We have some super dreamy elopement inspo for you today! Alyssa and Michael headed out to the breathtaking Cappadocia in Turkey and tied the knot mid-air with a hot air balloon wedding! The free-spirited couple found this unique way to celebrate, combining their love of exploring with their desire to have a wedding that represents their personalities. Their elopement photographs by Leesha Williams are simply breathtaking! Keep reading for stunning views and magical inspiration.
Words by bride Alyssa Austin
Tips for Recreating this hot air balloon wedding
a Setting that resonates
This hot air balloon wedding was all about embracing who we are. For those wanting to try something similar, we would suggest choosing a setting that resonates with you.
Wedding wear to reflect your personality
There are so many alternative wedding wear options for those wanting to express themselves! It’s all about feeling like the best version of yourself.
Do what you can with what you have!
If couples happen to share our adventurous style, we would suggest a destination rich with culture, such as Marrakech or Morocco. However, achieving this look doesn't have to cost a fortune. You can set a similar scene in your backyard using an earth-tone colour palette with rich red and orange accents. You can even add some traditional Turkish elements such as a Turkish tea set or some embroidered throw cushions.
A Turkish hot air balloon wedding - a celebratory elopement shoot
My husband and I celebrated my official name change – I took his last name – during an intimate elopement styled shoot with alternative wedding photographer Leesha Williams. As I am an Asian American who grew up in a large Italian family and my husband is British, we wanted to express our individuality and chose attire that reflects our unique styles. Cappadocia is known for its remarkable landscape, sandstone dwellings, and unforgettable hot air balloon rides. As a couple that loves adventure, we took the opportunity to explore some lesser-known locations, watch a sunrise from a basket in the sky, and capture our love in a unique way.
Doing it our way
We were inspired by Turkish culture and the distinctive geological features of the Cappadocia region, along with our own individual ideas about what marriage means to us. We wanted the images to reflect each of our personalities, our love for each other, and our passion for adventure. Leesha encouraged us to wear clothing and to choose a setting that really spoke to who we are as a couple. Since my husband and I love learning about each other’s past and cultural history, we thought this mystical ancient town was the perfect place to celebrate the strengthening of our bond.
Embracing individuality on your wedding day
Photographer, Leesha, was an integral part of the shoot as she helped shape our vision and made us feel comfortable being our authentic selves. Similarly, Lisa Lyons Bridal helped me choose a unique wedding dress that reflects my personality. I told her that I was looking for something relaxed and lightweight so that I would be able to ‘get my hands dirty’ while shooting in Cappadocia. Lisa came up with a stunning wedding dress that met all of my requirements and had just the right amount of detail. Likewise, Jessica from Suave Owl provided my husband with a tweed suit to reflect his vintage British style.
Even in the smallest details of our hot air balloon wedding, we were able to express our individual style. I chose to wear a gold necklace from For Peaches & Love and hair accessories from Peaches Bridal.
elements of turkish culture
We wanted to inject the elopement with elements of Turkish culture so, for rentals, we worked with a business local to Cappadocia. Caravanserai Inn provided the traditional Turkish rug and colourful cushions. In addition, we were able to shoot on their beautiful roof terrace. Eimear from Perch and Plume Designs provided the invitation suite with accents in ‘Turkish blue’, a colour commonly used in ancient Turkey as it represented the Aegean Sea.
You might also love: How To Elope For Your Wedding In Style
the suppliers involved in this hot air balloon wedding
Photographer: Leesha Williams Photography
Couple: Alyssa Austin and Michael Austin
Wedding Dress: Lisa Lyons Bridal
Groomswear: Suave Owl
Accessories: Aly from For Peaches & Love & Peaches Bridal
Venue & Prop Hire: Serdar from Caravanserai Inn
Stationery: Eimear from Perch and Plume Designs
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