Poetic Revelry – A Wedding Reception in Melbourne

Movement and matter were alchemized into a dreamy reception, within Sophia, a historic building located in the Prahran Arcade. 

Suspended swaths of fabric rose and fell celestially, forming a constellation of texture and movement. In contrast, the refined, minimalist details of the tablescape remained centered amidst the otherworldly extravagance of the fabric, punctuating the present moment.

While the cake’s layered details harmonized ethereally with the fabric’s form, trailing jasmine, long stem roses, mock oranges, and tulips were transmuted into poetically soft installations that effortlessly layered against the old world details of the historic building. 

Ruby & James masterfully styled this otherworldly reception setting. 

“Inspired by scale and movement, the draping became the focal point of the long tablescape, creating a whimsical feeling to the space.”

“Drawing inspiration from the draping above, the cake replicated the movement of flowing fabric.”

Ruby & James + Lei Lei Clavey’s Styling Tips

• Look for a venue with high enough ceilings to recreate the draping, giving it space to breathe and move.
• Use existing rigging points above the dining tables to drape and layer fabric.
• Flowers don’t always need to be the focal point of the design, instead look for materials or textures as hero pieces.
• Remember, it’s the unexpected details that will create a one-of-a-kind setting.

“To add layers of texture the candles and table flowers were placed on pieces of stone.”

Styling Photography / Lei Lei Clavey

Styling & Design / Ruby & James

Flowers / Georgie Boy

Location / Sophia at The Prahran Arcade

Catering / Atlantic Group

Draping / Pro Light & Sound

Linen / Table Art Event Hire

Cake / Get Caked by Lisa

Wedding Favours / Mister Bartender

Printing Production / Smada Print

Audio Guestbook / Off The Hook