BELLA FIORE CUSTOM FLORAL DESIGN

The Truth about Keeping Cut Tulips

2012-01-19T12:10:00.000-08:00

It is tulip season! Of course we haven't seen them poke their heads up from the cold, frozen earth yet, but hot house tulips and Dutch tulips are now available. Yay! There is a lot of misinformation out there regarding tulips and their care. I am here to set you straight.
Home remedies abound for keeping cut tulips fresh longer in the vase. Add pennies, they say, or aspirin, bleach or a dilution of 7-UP! This is all really false information and based on old "wives tales". The Dutch experts say that the best thing for tulips is clean, fresh cold water in a clean bacteria free vase. Are you really going to argue with the Dutch about tulips? Think of all the bacteria and grime on a penny....would you put that in your mouth? No, I didn't think so. Tulips don't want pennies where they drink either. Sure, you may have seen some instant perking up of your tulips with the addition of these remedies but in the long run and for the longevity of your cut tulips it is detrimental. Science has proven it. It's true.
Did you know tulips keep growing after they have been cut? That tulips take water in from their whole stem? So only give them a little cold, fresh water at the bottom of their vase and re-cut their stems every few days to help prevent them from drooping; eventually, nothing will stop tulips from drooping as they get older. Tulips do not like preservative solution (those little packets of powder you get from the flower shop). They are one of the few flower types that do not.
There! Now you know the real truth about keeping cut tulips. Please go fish those pennies out of your tulip vases.....and save them instead for a worthy charitable organization, or more cut fresh tulips :)

Photography Love

2011-11-16T01:58:00.000-08:00

I LOVE photography. Let me rephrase that, I love good photography. I love photography almost as much as I love floral design or cheese cake. Uh huh. It's true. To say I am passionate about photography is an understatement. I am not a photographer. I do play with my camera, but by no means am I an expert. I do believe I have a good eye though, and can spot a good photograph when I see it. In my profession as a floral designer who specializes in weddings and events, I see a lot of engagement and wedding shoots. I also use photography as an inspiration for my own work, so I am constantly looking at photographs whether they be fashion, editorial, or wedding related.

I want to plainly state that I do not know personally the photographer of this image. I have never met him, nor worked with him. I also want to plainly state I do not know this couple. I have never met them. I did not design the flowers for their wedding. I do not receive any sort of monetary or other type of compensation for loving this photo. I just love it and that is all.

Recently, I was perusing some engagement photographs in an online contest that a bridal magazine was holding. There were many, many images, and as I was clicking through them I was .... "ho hum".... Don't get me wrong, there were some "nice" images there, but nothing got me excited, it was pretty much all the same old stuff except for a few exceptions. Then BOOM. I clicked on this photo by Brian Van Wyk. "Yesssssss!!!" I said. Then I clicked "Like". Then I instantly went to his website link. That is when angels starting singing, because I learned that he was a young photographer living in my hometown of Victoria, B.C.!!! I am delighted to show love to someone local and who is so young. I cannot wait to see how he evolves as a photographer, but most of all, I want to say, " Congratulations Brian!! You won the contest! I knew you would!!"

I love this photo because it is authentic. It instantly gives you an impression. You believe this photo. You believe that this couple would walk arm and arm topless down a remote beach. Sure, they are a beautiful couple, but they are natural. No perfectly applied make-up and hair, no Armani suit. Just them. Authentic.

I love that this photo is a piece of art. Iconographic. It's the kind of picture the couple would perhaps put up on their living room or bedroom wall, blown up, poster size, in a black matte frame, and people would admire it, and then exclaim, " Wait. That's you!!!" When they are old, and are grandparents, I imagine their teen-aged grandchildren saying, " Look at how hot Grandma and Grandpa were!!" or the little ones giggling, " They aren't wearing any shirts!" But every one of their children, or grandchildren will want a copy of this picture because it is iconographic. ( I hope they don't hate me, for I am making them have children, and so soon!!)

I love that in this photo they are not afraid to show their sensuality. This couple fits together. One of my pet peeves in staged shoots is that models are chosen that do not look like they belong together, on this planet or any other....absolutely, no chemistry....ill fitted, poorly cast. Ick. I blame my theater background for my complete intolerance of this. Nothing drives me more nuts, well, except maybe having the subject pour something out of a bottle in a photograph and there is nothing in the bottle!!! I am details driven. I admit it. Please forgive me. I am not meaning to offend anyone, but to inform.

I realize that not all couples are going to feel comfortable removing their shirts for a photographer, or rolling around in the waves. I understand. I believe it is the role of the photographer to find out what the " essence" is of each client, and portray their own individual story through images. It is my belief that this is what makes art, as opposed to putting out the same sorts of images that everyone else is doing. I believe it is the photographers job, as it is the floral designers job, or any creative professional to find your own unique style within your chosen art form and make it shine.

I love this photo because it shines.

Thank-you Brian for allowing me to share this image and comment on it....especially, when you had no idea what I was going to say! I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Keep on shining!

Sabrina and Kristian

2011-09-03T16:10:00.000-07:00

Meet the beautiful bride Sabrina. She is originally from Argentina.
The close up detail of her bouquet with cream roses, wired fuchsia dendrobium and blush cymbidium orchids, and stephanotis with pearl inserts. Ultra feminine and romantic.
So beautiful.
The beautiful chapel at St. Anne's Academy.
The lovely orchid and rose pew dressing.
Here we go!
About to exchange vows....
Ta da!
Isn't she lovely?
The boys.
Orchids and roses for boutonnieres.
The ladies carried roses and orchids.
So cute!

The wedding party.
Close up detail of the centerpieces. I loved the pale pink mums because the colour was so delicate and soft.
Dressing up the reception tables.
All dressed.
Sabrina and Kristian married! I would like to than Trish Glab for sharing her photos of the day with me.
Congratulations Sabrina and Kristian! Thank- you so much for choosing Bella Fiore as your wedding floral designer. I wish you both a lifetime of joy and happiness together!

Contact Page Malfunction

2011-07-27T15:29:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

It has come to my attention that my contact page on my website is down. I am not sure how long it has been down. This means that I have not received any messaged inquiries regarding weddings or anything for some time. The estimated loss is huge. If you have referred any clients and they tried to contact me this way. I have not received their messages. It is my policy to return messages promptly. I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. While we get this problem fixed please advise your referrals to telephone us directly. The number can be found on the header to our website. I am so sorry for the inconvenience.

The web person who can fix this problem seems to be on vacation, and we do not know how soon this problem can be repaired. We hope he will return from vacation soon!!

In the meantime, any sharing of our facebook page, "liking" our facebook page, or requesting friends to "like" our page, would be greatly and hugely appreciated. Word of mouth is the best advertising and you never know who will require our services, nor the degrees of separation, even from other countries and towns.

Thank-you so much! I appreciate you.

Kind Regards,

Sarina

The Lovely Australians!

2011-07-16T16:11:00.000-07:00

The lovely Australians are getting married.
The first thing I do on a wedding day is deliver the personal flowers to the wedding party.

Close up detail of the bouquets.
After delivering the personal flowers and dressing the ceremony site if applicable, I dress the wedding cake and reception tables. Notice the cake topper is of two grooms.
Meet my lovely Australians Jim and David. They are getting married. Yes, this is a same sex marriage, and if you have a problem with same sex marriages, you probably should not read any further. No hard feelings.
They have a beautiful kind of love and they came all the way to Victoria, B.C. Canada to get married! Yup. It's true.
Instead of groomsmen they had groom's women. The lovely ladies were supposed to be in black cocktail dresses, but, alas, something went wrong as it can do when you are traveling from another country. They look lovely all the same!
I made two matching bouquets for the girls. Jim and I worked together to create something the girls would love. He loves orchids. The man has good taste!
The exchange of the rings. Yippee!
One of the centerpieces.
Beginning to dress the tables with mokara blooms scattered, submerged cymbidium orchids and floating candles, and matching bouquets.
I love the series of following photos that photographer Mark from www.marksphoto.ca shot and I thank him for sharing them with me.
Love.
More love.
The boys running through Victoria with bubble wands makes me so happy!
Married and so adorable! Congratulations Jim and David may you have a lifetime of love, joy, and happiness! What a pleasure it was to work on your wedding!

Peaches!

2011-06-07T16:31:00.000-07:00

There I was in the grocery store, and there they were, lovely, luscious peaches. I had just spent the morning trying to help a bridesmaid pin and tuck herself into her dress. Technically, I was delivering the bridal flowers to the bride, but ever the helpful floral designer I was asked to help in this tricky endeavor. The bridesmaid had recently become pregnant, and well, things weren't fitting like they were supposed to....which got us to complaining about the bigger questions in life. Like why do sundress designers design with spaghetti straps, and these tiny little triangle bodices? Who could possibly fit into these things?
Later, I posted this very same question on Facebook. This is where parallels were drawn and comparisons to fruit ensued. I take absolutely no responsibility for this occurrence. I will just say that someone mentioned peaches ....which brings me back to the peaches at the grocery store...
I was thinking peaches as a summer wedding theme would be so lovely. If you added touches of cream, lace, rustic wood tables....wouldn't it be be divine? Of course, you would NEVER put your girls in bridesmaids dresses with spaghetti straps ,or tiny little triangle bodices because that is just cruelty to peaches and will cause a riot.

Wedding Bouquet Inspiration Victoria B.C.

2011-05-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

Weddings we LOVE them!
Planning a wedding in Victoria, B.C.? We LOVE weddings and specialize in weddings of all styles! Consultations are complimentary and by appointment only.This enables us to give you our undivided attention to discuss all the details of your special day.
Some florists prefer to design in only one style. Not us! We love all styles and are able to execute beautiful designs from rustic to glam and all that falls between. We love working with you to make your vision a reality.
Whether you have planned a romantic garden wedding, or
a high styled dramatic evening,
from a rustic, vineyard
to feminine romance.....
We will work with you to incorporate any style your heart desires!
We have an excellent reputation but don't take our word for it! Read what our clients say about us here or here.

Want to see more of what we do?
You can view more wedding inspiration here in our wedding gallery.
Want to contact us about your wedding? You can send us a message here and our phone number is here as well.
We create beautiful one of a kind bouquets, for beautiful, one of a kind brides! That's what we do and we love it! So, let's start planning your wedding in Victoria!

