I love the contrast that Winter provides. The warmth of home after a chilling day out of doors. The white snow covered mountains against the back-drop of clear blue sky. But, what I love the most is watching a couple experience the joy of being together, after what is sometimes a lonely bout of time apart. My job allows me to be part of one of the most important day in our lives, in contrast with our everyday living, and for that I am truly grateful.

Thank you Rebekah Westover Photography

Have you ever noticed how the dance of candle light can bring depth and character to whatever it falls on? Here, candles, with the added dimension of water, are allowed to cast their light on the various colors and textures of some of my favorite flowers: Hydrangeas, Calla Lilies and Dahlias. By themselves, these flowers are lovely. Add candle light, however, and a deeper level of vibrancy appears. Whatever color theme you choose, consider how the use of candle light will create an exciting element to your wedding design.

Warm regards and appreciation to Lindsey Shaun Photography

A celebration that took it’s guests on an artistic, culinary and floral tour of the world? Absolutely. That is exactly what happened in September at the McCune Mansion in Salt Lake City. The hostess, with a delightful graciousness and youthful charm, invited her friends and family to share in her love for travel abroad. As her florist, it was an opportunity to  create expressions–through flowers–of the richness and vibrancy of those cultures. As her friend, it was an opportunity to see something magical. Though the floral design from one room, or “country,” to another was different, each theme was able to compliment an aspect of her personality and help create an experience that honored her life and the difference she has made in the lives of many.

I believe the process of preparing for that day, though usually stressful at times, should be a fun and exciting creative process. I believe your wedding should be a celebration, filled with joy, laughter and beauty. What colors bring you joy? What symbols represent celebration? Gather them together and display them proudly, because, I believe, you are embarking on the adventure of a lifetime!

“The vibrant colors of sunflower yellow, burnt orange, deep red and accents of green blend to create a warm and romantic “mash-up between whimsy and traditional,”–using Sunflowers, Red Dahlias, Gerbera Daisies, Calla Lilies, Red Roses, Tropical Amazon Roses, Red Hypericum and Fern Curls—to honor and celebrate the union of Katy and Woody. “

Fall is a time for gathering together our harvest.  It is a blending and complimenting of crisp,  rich earthly tones and textures. It is a coming together of family and friends to give thanks and honor what matters most in our lives. What better time to celebrate the union of two people who have fallen in love.  Autumn weddings are deeply romantic and invitingly warm.

Thank you, Rebekah Westover Photography.

Monochromatic themes are simple, elegant and  beautiful. Often, however, a Bride’s personality is best captured with the “pop” of a complimenting color. Green compliments purple. Hues of aqua compliment shades of orange. And, just a pop of blue adds vibrancy to creamy yellow. What complimentary colors speak to your adventurous side, to your playfulness? Or, what colors serve as a reflection of what you feel passionate about in life or in your relationship? I believe that perhaps the most elementary, yet powerful, expressions of who we are as humans, is done with color.

It’s been said that to dream with swirling colors of blue is  a sign of our ability to tap into the vast mysteries of life.  Blue represents, almost universally, crystal clear water and bright reflective sky. Pure blue symbolizes inspiration, sincerity and spirituality. The Orchid, with it’s intricate detail, holds the meaning of love, beauty and strength. Bringing those elements together is a recipe for a celebration that is filled with wonderment and creativity.  And, speaking of mysterious, consider this:  orchids are not blue until their stems are placed in dye and the blooms absorb the color.  It’s as if they know what opportunity lies ahead: create an atmosphere that is as uniquely inspiring and beautiful as an Orchid bloom and the color blue.

One way to create an atmosphere that is a beautiful expression of your wedding day experience, is with a lot of flowers. Another way is with fewer flowers, but, with a big emphasis on design. Pincushion Protea are exotic and tropical. Pink Gerbera Daisies are fun and fanciful. When brought together, however, they become a uniquely artistic “marriage” of design elements. Isn’t that kind of what a wedding ceremony is all about, really? The unifying of two lives that were at one time separate, and, possibly very different. Perhaps Mr. “Fun and Fanciful” found and nudged his way into the “exotic” arms of his long-time attraction.  Or, perhaps nothing quite so “Stephanie Meyer” brought you together. Either way, the floral design of your wedding is a perfect way to celebrate who you as individuals, and, who you are becoming as a couple.

Big thanks to Mark Estabrook Photography and Soiree Production