Styled Shoot

get down tonight. a 1970s disco wedding inspired styled shoot in manchester

Rachel Hirst

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (38)

It might only be Monday but we have something that’s going to get you well and truly in the mood for a party! This

ultra-glam

Studio 54 disco wedding styled shoot, courtesy of Caroline from Words To Glow Light Up Letters & Venue Décor.

Caroline came up with the cool concept for the shoot whilst exhibiting at The Deaf Institute in the heart of Manchester’s city centre, and got some fabulous North West suppliers on board to bring her hip vision to fruition.

So join us as we enter this Boogie Wonderland, filled vibrant lights, retro décor and shiny disco balls!

With images by McAvoy Photography.

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (33)

caroline says:

The shoot was entitled ‘Studio 54’ and was a Studio 54 1970s disco inspired concept, taking inspiration from the 1970s/80s style decor and musical roots of the shoot location: The Deaf Institute, which can be hired for weddings.

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (28)

I fell in love with the quirky decor and retro vibe of the venue whilst exhibiting at a wedding fair there and quickly saw the fabulous potential to create a styled shoot showcasing some great locally based wedding suppliers; whilst simultaneously highlighting the key retro focal points of this great city centre venue.

The overall look and aim was ultra-1970s glam, based on dance clubs of that era. Locating the shoot in the city’s Deaf Institute instantly provided the edgy, yet retro look we were looking to achieve. With theatrical style seating and balconies and individual booths tucked into the recesses of each room, the venue had an undeniable ‘dance club’ feel. Adding in the parquet dance floor, huge glitter balls, vintage wallpaper and a retro bar, featuring wall mounted vintage stereo speakers, and the scene was set for a disco!

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (25)

Understanding the overall look for the shoot, it was important to choose not only well respected North West wedding suppliers with complimentary styles, but those who had a previous history of professional collaborations to ensure a smooth and seamless feel to the whole day.

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (8)

With models handpicked by Nicole from Bridal Chic in the City and the theme agreed, the shoot was organised by Jenny from McAvoy Photography, who was key in leading the coordination of the chosen suppliers on the day and was responsible for determining an all-important photo shoot schedule and brief to work towards for all suppliers.

Jenny, who is based in North Manchester, seamlessly offers a unique blend of ultra-glamorous, fashion inspired photography; whilst expertly capturing what are undeniably beautiful and emotive images as they happen – making her the perfect lady for the shoot.

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (32)

Adding to its already cool interior, we decorated the venue with accents of gold and white, with large feather plumage in dramatic table centre vases, sparkly glitter balls, candles and large sparkly light up letters, to set the disco themed scene.

The ornate cakes were provided by Caroline’s Cake Company, based in South Manchester, who offer a bespoke cake design service and specialise in beautiful and unique celebration cakes that taste as good as they look.

The light up letters came from my business, Words To Glow Light Up Letters & Venue Décor. We have a vast range of beautiful light up letters, numbers and signage to hire, including options such as ‘DANCE’ letters seen in the shoot, as well as ‘PARTY’, ‘MR&MRS’ and ‘LOVE’, plus initials and ampersands (&), bringing that added sparkle to the dance floor!

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (29)

The theme took further inspiration from style icons of the era, such as Bianca Jagger and Farah Fawcett. This equalled big hair, smoky eye makeup with bold red lipsticks, floaty fabrics with sequins or satins in colours of cream, gold and chocolate brown, brown fur stoles and lace capes, as well as big sunglasses.

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (39)

Dresses were provided by Isla Jean Bridal from their lovely two-storey shop in the north of Manchester, which stocks the likes of Aire by Barcelona, Belle and Bunty, Cymbeline, Cabotine, Eliza Jane Howell, Maria Senvo, Stephanie Allin and Lou Lou.

The gorgeous gowns were complemented by gorgeous accessories from Dream Veils, who have been designing and making wedding veils for more than 20 years, footwear from the fabulous Charlotte Mills Shoes and additional accessories from Jo Barnes Couture, who creates hand crafted and bespoke vintage headdresses and accessories.

Studio 54 Wedding Shoot by McAvoy Photography (35)

Our models Tanya and Sam, had their made up done by Lorna Elizabeth, who trained at Manchester’s prestigious School of Make Up and has a genuine love and passion for the industry. She offers a specialist freelance make-up service for any event, from bridal and special occasions to make-up parties, fashion shows and tutorials.

Completing the team was Verdure Floral Design, a highly respected and award winning floral design team based in North Manchester, who created all the fabulous flower arrangements.

the big picture

join the northern revolution

Would you like to see your real wedding, love story, styled shoot, forthcoming event or wedding business featured on Loved Up North? Contact Loved Up North for real wedding and features submissions or details of our sponsorship packages.

Contact us to be featured on Loved Up North