For the traditional bride, a lace bodice and yards of billowing ruffles is a dreamy choice. Photo: allurebridals.com
With all the change we’ve seen in the world, it is amazing how “Everything old and vintage is new again.” Today’s brides are choosing gorgeous vintage-style gowns with lace bodices and embroidery, just as the young Queen Victoria did long ago when she married her beloved Prince Albert. She was the first bride to popularize the white dress.
After the wedding, brides are choosing romantic vintage furnishings and décor for their new homes. The True Vintage Collection is a bold expression of the feminine heart and home. Photo: Hooker Furniture.
Is there a better role model for women today than Queen Victoria: a young woman who had the world’s most important job, a large family and an indomitable spirit? Victoria was a fascinating woman for any age. Her reign was my inspiration when I founded Victoria Magazine, and she still fascinates and inspires.
Kate Middleton, the latest royal bride, carried a bouquet with sprigs of myrtle in honor of Queen Victoria. Photo: hollywoodlife.com
A Sense of Occasion
The “Victorian” décor inspired by the legendary queen was the origin of today’s highly-popular romantic, vintage style. The look is epitomized by the True Vintage Collection, a bold expression of the feminine heart and home.
True Vintage, a collection inspired by vintage artifacts and classical motifs, has an elegantly-aged soft driftwood finish with whitewash paint accents. Photo: Hooker Furniture
“Victorian” means the full enjoyment of home — and being fully engaged in the world. Perhaps that is why we look to the art and craft of the period to bring graciousness to our homes.
Enjoy moments, even simple ones, in the company of furnishings that reflect vintage design—like this round dining table from the True Vintage Collection. Photo: Hooker Furniture.
The origin of afternoon tea: A lady in waiting to Queen Victoria found it a long wait for the very formal royal dinners, so she began this tradition now time-honored around the world. An interesting read about the royal household is the newly published Serving Victoria. Interest in the queen never seems to fade.
A forever favorite at tea is the Victoria sponge, created for Queen Victoria herself. It’s whipped cream and raspberry jam between layers of cake, but use any jam you favor. Photo: picturebritain.com
The True Vintage romantic carved console is the ideal setting for afternoon tea or a lovely display of wedding gifts–perhaps both. Photo: Hooker Furniture.
Elegant entertaining can be as sweet and simple as paying attention to detail. Royal dinners were grand affairs in Victoria’s time — but pleasing guests transcends the generations.
Today’s simple touch–a thoughtful bouquet at each place setting — betokens a modern bride’s personal elegance. Photo: bastillenyc.com.
A Queen’s Reign in Fact and Story
The lovely Emily Blunt portrays Victoria’s early years in “The Young Victoria.” Photo: GK Films
There are many books about Victoria and her era. the most recent is A. N. Wilson’s Victoria: A Life. Wilson presents much new material in her biography of this remarkable and unique monarch, the mother of 9 children and grandmother of 42.
Queen Elizabeth’s youngest great-grandchild—Princess Charlotte, who follows her brother in line for the throne. Photo: theweek.co.uk
Movie makers have found in Victoria and her Prince Albert compelling material. There is the recent The Young Victoria, and coming to TV’s Masterpiece Theater next year is — Victoria. Watch for this 8-part drama that traces the Queen’s life through a reign that lasted 63 years. Enjoy these in your own home entertainment center that would amaze even Downton Abbey fans–stay tuned!
Relax in royal style at home while you view the lives and times of kings and queens, and all your favorite films and television programs. This 2-piece entertainment center is from the Chatelet Collection. Photo: Hooker Furniture.
Inspiration for Today’s Brides
Choosing traditional designs that are age-tested is a way to begin the furnishing of a home that is more than just tables and chairs. It is a touchstone to the very best that the past had to offer–and that continues with traditions as lovely as the bridal bouquet.
Bastille, a New York floral and event firm, prides itself on unique bouquets and arrangements. ©AlexisJuneWeddings | Cedar Lakes Estates, Port Jervis, NY | NYC Fine Art Film Wedding Photographer; bastillenyc.com
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