Finding France: A Parisian Inspired Wedding Shoot in Baltimore

We can all agree that European cities hold a charming, enchantingly, historic air that can captivate the masses. Take one step in Paris, and you’ll be in awe. But, did you know that you can be as charmed in a US city? To put this idea to the test, Christine McFarlane Events teamed up with Urban Row Photography to style a shoot around the French influences you can find on the East Coast in Baltimore. When you think of France, you think of soft, warm, feminine colors. The classic, timeless color scheme of dove grey, pale pink, and creamy ivory established the palette for the shoot. These colors were found in the elegant invitation suite and intimate sweetheart table. You don’t need to buy a plane ticket and fly over the Atlantic to pull off a French wedding! With these key concepts and a keen eye, you’re bound to find France.

Location is everything! Major cities on the east coast hold a lot of history and it shines through in the architecture. For the shoot, three “wedding venues” were selected that hold heavy French influence; a boutique hotel, a historic monument, and City Hall. The luxury, boutique Ivy Hotel holds a hidden gem; they host a French inspired courtyard. With ivy covered walls, boxwood trees, and an adorable little fountain, this courtyard is the prime spot for a high end intimate wedding in the heart of downtown. The black and white tiled lobby of The Ivy offers a warm, inviting atmosphere for a quaint cocktail hour. But the location of The Ivy itself drew us in. Just steps away from historic monuments, and a quick walk from City Hall, The Ivy is surrounded by French influence. The marble steps were the perfect location for portraits of our blushing bride- straight out of an editorial fashion shoot. The architecture of Baltimore’s City Hall is dripping in French influence, even down to the green light posted lining the sidewalk out front.

Walking the streets in Paris, you will stumble upon open air markets with various flowers for sale sitting pretty in their vases on a flower cart. We wanted to create this same experience for our guests with the escort card display. Set in front of an ivy covered walk, Everyday Rosé Events created a stunning display with a petite white table and french market vases filled with roses, carnations, hydrangeas, astilbe, astrantia and more! Tied to each stem is the guest’s place card designed by Wild Hearts Calligraphy, and tied to each flower canister is the table number for where they are to be seated. For the bride’s bouquet, Everyday Rosé Events created an overgrown, organic shape and hyper feminine color palette of blooms.

And last but not least, don’t miss the guest of honor! Who better to stand by the bride’s side than woman’s best friend? Pierre, the french bulldog, was the pup of honor and wore a grey suit for the ceremony and just a blush tie to party on.