A Moody and visionary Styled Shoot: A Nod to Nonna
As a florist based in Canberra, I am constantly inspired by the beauty of nature and the elements around us. But sometimes, a project comes along that feels extra special, one that’s deeply personal, and one that carries with it a beautiful connection to both the past and the future.
Recently, I had the pleasure of being part of a styled photo shoot that was unlike any other, and I’m excited to share the details with you today. This shoot was a collaboration with some incredible wedding vendors, including the talented photographer Studio Swilso and the visionary stylist You’re Truly Desired. Together, we crafted an experience that was moody, romantic, and full of depth.
The Mood and Vision
The shoot took place at the Royal Hotel Queanbeyan, which had the perfect room for our vision. With its dark, sophisticated features and a beautiful fireplace, it gave off an intimate, timeless vibe—perfect for creating something truly special. We wanted the atmosphere to feel rich and enveloping, with moody tones, dark burgundies, and shades of greens. The dramatic shades were inspired by a bunch of en masse purple grapes—a luxurious symbol of abundance and celebration, but also a nod to something close to my heart.
A Personal Connection to the Shoot
The roots of this shoot go back to a very personal place. My partner and I recently bought our very first home—a dream come true. The house once belonged to an Italian family, the original owners, and the moment we moved in, we felt the warmth and charm of it. What made this even more special was that we inherited a stunning grapevine establishment that had been lovingly tended to over the years.
As a florist, I’m always looking for unique ways to incorporate nature into my work. The idea to use these grapes in a styled shoot was a natural one. The history behind the vine, the deep purple hue of the grapes, and the connection to my new home made it all the more meaningful. I wanted to showcase these beautiful grapes as a symbol of tradition, new beginnings, and a sense of place. And so, the mood of the shoot began to take shape—earthy, rich, and full of heart.
Bringing the Vision to Life
From the very first meeting, the collaboration with Studio Swilso and You’re Truly Desired felt like magic. Studio Swilso’s photography captured the mood perfectly—each shot exuding drama, elegance, and intimacy. The lighting, the textures, and the atmosphere all came together beautifully, just like we’d envisioned.
The styling by You’re Truly Desired was absolutely breathtaking, with intricate details that complimented the grapes and the rich tones we were going for. The room at the Royal Hotel was styled to perfection, with the fireplace becoming the central feature, adding warmth and an inviting glow to the otherwise dark setting.
The Final Product
The final photos from the shoot are something I’ll always cherish. They tell a story—not just of a styled wedding or event, but of the love and passion that went into every detail. From the overflowing hydrangea arrangement to the moody atmosphere, everything came together beautifully to showcase how nature, sentiment, and design can intertwine.
This shoot was a reflection of who I am as a florist—a love for nature, a deep connection to my home, and a desire to create beautiful, meaningful experiences. I’m so grateful for the amazing vendors I got to work with and for the opportunity to share this part of my story.
Thank you to Studio Swilso for capturing the essence of the shoot so perfectly, and to You’re Truly Desired for bringing the vision to life. I hope this styled shoot inspires you as much as it inspired me to blend tradition, creativity, and passion into something truly unforgettable. I'm positive Nonna would be proud!