories, including a vintage ring that happens to be a Durpetti family heirloom. The groom, looking rather sharp himself in a deep burgundy and black suit, donned two very interesting cuff links that featured the silhouettes of a man and a woman – the perfect martial accessory for any man, and made possible by the use of a 3-D printer. Says Michelle of the experience, “This was truly a dream team of Chicago’s top wedding professionals and was such a blast to work on!”