Autumn in Japan Wedding Editorial with Ruby Jane Events by Kiana Bates Photo as seen in Utah Valley Bride.

This project is very near and dear to my heart. For years I have been wanting to design a bridal shoot centered around my Japanese heritage. Thanks to Julie at Ruby Jane Events, it came together more beautifully than I could have dreamed!

In Japan, the spring cherry blossom festival takes center stage when it comes to tourism and attractions. After living there for a year and a half, I realized that the spring festivals are stunning, but fall is equally, if not more, gorgeous. The leaves turn and the trees glow in the evening light. The air is crisp and cool, but you can still feel the warmth of the sun on your skin. There is something about putting on an overcoat and wrapping yourself in a scarf, and taking a stroll under the falling leaves of autumn in Japan.

This is what I wanted the feeling to be like with this shoot. The romance of fall mixed with the beauties of Japan. My Baachan, my grandma, volunteered her personal belongings for us to include in the details, which made it all the more special. Her fan, her shoes, her hand folded paper cranes, brought the personal touch and heart into the shoot.

Lin Floral Co caught the vision with the beautiful florals. In an ode to traditional Japanese ikebana arranging practices, she made the center piece for the table. Japanese anemone were spread throughout all of the arrangements, and the leafy arch was foraged from our beautiful Utah mountains. I love how soft and wispy it came out to be.

The dress was designed with ALP Bridal, a custom designer in the valley. We wanted something romantic and dreamy, that also included a big bow on the back. The bow’s sash acted as a mock train which was fun and new.

All of the vendors came together to create this wonderful, personal shoot. I hope you can feel the heart through the images that each person contributed!

Enjoy.