Florian DESIGNER FLORIST

Dreamy, Ice -Creamy, Country Barn Wedding- Jane and Marcus

2011-09-06T07:58:00.000-07:00

Saturday 3rd September was the Wedding of Jane and Marcus at Stanstead Church followed by a reception at The Court Lodge Barn, Stanstead Kent. The "Hopeless Romantic" Bride (her words not mine) wanted a country style, romantic Wedding, and I could wait to be a part of it.

The colour scheme was pale pink, lemon and ivory with a hint of shimmery pearl and gold.

Jane wanted small and dainty posies and a very pretty look. I used a really soft combination of roses which matched and complimented the colours perfectly. The varigated foliage was a lovlely addition and broke up the domes nicely.

Jane wore a satin A line dress with a detailed bodice, finished with a touch of lace and pearl. The five bridesmaids each wore either the pink or lemon and held a posy in more of the opposite colour.

As I arrived at the quaint church- this was the view that met me....how tranquil!

Inside, I dressed the archway underwhich the ceremony takes place with all summer garden flowers from the colour scheme. Trailing ivy and eucalyptus foliage hung down from the display for a wild look.

Later, the sun was fully shining and the happy day was underway. Here comes the Brideal Party.....

Marcus and his Groomsmen....

Literally down the hill from the church is the lovley Court Lodge Barn. The cosy barn is set within a pretty garden. Jane wanted to tie in all the soft colours and garden style flowers and wanted a bit of a shabby chic, disty look. After seeing the Love Bird design that Jane had designed for her stationary- the love Birds had to have Birdcages!

The blousey birdcages were mixed with cream country jugs filled with summer flowers like stocks, roses, phlox, lizzy and astilbee.

Jane had also dressed the barn with swagged fairy lights and bunting. The heart shaped doilies, and iced lemon and pink biscuits were lovley touched which all added to the romance of the day.

Congratulations to you both, Jane you looked beautiful and all your hard work and stress made for a truly beautiful Wedding. XX

"Nicola was a star from start to finish – a very talented, reasonably priced florist and a lovely person! We were getting married in a tiny Kent village church and barn next door and I wanted our flowers to reflect the English Country Garden theme. I knew I had to book Nicola as soon as I saw her beautiful birdcages!
I was so excited to see the flowers on the day and they were even more gorgeous than I had imagined. She had not laughed at my 3 colour scheme (soft pink, lemon and cream – yes most people said ‘like ice cream?!’) and made the colours work together so well, everyone was asking who our amazing florist was.

Thank you so much Nicola, you made our day very special!

Jane and Marcus Metcalfe xxx "

Romance in Medieval Mansion - Ella & Simon

2011-08-16T00:04:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 13th August, Ella married Simon at the stunning Surrey Mansion. Nonsuch Mansion. http://www.nonsuchmansion.com/

I first met Ella and Simon last Autumn when it became clear that Ella wanted the flowers to reflect the romance of the day, and to be in keeping with the venue's glorious grounds and amazing decor. With words like, romance, lace and vintage and a colour scheme of champagne, blush and taupe- I was excited about the floral theme...as always but a little more as this is my absoloute fav!

Ella wore a stunning dress in ivory chiffon with lace and crystal details on the bodice. The Bridesmaids wore cashmere satin gowns with crystal cluster details. GORGE! You can see above how well these colours went with the decor.

The Bouquets were a lovely summer mix of roses ranging from blush, to antique brown. I used white astrantia, and silver kotchia to give a dainty, textured lacey look the dome. They almost looked like they had lace fabric amogst the flowers- really, really pretty.

The Ceremony took place in the Rose room. with huge sash windows looking out into the gardens, medieval rose wallpaper, the room oozes romance. A very nervious Miss Carter became a very happy Mrs Way. x

I simply enhanced the naural surroundings of the room by adding blousey arrangements in all soft colours and summer garden flowers including delphiniums, roses and hydrangeas.

The reception took place in the Orchid room with ornate mirrors, fireplace and a golden chandlier to die for! I arranged simple domes for summer flowers from the colour scheme using soft blush roses, vinatge brown hydrangeas, with scented stocks and wild dille. The overall look against the stricking features was simply lovley. I really loved they way the flowers were reflected around the octaganal room in the ceiling high mirrors.

