Editor of Modern Wedding Flowers magazine, Gail MacDiarmid takes us behind the scenes in ‘Field of Dreams’ a photoshoot set to appear in the upcoming edition of Modern Wedding Flowers magazine – on sale next week!
Michelle and Lynda preparing the flowers.
Rose putting the final touch to Bridgette’s makeup.
Oh no! this is not looking good, the storm is about to hit.
James showing Bridgette the best angle to hold the bouquet.
It is not often you get the chance to shoot at such a splendid property as Merribee on the South Coast of NSW, but recently, when offered the chance, I couldn’t say yes quickly enough. I had heard about their stunning rose garden and divine lavender field and thought it would be the perfect location for a florally-inspired shoot for the next edition of Modern Wedding Flowers magazine. The charming historic house, tastefully restored silo, barns and ornate gardens are nestled amongst lush green pastures, dotted with black and white herds of Fresian cows and surounded by gentle rolling hills.
The local crew arrived and were just as excited as I was to shoot at such a beautiful location. Our day started with the usual chaos with everyone unloading gear and setting up. James the photographer and I set out on a recce to find the best locations for the shoot, while florists Michelle and Lynda, secateurs in hand, were thrilled to have access to the gorgeous rose gardens and lavender fields. Meanwhile, June Rose, the hair and makeup stylist, started to prepare Bridgette our beautiful model for the shoot.
We began with lots of shots in the fields but, for once, the weather forecast was accurate and the storm predicted for the afternooon arrived. Gusts of strong wind gave us no other option than to move inside to complete the shoot. Fortunately, James loved the soft muted light and the ambience it added to the story. In the meantime, Michelle and Lynda were busily creating a trailing table garland, bouquets, table flowers, hair garlands and adornments for the gown. Moving from one room to another, we quickly identified the best spots to set up, style and capture the remaining shots. The end result showed that even when everything gets turned upside down like our day was, a compromise can sometimes improve on the original concept. A big thank you to the excellent crew.
To see the stuning results of our day at Merribee get a copy of the next edition of Modern Wedding Flowers due out on 17th August. I am sure you will love what was created just as much as we loved doing it.
Behind the Scenes Images Leila Alcasid Concept & styling Gail MacDairmid Location Merribee Photographer James Frost Gown and Jewellery Beska Flowers Affair with George Hair and Makeup Bridal Makeup Model Bridgette of Pulse Promotions