Bohemian Day of the Dead-Inspired Fall Shoot

Written by
Megan McCarty Taylor Ellsworth

As Oregonians collectively breathe a sigh of relief that summer is ending, I'm thrilled to share this gorgeous shoot full of fall inspiration. This shoot is proof that bright colors and outdoor affairs are not strictly the domain of summer weddings. An orange, pastel pink and fuchsia wildflower bouquet is made autumnal by a spray of ferns and blackberries, while a white cake covered in crackled gold-leaf is livened up by orange marigolds and pink roses. The bride's fishtail braid crown and chunky organic necklace add an earthy, undone element to the aesthetic. Keep scrolling to see the entire shoot, and head to the bottom of the page for the coordinator's description of the Day of the Dead elements and a full vendor list!

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

Day of the Dead Inspired Styled Shoot by Pilar Ilo for Oregon Bride Magazine

"We drew our inspiration from the eclectic beauty and individual style of artist Frida Kahlo and the Mexican traditions of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). We wanted to blend the subtle details of Latin cultural tradition (style, food, decor) with the Pacific Northwest as a backdrop. The historic Victorian John Palmer House was the perfect setting with rich interiors and a lush green northwest garden.

Frida Kahlo inspired style elements begin with the bride's hair, braided and adorned with a hair piece with natural elements painted in metallic. Accessories are chunky and natural textures, a Frida trademark. Bridal and reception dresses were created with Frida’s long flowing skirts in mind, by Isa: The Nature of Isa. Diego Rivera's honest and unassuming style comes through in an elegantly tailored, contemporary brown suit jacket and orange shirt. This suit jacket, designed by Bad Wolf Clothier, was cut like your favorite cardigan.

The color palette continued the theme of Frida with colors of passion and rich traditions (marigold orange, oxblood red and plum). Bramble Floral Design created rich, native looking and edible floral arrangements. The use of marigolds reminisce of the Central American holiday traditions of the Day of the Dead. The ofrenda (guest alter) reminds us to remember the lives of loved ones who have passed but are with us in spirit, blessing our ceremony from the afterlife: "Our dead are never dead to us until we have forgotten them” - a befitting quote from Geroge Elliot adorns signage, created by Puddle Jumpin Cards, and serves as a sentimental reference to the Mexican holiday. Local fruits and vegetables decorate the altar and serve as an offering. Imbued by the Mexican folk art papel picado (perforated paper), a banner and garden piñata, created by Lia Griffith. Template and tutorials available on her blog and papel picado banner. The wedding shoot was followed with a reception dress-change and Day of the Dead masks, adding a bold touch of mystery and excitement for the future, created by Masked Zone.

The dessert table continued the theme of the ofrenda with a stunning papel picado inspired bronze flecked cake, traditional Mexican sweets pan dulces and sugar skull cookies, all created by Rosycakes. Signature drink by Mint & Mirth is a tasty horchata cocktail."

Season:

autumn

WEDDING PRO TEAM

Photography
Photography
Coordination & Rentals
Groom's Suit
Floral Design
Desserts
Signature Cocktail
Paper Products
Hair & Makeup
Banner & Piñata
Day of the Dead Masks