When searching for inspiration for her next styled wedding shoot, stylist and planner Tamara for Simply by Tamara Nicole was struck by minimalist trends recently popping up across photo-sharing websites. After selecting a prime location, Tamara developed an “urban chic” motif for the space, as well as decided on a color palette centering around copper, which she felt expertly embodied her concept. “[Copper] pairs so well with white and greenery,” she explains. “I also wanted to add a little ‘luxe’ feel with black and white and rich textures to add [a] black tie feel.” 

The ceremony space was made to be a unique mixture of natural and modern elements – ivy-covered “trees” with copper bases lined the altar while ghost chairs created a “V” formation for guests to have the perfect view of the nuptials. Vows would take place in front of a backdrop contemporary in design: a multi-dimensional, geometric pattern adorned the wall. “We softened it up with hanging greenery and uplighting,” says Tamara. 

In the design for the reception, Tamara included three different dining table styles: two family-style tables and a head table meant for the happy couple. “The head table […] was a show stopper with a copper installation above it, dripping with greenery [and] copper bulbs, as well as seating cards hanging above the place settings, and a hanging table number,” Tamara notes. Simple white chairs added to the overall minimalist vibe. Additional geometric shapes displayed themselves in an array of décor elements, including the copper foil menus, table runners, and the design of the suspended escort cards emblazoned with gold calligraphy. Copper charger plates lined the tables in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the same shade bedecked the utensils sitting at the head table. Keeping with the theme, Tamara decided to add Moscow Mule copper mugs at place settings.

The long tables drew attention with black glassware against a soft, white table linen. Each place setting at one table included a copper charger, an ivory china plate, and a jet-black napkin for an interested, textured look. At the other, a pattern of alabaster and obsidian-hued plateware complemented with a bright copper napkin produced a similar effect. The dessert table, covered with a ruffled white linen, held two distinct confections, both in a delicate shade of blanche. One cake was simply adorned with a single floral focal point, while the other incorporated the color and geometric pattern of the shoot into each of its three tiers.

Striking protea and various foliage elements accented the space with femininity. “The unique centerpieces along the head table were so unique – copper wire holding tubes with buds along the length of the table,” Tamara muses. “[Some of my] favorite [floral elements] were the copper hoop with hanging greenery above the dessert table, as well as the modern spin on the stunning cascading bouquet.” Models wore gorgeous white gowns and posed with various clusters of perennials to bring the space to life. “We had so much fun transforming [the location] and showcasing the versatility of this historic site,” Tamara smiles.