Posted by Matthew Robbins, contributor
When I'm traveling (for both business and pleasure), I use my camera to record inspiration for future projects and events. I'm always looking for great new ideas for framing an entrance to a venue or room, or for defining a ceremony space. Natural material is always the most exciting, so I was so thrilled to find these doorways in Italy framed by beautiful vines and foliage. The first is from a delicious gelato cafe, the second from a small flower shop. This approach could easily be used to frame the entrance to your wedding venue or chapel, or to create a lush chuppah. You can start by positioning a basic frame that can be covered in green ivy, smilax, or beautiful boxwood foliage.
I also loved the use of fabric here. Many of the terraces and buildings in Italy are framed by lush potted plants and decorative flags representing specific areas of a town or community.
Sometimes even the smallest details trigger your creativity, like these arching palms framing the entrance to this little restaurant in Turks and Caicos. I also love the ornamental edge on the local architecture.
During a recent trip to New Orleans I was so intrigued by the lush, exotic beauty of these large, southern trees covered in green ferns and moss. This would be an incredible treatment for an entrance to your venue or ceremony space or an amazing and unique ceremony structure.
And, finally, I couldn't resist this abundant and fragrant jasmine I discovered in California. Imagine a fragrant canopy of vines and blooms for your guests to walk under as they arrive...divine!
Remember to keep your camera by your side at all times when you're looking for inspiration. You will find wonderful ideas in some of the most unexpected places during your next walk or summer vacation!
From: perfect bound | 6/28/09 at 11:24 am
I love everything about that Italian cafe from the shutters to the building's stained facade to the idea of enjoying a three tiered gelato in my wedding gown. How beautifully simple yet so perfectly styled.