Styled Shoot: Seeing European Blues in Balboa Park

Most all of us have experienced it, the daydream that follows your first step in San Diego’s iconic Balboa Park. The architecture, nature, and culture transport you to a different place in time or setting. And, when done right, a photo can capture that feeling for eternity.

This styled shoot at The Prado, submitted by Something New for I Do, achieves precisely that. Lush greenery and stucco structures offset with soft hues of blue brings us to a sense of place at a European chateau.

To break down the full aesthetics, we’re turning to the artistic maven behind it all: Lauren Weidley of Chancey Charm San Diego.

Take it away, Lauren!

Drawn to simplistic European elegance when designing this shoot, I was inspired by the rich, velvet tufted chairs you would find in a European chateau.

“The Prado at Balboa Park was the perfect location for this shoot with its Spanish architecture and European style. Stucco walls and lush greenery transport you to another place. The neutral color palette reflects the muted colors you typically see in European decor. I really wanted these elements to come to life when bringing in florals, decor, and wardrobe. The lush florals held together with delicate rose and cream ribbon paired with the flow of her romantic dress set the ambience.

These vendors were absolutely amazing to work with. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to understand my design and truly take it to the next level. Each piece added to this shoot was seriously inspired and unique to each vendor making this shoot breathtaking. From the whimsy of the rings, to the lush bouquet and sharp lines of the gold bar cart, the design came to life in every way.

For brides looking to recreate this look, I recommend going for simple pieces that will make a statement, such as the bar cart and rose goblets, the crisp ivory frosting of the donuts. Stay within the color palette and if you do veer, of course, choose shades of the colors in the original palette. Find things with movement to create the romance, such as the flow of her dress and the delicate ribbon.

And finally, the overstated bouquet and its movement is everything for this look!”