I had the absolute honor of photographing a wedding that felt like it came straight out of a dark fairytale — a gothic ceremony with powerful Viking vibes, held at the absolutely enchanting Hotel Štamberk. Nestled deep in the Czech countryside, this place already carries a sense of ancient mystery, but when you add custom black decor, Viking runes, candlelight, and two people madly in love… it becomes something unforgettable. I still can’t fully wrap my head around how magical the day was, and I honestly feel so damn lucky to have been part of it.
My friends got marrieeeeed!
And it was epic as f*ck!
From the moment Niki and Kryštof started talking about their wedding plans, I knew this was going to be something special. They’re not the kind of couple who would go for cookie-cutter anything — and their wedding was a full reflection of that. It wasn’t about pleasing expectations or doing things “the right way.” It was about heart, authenticity, and creating something that felt true to them.
They didn’t follow trends. They didn’t ask for opinions. They followed instinct — and each other. Every decision, from the venue to the vows, was driven by love and intention, not Pinterest boards or traditions. And you could feel that in every moment. This wasn’t just a wedding day; it was a living, breathing expression of who they are — individually and together.
Everything — from the color palette (black, deep reds, metallics) to the music (folk metal, obviously) — was chosen with intention. The ceremony wasn’t just beautiful; it was powerful. Every word of their vows felt like it echoed through the woods. You could feel the weight of their promises. People were crying, I was crying behind the camera — it was real, raw emotion.
A celebration that was soooo them
You know those weddings where you can tell the couple just poured their souls into every little detail? This was one of those. The moment I stepped into the ceremony space at Hotel Štamberk, it was like walking into another world. Antlers and bones mixed with dark florals. Candles everywhere. Handmade rune stones on each table. Even the cake had Nordic symbols carved into it — and was, of course, cut with a sword. Niki wore a custom black gown that looked like something out of a gothic legend — flowing sleeves, intricate lace, and the kind of presence that made everyone stop and stare. Kryštof matched her energy perfectly with a tailored look that brought Viking edge with modern class. Honestly, they both looked like characters from a saga you’d want to read over and over. The guests totally leaned in, too. Outfits, accessories, vibes — everyone looked like they stepped into a dark fantasy, and yet it all felt so warm and joyful at the same time. That contrast? That’s what made it so damn cool.
When the sun went down, the energy went up
As the day shifted into night, the celebration only got better. After dinner, the energy slowly started to build. You could feel it — that electric buzz that says something amazing is about to happen. First came the speeches (yes, more tears). Then came the games and laughter, drinks flowing, hugs everywhere. And then… the dance floor exploded. Barefoot dancing, hair flying, everyone losing themselves in the music. It was sweaty, wild, and absolutely perfect. And just when I thought the night couldn’t get more iconic — someone jumped in the pool. Clothes on. No regrets. That was it. A full splash into midnight madness, and everyone followed. It was pure, unfiltered joy. I was just standing there, soaked from laughter (and later, from the water), snapping photos and thinking, this is the kind of wedding people talk about for years.
Venue: HOTEL ŠTAMBERK | First dress: IVORY DREAM BRIDAL | Second dress: KILLSTAR | Headband: HAIR CHAPTER | Bride’s hair: PAALMIČKA | Bride’s nails: NAIL LOUNGE | Groom’s barber: JAROSLAV VACHATA | First shoes: KILLSTAR | Second shoes: CONVERSE | Rings: KREDUM | Flowers: ADÉL VESELÁ | Suit: MAHDALL | Viking fur: VIKING HORN FORGE | Sweet bar: NEBESKÉ DORTÍČKY | Cake: BCAKE | DJ: DJ KOBE | Raffle gifts: DARK CRAFTS
