VENICE OF THE NORTH

There’s something about being near the water in a city, it’s always kind of magical.  Whether it’s a brisk walk along London’s Southbank, a meander along the Seine or a morning stroll along the Canal Grande hand in hand with the one you love, it’s all just so romantic!  Today we’re heading to the waterways of Amsterdam for a shoot by photographer Alexandra Vonk and wedding planner Mirjam Shah of Wedding Guru inspired by the grand opulence and elegance of Venice.

When I found out a friend of mine owned the only gondola in Amsterdam I couldn’t believe my luck! From that moment on I was obsessed with the idea of planning an inspirational shoot with the gondola in the lead role and Venice of the North was born.  Fitting to this theme was the magnificent 5* luxury Hotel de l’ Europe located on the Amstel river. Some rooms have amazing views on ‘the canalgrande’ of Amsterdam (the Amstel river) and the munttower. The tower was originally part of the Regulierspoort, one of the main gates in Amsterdam medieval’s city wall.

Dramatic images came to mind, so the colour palette had to be rich and colourfull with red, touches of gold and lots and lots of beautiful flowers. Florist Keven Muller just knew exactly what to do with this and show cased an abundance of flowers. Wedding stylist Annette brought her own amazing antique crockery set and made sure that all the little details, the luxurious stationery of Cardwise, the table and ceremony set-up would all match the moodboard made by Wedding Guru. Marianne Roza did a luscious make-up with smokey-eyes and ponytail.  Posh Tea Time made a scrumptious sweet table which was a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Californian born and raised Alison, with her Italian looks, and Dutch Martin were the models. They got to know each other in Amsterdam, so Alison made the move from sunny California to Holland to live with her Dutchie – just month before this shoot they got officially married, in Amsterdam of course!