Video and Article: How to create a Secret Garden wedding

If you've seen the gorgeous Secret Garden spread in Real Weddings Winter 2010, you've no doubt been inspired.... but how do you get the look? Here are a few simple tips.

Go Vintage

Many of the pieces we used in this shoot were found in vintage stores, op shops and at market stalls. Just like in a secret garden, many of the real treasures will be hidden - at the back of the shop, or hidden under other pieces - so don't be afraid to have a gentle rummage around, or ask for assistance. And if you have a particular piece in mind, don't be afraid to ask!

Mismatched is Magic

Don't be fooled into thinking that everything has to match. The beauty of vintage finds is that they are often one-offs, and that's part of their charm! You'll see in the photos from the shoot that our stylists have mixed and matched pieces together, and it looks fantastic. If you still want an element of uniformity, you can always restrict the colour palette; for example, only choose pastel tones.

Make use of floral prints

For your bridesmaids' gowns, for tablecloths and napkins, for lamp covers, seat covers and for your stationery suite, beautiful soft floral motifs are the best way to capture the garden feel!

Create hidden treasures

There's nothing people love more than a surprise! For the photo shoot our stylists created several scenes - a hidden path lined with floral arrangements, beautiful birdcages with treasures inside hanging from the trees, and delicate tea cups containing sweet treats laid on stepping stones across a garden pond. Make time to walk the space you'll be using and try to visualise beautiful treats that you can reveal to your guests throughout the event. It is a secret garden after all - it should be full of surprises!

Add an element of decadence

A secret garden wouldn't be complete without some sweet treats! We created an afternoon tea party with cupcakes and macaroons, but you might decide to host a picnic, and pack hampers and champagne for your guests. Or have your ceremony in one part of the garden, then walk with your guests to a previously unseen area which is set up for a stylish dinner party by candlelight - your guests will be gasping in awe!

Create some whimsical activities

We found an vintage blue bicycle that guests could ride through the garden, then filled the basket with flowers and ribbons, but there are many other ideas - find and old badminton set and use a beautiful bush as the "net", pack small bottles with bubble bath so the children can blow bubbles through the garden, bring a skipping rope or even a vintage croquet set.