Event Designer Kristin Shockley on Maximalist Wedding Decor and Industry Trends
From lush botanical arrangements to jeweled accents and artistic sculptures nestled within floral centerpieces, Kristin Shockley’s maximalist aesthetic has consistently captivated, remaining a prominent force in wedding décor despite minimalist trends.
“With the evolution of weddings and the significant impact of social media over the last decade, couples are placing greater emphasis on décor than ever before,” notes Shockley, founder of Lustre Theory, a Norfolk, Virginia-based event styling and design firm. Shockley, with a background of 15 years in marketing and graphic design, established her company at age 40.
Beyond collaborating with engaged couples, offering services starting at $10,000, Shockley’s expertise extends to styling photoshoots, events, and runway presentations for distinguished bridal fashion houses such as Monique Lhuillier, Anne Barge, and Rami Al Ali, as well as tabletop brands like Maison de Carine and Herend.
A Glimpse into the Creative Process
Ms. Shockley shared insights into her creative methodology. The following interview has been edited for brevity.
Event Design vs. Event Planning: Defining Roles
How does your role as an event designer differ from an event planner, and how do you collaborate?
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Event planners oversee the entire event, while my concentration is intensely focused on the design. I act as the creative director, guiding all visual aspects of the wedding. This includes designing table arrangements, sourcing distinctive decorative elements, managing custom-built details, and orchestrating lighting to harmonize with the venue’s atmosphere.
Signature Style: Romanticism with a Modern Edge
What defines your signature style?
I am recognized for my art-inspired, still-life table designs and my ability to fuse a classic, romantic sensibility with contemporary touches. Couples attracted to my work often express an affinity for the dreamy, lavish romanticism of the décor. They appreciate my approach to blending colors, patterns, and design components in unexpected and innovative ways.
Pushing Creative Boundaries in Wedding Decor
The wedding industry often sees a repetition of ideas. Trends resurface, and many couples draw inspiration from images that have circulated online for some time. My role is to take familiar concepts and innovate, guiding couples to evolve these ideas into something uniquely personal and forward-thinking.
Sources of Inspiration: Beyond the Wedding World
Where do you find your inspiration?
I consistently seek inspiration outside of the wedding industry. Runway fashion shows, interior design trends, the natural world, and immersive literature all serve as influences. Art, in its broad spectrum—from photography to fine art like Dutch still-life paintings—profoundly shapes my perspective. This artistic lens led to my incorporation of food elements within décor.
Increased Demand: A Turning Point
When did you first observe a significant rise in demand for your design services?
The increase became noticeable in early 2021. In late 2020, I was commissioned for a wedding branding photoshoot at Dover Hall estate in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia. The imagery garnered considerable attention within the bridal sector. Naeem Khan, whose wedding dresses were featured on the models, repeatedly shared the images across their social media channels.
Venue Selection: Aligning Style and Vision
What advice do you offer couples when deciding on their wedding décor?
When selecting a venue, ensure its inherent aesthetic aligns with your desired event style. Consider the venue’s colors, patterns, and overall ambiance. Does it complement your design vision? Frequently, couples aspire to a specific décor style or color palette but choose a venue that clashes, leading to a forced and incongruous aesthetic.
Evolution of Wedding Decor: Increased Variety
How has wedding décor changed since you began your career in event design?
The availability of rental and décor options has expanded significantly. Major metropolitan areas such as Washington, D.C., and New York offer a broader array of unique choices and vendor partnerships. Overall, the pool of available vendors has grown substantially. My constant pursuit is to craft truly unique designs, often achieved by utilizing novel elements or employing familiar items in unconventional ways.
Trending Wedding Decor Styles: Fabric and Texture
Which wedding décor styles are currently trending?
I appreciate the current emphasis on distinctive linens and fabric treatments, including draping, pinning, and ruching—techniques I’ve integrated into my designs for years. Couples are now experimenting with bunched, wrinkled, and textured fabrics on tables, backdrops, and throughout reception spaces. I anticipate this trend will continue to gain momentum.
Destination Wedding Styling: Popular and Emerging Locations
Do you design destination weddings? Which locations are currently popular, and are there any emerging destinations you foresee becoming more sought after?
Yes, I undertake destination events. Italy has become increasingly favored, particularly Lake Como, due to its prestigious villa venues. I also foresee Croatia’s coastal region rising in popularity. It shares similarities with parts of Italy, yet wedding costs can be more accessible compared to other fashionable European destinations.