I added in clusters of roses in vinatge style votive holders which ran along the top table and the fireplace. Below is a lovely selction of photos that I was sent through along with a few words from the Bride.

"Nicola,

I just wanted to say from the bottom of our hearts a huge thank you for our flowers. You did such an amazing job, they were stunning beyond words can say.

My Family and Simon's were fighting as to who was going to take theme home!

Thank you again for doing a perfect job that we always new you would do!

All our love and kisses

Ella and Simon. xxx "

Purple Garden Wedding, Tracey & Dave

2011-07-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

31st July was the Wedding of Tracey and Dave at Rowhill Grange. Summer Flowers, dusky lilac, deep purple and a garden vibe is a taster for the theme that unfolded.

I first met this lovley couple last Autumn and at first, Tracey wanted modern and funk flowers, however as her love affair with flowers began it became aparent that it was actually the blousey and garden like flowers that she prefered. This style fitted in much better with her style of dress and the colours that the Groomsmen and Bridesmaid wore.

This is Tracey's bouquet. It was a lovely and soft, textured hand tied dome of to shades of roses, freesia and lisisanthus. The ivory roses had a diamonte stud to give that little bit of sparkle!

The flower girl wore a dusky lilac colour dress, and she held a smaller version of the Brideal bouquet, only I reversed the colour of the fressia to make it stand out slighty.

It was a really hot day and dressing the Gazebo was lovely as the grounds were really peacful as the excitement of the day was about to begin. I arranged a full and romantic centrepiece to the ceremomy table, which was then later moved to the top table (Top Tip for Brides)

I swagged ruscus and ivy over the arch of the gazebo and studded it with rose heads- so lovley and perfect for the setting.

To frame the gazebo, I arranged hydrangea plants in urns and stands either side to give a entrance with wow... all that was missing now was the Bride and Groom.

Count down... "der, der ,der ,dum!"

In the Clockhouse Suite, the centrepieces were all done and looking FAB. The mottled hydrangeas were a real show piece in these large domes. With scented stocks, lilies and roses, it was a real feast for the eyes and nose as you entered the room

The introduction of the deeper purple tone really gave another level to the flowers, I used Purple Lisisanthus.

The base of the vase had a crystal effect and even glowed for the evening! Surrounding the mirror base was mirrored votives holding "brocoli" florettes I like to call them of the hydrangeas. The stationary was lovely and matched to perfection.

On the top table, the chair sashes had side bows which looks really good. I even added a rose for the Bride and Groom.

For the cake I arranged dianty posies which sat on each tier with a locking heart to finish it off.

Congratulations Tracey and Dave, you were a pleasure to work with and I am very pleased I was part of your day. x

Mink and Blush Pink. Harmony & Spencer

2011-07-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

30th July was the pretty Summer Wedding of Harmony and Spencer. They married in a Church in Wilmington, followed by a reception at the Hartley Village Country Club....which had a bit of a make over!

Harmony had picked a soft muted colour theme of blush pink, mink and ivory. The look had to be soft and blousey to match.

Harmony held a gorgeous hand tied bouquet of mixed roses, spray roses and lisianthus, all softened with a varigated foliage. The shades from nude-blush- taupe and mink was just lovley.

Jade the Flower Girl held a mini version of the Bouquet which was really cute! The colours went perfectly with the dresses and altogether the bouquets looked delicious.

At the Church, I dressed the entrance with an archway of summer flowers from the colour scheme....all that was missing was the Bride and Groom emerging as the new Mr and Mrs, and having a kiss!

Back at the Country Club, three days of hard work had transformed the sports hall into a wonderful setting. White Drapes at every inch and the ceiling created and marquee like effect. There was soft lighting and a fairy light backdrop...soooo pretty. Once the WOW factor martini vases went into place the transformation was complete.

I wish I had a before and after shot- as it was really amazing to see the space.

The vases had a twinkle lit base to add to the romance. The domes of flowers included hydrangeas, scented lilies, and the blush and mink roses.

