Location: Kluisbergen, Belgium
Setting: Castle
Season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 18 months
The number of guests: 100
Wedding theme/style: Black-and-white glamour.
Melissa and Dion are a couple with a broad worldview. The groom’s career as a professional football player created a unique path for them, spanning the globe from one city to another.
Dion had dreamt of a romantic proposal in sunny Dubai during a Christmas vacation, but Melissa’s unexpected COVID-19 diagnosis forced a change of plans. Without any confusion, Dion seized the moment and decided to propose on New Year’s Eve during a heart-to-heart talk. With their little son, Dion got down on one knee and popped the Melissa question she longed to hear.
Melissa’s wish for a chic, black-and-white theme and breaking away from a traditional Belgian wedding symbolized her aspiration to craft a modern celebration that was uniquely theirs.
The wedding day began with Melissa’s anticipation and excitement, which only a bride-to-be can feel. Hair and makeup artists worked their magic, enhancing Melissa’s natural beauty while ensuring she radiated confidence and Hollywood glamour.
Melissa chose an Elysee A-line design dress with an extended train. The standout feature was the daring high split in the front, a unique customization that Melissa was unwavering about. She spent the entire day with the tailor, ensuring every detail met her specifications, resulting in a stunning, modern bride. As a second look, she opted for a short, glamorous dress by Nadine Merabi, perfect for adding a hint of fun and ideal for dancing the night away.
Both ensembles were impeccably paired with exquisite heels by Rene Caovilla. However, to dance the night away without missing a beat, she had custom-made white Nike Airs ready to go. Melissa’s attention to detail and dedication to creating the perfect bridal look truly made her shine on her special day.
Dion, adorned in a matching linen suit in taupe hues with his young son, epitomized understated charm, ideal for a summer ceremony. The suit’s tailored fit accentuated his silhouette, while the soft, breathable fabric ensured comfort throughout the day’s festivities.
A crisp white shirt personalized with his initials added bespoke sophistication to his ensemble. The groom opted for light suede loafers, which relaxed yet polished his look. Sporting fancy Louis Vuitton glasses, he added a dash of luxury and modern flair to his overall look.
In line with the wedding’s chic black-and-white theme, the bridesmaids wore graceful, floor-length black dresses. They looked stunning, carrying white bouquets for contrast and elegance. The groomsmen matched in sleek all-black suits. Together, their attire perfectly embodied the elegant refinement of the theme.
The wedding ceremony took place outside, surrounded by natural beauty. The aisle was lined with seas of delicate baby’s breath, creating a serene atmosphere. A stunning floral arch made entirely of the same flowers stood at the end of the aisle. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of blooms and the promise of a beautiful ceremony.
The venue was set for the ceremony, and the weather couldn’t have been more perfect. Dion stood at the altar, eagerly anticipating exchanging vows with his beloved. He was filled with joy and anticipation for the lifetime of love and happiness ahead with his soulmate.
Surrounded by their closest friends and family, Melissa and Dion exchanged heartfelt vows beneath the clear blue sky, sealing their commitment to each other. It was a moment of pure bliss as they embarked on this journey together, supported by the warmth and love of those closest to them.
After the ceremony, Melissa and Dion had a precious moment to themselves, basking in the joy of becoming husband and wife. Talented photographer Elisabeth Van Lent skillfully captured these intimate moments, preserving them for eternity.
Maison Julie worked magic to bring Melissa and Dion’s vision to life, creating a stunning black-and-white dream. The dinner tables were adorned with elegant white florals, accentuated by black table cards and chairs, creating a striking contrast that exuded sophistication. The modern and elegant simplicity of the space provided the perfect backdrop for the decor, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere for Melissa and Dion’s special day.
Even the famous stairs in the hall of Hove van Herpelgem, where the reception took place, were adorned with delicate white florals, adding a touch of soft romance to the venue.
The pinnacle of the evening commenced with a magnificent champagne tower at the outset of the celebration, marking the beginning of an enjoyable night.
For their first dance, the lovebirds chose an upbeat song that perfectly reflected their vibrant personalities and zest for life. Embracing each other on the dance floor, they moved to the music rhythm joyfully.
Melissa and Dion’s evening was filled with laughter and joy, surrounded by their closest friends and family. They had party glasses with their names prepared in advance to make the celebration even more special. As the night went on, guests put on these glasses, raising a toast to the newlyweds and joining in the festivities with enthusiasm and love.
PHOTOGRAPHER Elisabeth Van Lent | WEDDING PLANNER Studio Lia | FLORALS Maison Julie | VENUE Hove Van Herpelgem | GOWNS Élysée, Koonings, Nadine Merabi | BRIDE’S SHOES Rene Caovilla, Nike | MUAH Make-up by Lena, Beautique Chez Anouk | NAILS Diala Yacoub | SUIT Herenmode De Waele | GROOM’S SHOES Brunello Cucinelli | RINGS Jade Schallenberg, Johan Kegels | STATIONARY Touch of Gold | CELEBRANT Merveil | CATERING Van Wonterghem | MACARONS Gautier Antwerp | SOUND Grizzly Sound | RENTALS Picobello
