Focal Points: Dramatic Draping, Geometric Backdrops and Mixed Mediums

Trends
Decadent details that demand attention, from breathtaking installations to artistic accents
Written by
Lara Burnap

Published:

Minnesota Bride Spring Summer 2025
Dramatic Draping

The Beach Club in Minneapolis is known for its impressive architecture and historic design details like large lattice windows and decorative pillars, so adding a sweeping fabric installation over the reception table adds depth to the romantic ambiance. “The drapery softens the look and plays off of the delicate florals and patterned linens on the table,” explains Lily Hansen of HappiLily Events. “The chandeliers add glam to the elegant aesthetic.” Texture brings the focus onto the details by adding velvet ribbons to the place cards, patterned linens on the tabletop and even the floral jacquard and sweeping train on the bridal gown. Graceful, airy floral arrangements full of soft textures, delicate ruffles and dramatic blooms were the perfect finishing touch.

Bridal Attire: "Jillian" by Varca Bridal from The White Room, R.F. Moeller; Cake: D'Amico Catering; Draping & Lighting: We've Got It Covered; Florals: Reverie Floral Design; Groom Attire: Banana Republic, R.F. Moeller; Hair: Styled by Marissa; Makeup: Blend by Natalie; Models: Yutusha Lee, Tony Hill; Planning, Design & Coordination: HappiLily Events; Rentals: Après Event Decor and Tent Rental, Linen Effects; Videography: Tim Thornburg Films; Venue: The Beach Club

We incorporated draping and chandeliers over the head table to create an elegant, romantic and intimate feel.

Lily Hansen, HappiLily Events

Sweet Set-Up

Cutting the cake is a must-have photo moment, and designing a beautiful scene makes a grand statement. In this design, the confection becomes a striking scene by incorporating a garden-inspired floral structure—reconfigured from the ceremony—with dimensional geometric backdrops. "The cake merges natural inspiration with asymmetrical structure surrounded by exquisite florals to make it a stunning statement piece and a dynamic moment," says Jessica St. George of Everworth Photography.

Cake: Hey There, Cupcake; Floral: Blom Floral; Photography: Everworth Photography; Rentals: Linen Effects, Rison Design & Floral; Venue: Urban Daisy Events

Mixed Mediums

Inspired by vibrant hues of spring, this beautiful design builds drama with each moment, from a decadent invitation suite to the delicate flowers mirroring a garden in full bloom. “Each detail is carefully chosen to enhance the overall aesthetic, from the intricate floral arrangements that grace the center of the table to the place cards with pressed florals,” says photographer Jessica St. George. Tactile accents make a big impact throughout, such as textured lilac napkins folded into a bow and the intricate icing on the cake. The design crescendos into a wow moment with the hanging structure over the head table layered with tulle, florals and chandeliers.

Bridal Attire: Colby John Bridal from Ivory Bridal Co, Coragold Fine Jewelry; Cake:  Hey There, Cupcake; Ceiling Installation: PHOS Events; Florals: K. Mackenzie Floral & Design; Groom Attire:  Men's Wearhouse; Hair: Lady Vamp Artistry; Makeup: LHN Beauty; Photography: Everworth Photography; Rentals: Après Event Decor and Tent Rental, Rison Design & Floral; Stationery: Hunt Wright Design Co.; Venue: Lafayette Club; Videography: Stroh & Co. Films

My favorite aspect of this design is the mixed mediums. The tulle fabric creates a whimsical feel with florals taking center stage. The forsythia extends upwards to create the aspect of growth and grandeur.

—Jessica St. George, Everworth Photography