My Little Wedding Shop - Doone Valley Collection Shoot

The Shop

My little wedding shop has a special place in my heart. It was the place I purchased my own wedding dress from and so every time I have the opportunity to work with Jenny or one of her dresses my heart is full. (I have written about my experience with Jenny here if you'd like to read more about it.) My Little Wedding Shop is as whimsical and personal as the name denotes, with Jenny creating beautiful bespoke gowns for all of her brides and offering a gorgeous and unique collection every year and making each dress to her Brides requirements. Georgia is also on hand to create the most beautiful selection of veils, perfect for each and every bridal look.

“You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it...”

— Edith Head

The Collection

Each and every one of Jenny's collections is inspired by her love of great literature, her label itself being named Jane & Edward. This collection was inspired by one of Jenny's favourite pieces, Lorna Doone, therefore gaining the name the 'Doone Valley' collection - with a Gold, Blush and Ivory palette, delicate laces and a particular emphasis on movement and flow. Each dress is beautifully designed with different types of bridal looks in mind and each gown has its own look and feel, whilst remaining consistent within the style of the collection. Every one of Jenny's dresses is to be worn effortlessly, with the beauty of the quality fabrics, impeccable design and incredible workmanship speaking for itself. You can browse the whole collection here.

The Shoot

We opted to shoot the collection in the shop in order to put emphasis on the fact that the dresses are entirely handmade in store, whilst incorporating the literature aspect using Jenny's treasured edition of Lorna Doone and a selection of beautiful fabrics, dress makers dummies, vintage sewing machines and a beautiful sewing table as props for the shoot. The shop is often flooded with light due to its huge bay window which was converted into a backdrop for the day, as the cosy little store with its usually quaint atmosphere was a turned into a hive of activity as the room was packed full of vendors, dresses, makeup, camera equipment and our stunning model.

“It’s a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together.”

— Unknown

THE VENDORS

There is nothing more exciting than working alongside a group of like minded creatives to create something beautiful. We found ourselves really bouncing off each other all day, with lots of laughter along the way. Our model was the fiery haired Ash Millman, whose professional attitude in front of the camera (making my job all the more easy) was complimented by her fun personality and humility on set. She was an absolute dream to work with and her beauty was truly astounding. She was made all the more beautiful by the insanely talented Omie, who seemed to know exactly how to compliment each individual bridal look with the perfect makeup - I want her to do my makeup every single day as she seems to have nailed the balance between striking beauty and a natural, effortless look! The hair was masterfully finished by the amazing Natasha Caldecott and we were provided with headpieces by Kate Slater and Gilly Page.