Hot Fun in the Summertime

This recent wedding of Mary Jospeh and John Swink at Coto de Caza Golf Club was beautifully captured by one of my favorite photographers, Michael Erdkemp of Memories by Michael. I have been working with Michael for many years and he never fails to amaze me with all the details he snaps of my floral creations!
Mary wanted bright "melon" colors to set off the fab coral toned bridesmaids dresses and kick off the start of summer. We chose dahlias, peonies, gloriosa lilies, roses, hypericum berries, anemones, Thai mokara orchids and amaranthus accents. As a surprise I created a floral chandelier which was hung over the grand head table!

This celebration was perfectly coordinated by Jill Watson of The Pampered Bride who we have also had the pleasure of working with for many years.

What's In A Name? Flowers!

Next time you need a fun idea to include into your wedding flower decor scheme consider using a monogram or initials to create a unique focal point of interest.

Wreaths that include an initial of your new last name or table runners with the first initial of the bride and groom's names are a great choice!

For an Asian or Zen themed wedding consider using the Chinese character "double happiness" hanging over your ceremony arch or attached to the front of your sweetheart table.

Using an initial or monogram on your aisle runner is a great way to personalize your ceremony.

It's A Nice Day For a White Wedding

This recent wedding, beautifully captured by Bleu Cotton Photography, features all white flowers accented with Tiffany blue ballroom up lights.

You can never go wrong when selecting all whites for your floral scheme. So many flower options are available all year that you won't have to worry about finding enough that's "in season" to make a statement. You may add any color accents to your invitations, table numbers, place cards, even bridesmaid dresses. If you are stuck with trying to choose between two accent colors you can use both. Such as red with turquoise accents or orange and green together..............the list goes on.

When in doubt go "White Wedding" it never goes out of style!!

Bejeweled Elegance

Want to add some drama and elegant sparkle to your wedding design and florals?

You can add alot of look for a little money by adding mercury glass, rhinestone trims, jewels and sparkle to your reception tables. I've been seeing lots of mercury glass and vases/candle holders with bling accents everywhere from the discount retail stores like Target and Walmart to close out stores and even thrift stores!

You can also buy inexpensive clear glass and add your own purchased bling doo-dads from your local craft stores.

Not every table has to be the same either. In fact it's a much more interesting look to include 2-3 table centerpiece styles to your overall reception design.

Please make sure to check your venue's policy on candles and shine on...........!

Trends for 2009 and Beyond

PURPLE POWER!! Every thing's coming up purples................
So many of my clients are choosing a purple palette for their upcoming weddings.
The palette ranges from true purples to lilac, amethyst, magenta, violet with accent colors such as platinum, espresso browns and even deep burgundies for a modern jewel tone motif.

Purples and shades of green such as chartreuse, lime and kiwi have been popular for a couple of seasons and will continue. How about using green accents other than flowers such as cut kiwi fruits, pears or cut limes as an accent?? Gorgeous!!!

Speaking of GREEN.....................alot of press has come about lately about Green Weddings....not the color scheme but the use of green and sustainable elements in your wedding.

A few tips regarding the floral end of things.......organic flowers are more expensive and are not yet available in too many varieties but are a great choice along with re-usable/recyclable containers such as glass, wood, ceramic or using collections of containers from family members such as Grandmother's, Mom's and Aunt's silver bowls, teapots, servers, etc. as vessels for your centerpieces. Another great centerpiece idea involves using organic wheat grass trays or sod on which to place your vases or to place flowers in for a natural look. You can use the sod in your own yard to plant later.
Herbs and succulents also make wonderful displays in recycled wooden containers for guests to take home.
You don't always need to use flowers......how about containers filled with organic fruits and produce arranged with an artistic flair of course!!

The most classic trend that continues is white. You can never go wrong with all white for your flowers. It's crisp, clean and oh so romantic and very timeless. It's also a great compromise when you have an accent color that is not too popular with family or bridal party............