This editorial is a love letter to Paris—told in silk, light, and movement. Framed by timeless architecture and curated through a lens of refined minimalism, the shoot by Livia Bass Photography is an ode to contemporary romance. Every detail, from the styling to the setting, was chosen with intention. “Inspired by iconic Parisian architecture and light, we created a shoot that is both refined and effortless,” Livia shared. And that vision unfolds in every frame.
Concept
The idea for this styled shoot was to show how modern romance can live harmoniously within Paris’ classical grandeur. “We wanted to tell a love story that felt both classic and contemporary,” Livia explained. From the delicate textures to the architectural lines, everything served a dual purpose: honoring the city’s elegance while elevating it with a minimalist, editorial edge. The city itself became both canvas and muse—its historic symmetry balanced by the couple’s soft affection.
"We were particularly drawn to the city’s ability to effortlessly combine history with the present.”
Morning
The shoot began at Hôtel Elysia, just a few steps from the Champs-Élysées. Inside, light poured through the tall windows of the bridal suite, softly illuminating the room’s neoclassical details. With velvet upholstery, pale tones, and hushed opulence, the interiors echoed the shoot’s aesthetic—quiet, luxurious, and intimate.
On the velvet settee at the foot of the bed, the bride rested in her first gown—a minimal white silk dress from Top Bridal Paris, with fine straps and off-shoulder ties cascading like ribbon. The draping brought movement and romance, while the fitted silhouette kept it modern. Her hair, styled in softly brushed waves by Jiyoung Yang Beauty, and a luminous, natural makeup look completed the ensemble with Parisian ease.
The groom’s styling matched the shoot’s minimal vision. A sharp black suit, white shirt, and slim tie formed his base look, while small changes—removing the jacket, rolling the sleeves—introduced subtle shifts throughout the day. Whether strolling through Palais Royal or leaning in during a golden-lit elevator moment, he remained grounded in tailored simplicity, effortlessly complementing the bride’s fashion-forward style.
"Refined ambiance, soft light, and tranquil atmosphere made it the perfect setting for the bride and groom’s “getting ready” moments, establishing the tone for the rest of the shoot."
This shoot was the result of intentional choices, thoughtful collaborations, and beautiful design. With Samantha Bottelier Events leading the planning and styling, every piece aligned: from textures to tones, accessories to locations. “Every element worked together to tell a story of love, style, and the magic of Paris,” said Livia.
Paris After Rain
The bride’s wardrobe evolved throughout the day, reflecting shifts in energy and setting. For their outdoor portraits, she wore a structural mini-dress. With voluminous long sleeves and a dramatic bow at the back, it brought editorial flair to the city’s backdrop. The short hem revealed her legs and added an element of playfulness, contrasted by the sculptural design of the sleeves. Paired with block-heeled white sandals and statement earrings from Revi Studios, the look was bold and graphic against soft limestone façades.
"What I loved most about the look was how it felt fresh and modern, yet timeless at the same time. The bride looked stunning, embodying a quiet elegance that reflected the atmosphere of the shoot.”
After their morning at Hôtel Elysia, the couple walked through some of Paris’ most iconic places: the colonnades of Palais Royal, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. These spaces, usually grand and commanding, felt personal through Livia’s lens. Her vision translated into frames where architecture quietly complemented the shoot’s feel of intimacy.
Perhaps the most serendipitous detail was the weather. “One of the challenges? The rainy weather in the morning,” Livia admitted. “But just after the getting ready, the sun broke through at the perfect moment—bathing Paris in warm golden light.” That transition—from grey drizzle to glowing softness—gave the final images an extra layer of emotion.
The florals, designed by Akiko Usami, were kept intentionally light and airy. The bouquet featured blush and ivory blooms with gentle trailing elements that echoed the lines of the gown. A few coral tones offered just enough contrast to stand out against the white fabric, but never overwhelmed it.
Held loosely in one hand or resting along a stone balustrade in the Eiffel Tower scene, the bouquet added just the right amount of softness and romance. Its palette matched the city’s tones on that overcast day—creamy whites, pale gold, delicate green.
A favorite moment unfolded in the café scene, where the couple shared croissants and coffee at a corner table. The groom, now in a vest with shirt sleeves rolled, leaned in with a soft smile. The bride wore his jacket over her shoulders. It was relaxed, warm, cinematic—like a quiet Sunday that just happened to take place in one of the most romantic cities on earth.
PHOTOGRAPHER Livia Bass Photography | PLANNER Samantha Bottelier Events | VENUE Hôtel Elysia | FLORIST Akiko Usami | DRESS Top Bridal Paris | MUAH Jiyoung Yang Beauty | JEWELRY Revi Studios | COUPLE Iván Cardell & Jazz Becker