Sunday at the Pattiserie

2011-04-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

On Sundays one should:

dress like they are in Paris
or at least smell like they are Parisian
or maybe eat a croissant
this whole one bite thing is ridiculous
so is taking only two bites
eat the whole croissant
it's Sunday
pretend you are in Paris
eat lunch at the Patisserie
Say qui
It's O.K. if you say non
but don't hurt frogs
that's bad karma
even for the Parisian
Play Edith Piaf
drink coffee from a bowl
but not like a dog
that is not Parisian
on Sundays one should
pretend they are in
Paris

Spring Blossom

2011-03-22T23:52:00.000-07:00

Came the spring with all it's splendor,
All it's birds and all it's blossoms,
All it's flowers and leaves and grasses...
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow~

Every one who knows me well, I mean knows me really well, knows I love poetry. They have known me to swoon over a well constructed sentence, a clever turn of a phrase, a metaphor that shines like the sun. They have known me to speak in rhyme for no reason and answer an email in prose. They say, it may be my affliction....like a weakness for musicians, or having to smell every rose I pass.
It is my firm belief that spring is the Earth's way of writing poetry. With every crocus, tulip and daffodil that pokes up from the wet earth, she says, "Look! Behold what beauty! Do you see?" With every cherry blossom that unfurls it's pink petals she whispers,
" Blossom. Go ahead. You can."
Every one who knows me well, I mean knows me really well knows I love spring. They say, it may be my affliction.....like a love for flowers and honey off the spoon.
Happy Spring! Blossom.Go ahead. You can.
~ Sarina xo~

Rosa di San Valentino

2011-02-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

Well, Valentine's Day has come and gone and I didn't get to do a Valentine's Day post because as a floral designer one gets a little busy around this day....just a little :)
I was noticing in Valentine's Day blog posts around the wedding/events community that all the details were red and white, red and white, red and white. Oh, and chocolate, chocolate cupcakes, chocolate hearts, chocolate covered strawberries. Also, all the blog posts were " cute". I honestly can say I didn't see a unique one anywhere, or really romantic, or even sexy. I mean it is Valentine's Day, somewhere someone should be doing something romantic or sexy....no? Am I the only one who thinks this way? Why can't you be sexy, romantic and sweetly stylish? Is there some law in the wedding/events community that for Valentine's Day you have to have red hearts and red everything? Don't get me wrong I LOVE red, but I want an adult red. I want it paired with black not white. I want bling. I want champagne or at least red wine....sure let's have chocolate but in a fondue or mousse. I quite possibly may be in the middle of a full blown rant....so full blown....I've turned pink, and I'm not even really a fan of pink....but pink works for Valentine's Day, and people will always love roses for Valentine's, and well, I had to add some of my bling feather pins, and instead of chocolate some of my soap because baths are romantic....and....I think run on sentences are sexy.... (hee!!)
I hope you had a fabulous Valentine's Day and I hope it was a little grown up, unless, of course you are fourteen :)

Business to Business LOVE

2011-02-14T15:57:00.001-08:00

A little business to business LOVE to celebrate Valentine's Day in Victoria, B.C. Win one custom floral arrangement delivered to your business for three months!! Valued at over $300.00 What do you have to do to enter:

Like my facebook page and get two other friends to like my page as well. http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Bella-Fiore-Custom-Floral-Design/317149355690
Post on my wall that you have liked me. Get your friends to post on my wall on your behalf.
Already like me? Get three friends to like me and post on my wall on your behalf.
You must have a legitimate business with either a shop,studio or reception area to qualify.
Your business must reside in Victoria, B.C.
This offer is not redeemable for cash value nor negotiable.
The floral arrangements are designed according to Bella Fiore Custom Floral Design's aesthetic. We will take into consideration your business aesthetic as well. They will be beautiful :)
One arrangement will be delivered to your place of business once a month for three months. Starting in February 2011 ending in April 2011.
This contest will close Friday February 18, 2011 at midnight.
The winner will be chosen by random draw and notified on Facebook by Saturday February 19,2011.

It is a known that fresh flowers in the work place lift staff morale and boost productivity. Please share this post with businesses you know in Victoria, B.C.
Happy Valentine's Day! Good Luck!

Valerie and Jack Married!

2011-02-03T00:20:00.000-08:00

Valerie and Jack got married on a very hot summers day at the Laurel Point Inn. Valerie's bouquet was a jewel toned delight of roses,freesia,gardenia,greens and berries.
Her dress had beautiful detailing.
I made these huge altars pieces of colourful roses,lily,delphinium, and various greens. They were so heavy, I could hardly lift them! Thank goodness my "Muscles" was helping me (aka my son)!!
The flower girl tossed jewel toned rose petals from a simple basket.
I also made this beautiful fresh flower hair clip for her out of deconstructed freesia petals, hydrangea florets and greens embellished with chartreuse fine wires and a little crystal.
Aaah, the boys made an entrance with those sunglasses! They had boutonnieres of rose,freesia and greens. Each corresponded with a bridesmaid bouquet.
Here come the girls in their stunning jewel toned dresses with complimentary bouquets of roses and freesia.

Close up detail.

The flowers in the thick of the action. I really did love that fresh flower hair clip!
It was a cocktail reception so I did a mix of high and low centerpieces.
One of the tall centerpieces through the window. Dark purple delphinium with a chartreuse hydrangea cuff.
I really love how this cake turned out. I love adding flowers to cakes. I even add flowers to our birthday cakes at home!
There is the happy couple! I would like to thank Jen Steele Photography for sharing some of her images of this special day. I would also like to thank Valerie and Jack for allowing me to be a part of their wedding celebrations and wish them a lifetime of love, joy and happiness!

Honeysuckle Rose

2011-01-20T12:27:00.000-08:00

Every honey bee fills with jealousy
When they see you out with me
I don't blame them
Goodness knows
Honeysuckle rose

When you're passin' by,
Flowers droop and sigh
I know the reason why
You're much sweeter
Goodness knows
Honeysuckle rose
~Louis Armstrong~

Meredith and Rob

2011-01-17T14:14:00.000-08:00

Meredith and Rob got married on what turned out to be a rainy day. I remember this wedding well because it was my birthday! I love this shot!
The flowers were all about the bold colours of chartreuse, purple, lilac and fuchsia. I used varying shade of dahlia and orchids. This is Rob's boutonniere.
The flowers are ready to be delivered!
Meredith and Rob were married at the Chief and Petty Officers Mess right on the ocean, as I was setting up this ship was just outside the window!
My son who was helping me set the wedding up swears he took this photo but I know better (hee!). I love this shot of the view through the windows of the venue.
All the photos labeled Bella Photography were taken by the professional photographer and we thank her for use of her images. The other photos were taken by myself. I left them unlabeled as to not confuse as the photographers business name closely resembles mine :)
Meredith and Rob had this cake topper made in their likeness. It really looked like them!
Cutting the cake. The cake was made by their friend who had never made a wedding cake before!! Amazing!
Here is a closeup detail I took of the cake flowers I placed on the cake.
Tied to the ends of the chairs bunches of colourful dahlia.
Each table at the reception was labeled with a song title. The bride had made blackberry jam as a wedding favour. Also, Rob is a dentist and Meredith is a dental hygienist so they provided their guests with toothbrushes!!
The night effect of the simple centerpieces I made with floating Dahlia, river rocks and floating candles.
The whole beautiful group.
Aaaah, love. Congratulations to Meredith and Rob, thank-you so much for letting me participate in your very special day!

New Years Wishes for You!

2011-01-02T00:44:00.000-08:00

May your coming year be filled with magic, dreams and joy. I hope you kiss someone who thinks you are beyond amazing. I hope you LOVE yourself above all things. I hope, somewhere in the next year, you surprise yourself with your strength of spirit. I hope you sing a new song and dance a new dance. Above all, I wish you the beauty of a single flower.~xox~ Sarina

Get In the Groove: Winter Inspiration

2010-12-19T13:13:00.000-08:00

A little winter inspiration to get you in the mood for the season!
Nothing really gets me in the mood except The Vinyl Cafe Christmas themed stories especially the one called, "Dave Cooks the Turkey". It seriously makes me laugh out loud every time! I never tire of it!
Tonight we put up our tree and decorate the house. We tend to leave it until later. It gets us really excited, and there is nothing like fresh pine for Christmas as opposed to a tree dropping it's needles! Did you know it is better for the environment to actually have a fresh tree than an artificial one? It's true, they did a study. If you have an artificial tree, do not worry you can always use my " Murdered Tree Soy Candles" to scent up your home. (hee hee)
We put on the Christmas carols and sing our hearts out. Oh, and eat goodies.....I better get the baking done!!! Sarina out. xo

Time to Cozy Up

2010-12-06T14:38:00.000-08:00

It's time to cozy up with the weather getting crisp and cold.
Bring those pine cones inside, scent them with cinnamon, drink gingerbread lattes, put on that shrug and your woolly slippers.
We are getting ready for the Christmas season too at Bella Fiore. We put up our Christmas lights outside. We still have to add some more. You can never have too many lights! No Christmas tree yet because we like to wait until it's closer to Christmas. We have been making our Christmas line of soy aromatherapy candles though, and the studio is smelling divine, REALLY divine, like chai spice. Yum! Stay tuned for pictures coming soon.
In the meantime you can check out our online shop http://www.bellafiorefloraldesign.com /shop.cfm for Christmas gift giving ideas. Mention this blog when you order and get free delivery on local Victoria, B.C. orders placed on or before December 11 2010. Our little early Christmas present to you!!

Flights of Fancy

2010-11-24T21:52:00.000-08:00

I'm obsessed with everything about this inspiration board. I think with the addition of silver it would make an incredible winter palette.
I love the robins egg blue, the birds, the twigs, the feathers.....the dress....and how about the twig and candle chandeliers? Do you love?

Rockabilly Inspiration

2010-11-20T17:11:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that I have to play music when I'm creating my floral designs, or creating anything actually! So when I saw this inspiration board based on rockabilly styles I just loved it! It's so bold and edgy, vintage, yet, so modern. The use of bold primary colours and leopard print. Love!

Laina and Paul: Simple Elegance

2010-11-03T23:55:00.000-07:00

Married! Paul and Laina got married in a fabulous backyard wedding. Table centerpieces of white hydrangea and orange ribbon.
Laina is a simple and elegant bride. Her Grecian styled wedding dress was beautifully complimented by these amazing mango calla lilies.

Laina made the bridesmaids dresses. The girls carried white calla lilies wrapped in bright orange ribbon. The boys corresponded with white calla lily boutonnieres, except Paul who had an orange calla.
I LOVE this shot! Cool sophistication. All the professional photos were taken by Georgie Wilson Photography. She did a fantastic job! Thank-you Georgie!
For the flower girls I made cream coloured cones with bright orange ribbon; they tossed bright orange rose petals.
Who really wants to wear high heels for dancing?
I love the flow of Laina's wedding dress. Stunning.
Close up of Paul's Boutonniere with a grass wrap.
All the boys wore these orange and white argyle socks and bright orange ties. Loved it!
Paul and Laina made blackberry jam as wedding favours. Good idea!
Cupcake details carried through with their theme colours of bold orange and white.
Congratulations Laina and Paul.Wishing you much happiness. You all looked so stunning!

Boo-ti-full Gothic Wedding Inspiration

2010-10-29T17:29:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that I love Halloween; always have always will! Here is a little Halloween inspiration to get you in the Halloween mood.... Have a Boo-ti-full weekend!!

Canadian Thanksgiving: I Almost Forgot!!!

2010-10-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

Canadian Thanksgiving!! Eek! I almost forgot with everything else going on. How could I? Autumn is my favourite season and Thanksgiving is one of my favourite holidays....I mean food, feasting and flowers...hello!!
Now, I am going to have to scramble, run to the store, buy feasting items, bake stuff....my kids will not be happy if I don't have those mini marzipan pumpkins...good thing I work well under pressure!
I hope you all have a lovely weekend with family and friends. I hope you eat well and enjoy all that life has to offer! xoxo ~Sarina~

Maria and Daniel: Boundless Beauty

2010-10-03T23:07:00.000-07:00

Maria originally contacted me via email from Washington. She explained that she was having a destination wedding in Victoria and would I be able to help her organize her wedding flowers? The first thing I need to determine is the bride's style regardless of where they are coming from, once I have determined this, all things are possible. Maria told me she liked roses and hydrangea,her colours were blue and white, she liked pearls and butterflies....a "garden romantic" I thought to myself!
Here is a close up of the custom bouquet I made for Maria. I wired stephanotis with pearl inserts and white butterflies into the bouquet and made a trailing aspect with hanging amaranthus and pearl strands. So romantic. So perfect for Maria.
Maria and her family came to meet me at the studio one month before her wedding to finalize details and meet. It is always so wonderful to meet a bride before her wedding; it doesn't always happen with destination brides. When I met Maria and her family for the first time, it was such a pleasure! They originally are from Siberia and I loved her Mother and Father's accents. Her mother was so beautiful and gracious and her father was the strong silent type; the type of father who only wanted the best for his daughter.
Maria is soooo beautiful! I love her dark hair and blue eyes. Her eyes are the most unusual shade of blue. I just love them.
This is her groom Daniel's boutonniere. Pearls and a rose. Masculine,yet romantic.
Handsome Daniel waiting for his bride to be.
The vows. The white fabric hydrangeas in Maria's hair are from her mother's wedding dress.
Setting up the reception at The English Inn. White roses and blue hydrangea with butterflies. Maria wanted to add blue water to the centerpieces. What the bride wants she gets!! The table was further dressed with floating candles and crystals.
The bride and her sister. Just beauties! I want to hire them both for a photo shoot!!
A gorgeous shot. All the professional photos were take by Leslie Holden Photography.
Married!
Swept off her feet! Love it! I am such a sucker for romance!
Off, into the sunset....Thank-you so much Maria and Daniel for choosing Bella Fiore to be a part of your wedding day. What a pleasure! Wishing you all the joy and happiness your hearts can hold!

