I first met David on an afternoon ten years ago, for a project we were supposed to work on together. He is the founder of David Kimmel Design, an award-winning floral design studio that has become one of the best-known creative names in Dallas–Fort Worth. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside him on countless projects across Europe and the United States.
I’ve always admired his humility and his humor, but even more his drive to create floral designs that are truly distinctive and perfectly in tune with what his clients dream of. Every event we’ve worked on together has given me the chance to capture truly iconic images.
So when David asked me to photograph the two days of celebrations for his wedding to Brody, my answer was an immediate yes.
A Texas Party in the Loire Valley
This first evening, a Texas-themed party in late July at Château Challain in France’s Loire Valley, was different from my usual assignments. I was surrounded by the château team, friends I’ve known for years and collaborate with on many projects every season. That gave me a different perspective: I let myself focus on the fun and on the details that made this party one of a kind.
Capper, David and Brody’s Dalmatian, completely stole the show. He even hit the dance floor, which says everything about the love that binds the three members of this family.
The hot air balloon gave every guest the chance to see the château and the surrounding countryside from above. It also became the backdrop for some of the most striking images of the night, a few of which I think will stay in my portfolio for quite a while.
Fun, music, friends and plenty of drinks: the perfect warm-up for the next day, the more formal one, when David and Brody would say “I do.”
A huge thank-you to Jordan Payne Events for planning and producing every detail of this unforgettable celebration, to Vic Rivero Films for the videography, to Chef Max Braud for the incredible food, and to the amazing staff at Château Challain, friends I’m always happy to share these moments with.
