We love nothing more than a celebration of culture, of inviting tradition, of time-honoured rituals into our lives and today’s editorial is in utter agreement. “We live in this modern world where brides want to express themselves more and be different, yet wanting to keep some tradition or culture for their special day” notes today’s stylist Marie of  Lil Elements. Alongside photographer Mark Andrew Studios  Marie had the vision to create an editorial that was a modern take on traditional Japanese culture.

“Coming from an Asian background, I wanted to create a shoot that was a fusion of culture and a twist of modernism for those Asian brides wanting to be different but also respectful of their own culture and traditions” she shares.

Surrounded by beautiful dried palms, that honoured traditional paper hand fans, and a beautiful tablescape, which was dressed in soft blues, blush pinks and poppy red blooms styled by Sweet Bride

which set the scene for beautiful paper pieces on handmade Japanese paper designed by Mi Calligraphy and Design that were adorned with traditional kanji and modern Japanese calligraphy by Isao Sonehara. Japanese touches – tea leaves as wedding favours, origami paper cranes and sake cups bringing plenty of tradition to the table. Artiste Saku adorning the look with a gorgeous velvet ring box and lush silk ribbons.

Our bride, model dressed in a beautiful white gown by Sherry Bridal Couture, Linda Q Artistry complementing the modern styling with loose waves and glowing makeup. But most of all, we need to talk about that beautiful obi belt and kimono jacket, Sherry making both of the pieces in bright poppy red from a beautiful vintage Japanese kimono herself.

“Even though tradition limits us to be creative and ethereal, ” remarks Marie “you can still keep the essence of culture/tradition by keeping some elements and ceremony steps like the tea ceremony, adding your language into the invitation and bringing in the traditional outfits. But add a little modern twist for yourself!”