Fall-ing in Love

2010-10-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

I love fall and everything that goes with it; sunny crisp days and toffee mocha lattes. There is wood smoke in the air and the leaves put on their multi-coloured coats. The colours are rich and warm. I love adding a little bold accent like chartreuse; it just makes all the other colours pop. The use of unexpected votive holders fashioned from Granny Smith apples brings an added dimension to a table setting. Incorporating fruit into Autumn weddings works so well; try apples, mini pumpkins,eggplant,dark grapes and cranberries.
One of the things I always worry about in Summer weddings is will the boys be too hot in their suits? In an Autumn wedding I wonder if the girls will be warm enough! To me fall is the perfect time to introduce wonderful shawls and caplets to the bridal attire. I do love a beautiful caplet!
So put another log on the fire, pour some nice wine,snuggle up to your sweetheart, and start fall-ing in love. When you are ready to plan your wedding come see me...I'll get the toffee mocha lattes!

A Beautiful Family :Tony and Nikki in Spring

2010-09-19T16:58:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm finally getting around to blogging some of my weddings. I finally, have some time to sit down and blog! Blogger is doing something strange and not letting me see what the pictures are as I blog so I am blogging at the end of the pictures as opposed to my usual comments after each picture.
Tony and Nikki were married in May. I remember when they first came for their consultation and thinking to myself what a gorgeous family! Nikki was pregnant and I love pregnant brides. They always look like Goddesses and Nikki is certainly no exception! Also, their little daughter was so adorable and interested in everything I had in the studio. I had her draped in ribbons and playing with little birds. ADORABLE.
The flowers were bright and bold. I also made Nikki a custom hair flower for her hair that you can see in the picture where she is kissing her little daughter. I love that picture! All the professional photos were taken by Mary Jane Howland Photography and I thank her for sharing some of the images of their special day with me the rest are taken by yours truly.
Congratulations Nikki and Tony and your beautiful family!!

Lavender= Heaven

2010-08-07T19:11:00.000-07:00

Today, I was on a big clean in the studio. It was getting a little disorderly in there with all the weddings, boxes of vases, spools of ribbon, bits of this and that willy nilly everywhere. Serious disarray,enough to drive this order loving Virgo nuts. Nuts, I tell you! I still have one box of vases to clean. Sigh.
This is not what I wanted to write about though, oh no, I wanted to write about lavender; that beautiful purple fragrant flower. I have it everywhere. I love it because it's purple. I love it because every time I walk by a bunch I get a big whiff of it's fragrance.I love it because you can cook with it. Oh yes, I cook with lavender, organic lavender. Lavender scones and tea. Yes, please! Lavender raspberry jam. You'll never taste anything better. Herbs de Provence? Nothing without lavender.
So today, when I was on this big cleaning spree I put some in a pot of water on the stove and simmered it slowly. Yes, my friends heaven. Nothing like a lavender infusion to clean the air and brain. Lavender is a wonder flower. Good for so many things. I make a lovely lavender lotion, soaps and candles too. Yes, I put them in floral arrangements, but really the best thing about lavender is it smells like heaven.

Walking on Sunshine

2010-06-27T22:31:00.000-07:00

I have this fascination lately with bright bold weddings. The use of bright orange,yellow, hot pink, lime green they all make me happy. How cute is this yellow wedding? I love the detailing on the bottom of the bridesmaid dresses, the cheery white and yellow flowers, the brides yellow shoes. You couldn't help but feel you were walking on sunshine in those lovely yellow shoes!

In the Orchard

2010-06-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

I adore orchards of all types with a passion. There is something magical about them I swear.When I was a child my elementary school bordered a huge apple orchard that had mile high grass. We would make forts in the grass, each of us with our own fort. We would lug boxes, crates and treasures from home to make it more homey. Hours and hours were spent here with my friends. We found tree frogs,crickets and gardener snakes.Riding our bikes to the corner store to buy penny candy and soda; we would stay until dinner time. As we got older, some experienced their first kisses in these same forts. I think orchards are romantic; they conjure up memories of hot summer nights and juicy fruits. The fruit from orchards make lovely favours and details for a wedding or celebratory event. Some days, I long to be down in the orchard. Happy Solstice!

Summer Lovin' in Orange

2010-06-13T19:19:00.000-07:00

Love this inspiration board. Bright, cheery, orange....perfect for a sunny, summer wedding.

West Coast Wedding

2010-06-03T14:48:00.000-07:00

I love simplicity at times, especially in images; a single chair, a window, a door, a bridge....these are some things that always draw my eye. I LOVE this inspiration board. I love the girls in bare feet....wild, carefree, beautiful. The pale,barely there blue... This inspiration board would work so well for a wedding in Victoria on one of our wild west coast beaches. Planning a wild, beach wedding? Come see me, I'll be in bare feet.

Trend Spotting: Succulents

2010-06-01T23:32:00.000-07:00

I was in the garden center on the weekend and saw such beautiful succulents there. I love them in arrangements; they give such a nice textural element, as well as lend a slightly rustic air to an event. I have noticed them cropping up more and more in bridal bouquets, centerpieces and as wedding favours. What do you think? Do you like them? Would you like them if they were in a bouquet or floral arrangement?

Watermelon Cocktail

2010-05-05T00:20:00.000-07:00

Today, my daughter pointed out watermelon in the grocery store. "Look Mom!" she said excitedly. Watermelons mean summer is on it's way.It means barbecues, picnics, beaches, camping,weddings, and feet dangling in a cold wading pool while reading a good book with one of my World Famous Cocktails .
I believe everything you do, should be "World Famous"; that is why I take such care, and put so much love into all of my floral designs.
I love this watermelon inspired board. I feel so refreshed just looking at it.Don't you?
I know you are just wondering what goes into this World Famous Cocktail. It's pretty yummy on a hot day if I do say so myself!

Here is the recipe:

1 large seedless watermelon, rind removed, fruit cut into 1-inch cubes
4 teaspoons superfine sugar or to taste
8 ounces silver tequila, vodka or gin
12 fresh mint leaves
2.5 ounces Cointreau or orange brandy
6 cups ice

Make watermelon ice cubes by putting some pieces of cubed watermelon on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Freeze for one hour, covered.
Take the rest of the watermelon plus the sugar and puree in a blender until smooth. Strain into a bowl. Put the tequila and mint in a pitcher and muddle. Then stir in Cointreau and watermelon puree. Pour the mixture into a cocktail shaker with ice and mix for each cocktail. Put watermelon ice cubes in a glass and pour the cocktail in. Garnish with mint sprigs and enjoy!

Aaahhh bring on summer!!

A Touch of Whimsy

2010-04-28T11:26:00.000-07:00

A touch of whimsy. A taste of Alice. A sweet tea party. A lovely garden. Mismatched china. A delight!

Dream a Little Dream of Me

2010-04-25T23:28:00.000-07:00

Stars shining bright above you
Night breezes seem to whisper "I love you"
Birds singin' in the sycamore tree
Dream a little dream of me

Say nighty-night and kiss me
Just hold me tight and tell me you'll miss me
While I'm alone and blue as can be
Dream a little dream of me

Stars fading but I linger on dear
Still craving your kiss
I'm longing to linger till dawn dear
Just saying this

Sweet dreams till sunbeams find you
Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you
But in your dreams whatever they be
Dream a little dream of me...
~Kahn-Schwandt-Andre~

Lavender Lovely

2010-04-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Lavender is so lovely. Purple and lavender are still very HOT colour pairings this wedding season. I've been designing so much with purple and lavender that when I had a bride come in wanting orange I had a to pause a moment,run to the store and just gaze at some oranges for a while....just so I could envision the colour!
I love the paper wrapped pears as a wedding favour. What a wonderful idea and so easy to co-ordinate with your wedding colours. You could do that with pretty much any hard fruit. Also, that fluffy lavender dress LOVE.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Easter. I love everything about it. It makes me think of sundresses and bonnets on babies,daffodils and daisy chains,painted eggs and chocolate. All good right?
My children are teenagers and I still hide eggs for them.I have to be really tricky now.Evil tricky.They love it. I think they would be disappointed if I said, "Right.You are just too old for this." Certainly, there would be a staged protest. We have a new house with a new garden. This means new, tricky hiding places.Evil hiding places. Mwaahaaaa!!
I just asked my kids if they were ready for the Easter egg hunt. My son says to his little sister,"You are going down!" She replies, "Prepare to die!"
Yes. I LOVE Easter!!

Spring into Purple, Fall into Love

2010-03-23T11:12:00.000-07:00

Spring is here. Yay! I can see daffodils, tulips and crocus from my studio window. I have planted an abundance of wildflower seeds and cannot wait until they come up. This has all been done in an effort to attract hummingbirds and butterflies; two of my favourite things. Nothing makes me more happy than having a hummingbird or butterlfy visitation while I work.
Another one of my favourite things is the colour purple. Look at this website; it's no secret :) Look at this dress. I LOVE. Dramatic flowers in the up do. I LOVE. Blueberries. I LOVE.
So spring into purple. So fall into love. Then come see me about those flowers.

Spell it Out!

2010-03-18T01:10:00.000-07:00

Aren't these the sweetest pillows ever! I am seeing a trend in wedding details where L.O.V.E. is spelled out. It doesn't have to be just for your wedding. I say bring L.O.V.E. into your home!

Vintage Chic

2010-03-12T13:03:00.000-08:00

I love this short vintage wedding dress. I would wear it to the grocery store. I also love the bright yellow details so perfect for a spring wedding. I love bright colours for spring weddings. Look how the bouquet just pops. The shoes, sweeter than honey. I love.

Mad Hatter's Tea Party

2010-03-05T00:35:00.000-08:00

Alice in Wonderland out today with Johnny Depp. Sigh. Need I say more :)

Lemon Love

2010-03-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

Nothing says spring like lemon yellow! It reminds me of daffodils and Easter bonnets, fuzzy chicks and lemon tarts.
I look awful in yellow. Sigh. I LOVE it though! So perfect for a lovely spring wedding. How perfect to use actual lemons in centerpieces or at place settings.
Lemon Love. Do you love it?

Proud to Be a Canadian!

2010-03-01T08:31:00.000-08:00

I'm proud to be a Canadian. I think I live in one of the best countries in the world. I like that we are humble and polite and can poke fun at ourselves. There are times though, when I feel we should stand up and show the world who we really are instead of hiding behind false stereotypes. We are an intelligent, creative nation, and for today I will let the red and white fly because I am proud to be a Canadian!

BerryLicious

2010-02-25T11:42:00.000-08:00

LOVE blueberries. Love eating them. Love the colour. Love this wedding inspiration. Sometimes, you just don't need to say anything more!

