"The Lost Treasures of Africa" Styled Shoot in Virginia

Inspired by Mother Africa, this styled shoot showcases the majestic homeland that is rooted in treasure, diversity, and royalty.

Take pride in the wondrous beauty we refer to as the homeland and witness the effortless beauty it holds. Crafted with marble stones, gems, golden trim accents, and florals of Africa, this styled shoot takes you to a place that feels like royalty.

“The Continent of Africa contains a plethora of wonders that invoke the vision of the motherland. From the beautiful rare animals to the hidden gems across the continent, Africa is truly priceless, and we wanted to highlight all of those treasures found in Africa.”

For more of this full of African treasures styled shoot with Photography from MunaCoterie Member Chip Dizard, continue below!

What was your design inspiration? The inspiration was derived from Africa. I needed to choose a color palette that felt royal; something that paid homage and representation to the royalty within Africa. I chose emerald green, which has multiple meanings, but the one that stood out was the fact that it symbolized a steadfast bond. It was with that bond of marriage that inspired a styled shoot for married couples. From there, I incorporated all the details that reference Africa.

Describe the elements of the styled shoot. We used to use pampas grass that grows in the lowlands of South Africa for flowers because of their unique characteristics. Then roses and greenery were added to create wildlife flower arrangements. The cake was based on the element of a pyramid with white marble and gold trim. Africa is well known for its source of diamonds and gems, which inspired the gems motif.

The Pyramids were made using a board that was cut according to the design style. We also wrapped them with vinyl graphics and added a set of shelves on each pyramid. The graphics for the pyramids matched the floor style as well.

As for the tables, we used a velvet emerald green tablecloth, with gold trim place settings, plates, gold cutlery accents, and pyramid-shaped printed menus with gold leaf edges. Gold elephant sculptures, white candles on gold pillars, and scattered gemstones sat as centerpieces for the table.

Tell us about your attire choice(s) for the model. From the beginning, I wanted a natural “up-do” hairstyle that didn’t hide my brides’ melanin skin. The dress was chosen to fit the curvature of the bride