New Projects

I have 2 fun projects this spring, different from my usual wedding work (which is also fun). One is my designer table at the Horticultural Society of NY Flower Show and Gala. The April 12th event offers a ticketed public viewing from 3-5 pm before the gala dinner dance. A great opportunity to see some beautiful table designs and get inspiration for upcoming weddings and parties.

The other project is a musical version of RAPUNZEL at Lehman College. Music professor Penny Prince wrote original music and lyrics and the talented cast provided the script - a very creative collaboration! I made Rapunzel's braid (and will reveal just how long it is after the show), a cabbage garden and contributed to the set design.

Watch for photos of both!

The Groom

The groom will often attend the floral consultation to be supportive to the bride but feel that he doesn't have much to say about flowers. A good way to get him involved is to spend a few minutes focusing on the boutonnieres. I like to match the boutonniere to the bouquet in flower type and color. Obviously, if the bride is carrying large, full, open peonies, a good match for the boutonniere would be a ranunculus or pretty spray rose. If he balks at wearing flowers suggest a sleek mini calla lily with a loop of lily grass. Seasonal accents can be very attractive - I've done guinea hen feathers for the fall, clusters of bright yellow craspedia in the sumer, and small orchids or subtle florets of green hydrangea for a less "floral" look.

Spring Gala

I am very pleased to have been invited (for the second year) to design a table for the Horticultural Society of New York's spring gala! Read all about it on their special website page showcasing all the designers.

What to do with "Old" Flowers!

Just in case you were wondering what to do with your Valentine roses, birthday flowers, or your bridal bouquet when the blooms begin to wilt... separate the stems and hang to dry (away from heat and light). The dried flowers can become a charming decor accents on their own or can be used in baskets, wreaths or for potpourri. See my books for lots of fun (and easy) ideas! BEAUTIFUL WEDDING FLOWERS and VICTORIA, FLOWER STYLE

On the Shelves!

For those of you that can't wait for the mail, BEAUTIFUL WEDDING FLOWERS is available in Barnes & Noble store. Eric Hildebrand was the first to spot it! http://plixi.com/p/77459323

DIY Brides

For all you DIY brides, and everyone else who loves flowers, take a look at my first book, VICTORIA, FLOWER STYLE for step-by-step instructions to make every floral design in the book! The project began with the archives of the beautiful original Victoria magazine and grew into a complete seasonal floral design guide. There is a full range of floral projects at every skill level with plenty of how-to tips. Favorite designs from Victoria are combined with new DW designs, and each season includes a wedding with a bridal bouquet, groom's boutonniere, and special items: flower girl basket, embellished candelabra, buffet centerpiece, and more.

Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is almost here, and yes, it is traditional to express your love with flowers. This is for all the guys out there: it doesn't have to be the classic dozen red roses! Choose flowers that express your love and her personality.

Is she a romantic tea drinking antique collector? Give her spray roses in an antique tea cup.

Looking for fragrant flowers? Mix white Casablanca lilies with deep fuchsia roses.

Is a she a high powered executive with a minimalist decorating theme? Send a sleek glass cylinder filled with gorgeous burgundy cymbidium orchids.

Is she ultra feminine? She'll love pink peonies and roses!

Does she love all flowers? Choose a classic glass bowl with an arrangement of seasonal favorites: deep red tulips, burgundy peonies and ranunculus with a few red roses and spray roses tucked in.

Enjoy!