Sweet Vintage

2010-02-21T23:48:00.000-08:00

Here is some sweet vintage inspiration. Perfect for the DIY crafty bride. How perfect is the bike? The silhouettes? Vintage typewriter?
Details are really important and can make any event pop. Never skimp on the bridal bouquets or floral details they are like great accessories that pull everything together; not to mention make your photos come alive! I would never reccomend creating your own flowers even if you are a DIY bride. The flowers can only be created at earliest the day before your wedding and the bride simply does not have the time; even if you pass the flowers off to relatives to create, you may be really disappointed in the result. Hire a professional for the things that really matter.

Know your Worth!

2010-02-18T23:47:00.000-08:00

My mother bought a bottle of perfume in Paris. It was called Worth. It came in a tiny blue glass bottle with a gold stopper; she kept it in a drawer wrapped in a beautiful lace hankie. On special occasions she would take it out and dab some on her pulse points. I am sure that whenever she wore it she felt her "Worth" and was instantly transported to Paris.
Even Parisian perfume can help tranform you into a Parisian Goddess on your wedding day; bring Paris to you by using art, style, and fashion and always know your "Worth" !

Brooch Bouquets Trend Spotting

2010-02-16T17:06:00.000-08:00

Bella Fiore has been putting bling and otherwise unusual elements in our bouquets since our inception but here is a new trend; a bouquet completely made of brooches. What do you think? Do you like it? Do you like the idea of a non perishable keepsake bouquet? Would you like Bella Fiore to make you one? We can you know :)

Love, Love Me Do!

2010-02-11T13:36:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
They say that Valentine's Day was made by candy companies to drive up sales and make single women depressed. I can understand this philosophy, but it's not mine. Any day given completely over to celebrating LOVE in all it's forms has got my vote. It's not about the chocolate or the roses. It's about LOVE! So celebrate!... ( p.s. flowers and chocolates are nice too ; )

"All You Need is Love"

2010-02-08T11:54:00.000-08:00

Well, it's Monday and my day started with a flooded basement. Sigh. I was supposed to be a mentor to someone today. I was looking forward to it. I was rocking the Einstein hair and feeling very wise.Then voila, the plans changed. This happens sometimes. There is nothing I can do about it, but rock the mop in gumboots; call the plumber, and pray he wears pants that cover his whole bottom.
Sometimes these unforseen events happen in weddings too. No use fretting or getting angry; sometimes bad things happen to good people. What is important and always will be is that LOVE is present. That LOVE is being celebrated. That LOVE rocks your world. Your groomsman breaking a vase....not so important. My plumbing problem will be fixed eventually.
The Beatles really do say it the best, "All you need is love."
Now, I must get back to rocking it out with my broom and feeling the LOVE ;)

Cherry Blossom Sighting!

2010-02-03T00:17:00.000-08:00

Cherry Blossom sighting here in Victoria! Woot! That means spring is around the corner, and streets will be lined with blooms bursting forth with pink beauty! It means on a gusty day there will be cherry blossom snow. It means Sarina will be sneezing, but Oh so happy because she LOVES cherry blossoms!
Here is a little cherry blossom wedding inspiration for you spring brides. Enjoy!

The Colour of Your Eyes

2010-01-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

I'm still longing for Spring. This is a sweet colour palette for a spring or summer affair. I love the muted tones with the pop of lime. I love how you could use this colour theme in an elegant affair; but look how lovely it is rustic. Perfect for an outdoor or backyard wedding. I love how the blue could be the colour of someone's eyes....

Don't Eat The Eggs!

2010-01-26T11:03:00.000-08:00

My mother was an elementary school teacher; she was always finding things to take to show her students. One day a robin's nest blew out of a tree, and in it three beautiful, blue eggs. She placed the nest on top of the garbage can next to her car, of course, she was planning to show her class the wondrous find. I must have been two when I toddled out and came upon the nest. I had recently been introduced to jelly beans......yup. a true story :)

Sing Spring!

2010-01-25T11:40:00.000-08:00

I am sooo ready for spring. Need sunshine like a flower needs the rain and well, we've been having lots of rain... Good news though the sun is shining today, there are buds on the magnolia trees and the studio is full of tulips and daffodils. Woot!
Here is a delightful palette to groove your way into spring. Sing it loud!

White Hot!

2010-01-21T15:03:00.000-08:00

Nothing like a clean, white palette to say "Hot". White can do anything. It can be elegant. It can be rustic. It can be chic. It can be simple or over the top glam. White goes with anything or anyone.Yup. Be. White hot!

Get Fresh !

2010-01-19T15:24:00.000-08:00

I love lime and shades thereof for a wedding colour palette. So fresh, bright and alive! These shades look absolutely stunning when paired with white. Perfect for a "green" wedding.
Now check out the details of this inspiration board.....the shrug, simply ooh la la.....I swear by shrugs. LOVE them. See the bridesmaid's dress in the middle with the plunging neckline.....I want it.....nothing says a floral designer can't be stylish too ;)
Here is an idea for brides currently planning your wedding; when thinking of your bridesmaid's attire they do not all have to be in the same dress, but can be in various shades of the same colour or variations of the same dress. This can be really visually pleasing in your photographs, but also allows your bridesmaids to have a dress that fits their body, and style while still fitting your theme .
I can't wait for spring but in the meantime we can "Get Fresh!"

Turquoise Hot, Hot, Hot for 2010

2010-01-17T18:28:00.000-08:00

The hot colour predicted for 2010 is turquoise and it goes so well with all that is Victoria; particularly for a beach themed wedding. This inspiration board.....ooh la la, no?
We are currently accepting weddings for 2010 beach, chic, elegant, rustic....we can do it all!
Book a complimentary wedding consultation and let's chat.

Ummmm....I LOVE Purple!

2010-01-14T15:41:00.000-08:00

You may not know this about me, but I LOVE purple! Magenta, fuchsia, mauve, lilac plum, wine call it what you will.....I love it all! It is still a fresh, hot colour and sexy, yes, very sexy! I really love the pairing of purple and gray. I think gray is tres cool for the boys when paired with purple. Boys don't always have to be in black. Nope. I am waiting for a hipster groom who wears a purple velvet suit.....don't laugh....I really am.....I will do a happy dance when he shows up!

Needs Sun!

2010-01-11T18:25:00.000-08:00

I'm in the mood for some serious SUN! Don't get me wrong I LOVE where I live. Nothing beats the beautiful westcoast of Canada surrounded by lush forests and ocean, but everynow and then when the sun goes into hiding I start to mourn. Must. Have. Sun.
I never used to be a yellow person. I don't own a single yellow thing. I look awful in yellow. But I do love lemons in white bowls, and daffodils, and yellow candy. I appreciate yellow on others. I love little girls in yellow sundresses. I have come to realize I LOVE yellow just don't put me in it!
I am thinking if I do a post on yellow it just might coax the sun out of hiding.....what thinks you?

Twenty Ten is Gonna Rock Yo!

2010-01-03T15:36:00.000-08:00

I have a feeling in my bones, that 2010 is going to ROCK! Last year was one of my toughest emotionally, spiritually and physically. I survived! I am a survivor! I refined, I purged, I created. I found the perfect house and studio and bought it in the ninth hour. I ended an unhealthy relationship. I did this while working, working, working.... I am proud of myself and all that I achieved. I feel like the butterfly emerging from the cocoon for the very first time.
2010 feels good so far, really good. I think it's gonna rock!

Happy New Year! Wedding Inspiration

2009-12-28T14:18:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas! Winter Inspiration

2009-12-20T13:47:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas! Wishing you all LOVE, JOY and PEACE for the holiday season!

Sexy, Retro Love Inspiration

2009-12-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

There is something that is so sexy and hip about a retro styled wedding. I love the fabulous retro styled make up. Bicycles so cool, and green I might add! If you are planning a retro wedding Bella Fiore Custom Floral Design can help you with the details from flowers to make-up and photography.We know people ; )

Snow White Winter Wedding Inspiration

2009-12-16T00:07:00.000-08:00

I love red and white. It's perfect for a winter wedding.There are so many ways to do red and white in a wedding, the possibilities are endless from classic vintage to rock and roll retro. You can do it all with red and white!
Check out the cake in this inspiration board and the faux fur vest the bride is wearing.Don't even get me started about how cool that is!

Icy Winter Chic Inspiration Board

2009-12-14T13:20:00.000-08:00

I found this inspiration board over at Style Me Pretty. I think it's fab for a winter wedding. I love the pale icy blues with the white and touches of silver. When you think of winter, you don't necessarily think of butterflies, but I think butterflies are a powerful symbol of metamorphosis. When better to remember them when everything is dormant! I love this inspiration board ....tres chic no?

Fall, Floral, Fabulous!

2009-12-07T10:58:00.000-08:00

I love fall weddings for the beautiful rich colours and textures I am able to bring into the pieces I create. In this bouquet I wanted to create a visually pleasing textural masterpiece :) I included rich chocolate brown feathers and topaz crystals. I think it is an absolutely stunning bouquet and perfect for the vineyard wedding it was created for!
For the wristlets, I wanted to create something a little more young, modern and edgy...a bolder statement.I again incorporated feathers and bronzed skeletal leaves. The girls "heart" these wristlets :)

Again, texture, texture for the boys boutonnieres.The groom is an avid fly fisherman so I incorporated tiny brown feather fishing flys into all the boys pieces. You can just see it at the bottom of this image. I did not stick myself once with those hooks.....this is a good thing!
Thank-you to Ruby Joon Studios for allowing me to use some of their images of the day and the bride and groom for giving me permission to use some of the floral shots.
Fall weddings are fabulous!

A Whole Lot of Smooching! Stephanie and Patrick

2009-11-04T12:43:00.000-08:00

Chartreuse and aubergine has been a very hot color pairing for my brides this summer. I love how the two colors look together! Check out the back of Stephanie's gown...tres sexy. I love this image by Brandon Patoc Photography.

The chartreuse orchids just make everything pop!

The sweet little flower girl tossed purple orchid florets from her basket.
Isn't this bridesmaid a stunner in her aubergine dress. I want to hire her for a photo shoot :)
Stephanie and Patrick said their vows at Laurel Point Inn. The fab photographer for all of these images is Brandon Patoc from Seattle.Many thanks to him for sharing his images with me.
The formals. Pretty darn tootin' good looking!

Check out the altar pieces with submerged green apples. Click on any image to enlarge.
A whole lot of smoochin' going on!

Patrick is one of the head chefs at the Laurel Point and planned the whole menu himself.

Yum!
More smooching. It is all as it should be :) Congratulations to Stephanie and Patrick! You both look fabulous...even while your lips are locked! xox

Passion with Cream Floral Details

2009-10-04T22:23:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not keeping up on my blogging recently. I have been a very busy girl with weddings and trying to shop for a new studio!
Here is a sneak peek of a few of the floral details I did for a recent August wedding.
The bride's bouquet was a simple stunner with red calla lilies and roses. The red looked fabulous with the green leaf backdrop.

The groom's boutonniere to echo the bouquet. I love it.
The flower girls carried these custom purses.
The bridesmaids bouquets. Cream roses and freesia. The bride loved the smell of freesia. I do too!
The groomsmen. Simple and elegant.
Large pomanders in red and cream roses hung from shepherd hooks to frame the area.
The ceremony took place in the groom's parents backyard right on the ocean. A fabulous piece of property!
I can't wait to see the professional photos from this wedding. I know they will be just fabulous!

