As a Black woman-owned event design business, it was important to Ryan Abney Event Design to curate a styled shoot that both highlighted BIPOC love, which is sadly underrepresented in the wedding media, as well as highlight the beauty of a micro wedding. This elegant coastal wedding inspiration included mostly female small business owners. The selected location was the iconic Roostertail located on the Detroit River showcasing panoramic waterfront views and a downtown skyline. The venue recently launched micro wedding packages and RA Event Design was ready to style a unique microwedding at the venue with all social distancing measures and Covid protocols in place.
What was your design inspiration?
I drew inspiration from the hues of blue in the recently updated marina at the Roostertail. With a soft palette of sea mist, peach, and amber; accented with chic vintage details that added a depth to this coastal style.
Describe your flowers.
The ceremony had the perfect backdrop, with the couple centered under a gazebo structure complimented with greenery and florals from Goodness Gracious Detroit. The neutral tones accentuated the riverside views. The florist created a beautiful assortment of designs, utilizing greenery, bold colors, and touches of blush flowers. The bouquets were a contract of neutral and understated to bold and vibrant, all while staying true to the coastal vibe
Describe your cake.
The sweet treats were deliciously created by Sweet Bree’s Bakeshop; specializing in gluten free. The three tier cake was whimsical with its watercolor accents, while still bringing a contemporary art feel in its presentation. We also incorporated some watercolor painted sugar cookies with gold accents and Mr. & Mrs. We rounded out the unique sweet offerings with a S’more Bar that was equal parts fun and elevated.
Tell us about your attire choices.
Pink Poodle Dress Lounge provided the bridal gowns and accessories. One bride wore a mermaid style halter neckline, the perfect balance of refined coastal beauty. Our second bride work a stunning ballgown dress with a subtle blue tint and wonderfully full skirt; it was the definition of understated elegance. We can’t forget the distinguished attire of the grooms; both styled by the Suit Depot. One groom wore a mystic blue suit paired with a watercolor bowtie and pocket square. The second groom wore a postman blue suit and floral bow tie. The wedding attire perfectly complemented this modern design, with its elegance and unexpected tones.
Please describe any DIY, handmade or personal details.
The invitation suite was beautifully suited to a light and airy coastal celebration. Peachy pink hues were used in conjunction with vellum and gold brads; finished with minimal blue accents. The wedding day menu was created by Little Bits That Matter and displayed on a hurricane vase displayed with sea glass and floral boxes. Guests were welcomed with a water colored “Drink Champagne” sign and ribbon decorated flutes garnished with blueberries and a “Stay Cool” stir stick. The seating chart vases added a perfect variety of hues in addition to a modern touch that complimented the coastal design.
Describe the tablescape elements.
The design would not have been complete without a stunning tablescape. Sea mist linens provided the perfect base for the airy and natural table design. The design was accented with water hyacinth chargers, gold napkins, and sea glass place cards. Florals lined the middle of the table, coupled with blue candles, and an amber table number vase. To add some depth to the table, a variety of vintage Amber goblets were used in conjunction with gold and white flatware.