The top table had two white chic birdcages either side of the Bride and Groom, which spilled out and ran along the length of the table.

All of the other details, Chair cover and sashes, luxury ribbon and drapes around the venue really looked amzing and was the perfect decor to complete the look.

Congratulations Harmony and Spencer. x

Summer Garden at Coombe Bank

2011-07-13T08:05:00.000-07:00

July 10th was the Wedding of Emma and Hieu at Coombe Bank School in Sevenoaks. Emma had choosen a gorgeous colour scheme in a smokey plum, with hazy lilacs and cream. The overall look has to suit the venue and relect the summer garden flowers in season.

Emma's Bouquet was a scented hand tie of ivory roses, a combination of coolwater and memory lane roses, freesias all mixed up with garden herbs and foliage- Divine!

The Bridesmaids wore Orchid by Dessy. In a matt chiffon fabric. I wanted to pick up on the colour but reflect the dusky matt look of the dresses. I used a similar combination as Emma's but introduced plum sweet peas which went perfectly with the colours and the garden vibe.

Overall the palette was just right and created the look Emma wanted. Here she is with her lovely maids and the cutest flower girl!

As I arrived at the Venue, it was really hot already and it looked as though the sun was going to be out for the big day. Every inch of the gorgeous venue had been touched by Emma and her theme, from the main entrance porch, through to the personal post box and garlands down the stair case- she had it covered perfectly.

On the main door, was Emma' s flower indulgance- a lovely flowered heart, filled with all the flowers from the theme. What a welcome and it looked amazing on the black door.

I also arranged a summer display in a vintage urn which was in the main entrance hall. The colours complimented the surroundings perfectly. Here was also a lovely touch of rose petal confetti for the guests to take.

The Ceremony took place in the Chapel. A small but ornate room. A matching display was placed on a stand as a backdrop to the ceremony.

Downstairs in the main hall the 18 tables...yes 18! were arranged in a linear set up. The centrepieces were summer bunches in vases creating informal, scented summer garden show stoppers. With the last stretch of peonies of the season, stocks, roses and hydrangeas the look was created.

Emma had sourced lots of lovely bits including butterfly scatter crystals, name places, chocolate favours and sparkling butterflies which all added to the look.

" Hi Nicola, I just wanted to say a massive thank you for the flowers- they were fabulous!! Totally gorgeous! I am so pleased with how how they turned out. I especially thought the table centres looked great, but it was all brilliant.

You did such an amazing job for us and everyone said how gorgeous the flowers and bouquets were, and how well they matched in with the colour scheme. The table flowers went on for a good week afterwards, so we got good use from them!!

Thanks agian for all your efforts, Hieu and I much appreciate it. xx"

Alliums and Amethyst.

2011-06-21T08:47:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 18th of June was the Weding of Caroline and Mark at the beautiful Bradbourne House. The colour scheme was a lovely soft mink/amethyst colour. Caroline wanted sleek and elegant flowers which would match up to the colour and reflect the look of her dress and venue.

Caroline wore a slim line ivory dress with crystal details and ruffled skirt. She held a stunning hand tied bouquet of calla lilies and roses softened with eucalyptus and bear grass. I had studded the grass with crystals to match everything up. The end result was gorgeous.

The Bridesmaids wore satin amethyst gowns and held hand tied bouquets of roses, and alliums- a favourite flower of Caroline's and only in season for a few weeks...they were just the perfect colour.

The ceremony took place in the splendid ballroom. Caroline was lead down the aisle by her son, who looked so proud!

Pefect colour match!

The cake was stunning, I loved the simple design but was so pretty.

I swagged the front porch with amethyst coloured chiffon to welcome the guests, and just inside the house I lined a simple display of alliums along the mantlepiece.

The breakfast was also in the ballroom and the tables were set after the ceremony. I had arranged simple, yet effective domes of flowers, including scented stocks, calla lilies, roses, alliums and hydrangeas.

The domes were sparkled up with crystal droplets hanging from the foliages, which glistened against the glass. This picture shows how well the colours all worked together, the linen and chair sashes were a perfect match.