Crazy for Bird Details! A Tiny Sneak Peek

2009-09-10T23:23:00.001-07:00

I recently did a wedding where the bride and groom were crazy for bird details. They had such wonderful details from programs,favors and birdcages that I am hoping the professional photographer was able to catch all these details. They were so fabulous!
The above is a custom purse I designed for the bride.It was pretty stunning if I do say so myself :)
Some of the boutonniere work.

A glimpse of the altar pieces I made bejeweled with hanging crystals, orchids and birds.

Here is a little glimpse of a bird detail seating plan. Forgive my photography. I am on a tight schedule!
Ever since this wedding I am crazy for bird details! I think they are just precious.Everywhere I go bird details call to me. I can't wait to find my new design studio so I can overhaul all the decor. .
I thought you might like a bit of inspiration for the myriad ways bird decor and details could be incorporated into your wedding. Isn't this cake the sweetest thing!
Little favors and favor boxes. Adorable!

Peonies in birds nests as centerpieces. Ah ha. I'm loving it!
Seating cards.
Ring bearer pillows.
Desert table anyone? Don't even get me started about desert tables! All these fabulous bird decor ideas are from Martha Stewart Weddings because seriously, what would we do without Martha?
I hope this post got you as crazy for bird details as I am!

Kim and Darren: Backyard Wedding

2009-09-05T23:49:00.000-07:00

Meet Kim and Darren married July 11,2009 in a lovely backyard wedding.
I love this photo of Kim. It's absolutely adorable. Just like Kim herself! Love the shoes.
These fabulous photos were taken by Ruby Joon Studios. If you scroll down to the bottom of the page on this link you can see more photos of this wedding.
A backyard smooch. Kim's Mom has the most fabulous property perfect for a back yard wedding.
The bouquets. You can see many more delightful images of the floral pieces from this wedding here.
After the wedding they hit China Town for some urban shots. Way cool!

Thank-you to Ruby Joon Studios for sharing some of their work with us.
To Kim and Darren, Congratulations! Kim you looked absolutely beautiful! It was a delight to work on your wedding and share in your special day. I am so honored. XOX to both of you :)

Tune Tuesday: Music Inspiration

2009-09-02T15:28:00.000-07:00

I love it when I come upon music or an artist I have never heard before. I especially love the use of acoustic guitars and the artistry of singer songwriters. I accidentally discovered this artist when watching a wedding video. I LOVE this song! It is perfect for a wedding. To walk down the aisle. For the groom to sing and play for his bride to be ( you know how I love boys with guitars right?)
I know my son's going to love this song too and learn to play it on the guitar to woo some girl with.... young love :)
This is not the official video. I could not find it. I hope you like the song. I think it's beautiful. I will get a sneak peek up soon of my latest wedding. Please be patient...it is crazy busy wedding season! XO Sarina P.S. I am off to find the CD of this artist.

Diana and Victor One Beautiful Family!

2009-08-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

Meet Diana and Victor...
...and their beautiful family.
All these photographs were taken by the very sweet Kim Kalyn. A brand new bride herself!
Look at Diana and that slit up her leg. Ooh la la!
I just think Diana looks beautiful in all these photos.I think Kim did a wonderful job catching her beauty and personality. I just love the bamboo.

Diana and her adorable girls.The sweetest flower girls!
Each Bridesmaid carried a different bouquet. If you want to see more of the floral details of this wedding look here. The floral details were simple and elegant. I really loved the cake. Make sure you have a peak.
The groomsmen had coordinating boutonnieres to the bridesmaids.
I love this image.The flower girls carried freesia bouquets.Diana's Mom's favorite flower.

See this little one here? I could have hugged her right up! In fact, I did. Poor little girl :)
Father and son share an embrace. I LOVE it. Victor and Victor. Beautiful.
Three of these boys are related. Can you tell which ones?
I love mix matched bouquets and dresses. So visually pleasing.
The girls bouquets. You can see more flowers from this wedding here.
Strolling.....
....into happily ever after.
Thank-you to Kim Kalyn Photography for sharing her photos with us. Diana, Victor and your two beautiful girls. I wish you all the best. Hugs all around. XO.

Let your Light Shine! Tune Tuesday Music Inspiration

2009-08-18T00:35:00.000-07:00

I love this guy.Why? For one, he sounds like James Taylor. Two, he is unafraid to let his light shine.What do I mean by this? Well, he's just a guy who liked this girl with beautiful eyes and wrote this song.He posted it on line for the world to see and comment on.This is Brave.It doesn't hurt that the song is pretty good and the guys' voice has some sweet tone!
The song got me to thinking though, about how we let fear stop us from doing the things that we really love, from self promoting, from letting our light shine! What do we fear? That people won't like us or our work? That we will be judged? That we will fail? What are you afraid of?
Each of us is made up of so many incredible parts that make us truly good at what we do.What are you good at?
I have done many amazing things in my life; I plan to do MANY more!! What have you done that is amazing? Every now and then I write a list 'cause sometimes I forget. I bet you forget sometimes too. I think it's important to remember our greatness; to "embrace the fear and do it anyway." This song, for some reason made me think about all of these things.
Here are a few amazing things I have done:

I have ridden on the back of an elephant up the side of mountain in India to see a sacred Tantric Temple only to have my eyes covered by my mother because the statues carved in stone were too explicit ! I remember it to this day. I was only ten.
I breathed life into a newborn puppy!I was ten.
I won a dance scholarship and received my first one dozen red roses tied with satin ribbon.I was 17.
I swung from a Trapeze and did not fall! I was 19.
I graduated from Theater school despite my mother wanting me to be a doctor, a lawyer, a teacher.
I danced in a music video or two. I was 20.
I planted forests of trees which are still standing today. I was 22.
I delivered a baby all by myself! Someone else's baby! I was 22.
I hitch hiked across Canada with only a tent and sleeping bag and survived to tell the tale!

There are many more amazing things I have done all of them have helped shape what I am to day....One Rock Star Floral Designer! All of the amazing things I have done required me to "embrace my fear and do it anyway" To let my light shine.
I realize this post has very little to do with weddings....except this song would make a great wedding song!
I hope you let your light shine today and everyday...'cause really you rock!

Tune Tuesday: Twilight Moment

2009-08-11T01:46:00.000-07:00

So you know I love music right? Someone twittered about her last night and I just had to have a listen.Curiosity killed the cat and all that. I thought it was an incredibly beautiful song and so perfect for a wedding. I try to find unique music to feature because I've always liked things that were out of the ordinary. My Mom can attest to this :)
When I found out that this girl is only eighteen and from Edmonton, Alberta. I was like, "Wow! This girl is talented and Canadian to boot!" My second thought was I should hook her up with my son but he probably wouldn't appreciate the meddling in his love life!
Check out her myspace page. Samantha is amazing and I think, going to be huge one day. I would play this song just about anywhere in a wedding.Isn't it so pretty?

The Shoes that Started it All:Real Wedding

2009-08-08T00:15:00.000-07:00

"A bride carries her bouquet but it's me which carry the bride," thought the hot pink shoes as they sat in a box in the bride's closet.
"Aah,"said the shoes, "I look good in this lovely photograph by Jen Steele Photography."
"The bride is happy to be wearing me," thought the shoes as they witnessed this kiss.

"It was so fun to attend this beautiful wedding at the Laurel Point Inn."
"I look good with that bouquet."
"Absolutely!"

"Look at the lovely flowers. They match me so perfectly."

"The girls wish they had a pair of me....I just know it"
"The boys love me too."

"One day, I will wear hot pink shoes at my wedding," thought the little flower girl who had to be bribed to wear her flower girl dress but not to put on her hot pink pair of shoes. "Aaah,"thought the shoes, "my job is done, for I am the shoes, the shoes that started it all!"
Thank-you to Jen Steele Photography for sharing some of her images with us.

Tune Tuesday: Show You Love

2009-08-04T12:48:00.000-07:00

I love music! All kinds of music. I think music can make or break an event. Ever been to a wedding where no one is dancing? Soon after the dancing stops, people start leaving.No fun. Movies without a soundtrack have absolutely no dynamics.In fact movie makers spend a lot on getting the music just right. Bryan Adams anyone? Music helps make movies and music helps make weddings; regardless if you choose to have dancing at your wedding or not. Music sets the mood and helps invoke the spirit you want present at your wedding. We all don't have to play Pachelbel's Canon at our wedding. I love this song from Jars of Clay. It is a contemporary Christian song. The nice thing about Christian music is the words are most always uplifting and they are usually always good musicians and singers. I think this song is perfect for the recessional after you are married. So lovely and celebratory. Isn't it pretty?

Lolipop Pie! It's True!

2009-07-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

I know someone (to remain nameless) who grew up on the plains of Saskatchewan . He grew up eating pie every day. His Grandmother would make ten pies every morning to feed the farm hands! This person can eat a whole pie in one sitting....if you let him! This person married someone who for the life of her can not make a decent pie crust to save her life! She does make good crisps however.
When the excellent crisp maker saw these pie lolipops on Luxirare's Blog. She thought fantastic, I can make these! I can cheat and buy premade pie dough and impress said pie loving man with my ingenuity . It may stop him eating a whole pie in one sitting as he can just pop one of these in his mouth and trick his mind into believing it was huge.
Then the excellent crisp maker had another idea. These would make fabulous wedding favors for a chic country wedding! " Oh, yes," she thought,"Tres Original!" because everything sounds better in French and Italian.
The bride could premake her favorite fillings and store them in cute jars with lables....or cheat and buy premade pie fillings. Although, the excellent crisp maker would NEVER condone cheating.
Just gather up your favorite pie ingredients.

Blackberries. Yum!

Cut out your pie dough with cookie cutters.

Place a teaspoon of your favorite pie filling.
Add lolipop stick
Press the edges down fancy like. "Tres Bella!" combining two foreign languages together makes one sound even more cosmopolitan! The trick apparently for a really nice flaky crust is lots, LOTS of egg wash.

Pumkin pie lolipop!
Blackberry! Personal favorite.
Apple for the purist.
Lovely.
Yummy.
So cutely wrapped and sealed. I would just add ribbon and a personalized tag for a wedding favor. Your guests could choose the pie flavour they prefer. They freeze and refrigerate well so can be made in advance of your wedding. Luxirare carries them around in her purse when she wants a little something sweet!
Excellent crisp maker LOVES them and is making them for her kids lunches in the fall but shhh may cheat! So excellent for a wedding favor idea. Don't you think?

Tune Tuesday: You and Me

2009-07-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

I'm loving Dave Mathews these days. He has a great voice. Not to mention, I've always had a weakness for boys with guitars. Actually, any instrument really but that's a different story!
I love this song for the recessional. After you are married and you are walking back up the aisle. It is so celebratory! Don't you just love it? What music are you planning to use in your wedding? Share it with us via email. We'd love to hear it!

Sneak Peek: Floral Details July 25,2009

2009-07-27T19:22:00.001-07:00

From the moment I met my bride Diana I knew the girl had style! I call Diana's style simple, modern, elegance. This style suits premium flowers and single flower bouquets. This is her phaelenopsis orchid bouquet.

Her Groom's boutonniere.
Their two beautiful daughters were the flower girls. They carried these freesia bouquets.Diana's Mom's favorite flower.Diana's Mom is in Romania and was unable to attend the wedding.

The bridesmaids carried different flower bouquets. The flowers alternated white and lavender.
The groomsmen boutonnieres matched the bridesmaids they were partnered with.
An over the arm bouquet created visual interest.No matchy, matchy here!

The maid of honour carried this beautiful orchid bouquet .

These roses were so beautiful.

The altar flowers were placed on stands at the ceremony and then brought to the reception.
These were placed on the mantle in two different sizes.
The candles were lit once it got dark casting a magical glow.
Everything was simple and elegant.

