LILY-OF-THE-VALLEY

Legend has it lily-of-the-valley protects gardens from evil spirits, and that it sprang from Eve's tears when she was forbidden in the Garden of Eden. It has an intoxicating scent that I believe could be labeled as a reputable Love Potion. It is unlike any other flower, in my opinion. And I am so excited to have my cooler stocked full of this exquisite bloom at the moment! This photo was taken earlier today and I love the stark contrast of the white bell-shaped blooms with the surrounding foliage. 
It is the quintessential wedding flower and looks most beautiful when left to stand alone. The delicate racemes quake when you hold them and release a gorgeous scent, almost as beautiful as the Bride!
If you are fortunate enough to be getting married when these gems are in season, you are one lucky Bride. If you must absolutely have a bouquet in the off-season, you may be looking at some of the most expensive cut flowers on the market. Enjoy them while they last - because their remarkable charm comes but once a year, but they're well worth the wait!

CID/WHOLE FOODS EVENT

Local Art Auction benefiting

Nationwide Children's Hospital

The Joni

We had the unique opportunity to work with Columbus Independent Design  yesterday at the Whole Foods Market in Dublin. Heather Colbary of CID has built an amazing platform for local artist to showcase their work and be recognized for their incredible talents. At the silent auction there were metal sculptures, gorgeous paintings, drawings, photography and handmade bags and jewelry. A big THANK YOU to Heather for inviting us out for the festivities and acknowledging Floral Design as a recognized art form. That truly means so much to me!

  

Sweet Jane

It was so fun to play around for this event. I used certified organic roses and locally grown, fresh cut stems for some of the arrangements. Heather asked that I name each piece, which is something I'm not used to doing but I really felt like the arrangements lived up to their names! Each one named after a woman in history that is an inspiration to me, and well, the Velvet Underground. 

Lady Amelia

I was really blown away by all the local talent.  Spread the word about CID (they have a great site you can purchase art directly from) and support our local artists! Mark your calendars for May 22nd for the next show! It will be an outdoor event in Upper Arlington. I will let you know more details as they arise. 

FUN MOCK-UPS

A Day with Henry Photography and MMJ Events!

Last month I had the opportunity to network with some hip ladies in the wedding industry. Ashley Henry of Henry Photography and Meleka Murphy of MMJ Events! 

We played around with the style and layout for a reception guest table. The mock-setup was created for a contest Meleka entered - very fun! 

Here are some of Ashley's shots!

The "bride" was inspired by the bohemian style of Anthropologie, while the "groom" had more architectural design interests. I think there was a lovely balance between the two.

I had so much fun designing these little guys! Who knew a simple orchid pinned to a moss rock could be so gorgeous and elegant! 

I love the detail in the napkin rings. Berzillia flowers gave it just the right amount of texture and interest.

I absolutely adore Ashley's (& husband Cody's) photographic style. It's so timeless and everyone always looks absolutely gorgeous!

Meleka has great insights into what is in style and exciting new ways to personalize your Big Day. Check out her Blog for more details!

                        

A special thanks to Ashley and Meleka for inviting me out that day!

FEATHERS

Feathers are so fun! Recently I have been in awe at all the gorgeous plumes of feathers that have emerged on the arts and crafts scene lately. Such vibrant colors and textures are now available!

Bright white ostrich feathers look divine against ultra-girlie peonies. I can't wait to tuck just a few peacock feathers into a loose hand-tied bouquet of cymbidium orchids, amaranthus and astilbe blooms! Or for a super sexy vibe - a Groom's boutonniere with a single Schwarzwalder calla lily paired with a black ostrich feather. Ooh lah lah!

Once again, I love combining raw elements of nature, both sophisticated and unruly, for unique designs and classic looks. A bridal bouquet should be your own signature piece that represents your personality and the romance of your special day. It's fun to think outside-the-box for design elements. Feathers are one way to personalize your look and make your bouquet memorable and fashion forward!

ARTICHOKES

I don't know what it is about artichokes, but lately I can't get enough of them! They are the perfect balance of funky and fresh - not to mention yummy!

I find the different hues of green so very refreshing and the texture of these little guys is one-of-a-kind. I get so excited when I can use unconventional items, like a delicious appetizer!, as flowers. They look stunning massed together in a simple wreath or broken down into innovative votive/card holders.

A few burgundy colored ones in a hand-tied bouquet is so chic and affordable! These are definitely for the modern bride looking to make an organic statement without breaking the bank.

I'm brainstorming on how I can showcase some of my new favorites into our arrangements for the upcoming local art auction at Whole Foods in Dublin. Saturday, April 24th from 5-7pm. Come out and enjoy some fine food and local art to benefit Nationwide Children's Hospital! And pick up some artichokes while you're there!