I find elopements so utterly romantic! There is just something magical about the intimacy. Being almost entirely alone exchanging vows with the one you love…..what could be more beautiful? Well, throw in a stunning historical backdrop and the discerning eye of Lara Lam behind the camera, and you have elopement perfection!……

Here’s a few words from Lara about her inspiration for this alluring elopement “I am always drawn to the idea of elopement – an intimate celebration that involves only “you and me”. I believe a genuine exchange of vow and emotion is exactly the beauty of elopements.  When we were putting together this editorial Kyla and I came up with an idea of creating a classic first look. We drew our inspiration from intricate romantic details and the calming palette of the historic architecture. We did minimal styling on this photo shoot to let the beauty of the San Francisco City Hall architecture speak for itself. I am deeply inspired by old paintings so I tried to re-create their timeless elegance in this one. 

The story begins with two anticipated hearts arriving at their elopement rendezvous location. The groom awaits at the top of the 1915 beaux-arts staircase. The bride – in the elegant ‘Winchester’ wedding dress designed by Carol Hannah and covered with a traditional long veil – with hope and love, slowly walks towards her ceremony. With all the emotion in their eyes, he takes her hand and they exchange their life long promises……..” 

“The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” – Audrey Hepburn.

Isn’t it beautiful?? Every single image captures the emotion and romance of an elopement; I love the hint of nerves that you glimpse, and those black & white portraits are just breathtaking. Oh, it makes me wish Mr E and I had just eloped! I can’t thank the creative team behind this beauty enough, especially Lara Lam for photographing it so perfectly and for allowing me to share it on Chic Vintage Brides. If you love this shoot as much as I do, do pop over to Lara’s website www.laralam.com to see more of her stunning fine art photography, and for daily doses of romance don’t forget to follow her on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram – she shares the most enchanting imagery, a mix of her vintage finds and fine art photography.

For more elopement take a peek at this blossom filled Spring elopement shoot, or how about this mid-century inspired charmer, and you absolutely must see this magical elopement shoot in Venice. Or for real elopements do take a look at this romantic lakeside beauty right here in New Zealand, on the spectacular South Island; and 5 of the most perfect elopements EVER!

Amy

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Credits

Photography ~ Lara Lam // Planning & Styling ~ OUI Weddings & Events // Venue ~ San Francisco City Hall // Floral Design ~ Bowerbird Atelier // Makeup ~ Beautiful One Makeup Artistry // Wedding Dress ~ Carol Hannah // Bridal Boutique ~ Lovely Bride //Groom’s Attire ~ The Black Tux // Calligraphy ~ Seniman Calligraphy // Bride ~ Veronica // Groom ~ Q