Diana was smart to have a little girl table at the reception with sticker books and crayons.
The cake I decorated with three types of orchids.
Congratulations Diana and Victor! You are a beautiful couple and have a beautiful family! I can't wait to see the photos from your wedding! I know Diana totally rocked her dress. It had a thigh high slit. Ooh La La!!

Tuesday Tune: Loving Wings

2009-07-21T20:47:00.000-07:00

I love this song by Dave Mathews. In My humble opinion, his voice is swoon worthy. In my wedding vision the Groom plays this on his acoustic guitar, singing to his bride as she walks down the aisle. I know. I'm a complete romantic sap which is why I'm a floral designer! Hope you like it.

Real Wedding: Kilts and Thistle

2009-07-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

A modern Celtic wedding complete with thistle and men in Kilts.

The lovely bride as photographed by Orange Frog Studios.

Heading to the reception.
The bride's bouquet.

I love this photograph of the flower girl with the circlet I made her.

The bridesmaids bouquets made in a silver wire collar.

Wristlets made with an orchid,spray roses and more.
One happy Father after the ceremony!

Floral Fashionista Friday Presents: Tissage Jewelry Inspiration

2009-07-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

I love jewelry without a doubt. I love renaissance people without out a doubt. Those people who are so creative they can't contain themselves to one art form; they have to dabble in many creative pursuits because if they did not they would risk implosion! So, when I came across Tory over at Tissage...
I recognized a kindred spirit. I loved her jewelry instantly; a little bit bohemian , a little bit vintage a whole lot of glam chic!
I've put these earrings on my birthday wish list. Hello! They are purple!
I thought they would be so beautiful for the bride.
Also, so perfect for bridesmaids gifts.

I love this bracelet!
Are you bold?
Or dainty?

Not only does Tory make jewelry she makes hats too! So perfect for the vintage bride.
Perhaps, with these earrings...
...or this necklace.
I love the style of these earrings so perfect for a beach wedding.
Ooh la la! I just love Tissage! So perfect for brides, bridesmaids, weddings and just about anything. Affordable too.
Tissage is based out of Seattle. Tory loves custom work so don't be afraid to contact her with your request. Check out her shop there are so many beautiful pieces there. I personally can't wait for my birthday and those purple earrings!

Sneak Peek Floral Details:July 11,2009

2009-07-12T20:05:00.000-07:00

My bride and groom got married this Saturday in a lovely garden wedding. The weather was beautiful and sunny. I can hardly wait for the professional photos as I am sure they will be stunning. So check back in a month or so when I post the real wedding.
A close up of the Bridal bouquet. The Bride is an absolute sweetheart. She is so lovely and petite that I have a hard time not hugging her to pieces every time I see her...poor thing....getting squished up by her floral designer wasn't exactly written in the contract!
When I created her bouquet I didn't want to create something so large that it would overwhelm her natural beauty. This bouquet was just the right size for her.
A close up shot of the Bridesmaids bouquet.
I took some of the flowers used in the Bride's bouquet for her girls. I am a firm believer that the Bride should have the most beautiful bouquet regardless of her budget.

That goes for the Groom's boutonniere as well.
The Groomsmen wore these.
The Fathers and Grandfathers had a lovely, simple but elegant rose boutonniere .
Pearl and orchid wristlets for the Moms.

Grandmothers and other honored female guests had an orchid corsage.

The reception venue and centerpieces. Once again, I do not have a great shot of these due to the lighting in the venue and am hoping the professional photographers got some good shots of them for me. The centerpieces looked lovely and were made from hydrangea, curly willow and orchid florets. The centerpieces also had submersible lights that illuminated the centerpieces up from the inside and I am sure looked fabulously magical once it got dark. I loved these centerpieces and wish I had gotten a good shot of them. Sigh. They were elegant, modern and slightly whimsical. The servers who were setting up the tables were "Oohing and Awing"over them which always makes a floral designer happy. It is always nice to get positive feedback :)
My dear bride is also a wedding photographer and will be photographing a wedding of mine in two weeks so I hope she is enjoying a lovely honeymoon with her groom. All the best to Kim and Darren and HUGS all around!

Feels Like Fall: Fashion Shoot with Red Leaf Studios

2009-07-08T22:58:00.000-07:00

Something about today made me feel like Fall. Maybe it was the sweater I had to put on because of the clouds and light drizzle. Maybe it was how I was craving hot chocolate all day even though it is only July. Perhaps, it felt like Fall because when I went into my local craft store to buy more ribbon for my wedding this weekend, they had the Halloween ribbon on display with skulls, crossbones, ghouls and witches. So here I am drinking hot chocolate thinking about Autumn weddings......
Then I came across this fashion shoot by Red Leaf Studios based out of Regina. I love their photography! I thought it had decidedly an Autumn air about it. Also, it featured a vintage typewriter.Hello! I love props in photography!
I also thought the model's attire suited a Vintage,Goth, Rocker Chic kind of Autumn wedding.You know, the kind of wedding featuring skeletons in bridal attire as cake toppers! The Corpse Bride! I've never met a bride who wanted to wear black but I'm sure they are out there.
I must say, I love the heavy handed black eye liner and hair fascinator. I have been known to rock this look back in the day!

I love birch trees. Trees in general used in wedding photography creates such interesting texture. I also love vintage suitcases. Do you think she's planning to run away? From "The Corpse Bride" to "The Runaway Bride"!!
We still have a few spots available for Fall weddings so give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation. We won't turn you away if you want to wear black.
Thank-you to Red Leaf Studios for their photography inspiration for the day....now back to my hot chocolate.

Technorati

2009-07-08T20:24:00.000-07:00

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Real Wedding Sneak Peek: The Shoes that Started it All

2009-07-04T20:37:00.001-07:00

Charlene the bride, contacted me less than a month before her wedding. She was cool, calm and collected. I, on the other hand, knowing my wedding schedule and limited time available was direct and to the point.Only one month to figure out her style, likes, dislikes etc. I better get on this!
Charlene is from Calgary and I prayed she was one of those bride's that answered her emails promptly. Thank goodness she was :) Charlene told me her wedding was all about the shoes and emailed me the above photo. AAH, I thought to myself hot pink satin shoes...ideas started to form.
Charlene wanted to use hydrangea for sentimental reasons. She likes simple, monochromatic bouquets.
The bridesmaids wore lilac and purple knee length dresses .
The flower girl was not even two so she carried this little hydrangea posy. It was so tiny and sweet that every time I looked at it I said, "Aww".
The Groom's boutonniere.
The wristlet was made on a seed pearl bracelet and unfortunately the image I took of it in the studio was blurry. I am no photgrapher. Sigh.
Corsages.

Two different kinds of centerpieces short and tall. In the studio.
One of the altar pieces in the studio. Lace table cloths are great to hide all the floral debris!
The tall centerpieces. I am now seriously considering taking a photography course this fall.First, I must get a decent Camera, one that has not been dropped and is held together with tape!
Altar flowers. Outdoor ceremony by the ocean.
Centerpieces in the venue.
Each table was named after a different cocktail. The children' s table was called "Shirley Temple" and they did not get a centerpiece but instead got toys on their table.Good idea to keep them entertained during the reception.
I am looking forward to seeing the professional photos for this wedding. I think they will be beautiful. Congratulations to Charlene and Darrell married on this day of July 4, 2009.Thank-you for letting me be a part of your special day and thank-you Charlene for sending me that photo of the shoes. The shoes that started it all!

Canada Rocks! Rockin' the Red and White Floral Details

2009-07-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

I'm proud to be Canadian. Technically, I am not supposed to be working today, but I received an eye opening call this morning. A client from California phoned to place a custom order( thinking it was my bride for this weekend) I picked up. I was trying to explain to this client that it was Canada Day and that I would not be doing any deliveries today. When she said,"I'm sorry, I don't know what that is." I had to pause. "Well, it's a National holiday much like your 4th of July." I replied. Ever the professional, I took her order and thanked her and told her I would be able to deliver tomorrow. She was fine with that. I was, however, considerably surprised that she did not know what Canada Day was and hence, I am posting this blog of red and white floral details to show our true colours! We love our American friends and just wanted to inform you about Canada Day where just as many firework displays take place as the 4th of July!
Where Canadian brides love red and white floral details.

The men do too....and they also like Canadian Beer and hockey on Saturday nights.
Canada we Love you!!
Please enjoy this musical interlude while reading our blog.
I love Canada so much I posted the musical interlude twice! OOPS!

Real Wedding: Stefanie and Gregor

2009-06-23T20:56:00.000-07:00

This is the lovely Stefanie and Gregor as photographed by Jennifer Kirk Photography from Vancouver. Stefanie and Gregor were married May 16, 2009 at the fabulous Laurel Point Inn.The perfect venue to host your wedding and reception in one place. To see more of the floral details for this wedding please view my sneak peek of this wedding in my blog.Their floral details were fresh, beautiful and springlike !
A lovely shot.
The beautiful girls.

The handsome boys.
What exactly is going on here?!! They look like their having fun.

The cake was made and decorated by the pastry chef at the Laurel Point.

The guest book table. View my sneak peek to get a close up of those candlesticks.
The centerpieces in the venue.

Congratulations to Stefanie and Gregor! Wishing them both much joy and happiness. Also, a big thank-you to Jennifer Kirk Photography for sharing her photos with us.

Sneak Peek: Villa Marco Pollo Floral Details

2009-06-21T22:28:00.000-07:00

I have found a new wedding venue to love. It is called the Villa Marco Polo Inn. It is a lovely five star bed and breakfast with beautiful Italianate gardens and interior decor full of Persian and antique styling; from the moment I first saw it I was in love. It felt like home. This venue is perfect for an intimate garden wedding.I discovered this venue thanks to my lovely bride and groom who held their wedding there this Saturday. This is just a sneak peek of some of the floral details while we wait for the professional photos.
I made this turquoise bead curtain to delineate the entrance to the gardens for the guests as they arrived. I did not want to spend too much of the bride's budget on the entrance but still wanted to have something elegant and tasteful. I think this fit the bill!
I attached these lovely chartreuse orchids just to add another pop of color.
And tied back the curtain with turquoise satin ribbon. The bride's colors as you can guess were chartreuse, white, turquoise and touches of silver.
The bride's bouquet full of roses, berries and two different kinds of orchids.

A close up shot of the flowers.
The bride wanted a floppy satin bow and a bit of bling on the wrap.
One of the boutonnieres. I made four different kinds.
The corsages.
The venue had this sweet little tree that I couldn't let go naked; so I dressed it up with turquoise and chartreuse satin ribbon. I also made these custom crystals to tie onto the ribbon and to catch a bit of light. I think the tree was happy to be dressed for the occasion!
The centerpieces were made in tall fluted glass vases that had submerged orchids and chartreuse wire.
Spilling forth from the top were white orchids and hydrangea. So elegant.
This one with it's mate were waiting for the banquet table to get dressed.
A close up of the wire detailing.

The sweetheart table had this lovely centerpiece.
Three types of orchids were used in this wedding.
Some more crystals attached to the ceremony gazebo.
The gazebo looked so pretty all dressed up.
The altar piece was placed on a nice white Italianate pillar.It was made in a tall silver fluted vase.
Here is the total effect. My pictures do not do it justice. Click on the pictures to enlarge the images.

The garden has this beautiful fountain in the middle and I was chomping at the bit to do a fantastic floral feature in it, but one thing a florist has to do, is stay in budget! Sigh. Maybe next time.

