I had the amazing opportunity to visit Europe this summer. My husband and I traveled through London, Amsterdam, Munich, Austria, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucerne and Paris in two weeks! Even with the early mornings and late nights, I soaked in the culture, the atmosphere, the booze, food and desserts, and the local interaction in every country. With every new restaurant, hotel, museum, historical site, or town I visited, I was inspired by the colors, architecture and materials. I came home with so many more ideas and can’t wait to implement them in my upcoming designs in some shape or form.
Munich, home of Oktoberfest, held true to its Bavarian ways. Oktoberfest dates back to October 1810, the wedding of Bavarian crown prince Ludwig to princess Therese from Saxony-Hildburghausen. The entire local community was invited to the wedding and because it was such a huge success the locals asked to celebrate each year. Imagine celebrating your anniversary with the entire world.
Gabriel and I did some shopping in Munich and found inspiration in store front displays. I truly enjoyed the butterfly piece on this traditional building. I’d love to recreate this as a backdrop to a ceremony, sweetheart table or dessert display. I love the color variety and movement in this piece. I also love the layering effect of Louis Vuitton’s store front. Stripes against stripes, I’m in love.
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If I had to pick just one city to return to I would choose Venice. I was really intrigued by the history of Carnival. Venetians would and still do attend celebrations and parties wearing magnificent masks to conceal their identity. I love the idea of Aristocrats and peasants playing out their fantasies together and somehow celebrating life and love as one human identity. If I can’t attend Carnival in Venice, I’ll recreate here.
Paris was oh so romantic! There was so much to see. I was so inspired by the city. Gabriel and I showed our commitment to one another by attaching a love padlock to the Pont des Arts bridge and throwing the key into the Seine River. How fun would this experience be recreated at a wedding as a sign in “book?” Couples could write their names on a padlock, attach it to the couples small bridge and toss the key into a nearby well or water feature. I think it would be a cute and creative experience for guests at a travel themed wedding.
Europe overall was inspiring to me. I’m so grateful for the opportunity and have a new appreciation for life. There is so much to see in this world! Travel with luxury train as much as you can. xoxo, Tara