The ceremony and top table had a bowl arrangement of flowers from the theme which smelt lovely from the stocks.

Congratulations to you both, you looked so amazing! Best wishes to you as Mr and Mrs. x

"Hi Nicola, I just wanted to say a big thank you for the wonderful job you did with the flowers. They were beautiful and I adored my bouquet. Thanks once again Caroline xx"

Pink Peony and Floating Feathers

2011-06-20T11:21:00.000-07:00

On Friday 17th of June was the wedding of Erika and Joe. They were married at Danson House with a Marquee Reception on the grounds of the House. I first met this lovely couple in 2009 and was really pleased to be working with Erika on creating her dream wedding!

Erika's theme was hot pink and navy blue, and the flowers were to reflect a summer garden party but with a funky and modern twist...feathers!

Erika loved the blousey look of garden roses, their fullness and lots of soft petals were lovely- but we set upon peonies as they are at there best in June. She held a mass of peonies in shades of pinkl for soft blush to deep cerise speckled ones. The sweet smelling dome was softened with wisps of navy blue diamond feathers, which gave the bouquet "bounce".

The stems were bound in navy ribbon and the Bride and Grooms intials were picked out in hot pink pins.

The Bridesmaids wore navy blue satin dresses with a narrow sash of hot pink. They held smaller domes of all cerise pink peonies. Beautiful. I even made a little wand from a single stem of peony for the flower girl.

Erika wore a beautiful gown which had a detailed ruffled bodice and full skirt, finished with a blousey rose to match! Dad, Groom and the Groomsmen looked very daper to in their classic navy suits and hot pink cravats.

After delivering the Bridal flowers I set off for Danson. Unfortunatly as I arrived the sky went black and downed came the biggest raindrops ever! :(

After the ceremony, the newly weds and their guests headed out for a short walk in the grounds to the marquee.
The lovely crisp white marquee was dressed with summer blooms and dispite the rain filled the room with summery loveliness!

The vases were filled with scented lilies, more peonies, roses and blousey hydrangeas. The domes were softened navy feathers which wofted as you walked past.

A combination of tall and low displays took your eye accross the space and sat really well with the table numbers which Erika had expertly made and hung at different levels from the drapped ceiling.

Erika had paid lots of attention to every last detail and even had "E & J" table confetti hearts. The top table had a row of the lower style centrepieces running along the length of the table, with spriggs of feathers poking through the blooms.

Erika's cake was really pretty with ruffled icing and pearl like balls!

The rain poured for the rest of the day but I am sure that once inside that marquee there was a true summer party! Erika and Joe dropped me a lovely note.

Congratulations to the new Mr and Mrs Berry. X

"Nicola, Joey & I would like to thank you for your wonderful creations, they exceeded all our expectations and they all went to good homes so will be enjoyed for longer than the day itself"

More Hot Pink Glammour!

2011-06-13T12:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday 11th of June was the beautiful Wedding of Karen and Jodi. They were married by Civil Ceremony and reception at the gorgeous Bradbourne House. The wedding colours were Hot pink and Black with Gerbera daisies as the main flower.

Karen's Boquet was a rich and summery combination of hot pink roses, peonies, gerberas and orchids. The scent was so lovley and the hint of ivory from the orchids was just enough to break up the pink. Perfect to match the shoes!

The Bridemaids wore Black cocktail dresses and pink shoes. Their bouquets were a simple tied bouquet of all hot pink gerberas bound with black ribbon.

After the Ceremony outside, the Ballroom was ready- the tables were dressed with tall fluted vases of domed hot pink Gerberas. Modern cuffed foliage and shoots of black grass added to the look and made a striking contrast to the room.

Luxury linen and the sumptoius chair sashes added to the wow factor.

Karen and Jodi had the cutest cake, with hand made figurines of themeselves! I dressed in between the tiers with gerberas.

Vintage Romance

2011-06-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

I have just finnished setting up a beautiful and romantic wedding at the gorgegous setting of Sundridge Park Mansion, Bromley. With a colour palette of ivory, pearl oyster and and blush pink, which suited the Venue to a T.

