Summer is around the corner, which means winter brides and grooms are in the midst of planning their nuptials. And this bohemian-winter elopement shoot at Arrowhead Pine Rose in Big Bear is the perfect inspiration for couples looking to bring a winter-infused look to their wedding day, even in sunny California. Conceptualized by Robin Ballard of Events by Robin, the creative dream team of vendors included Sara Mack Photo, Bottles and Blooms, Baker Party, Sundrop Vintage, La Tavola Fine Linen, Design Visage, Honeycrisp Design, Rooney Girl Bakes, Red Carpet Cookies, Friar Tux Shop, Kite and Butterfly at Marry Me Bridal and Young Heart Designs.
From Robin: "Being Southern California wedding professionals and living in almost perfect weather 24/7, our team of creative partners were super excited to plan a shoot in the snow! It added a new element of design and challenges for us all to work through together! As we drove up the windy mountain roads and started to spot snow off the side of the road our excitement grew. Arriving at the cozy Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins, we knew we chose just the right place. The winter air was crisp, the snow crunched beneath our toes and we smelled the aroma of pine needles and logs burning! Our models, Cindy and Nick are actually a newly engaged couple and were thrilled to be our “bride and groom” to give the wedding day experience a test run before their “I Do’s”… they had so much fun! Their authentic love truly showed during this shoot and hope you enjoy as their chemistry unfolds before you!
Cindy wore a Kite and Butterfly boho wedding gown, accessories from Young Hearts Designs, and her beautiful ring from Jewelry Exchange in Tustin. Nick wore a charcoal Michael Kors jacket with a dark wash jean and chocolate brown shoes for a mountain casual vibe. As for the design, we wanted to achieve that winter lodge feel, but with a bohemian twist in the snow! The ceremony space was adorned with lanterns, vintage brass candlesticks, vintage green glass bottles and natural elements sourced straight from the forest – evergreen, pinecones, logs, tree stumps, twigs, etc. The bride and groom stood underneath an oversized evergreen branch suspended with four burgundy dahlias for that pop of color.The floral arrangements created by Bottles & Blooms incorporated unique bohemian elements such as feathers, cotton, and blackberries to help carry out the vision along with blue thistle for that unique pop of blue! Silky multi-colored ribbons cascaded from the breathtaking and whimsy bridal bouquet that was an eclectic mix of greenery and blooms accented with feathers. The bride wore a lush flower crown that tied in the back with a silky forest green ribbon atop her lovely long locks designed by Design Visage.
The tabletop was designed by Events by Robin, which was inspired by layering colors and textures that started with a velvety gold hue linen from La Tavola Fine Linens. The next layer after the soft linen was a dark galvanized metal charger from Baker Party Rentals to provide a contrast, and then layered with vintage gold accented china from Sundrop Vintage. The frosting to this place setting was delicately wrapped burlap inspired napkins tied with a forest green velvet ribbon. But, the cherry on top was the intricately shaped shimmery gold feather escort card designed by Honeycrisp Design. The 2017 Pantone color of the year, “Greenery” also inspired Robin to incorporate shades of green into the overall design. Loving the green pops with the use of vintage goblets, velvet ribbon, vintage glass bottles and velvet vintage loveseat.
The natural elements that surrounded us were also included into the tabletop design – pinecones, moss, logs, berries, etc. The romance in the winter crisp air was undeniable as the votive candles and lanterns twinkled with warmth while the couple snuggled on the marvelous emerald green velvet loveseat from Sundrop Vintage! Our cake was designed by Rooney Girl Bake Shop and also had a layering inspiration. The first layer had a pattern designed to mimic the delicate lace on the bride’s gown. The same forest green velvet ribbon wrapped the middle layer, ending with a very boho metallic gold painted top layer. The cake was accented with feathers, organic twigs, cotton and fresh florals! All of these elements combined created a rustic winter wonderland dream and we are so excited to share!"