The lovely grounds.
Thanks to my son for taking all the garden and building shots for me while Mom worked he photographed. My daughter is the one who actually helped me by passing me flowers, scissors and ribbon when I needed it. We worked like a fine tuned machine. I'm a lucky Mom.
My son had a fascination with all the garden statues. Could it be because they were women in various states of undress, or because they were simply beautiful?
I wish I could be a lady lounging around in this garden; the problem is, I am not very ladylike, but I could pretend!
Best wishes to my latest newlyweds Stacey and Chris! I can't wait too see the photos !

Cake Inspiration

2009-06-18T00:39:00.001-07:00

I was wondering if Bride's thought about their wedding cake as an extension of their style? Quite often when I talk to brides they have not thought about their wedding cake in very much detail. When I think of the wedding ceremony and focal areas that absolutely need substantial floral pieces I always think of the front altar or where the ceremony is taking place. I absolutely cringe inside when a bride says she is forgoing altar flowers. Sorry, but I do. I almost always try to convince them otherwise. Sometimes they listen, sometimes they do not. The reason why altar flowers are so important is that it frames the ceremony. It creates the focal point for all the guests at the wedding to look at while they are seated. Also, and most importantly it frames the wedding ceremony photographs. I understand there is a recession going on and that not all brides have big wedding budgets; but I would even go so far as to suggest cutting the flowers from somewhere else to avoid forgoing altar pieces. The good thing about altar pieces is that they can be reused at your wedding reception in so many ways. But this post is not about altar flowers; it's about wedding cakes!
I view the wedding cake like I do the altar flowers. Quite often it is one of the first places your guests look after they have entered the reception site and oohed and awed over the centerpieces and decor. Not to mention the huge photo opportunity the cake cutting ceremony actually is. I also like cupcakes. I like anything that extends the bridal couple's personality. An artful cake is one way to extend your style no matter what that style may be.
These fabulous cakes were made by Allyson Meredith Cakes from Toronto. A very fine cake artist in my estimation! I think they illustrate the very many different styles and ways you can express your personality at your reception and like altar flowers should not be brushed off as dispensable.
A little pink and green whimsy.
Perfect for an orchard, vineyard or fall wedding. Understated elegance.
Patterns on your cake can mirror a pattern else where in your wedding....linens,lace, dress or china.
Look at the gold damask pattern on this one. Ooh la la!
Did you know I love cherry blossoms but they make me sneeze!
So many different styles of cakes, so many different kinds of brides. Please have a look at all the different styles of cakes on Allyson Meredith's site you are sure to be inspired to think about cakes in a different way.
Your wedding ceremony may only last half an hour and your cake cutting ceremony 10 minutes but the memories you will have through the photographs will last forever. Make your memories beautiful and rethink cutting those altar flowers from your budget! Oh yeah, this post is supposed to be about wedding cakes......

I Love Fall Weddings

2009-06-15T23:39:00.001-07:00

Time to get you thinking about Fall weddings. I love Autumn weddings. I love how it is still sunny but the air has a crisp,cool feel to it.I love how my apple trees bare so much fruit I have to knock on all my neighbor's doors begging them to take some. We eat a lot of apple crisp in the fall and my daughter makes apple sauce in old spaghetti sauce jars with handmade labels. The trees are dressed in their coats of many colors and every flower shop has bunches and bunches of dahlia. I always search for the largest showiest bloom to display. My birthday falls in Autumn and I always manage to draw out the celebrations for at least two weeks; all though, I always try to push it for a month. No one buys into it though. Sigh.Maybe this year!
I love the colors available to us in Autumn. The oranges, golds and burgundies. Just yummy.
Kim Kalyn Photography took the professional shots and yours truly took the floral detail shots.
For this wedding that took place last fall I made altar pieces in giant pumpkins. They were so heavy! There is nothing I love more than pumpkin patches! That's not entirely true. I love my kids, lavender fields,wildflower meadows, weddings, babies of all kinds, dancing barefoot, good music and certain kinds of cheesecake! But I do love pumpkin patches a lot! This is not a personal ad because I have not mentioned long walks on the beach!!!
Another thing I love about Autumn is the color hydrangea turns and all the different grasses and cat tails that become available to floral designers.
I love those almost black dahlia and black baccarra roses. So rich and deep.
Here's a box of all those apples I was talking about. Look at the fabulous physallis (Chinese lanterns) in this bouquet....another item I love that comes available in fall. If you are planning a fall wedding, book a complimentary consultation with us soon. We still have a few dates available for September and October but they are going, going, gone! If you book with us you'll probably get a wedding present of some gift wrapped apples! Please. Please take them.I'll even give you my top secret apple crisp recipe to impress your groom with! I love Fall weddings!

Music Love: I'm Yours!

2009-06-15T00:57:00.000-07:00

I love this song by Jason Mraz. I think it's perfect for the guests to hear before the ceremony; while they are seated and patiently waiting for the ceremony to start. The song is so uplifting and joyous. It seems to create instant unity and good will.....all the things you want present at your wedding celebration! I think this song is perfect for a casual summer or beach wedding. I love it and have been listening to it over and over. My son got me hooked on it and now I must go check out the whole album It's called, "We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things ". The title alone makes me smile. Simple things make me happy. Fresh order of flowers, new satin ribbon to wrap them in and a new song to sing in the studio. YAY! LIFE IS GOOD!

Floral Fashionista Fridays Presents:Threadhead Creations

2009-06-11T23:28:00.000-07:00

Threadhead Creations is a custom wedding dress designer based out of Knoxville; but don't let that discourage you my Canadian Brides.Threadhead ships worldwide and is so affordable, even with the prices listed in U.S. currency! Trust me, check out her shop you will be pleasantly surprised.
The reason I chose to feature these stunning dresses besides being so incredibly artful and unique is that they are created with organic fabrics. I love the idea of wearing something so beautiful on your wedding day, that was created by hand with obvious love, using sustainable fabrics .It just makes sense to me. Look at that dress! Have you ever seen a dress so unique that you actually would want to wear? This dress reminds me of my post "Cherry Blossom Fairytale". I love how the two trees reach for each other and the branches crisscross. Two lives become one....sigh...I am a hopeless romantic.
Look at all the colors of sashes you can have to match your color scheme.

The landscape panel is handcrafted and appliqued using many lovely colors of hemp/silk charmeuse. Over forty blossoms accent the intertwined tree limbs.
Hemp and silk combine in this fabric to give a lovely sheen and wonderful drape. This hemp is grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers and blended with wild peace silk (cocoons are harvested only after the moths have emerged). 60% hemp, 40% silk. Fully lined in 100% silk. This dress is fabulous for a spring wedding.
I love the simplicity of this one and think it could easily fit into a retro-styled wedding.
This one is completely West coast.Perfect for a Vancouver Island wedding! The couple on the path are completely customizable as are the colors and sashes. It is artful.So artful.
Here is your classic, elegant dress with lace up detailing. I know you brides love that! This dress just looks like it would be flattering on any figure.

This is my favorite. I LOVE IT! I love the empire waist. The drape of the chapel train and how it pools on the floor.The tie back sash that I seriously want to create a romantic rose piece for and it's completely understated elegance! LOVE. I can visualize a whole wedding for this dress. My dream would be for a bride to bring me this dress and say, "This is my dress. Go to town. Money is no object." First, I would say," Are you related to Oprah? " Then, I would say, "Preston Bailey
move on over!"
A girl can dream can't she!!
Thank-you to Threadhead Creations for giving me my inspiration for this Friday.

I Love Pin-up Photography!

2009-06-09T20:18:00.000-07:00

The big rage for brides these days is to do a boudoir photo shoot to give to their grooms on their wedding night. I think this is a fabulous idea! Better to have photos of you between the mattress than some girly magazine! I would love the idea even more if the boudoir shots were actually interesting to look at and showed the bride's personality. That's why I love pin-up photography. The options for creativity and personality are endless.
Tim Melideo Photography soon to be based out of New York has kindly let me use some of his pinup shots to illustrate my point.
First of all, men are visual creatures. It's a little known fact that us girls need to remember. Second, men love what they love. Remember George in that Seinfeld episode where he's in bed with a woman and sticks his head out from under the blanket to get a bite of his favorite sandwich? He's combining the two things he loves! You can do that for your groom too! You can combine his love for you with his favorite guitar, pie, sport and nachos! You would be surprised how much more this engages his fancy than just you in stilettos and lingerie. By all means rock the stilettos but amp up the visual interest to keep him wanting to view the image longer.What exactly is she doing with those nachos?
If you are not naturally a vixen with Bette Davis eyes and an Angelina Jolie pout then just be yourself. Play up your attributes.Gorgeous smile, quirky nature. Rock what your Mama gave you! Your groom loves you and maybe tacos too!
Sometimes more is better then less. Pin up photography gives you the option of keeping more of your clothes on if you feel more comfortable that way; while still allowing you to be sexy and titillating. It allows the viewer to use the imagination. Sometimes the imagination can create far more interesting scenarios than if everything is spelled out like in boudoir photography." O.K. there she is in bed, draped in a sheet, dressed in a lacy number that I can hardly see. O.K. Ho Hum. Next." Where as in this image, " Hey, is that the band's vintage station wagon?Oh, I love those pink short, shorts on her and the heels. She's so beautiful. I remember that time we took the wagon up to Tofino to go surfing and pulled over to make sweet....." Do you get my drift? Men love to use their imaginations! It's the third little known fact!
I wish boudoir photographers would incorporate a little more of the pin-up mentality into their photo shoots, infuse more fun, play,props and personality into the images. I don't see why the two styles can't borrow from each other while still being true to the chosen art form. Do you?
I love pin-up photography and want to thank Tim Melideo for sharing his images with us. He's getting married in five days! Congratulations Tim! Maybe his fiance will rock a taco for him!

Wham Rap Wedding Makes Me Happy!

2009-06-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

O.K. I am just too tired to do the post I had planned and I don't yet have the images from the photographer.....sooo a little blast from the past! This video just makes me smile from beginning to end! First of all, if your man took the time to choreograph this little number out he must really love you! Second of all, he manged to convince his groomsmen to perform it with him! Thirdly, they are obviously having a good time! Fourthly, the boys can actually dance ! Fifthly, boys that dance are always in my good book! I even had a theory about boys that were good dancers in University and refused to date boys that did not dance ! Sixthly, the eighties rock! Give me back my "Bon Jovi hair"!! Seventhly, the couple who's wedding this is are apparently still married after 22 years! Eighthly, which proves my point about boys who dance! Ninethly, if you aren't smiling by the end of this video stop using Botox! Tenthly, I hope this little post makes your day because LOVE DOES EXIST!

Floral Fashionista Friday Presents: Econica

2009-06-05T00:16:00.000-07:00

This week on Floral Fashionista Fridays we present Econica a designer out of Ottawa.We are very happy to feature this Canadian Designer because she designs using primarily organic fabrics that include organic bamboo,cotton,hemp,soy and silk. The dresses are very suitable for weddings and the eco minded bride.
This dress would work very well for a bride having a natural garden style wedding. Casual yet elegant.This would be so comfortable to wear and could be worn again and again.

All the dresses are made to order so each bridesmaid would have a dress that fits them properly.
The colours of the dress are customizable.

Blossom Sundress has a vintage feel and is made with Japanese cotton poplin,organic bamboo and silk jersey.
Perfect to wear to a wedding or elegant affair.
This Evening gown is made with bamboo jersey and would be fabulous to wear to an elegant function. Perhaps cruise ship honeymoon!
Love the back detailing.
I just love this one for some reason.It looks cozy.Perfect for cuddling up in on your autumn honeymoon. I love supporting a Canadian designer who is environmentally conscious.Econica has fabulous casual wear too. Check them out!