I first met this lovely couple Emma and Harvey about 9 months ago at the Sundridge Park Wedding Fair. It was very refreshing to meet a Groom with such a strong idea as to how their day was going to take place and at a later stage I found it it was Harvey who planned the entire day! Emma did of course oversee some areas.

Emma held a hand tied bouquet of white peonies and crystal studded ivory roses, edged with eucalyptus. The scent and softness was just beautiful!

They had decided that the theme was to be very "Summer English Garden", "classy and elegant" Both looks that I love and are great for this venue.

I chose to use all white and ivory flowers with just a hint of colour from the mink vintage roses. The flowers were also brought together with silver eucalyptus and to match in the boys suits. To top it all off, I adorned crystal chains and pendants, irridesent crystals and pearls to the arrangements and bouquets to give everthing that opulent touch

The Bridesmaids wore a oyster coloured ballgown style dress and held mixed rose domes in ivory and oyster with foliage. Whilst the Little Flower Girl waved a wand made from an ivory rose with sparkling crystal studs. Too Cute!

Throughout the Mansion, I dressed the rooms with scented blooms including peonies, stocks, roses, lilies and hydrangeas. The colours blended in so well with the decor- they looked as if they had been there since the house was built.

The white chocolate tiered cake was dressed with rings of roses for a sumptious look and really did look all good enough to eat.

The Ceremony was held in the garden room and looked so beautiful. The large displays were classic but had a modern touch by being elevated on glass cylinders and were swagged in crystal chains. The softness of the chairs, with white chiffon bows just finnished everything off- the only thing missing at that point was the Bride.

The top table was dressed in a matching display to the Bride and Groom to enjoy. I loved the other little touches, like name place iced biscuits and the pictures in vinatge frames which Harvey had placed around the House on fireplaces and side tables- again creating a feeling that they really belonged there.

The Ballroom was breathtaking with large centrepieces in martini vases filled with scented flowers from the theme. Again the flowers wetre swagged in crystal chains....(anyone who knows me and has read my prevoius Blogs will know where this idea came from!!- March 2010)

The overall wedding was stunning and can only appulade this charming couple for all there hard work and planning. Harvey- all those spreadsheets really paid off . Congratulations. It was a pleasure working with you. X

Red and White Roses in the Valley

2011-05-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

Saturday 28th May, I had the pleasure of arranging the Wedding Flowers for Natalie and Dave. A lovely couple who I met over a year ago.

The Theme was all roses and being Charlton fans it had to be red and white and had to be a recpetion at The Millenium Suite at Charlton FC.

Natalie wanted a romantic look to the flowers but with a modern and funky twist. The roses were kept in a domed fashion and were detailed with looped grass which ran through the whole theme.
Natalie held a hand tied dome of red roses which were caged in looped grass. The structured loops running over the full heads of petals looked amazing and really eye catching.

The Bridesmaids were wearing red and held matching domes in ivory roses, with the stems bound in red ribbon.

The Groom and Groomsmen's buttonholes also had roses and looped grass.

After a Church Ceremony, the party arrived back at "The Valley" the suite was set up with a view across the terraces and created a great backdrop to the room.

The centrepieces looked very WOW! Tall vases with encased grass loops held large dome of red and white roses with a ball of looped grass running over the flowers. Overall creating a dramatic look to the room. The Wedding Team Setting up were Stunned by them and said " they had never seen anything like them before"

The Top Table was dressed with modern cube vases with linear arrangements of red and white roses which ran along the table in alternate colours.

Natalie and Dave sent me a lovey thank you note. Which is so nice after all my hard work.

Hot Pink and Glamourous!

2011-05-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

This Friday was the Wedding of Toni and Lee at Sundridge Park Mansion.

The theme was to be hot pink, black and white with lots of Bling and feather trim!

Modern, Bright, Funky and Glamour were words that myself and Toni used when designing her wedding flowers. the Bridesmaids wore black cocktail dresses and held bright pink domes of hot pink gerberas. They were edged with black feathers for ultimate fluff!

Toni held a larger version but I added diamontes to the centres of the flowers, Hers was edged with white feathers and the stems were detailed with a black sash and diamonte buckle.

