2025 Style Shoot Design Contest Submission: Wildly in Love Style Shoot in Mocha Mousse

Inspired by our theme “The Art of Weddings" in our 2025 Style Shoot Design Contest, sponsored by AAYS Event Rentals, Mary Beth Johnson of Mary Beth Photography brought storytelling to life with her concept, Wildly in Love. Mary Beth envisioned a beautiful fall western wedding infused with luxury—even down to the floral neck garland draped across the horses. “The vision was editorial and very warm and inviting,” she shares. “The light, motion and storytelling in the images draw you in and highlight each vendor represented.” Set against the natural beauty of a ranch, this shoot embraced golden light, open skies and the quiet majesty of grand horses to parallel the grandeur of a wedding day!

When selecting the theme, Mary Beth leaned into what she does best—telling love stories through artful imagery. The western setting allowed her imagination to run free, capturing a bride and groom immersed in the romance of the ranch. Horses, with their strength and elegance, became symbolic of the wonder and majesty that weddings evoke. “Art includes light, motion and emotion,” Mary Beth explains, “and all of these are represented in our shoot.”

Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, was seamlessly woven throughout the design. From thoughtfully styled flatlays to lush florals featuring mocha mousse roses and hydrangeas, earthy neutral tones glowed beautifully in the golden autumn light. The palette felt organic yet elevated—proof that western can absolutely be luxurious!

The venue—a stunning horse ranch—was an easy choice. The juxtaposition of rustic, broken-in boots and weathered horseshoes against a brand-new wedding gown created visual poetry. Stalls, open pastures and textured wood elements added depth and richness, helping to fully develop the narrative of Wildly in Love.

Of course, no ranch shoot comes without its surprises. “Animals have a mind of their own,” Mary Beth laughs. Their sweet horse took a particular interest in the bride’s bouquet, making for a memorable (and slightly chaotic!) moment on set. But those unscripted interactions only added authenticity and charm to the story unfolding in front of the lens.

The bride’s gown from Something Blue Bridal perfectly aligned with the effortless elegance Mary Beth had envisioned. The lace dress with a champagne underlay offered beautiful movement—ideal for riding horseback—while maintaining a refined simplicity. Its understated design allowed the setting and emotion to shine while still feeling undeniably bridal!

The florals were intentionally selected to feel unique and unexpected. Mocha mousse roses paired with hydrangeas created soft dimension and complemented the warm, neutral palette. Even the stationery reflected the theme: western-inspired, modern and luxurious in warm earthy tones.

To incorporate current trends, the team embraced motion blur photography, relaxed hairstyles, effortless gowns, denim details and natural makeup. The bride wore soft curls with minimal fuss, allowing her natural beauty to take center stage. Neutral makeup tones enhanced her features while keeping the look low-key and radiant—perfect for a ranch setting!

 

 

Style Shoot Design Contest sponsored by: AAYS Event Rentals

 

 

 

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