Anastasia and Alexander’s wedding in the heart of St. Petersburg was a masterclass in creative expression and timeless elegance, filled with unique details that broke away from the ordinary — from a cake made entirely of radishes to bold runway-inspired performances. This was not just a wedding — it was a work of art. Captured by the talented Fedor Borodin, every moment radiated originality and high-fashion energy, ensuring nothing felt basic, and every element delivered a wow factor.
Location: St. Petersburg, Russia
Style: Renaissance-inspired, Glamorous
Time of planning: 17 months
Number of guests: 33
Setting: Palace
Anastasia and Alexander’s love story is one for the ages. They have been together for over 20 years, raising two children and building a true family. Anastasia was 13, and Alexander was 16 when they met during idyllic summer days in the countryside. Their first meeting holds different memories — a pond for her, a forest clearing for him — but their connection is undeniable.
During a holiday shopping trip before New Year’s, Anastasia admired a diamond ring in a jewelry store. Later that night, Alexander surprised her by slipping a ring with a large tanzanite and diamond hearts onto her finger. As they lay in bed, he asked her to marry him. This spontaneous and heartfelt gesture marked the start of their unforgettable wedding journey.
Inspiration
The couple’s choice of Belvedere Palace set the stage for a wedding that felt more like a modern art installation than a traditional event. They envisioned a Renaissance-inspired affair that symbolized the rebirth of their relationship. Pink garden flowers, luxurious lace, and organza reflected their bold vision.
Every detail, from the Simone Rocha-inspired aesthetics to the creative performances, spoke of their artistic sensibilities. This remarkable vision was brought to life with the expert planning and creative input of Dlya Dvoikh and DD Club, whose innovative approach helped shape and execute the couple’s unique concept flawlessly.
Couple’s Signature Style
Anastasia’s fashion choices were a stunning fusion of classic elegance and avant-garde style. Her custom-made dress from Tatyana Kochnova Atelier, paired with a striking feather hat and Bottega Veneta slingbacks, exuded sophistication. She carried a breathtaking bouquet of cream-colored roses adorned with cascading ribbons in shades of white, beige, and soft taupe, creating an ethereal, flowing effect that perfectly matched her style.
Inspired by Givenchy’s 1997 collection and Greek mythology, her second look featured custom-modified golden mules and glove-like jewelry. Her makeup and hair, by Lera Make Up, highlighted her natural beauty with a sophisticated touch. Anastasia felt incredibly beautiful and fashion-forward, embodying both tradition and modernity.
The groom’s look was equally unique. Alexander’s custom milk-colored three-piece suit, blending formal silk and casual fabrics with a tank top. In addition to her wedding dresses, Anastasia had a bold outfit for the morning preparations at the Belmond Hotel, in a historic room where Pavarotti once stayed.
"I had always wanted to wear a lace skirt or pants with lingerie and a leather jacket but never dared to walk around like that. The wedding gave me the perfect opportunity!"
First Look
The first look, captured brilliantly by Fedor Borodin, was a moment of pure artistry. His lens transformed the couple’s emotions into a visual narrative that felt like high fashion come to life. Every frame was precise, stylish, and vibrant, reflecting the couple’s modern love story against a backdrop of historic grandeur.
"When a group of stylish, elegant professionals walked into our room in the morning, I silently rejoiced. It felt reassuring and joyous knowing we were in the hands of true creatives who shared our vision."
Ceremony
The ceremony took place in the picturesque surroundings of Belvedere Palace. Anastasia and Alexander wanted an authentic exchange of vows under the open sky, capturing the genuine emotions of the moment. The setting was perfect, with confetti cannons and cryo-jets adding a magical touch to their vows.
Inspired by a Saint Laurent show they had admired, the wedding featured a grand spectacle with shimmering confetti and pink smoke. Anastasia drew inspiration from a video of a building illuminated by the same magical combination. She thought it would be amazing to recreate this effect instead of traditional fireworks. The result was a breathtaking moment that delighted the couple and left their guests in awe.
The couple felt ecstatic and deeply connected as they became husband and wife. Their non-traditional approach, focusing on personal connection and heartfelt vows, left a lasting impression on their guests, who were moved by the sincerity and beauty of the ceremony.
Private Moment
A private moment walking through the palace colonnades allowed the couple to savor their day together, lost in each other’s presence. While guests enjoyed the chic open-air lounge with elegant pink decor, the couple explored the venue and captured stunning photos.
Anastasia elevated her look with a bold eye makeup upgrade, adding pearl accents that highlighted her avant-garde style and made every shot even more striking.
Reception & Party
The reception was held in a tent near the palace, adorned with meticulously chosen garden flowers and unique decorations. The evening featured live music, heartfelt toasts, and a unique cake made of radishes, symbolizing their playful and creative spirit.
Their first dance to Rufus Wainwright’s “Hallelujah” held special meaning, evoking memories of a romantic moment during one of their trips. The program was filled with surprises and performances, including the signature “Anna Pavlova” cocktails that added a special touch to the evening.
One standout moment was Anastasia’s performance inspired by (Di)vision fashion shows, where the model’s long dress train pulls down glasses as it moves. As Anastasia’s train swept the table, guests humorously shouted, “Stop Anastasia! She’s dragging the tablecloth!”
Anastasia and Alexander’s wedding was not just a celebration but an immersive artistic experience flawlessly captured by Fedor Borodin, ensuring their day will be remembered as a timeless masterpiece.
Advice from the couple:
• Choose your wedding location with your heart and believe that the perfect place will find you. Never settle for less and always follow your vision of beauty and desire.
• Pick wedding planners who understand your vision and can communicate without words, forming a team where nothing is impossible. Surround yourself with people you trust, who make you feel comfortable both literally and figuratively.
• On your wedding day, celebrate life! Relax, be yourself, and truly enjoy every moment. Feel like a queen and relish the experience. Ask not to be rushed, and savor every second of the day. It’s a fleeting moment, like confetti from a popper. One burst, a cloud of smoke, and then it’s all cleaned up as if it never happened.
• And last but not least – finding the right photo and video team is crucial. When you have professionals who align with your style and understand your vision, it makes all the difference. Their presence should feel natural, allowing you to be yourself while they capture every precious moment.
PHOTOGRAPHER Fedor Borodin | PLANNER & CONCEPT Dlya Dvoikh, DD Club | VIDEO MVI Video | MUAH Lera Make Up | DRESS Tatyana Kochnova Bridal | HOST Mikhail Belyanin | LINE-UP The Sabotage, DJ Iliya Bachurin, Alisa Shavrova | PERFORMANCE DIRECTOR Olga Ryzhankova | DECOR Julia Berezhnykh | TECH Dan Maneshin | CATERING Salone Pasta Bar | BRIDE Anastasia On Pro Fashion