Music Love: Natural Woman

2009-06-04T00:19:00.000-07:00

I still love this song. Please don't hold it against me. I used to sing it at the top of my lungs when I was about five or six. If you can imagine. I totally have this vision for a wedding where as the groom waits for his bride, the bridesmaids break into Natural Woman as the bride walks down the aisle! Corny, I know. I can't help myself. Do you believe I lie awake at night and think of such things? Maybe, someone will buy my idea and make a movie with Cameron Diaz, Julia Roberts and Drew Barrymore with this scene in it....or maybe Kate Hudson.Matthew McConaughey could play the groom as long as he has a scene where he doesn't wear a shirt because seriously, that man without a shirt is a work of art! Really, Mathew McConaughey without a shirt inspires me to make all kinds of wonderful floral designs and sing, You make me feeeel like a natural womaaaan at the top of my lungs....

Bride Love Makes My Day!

2009-06-03T01:03:00.000-07:00

I am so happy when a Bride takes the time to let me know how much they appreciated my work on their wedding. I know brides get busy with honeymoons, settling into their new lives and writing thank-you cards after the wedding so when one takes the time to send me a special email or thank-you card I am overjoyed! I put a lot of love, heart and thought into each and every piece I create, so to hear back so soon from a recent wedding....well, I am simply OVERJOYED! I wish Susan and Lauren all the joy and happiness in the world.Thank-you so much for your letter it means the world to me.
Here is the letter of bride love from Susan and Lauren, Married May 23, 2009.

Dear Sarina ,

We are home and finally settling in after our wonderful wedding in Victoria. Thank you SO much for the beautiful wedding flowers you prepared. I know I speak for both of us when I say we were stunned with the beauty, artistry and magic you preformed. The flowers were such an important part of the wedding for me, and one that I was in charge of. My expectations are very high, but you exceeded my vision and gave us such beautiful and rich bouquets and arrangements. You were fabulous to work with, Sarina, and we are so appreciative of your artistry. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

The flowers I was able to bring home are drying in the garage. I smile each and every time I walk in there.

Thank you 10,000 times for the work you did Sarina. You are the best!

XXOO Always! Susan and Lauren

Photography Love: The Garden's Muse

2009-06-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

I love photography. Let me rephrase that...I love good photography. I tend to like photography that is evocative, that tells a story, where the personality of the subjects are portrayed and that are details driven. I find much inspiration from photography that I can translate into my floral designs. I actually design bridal flowers with the awareness of how they will look photographed for the bride. Which is usually something that brides and other florists do not think about, but is so important to the photographic memories of the bride. So many times I feel heartbroken for the bride when I see the photographs from her wedding. A photographer whom she has paid well to document her day has taken absolutely no detail shots of her bouquet,her shoes, of her centerpieces, of her dress! I know how much thought she has put into all these details not to mention money. A bride recently just said to me, "It's all about the shoes!" She had just purchased a hot pink satin pair for which she had been searching and searching. Now imagine if she receives wedding photography and those shoes are not documented! Needless to say, professional photos shot in bad light drive me crazy and will propel me into a diatribe which no one pays much attention to, and so is probably not very good for my health! Let me also say by detail shots, I do not mean placing the bouquet on the grass and photographing it ! I want to inspire photographers to be creative, to think outside the box, to think about their subjects personalities, style and vibe, and to capture the evocative emotions of the day.
Jeremy Harwell and Kyle Egan two photographers based out of Atlanta took this bridal fashion shoot and I think the shots are lovely and have some ideas that bridal photographers could employ. I originally spotted their images over on Style Me Pretty's fabulous blog.
The use of accessories and props. Do not be afraid to stage your bride. By all means document the important events in the wedding but do not be afraid to take the bridal party away and stage them like you were doing a fashion shoot. Find fabulous locations near the venue, bring props that relate to the bridal party. The groomsmen are all in a band together? Get them to string on their guitars and bass.Pull out the drumsticks! They'll love it and have fun while you are shooting. Allowing the photos to express their true personalities. Take the time to get to know your subjects so you can portray them well.
The use of light and texture.The light shining on the models hair makes her look like a pouty angel. The texture of the tree in black and white adds visual interest. Texture is incredibly important in black and white photographs and I design bouquets with this in mind.
The fabulous hairstyles were done by Caprice Green and make-up by Lay' Na Anderson.The bridal fashion is from Etain and Morgan from Bridal Naturals. Whom you may remember from my earth week floral fashionista post.
I love this shot of the bride baring her knees and standing slightly pigeon toed.It has an element of girlish rebellion which just calls to me! Aren't the hair flowers gorgeous! Have you seen our hair flowers. We can custom make whatever you desire. Have you noticed how the hair flowers change from different images? By simply changing an accessory like a hair flower(easy to do without messing up the brides hair too much if the flowers are made onto alligator clips); the look of the photograph can be changed from romantic to vintage.
Love the vintage feel of this shot. By getting your bride to change the colour of her lipstick(really, really simple) you can get a vintage feel in black and white. Don't be afraid to ask you bride to bring different lipstick or hair pieces to the after wedding shoot. If you mention this in the initial consults and explain why; she may be really into it. What bride doesn't want to look fabulous in her bridal photos!
I love the use of pink tulle in these shots. Different from the bridal veil.It adds romance, mystery and high fashion to the shot instantly! I believe every good photographer should have a "tickle trunk" like Mr. Dressup (remember him from when you were a child? ). The "tickle trunk"is the only reason I watched Mr. Dressup as a child.What costumes would they pull out to wear and what skit would they stage! Because I have a background in theater and dance, I absolutely LOVE the use of props in photography; it makes photography so much more interesting to view. If you are a photographer get some good staging items for your bridal shoots from umbrellas to fake mustaches...it's all in good fun and makes the bridal party comfortable instead of stiff and formal in every shot.

Thank-you Jeremy Harwell and Kyle Egan two photographers from Atlanta for allowing me to blog about your work. I do so appreciate it.
If you are a local photographer and have some photography pertaining to weddings that you think I may love. Don't be afraid to contact me.I don't bite...well only sometimes! Here at Bella Fiore we appreciate all that is beautiful and artistic and are more than willing to spread the love!
If you are a photographer I hope you have been inspired. If you are a bride do not be afraid to make specific requests for photography shots to your photographer.....that's why they get the big bucks!

Floral Fashionista Fridays Presents: Holly Stalder

2009-05-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

Holly Stalder is an independent designer from Portland, Oregon.I think her work is fabulous and she is just a hop, skip and jump across the pond from us here in Victoria! Holly uses salvaged antique fabrics and trims in her designs to create modern pieces of wearable art. You can check out her shop here. She takes custom orders.Hurray!
The Opera Society tiered,corded dress with vintage pearl collar made to order.Just Love. I am hoping one of my brides comes to me saying this is her dress because I have a fabulous idea for a floral piece for this dress that I am just longing to create.
O.K. How sexy is this dress? Ivory silk,chiffon and lace backless dress. I love backless dresses. I think the back is underrated as a very sexy part of the human body male or female.
I LOVE this caplet by Holly Stalder! Little Red Riding Hood goes Baroque or something....really just love it. I think it would be fabulous used in a Boudoir photography session for a brave bride. Little lacy, red bra and panty set, high heels, this caplet and basket of flowers and goodies for Grandma! Can you visualize? The Big Bad Wolf would probably just love it!!
I am really into yellow wedding details these days. Although, I actually detest yellow for myself and do not own a single yellow piece of clothing or accessory. I love it in spring weddings so bright , cheery and joyful.
A little reclaimed velvet ribbon here, a little Edwardian lace there, salvaged antique applique from a 1920's dress and Voila! Pure Holly Stalder fabulousness here!

Meet the Brockintons=Inspiration

2009-05-28T01:50:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this video on YouTube and it just brings me such joy that I thought I'd share it with you all. I love it as an introduction to their photography business. It gives you a sense of who they are....wouldn't you just want to hire them as your photographers for your wedding? I also think Ashley has an incredible fashion sense. I love every single outfit she wears! Also, their children are just adorable.
But then, I had an idea...Oh Oh....
I thought, why don't a bride and groom hire a videographer to film themselves in a similar manner. Share quirky details about themselves,why they love each other,pet peeves about each other,how they met,with costume changes and various locations and send it out as a wedding invitation. All with a great soundtrack! They could provide all the details about the wedding in the video. Send the guests a video link via email. How cool, fun, and eco friendly would that be!
Do you like this idea? I have them all the time you know.....ideas I mean.

I've Been Interviewed!

2009-05-27T00:35:00.000-07:00

I've been interviewed! Not by some fancy smancy magazine, but by my teen-aged son....which in my opinion is even better! Although, if some fancy smancy magazine wanted to interview me I wouldn't turn them away ; )
He had to interview an artist for one of his classes to help him design a piece of art that represented himself; and he chose me...just imagine. I was incredibly honored actually. What follows is the interview he conducted.

Sunlight floods in through our living room window as my mom sits down on the couch kitty corner to me and sets her feet up after a long day of work. Tired but happy, she is excited to be my artist interviewee. I have prepared a set of questions both to gain an understanding of floral design as an art and to help myself with the process of finding a way to illustrate my context visually. I have a general idea of how she will answer the first two questions, but after that, I am interested to see how she responds.

Q: To start, tell me a little bit about yourself.
A: Well, I have always been artistic, and have dabbled in creative pursuits from painting to poetry to dance and theater. I would consider myself a Renaissance woman.

Q: What made you decide to become a floral designer?
A: I decided to become a floral designer after being a massage therapist for over 20 years and my poor thumbs were taking a beating. I have always loved flowers and liked the idea of being able to create something that brings joy to people, no matter their circumstances, from birth to death and everything in between.

Q: How would you define art?
A: Art is subjective, and whatever gives a person pause to reflect is art. Art evokes a response and emotion.

Q: So if someone came up to you and said that floral design is not an art form, what would you say to them?
A: I would say that I disagree. Floral design is an art because you use form, texture, shape, scale and colour to create something out of the ordinary that evokes an emotion and a response.

Q: Where do you find inspiration when working on a floral piece?
A: Nature, photography, fashion design, interior design, and from other floral designers whose work I admire.

Q: What is your favourite floral piece to create and why?
A: My favourite floral piece to create is anything of a custom nature, in which I have to take into consideration the person, the place, the event, and the mood to create a work of art.

Q: If you could pick one flower that represents you, and that you identify with, what would it be and why?
A: An orchid, because it is exotic, beautiful, unique, graceful and flamboyant, but not too gaudy. Orchids have a classy elegance, a subtle beautiful scent, yet are amazingly hardy.

Q: Throughout history, we have seen the influence of society reflected in the art of the time. Do you think society today has influenced your approach to floral design?
A: Yes. Today there is a greater demand for green initiatives: flowers grown locally, and without the use of pesticides. There is the influence of modern and Japanese styles, with exotic flowers over generic roses and carnations.

Q: When you put together wedding bouquets for brides, are there certain things you look for in their personalities that you can translate into the bouquet?
A: Absolutely! Flowers are as unique as people, and people have certain characteristics and styles that can best be represented by certain flowers.

Q: Can you offer any advice for me to help create a piece of art that reflects my values, influences, and nature? How can I look into myself and create something that is synonymous to me?
A: I would say to write down the first five things that you think about when you think about yourself. I would tell you to write down the first five things that come to your mind when you think of your favourite colour. I would tell you to write down the first 5 things that come to your mind when you describe the thing you love to do best. I would ask your five favourite people to describe you in adjectives. Then I would pick from each category one description that resonates best with you and create your art based on those. Do not over think things!

There's the interview. My son got 97% on his art project and it's defense. That's my boy! The best boy in the whole world!