I love a good collaboration this time of year! Iris Moon was asked to partner with Elle Chic Photography to create the set for her Christmas Petite sessions this year! Her vision was of a giant wreath, and my mind went right to work. We played around with bow colours and what other props could be used to add some depth, from presents, to hanging ornaments, to a few dozen pillar candles. After reviewing all the sketches, it was pretty unanimous.
Michelle at Elle Chic Photography is known for her beautifully simplistic and minimalist style, so I knew that whatever I did would have to compliment that and not be too excessive or over-the-top. However, do not be fooled... Simple and minimal does not necessarily mean EASY. This Christmas magic came with a lot of battle wounds of cuts and scrapes and gray hairs, but it was WORTH IT!
Building this set was definitely a "trust-the-process" experience, with a few "*&$! this, I'm out" moments, but I am so proud of how it turned out. This 5' wreath consists of 2 6' garlands cut into 2' sections, 200 individual pine branches, 47 bunches of holly berries, 15 snow-covered pine cones, and a partridge in a pear tree... I mean a 1.5' burlap bow.
I didn't want it to look like a clean cut, mass-produced Christmas wreath that sits on your front door. I wanted it to look a little wild, rugged and natural, like it was simply plucked right out of the snowy forest and placed directly into Michelle's studio. I am thankful that Michelle and I were on the same page and I think it really complimented her minimalist style beautifully. Add in a cozy, little bench and some neutral kraft paper presents and it was perfect and ready for families to make their own memories.
Of course, the set is nothing without Michelle working her magic! The final product of photographs turned out absolutely STUNNING! It is a great feeling collaborating with a mind who thinks as creatively as yours, where you're able to build on each other's vision, rather than having to convince the other why yours is better. I am very excited to work with Michelle in the future. Talks are already in progress over future petite sessions that would welcome an Iris Moon touch and I am so thrilled to have this partnership and relationship with another incredible small business. Keep an eye on Michelle's socials (@ellechicphotography) to see when upcoming petite sessions are happening or consider her to capture your next milestone.
Photographer and Studio: Elle Chic Photography: https://www.ellechicphotography.com/
Set Design and Creation: Iris Moon Wedding & Event Design: https://www.irismoondesign.ca
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