What is your most memorable wedding?
My most memorable wedding was one filled to the brim with blooms and foliage. The florals really took centre stage and set the scene for the entire day. The guests were surrounded with a lovely scent as they walked in, before even seeing the flowers and there was lots of 'ooh's and 'ahhh's! I left feeling so pleased that the couples vision was made a reality as thats the exact reaction they said they wanted. Mission Complete!
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Informal, elegant, timeless, beautiful, natural
What about your business are you most proud of?
I am proud that I can help couples get the best out of what they have. I don't believe that anyone should get themselves into debt over a wedding and as such I dont have a minimum spend limit. A healthy budget is fantastic, but if its not there, its not there! Flowers and foliage are so varied and beautiful that they can be used in a variety of ways to get the desired effect. Nothing is impossible...
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Stay within your means. Forming a budget at the very start of planning is really hard....lets face it, you don't know how much it will cost if this is your first time!...It is a bit of a minefield.
Be realistic and be upfront with your vendors about what you can afford. It saves so much time and headache. They can't read your mind....or bank statement!...so being upfront will give them a head start on what they can or cant suggest for you.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
I LOVE it when someone has a flower choice based on people who have sadly passed away. It is such a subtle personal touch that their loved ones will spot and appreciate. I have used certain flowers from grandparents gardens and foliage from a tree that they planted when they were born as well as simply incorporating mums favorite freesias etc. Subtle, meaningful and so heartwarming without setting everyone off sobbing.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
First contact is usually via a phone call or email. Here we firstly check that the date is free and your venue is one I work at. Once that is established we arrange a mutually convenient date to meet,either in person or via the phone/skype etc. Some people prefer just to work via email and that is absolutely fine. Here we discuss your theme...if you have one...and your budget. I always suggest a 'fairytale' list of all the things you would have at your dream wedding if money was no object (within reason!) We then work on order of importance and divide up that all important budget to see what we could loose or compromise on to get you either all of your list or the feel of it within your reach. I then draw up a quote and the ball is in your court as to whether you wish to pay a holding fee and get that date cemented as yours or keep on searching for your perfect match florist. There is no obligation what so ever.
What is the most interesting thing you have put in a bouquet?
I have used lockets with photos of loved ones, plants and even lucky charms!
Is there a flower that has specific symbolism that you would recommend for couples?
Floriography, or the language of flowers, used to be massively popular and is coming back around again. Every flower has a different meaning and several refer to love and romance. There really are too many to mention, so my honest opinion would be to look for what flowers and colours you love and speak to your florist about their meaning once you have chosen the look that you prefer.....chances are that most will link into marriage in one way or another and it is nice to know the symbolism of your chosen blooms.
What is the most romantic flower and why?
Traditionally the Rose is the most romantic flower as it symbolises love and beauty. This is true of many flowers however and I am finding more and more that brides are wanting to stay away from the traditional rose bouquet.
What should you do with the flowers after the wedding?
Many people give them as gifts if possible, depending on the design. There is a current Trend of bouquet preservation too. If couples are not sure what to do with them however, I offer to collect and distribute to local Nursing homes and churches etc as they are always gratefully received.