A Bright Modern Fiesta: A Photo Shoot Channeling An Iconic Artist

A little about Frida

Kahlo, considered one of Mexico’s greatest artists, is best known for her self portraits displaying strong, brutally honest and colorful images. She died at the age of 47 in 1954 after suffering from injuries sustained in a bus-trolley accident when she was only 19. She was married to the legendary Mexican muralist, Diego Rivera.

She also was a fashion icon, causing a sensation wherever she traveled. Beyoncé dressed up as Frida the past two Halloweens, reflecting her impact on today’s culture.

The vibrant, colorful, provocative Mexican artist Frida Kahlo served as the inspiration for our luscious photo shoot.

Photographer Melissa Jordan said the Mexican surrealist artist intrigued her and when she shared her vision with Grace from Whalen Creative Group, the response was enthusiastic. 

“When it came to designing a wedding inspired by Frida Kahlo and her art, I wanted to make sure I captured both her bold colors as well as the natural and earthy elements of her paintings,” Grace said. “I knew I wanted it to be bold and colorful, but not over the top.”

 

 

The Venue

White Pheasant Vineyards became the backdrop for the shoot. The vibrant and abundant green grapes and grapevines reflect the passion and sensuousness of Kahlo and this particular wedding vision. 

 

The Décor Details

Accents were designed to bring out the pops of color that emerge in the florals. Subtle and natural linen colors were complemented with wood accents in the chargers and vases. Colorfully dipped mini-churros were the favors; Mexican sodas, tequila shots and a cigar were offered to guests. A painted canvas was the guestbook. 

 

 

The Jewelry

Team members chose a coral jade necklace with sterling silver ornate bead accents; a coral jade bead bracelet with white druzy quartz; a Turquoise bead bracelet; a sand-colored druzy gold vermeil pendant on a sterling black oxidized chain and sterling sand druzy pear shaped drop earrings. 

The jewelers’ private collection provided a 14 carat white gold diamond engagement ring (two carats) for the shoot. 

 

 

The Bridal Bouquet

A mixture of brightly-colored traditional flowers comprised the bride’s bouquet to keep a simple, bright color the main focus, with just a few special blooms added to make it stand out even more. 

 

The Gown

The Lazarro 3308 gown was the perfect fit for this shoot with a sheer lace bodice and a flamenco-style bottom layered with ruffle after ruffle, not unlike an exquisite dancer. 

 

 

 

The Style

Our model mirrored Frida Kahlo’s incredible style with a beautifully bold but clean look. We couldn’t resist the crimson lips and Frida’s trademark brow. The hair was swept into a simple side ponytail and flowers were woven into her braid. Other flowers were tucked behind the ear for color and style. 

 

 

 

The Groom and Tux

A sophisticated charcoal tuxedo – very structured and very classy – worked perfectly with the bride’s ruffles. A single succulent became the groom’s boutonniere.

 

 

No Cake, Please

Simple Tres Leches cupcakes and Mexican wedding cookies replaced the traditional cake, as Frida was anything but traditional. Planners took advantage of a recent trend in which brides opt out of cake and go for something different.

 

Invitations

The modern and yet delicate invitations and stationery added a touch of Latin flair.

 

 

To learn more about Frida Kahlo: “FRIDA, A Biography of Frida Kahlo,” by Hayden Herrera or the 2002 feature film starring Salma Hayak, “Frida.”