This "Game of Thrones" Wedding Reception Will Transport You to Westeros

As we wait with bated breath for Game of Thrones' last season to grace our TV screens, we’re convinced its legacy will live on through the hearts of every fan willing to live and relive the stories of the Seven Kingdoms. Such fans include newlyweds Darren and Lucky Weidmann, who celebrated their once in a lifetime nuptials by recreating George R.R. Martin’s gripping fantasy world.

Both avid followers of the show (after Darren finally convinced his then-girlfriend to give the series a chance), the decision to hold a Game of Thrones-themed wedding came easy. In fact, even their engagement shoot in Batanes was reminiscent of Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen.

And for the big day itself? Naturally, they also chose to walk down the aisle in GoT-inspired outfits. The bride wore a floor-length lace cape over her gown and a tiara to adorn her blonde locks, recreating the signature look of the series' well-loved Mother of Dragons. “Every girl’s dream is to be a princess, but being a queen is mine. That's why I [opted to become] the ‘Khaleesi Bride,’” Lucky tells Preview.

Now, how exactly do you bring to life the entirety of Westeros and at the same time contain all its medieval magic in a single reception venue? Well, the couple turned to events stylist Dave Sandoval, who helped them achieve their dream wedding theme. “I asked Dave if he watches Game of Thrones. If [he doesn't], I prepared a USB with the copy of all the seasons,” Lucky reveals. “I asked him to provide the Iron Throne and the banners of each houses. We discussed with Dave each and every detail, and we’re so glad that he was very accommodating. He enhanced each idea that we gave.”

Turns out, Dave himself isn’t particularly a huge fan of the show, but he made sure to catch up on the series just for this momentous occasion. He made sure that every inch and corner of the Filinvest Tent perfectly resembled the riveting fictional world of GoT.

In an exclusive interview with Preview below, find out the specifics of how Dave turned the reception venue into a splitting image of Westeros.

What kind of theme requests for weddings/receptions do you get the most? Do you receive a lot of filmic ones like this?

"It's mostly classic, elegant, romantic style weddings. I do get also inquiries [from couples requesting for] a specific theme, but I always make sure to translate it in a classy and timeless layout."

Which themes or elements from the show did you take as inspiration for the design of the reception?

"Basically, I used the theme of ice and fire, Kings Landing, and the four major houses in GoT: Lannister, Targaryan, Baratheon, and Stark. I divided the area into three color-coded parts: white (ice - I even put a white tree inside the tent to give the icy look); red (fire); and the Presidential table as Kings Landing. The cocktail area bears the Lannister color in a medieval market set-up."

Can you describe the overall look that you crafted for the reception?

"It was very medieval with a touch of fairytale—a contemporary way of bringing into life the Game of Thrones series. Royalty but still thematic. This once in a lifetime Game of Thrones-inspired wedding is like being transported in time to see a real-life depiction of Winterfell or [Kings Landing]. This medieval-inspired wedding style was brought to life by the ideas of the bride and thegroom. Never has a wedding reception been beautifully depicted with utmost attention to detail. Every element of this wedding was carefully added to create an atmosphere of royalty."

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Did you encounter any difficulties while styling the reception?

"Logistics and coordination, [because] I work with a lot of people and also I have a lot of deadlines to accomplish."

What advice would you give to a bride who's still in search of the perfect look/theme for her wedding?

 "Choose the theme that reflects your personality and what makes you happy. You don’t need to go with the trend."

What's one design/styling philosophy that you always follow when it comes to your work?

"Dave Sandoval delivers timeless, classic, and elegant styling from conceptualization to implementation."

How can other prospective clients contact you if they're interested in working with you for their own events?

"My contact info is posted on my social media account: @eventstylistdave on Instagram. They can visit my company website, eventstylistdave.com."