Elopement with Sculptural Florals and Vintage Bridal Style in Sofia, Bulgaria

There are cities that demand attention—and others that whisper their beauty. Sofia, Bulgaria is the latter. This elopement, recently featured on The Anti-Bride, unfolded like a film: slow, layered, and rich in contrast.

Svilena, the bride, wore only vintage—collected, curated, and worn with intention. A delicate veil framed her silhouette, adding a romantic softness to her otherwise minimal, sculptural look. Her shoes—a pair of handmade, architectural heels from Barcelona—stood out as a true statement. More than fashion, they were philosophy: thoughtful design over excess, craftsmanship over noise.

The city itself responded. As we moved through the streets of Sofia, the energy shifted. Locals noticed. Adrian, the groom, was stopped constantly—offered wedding advice by strangers with decades of their own stories. An old man near the market whispered something about patience. An elderly woman gave him a shy smile and a blessing. Each interaction felt sacred, unscripted. The city became part of the ceremony.

Inside Hotel Juno, mood and design collided. The space held deep black walls, soft light, and a kind of cinematic quiet. In the center, a sculptural flower piece by Nea floral shop rose like a living installation—bold, asymmetrical, intentionally imperfect. Mirrored pedestals created layers and distortion, playing with reflection and memory. It wasn’t just beautiful. It was honest. Raw. A setting made for stories, not poses.

Everything was captured on medium format film and some 35mm, my chosen medium for both weddings and editorial work. Film slows things down. It asks you to observe, not just capture. The grain, the blur, the imperfections—they’re part of the truth.

This wasn’t a traditional wedding. It was a mood. A narrative. A love story written in vintage textures, lived-in spaces, and real city breath. Perfect for couples who value timelessness, intentional fashion, and analog artistry.

Photography: Radostina Boseva
Concept, Design and Florals: Nea Flower Shop @nea.floral.design
Menswear: Canali Bulgaria 
Dress: Gossamer 
Skirt: Ephemerl
Bodice: Fleur du Mal
Heels: Merrfer Barcelona
HMUA: Marina Mladenova
Cake: Tsukernia Savenko 
Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab 
Calligraphy: Elizaveta Dyulgerova
Venue: Juno Hotel Sofia
Models: Svilena Adrian

Thinking of a modern elopement in Sofia or planning a destination wedding in Europe?
Let’s turn it into art—told on film, with soul. Get in touch here