What is it about the juxaposition of the old and the new that's just so darn appealing? Something aged, frayed, worn, torn or historic paired with a pop of modernity or color tugs on our very design-loving heartstrings like no other. That being said, we were lucky enough to sit down with the delightful Roula Theodory from Cherry on Top Events to discuss this very topic! She planned one of the dreamiest designed weddings at rose-quartz colored castle, complete with indoor greenhouse called Castell de Sant Marcal, just 20 minutes from beautiful Barcelona. Photographers, A Fist Full of Bolts, captured this event to absolute perfection.
The results are a mix of surprising and stunning. Integrating elements of the castle's surroudings, like an abundance of sage as both favors and table runners as well as modern touches like a rock band and a VW bus photo booth make for unexpected design surprises in a special, historical setting.
We love the design aesthetic behind your company, Cherry on Top. As designers, can you tell us a little bit about the venue in general.
Castell de Sant Marcal has been owned by the Marquis of Cerdanyola for the last 700 years and dates back to 1225. It is located just outside Barcelona, about a 20 minutes drive. The indoor greenhouse can seat up to 450 people for a banquet style dinner, the terrace / moat area can seat 600 and the garden around the fountain can seat 500.
Tell us a about this stunning event!
It was a wedding for 300 guests that flew in from around the world but mostly from Dubai. A cocktail reception was held in the castle gardens around the fountain with Spanish tapas and cava. Guests then moved upstairs to the terrace area in front of the castle for an al fresco dinner under the trees.
Light bulbs lits up the area for a magical effect and guests dined on a 3 course dinner. Finally, guests moved into the glass house for the after party and snacked on mini burgers and churros served from a food truck.
Why did the couple choose this venue?
Proximity to Barcelona city centre, availability of an indoor and outdoor spaces, majestic gardens and a stunning castle backdrop - its regal but rustic and almost down to earth at the same time.
What do you think makes it a great venue in general?
It has all ingredients for a great venue - a large contemporary indoor space, a castle backdrop, beautiful stone staircases, a regal garden, an elegant fountain and a terrace area to dine under the trees.
Were there any areas you thought lighting was the best?
Lighting of the castle facade is very dramatic as is lighting on the stone staircase and fountain.
What made the venue a great backdrop and setting for photos?
It is a perfect mix of regal and grand but rundown and rustic with character and charm. There is a horse stable and lots of wild and lush greenery that create different backgrounds, the crenels of the castle wall are a great photo backdrop. In some parts of the property the walls are covered with thick vines and greenery for a magical backdrop.
What additional types of events do you think it's ideal for?
Rehearsal dinners, Weddings and High End Luxury Events
What was your favorite existing design element of the venue?
The staircase down to the gardens, the large fountain, the moat
Did you have any special drinks or eats in the surrounding area?
The venue is a little bit outside of Barcelona – some great places within Barcelona are Boca Grande / Botafumeiro - the paella is not to be missed
Credits
Venue: Castell de Sant Marcal | Production & Planning: Cherry on Top Event Planning | Photography:A Fist Full of Bolts
