Tomorrow is Independence Day here in the United States, and I thought it would be the perfect time to share this wonderful editorial shoot. Photographed and styled by Green Pearl Photography, it was inspired by one of America’s Founding Fathers, Alexander Hamilton, and Hamilton, the Broadway musical sensation about his life.
Arriving as a poor immigrant in the United States when he was just a teenager, Hamilton went on to help shape a country. The musical traces his rise (and tragic fall) but at its heart is a love story: Alexander’s complicated relationship with Elizabeth Schuyler.
The photoshoot imagines their nuptials, and fans of the play will note the way the shoot ingeniously weaves song lyrics and other references from the musical into its design. A ceremony sign points the way to “The Room Where it Happens," the calligraphed vows are excerpts from one of Eliza and Alexander’s love songs, a stamped teaspoon proclaims guests as “Young, Scrappy, and Hungry”, while place cards at the reception include “Angelica, Eliza…and Peggy!” Even Common Sense by Thomas Paine makes an appearance, and the models also reflect the diverse casting of the musical.
Eliza and her sisters are dressed in the same iconic colors as the costumes from the production: a pastel blue Hayley Paige gown for the bride, with pink and yellow dresses for Angelica and Peggy. The accessory designs are a nod to the fashions of the Revolutionary Era. For Eliza, I selected the Victorine earrings and a matching sash, both of which feature intricate lace motifs (reminiscent of metal filigree) and dramatic crystals that act as a stand-in for the square-cut diamonds favored during the time period. Choker necklaces were also all the rage during the 18th Century, and Peggy can be seen wearing one throughout the shoot.
The opulent Luxmore Grand Estate provided a backdrop evocative of a Colonial mansion, while authentic Federal-style antiques and table settings, as well as lush red, white, and blue floral designs, capture the elegance and exuberance of this period in American history.
You can read more about this spectacular shoot on Wedding Wire, PopSugar, Glamour & Grace, and Chic Vintage Brides.