The Ceremony took place in the Garden room and I dressed the table with glamourous black tanks with domes of more Hot pink Gerberas.

The hallway table was dressed with a glamourous vase of seasonal flowers to welcome the Guests.

On the staircase I swagged black chiffon around the pillars and fastened large displays of hot pink gerneras and black feathers.

Sage Green and Apple Blossom pink

2011-05-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

Sunday 1st May was the beautiful wedding of Claire and Mark at All Saints Church followed by a reception at Brandshatch Place Hotel.
Claire had chosen a lovely soft green for her Bridesmaids dresses and wanted to create a soft Spring/Summer feel.

I decided to use a combination of spring flowers and as the weather had been so amazingly warm, I used summer flowers to! Claire's bouquet was made up with blush peonies, sweet avalanche roses, ivory rose buds, white ranuculas, green lisianthus and white lilac.

The overall look created a feminine and soft bouquet which suited Claire perfectly.

The Bridesmaids held smaller versions with put the peonies. Against the dresses, they looked amazing.

Lovely- SS11 in a box!

The buttonholes and corsages were made up in soft coloured roses from the theme.

The ceremony took place at All saints Church in Orpington. It was so pretty inside. There were the most lovely stained glass paneled windows in pastel shades. I simply arranged tied bunches to the pew ends and tied them with chiffon bows.

The sun was shining and it was like mid summers day when I arrived at the Hotel. In the heat I swagged the main staircase with foliage and roses to create a romantic entrance.

In the breakfast room, I had arranged compact domes of flowers from the theme which sat on fluted vases. The look was soft and blousey and gave off lovley perfume in the room.

The top table had a length of tank vases filled with matching flowers from the theme. They were placed on mirror tiles and surrounded by scatter crystals. Very pretty!

Claire had chosen a lovley look for the chair sashes with a two tone colour effect finished with a diamonte buckle.

The cake was gorgeous and had lovley detail of apple blossom spilling around the tiers. Which matched the stationary.

Congratulations Claire and Mark, I'm sure you had an amazing day! x

Mothers Day 2011

2011-04-05T03:02:00.000-07:00

With The Royal Wedding Just around the corner, I have taken my inspiration for My 2011 Mothers Day Collection from all the Royal, Regal and Romantic. So this year treat your Special Mum to one of these Little Treasures. Great Britsh Mum: A dainty arrangement in a silver galavanised tin filled with all things lovely, a sprinkle a spring, splash of sunshine and a dusting of dolly mixed colours. All finished off with a spotted ribbon. Prefect for Little Princesses to give. This was this years best seller, and was so cute, and smelt divine! An English Rose: A beautiful classic Hand Tied Bouquet of mixed flowers true to an English Garden. Including blushing garden roses, stocks, blue hyacinths and wild foilages. Queen for a Day: A glorious hand tied bouquet of raspberry pink and deep plum scented spring blooms and English herbs all arranged in pale pink wrapping with a keepsake message tag.

After an exhusting weekend, it was all worth it to see all those lovley Mummys smile on Sunday morning.

50's Glamour in Spring

2011-04-04T03:42:00.000-07:00

April 2nd was the wedding of Fiona and Tom that took place at St Mary's Church in Bexley Village, followed by a reception at Sundridge Park. The theme was 50's glamour and a colour palette of antique gold, spring cream and green.

The Brides dress was a simple and classic shape which resembled an Audrey Hepburn style. The bouquet was kept simple with a neat dome of ivory tea roses, studded with pearls, The stems were detailed with fabric matching the Brdiesmaids Dresses.

The girls wore simple wrist corsges of white orchids, gold grass and pearl deatils- Very Pretty.

At Sundridge Park, The ballroom was filled with perfume as I placed the centrepieces into the room. The Tanks were filled with all spring flowers including hyacinths and narcisscus, which smell just delightful! The flash of lime green just lifted the tables and gave a great flash of spring accross the room.

I had detailed the vases with a simple sash of ivory ribbon with a classic pleat bow.

Bountiful bunches were anchored to the pillars with lushious bows to creating a sweeping feature to the staircase. I loved the personal name place cards that Fiona had created- I am sured these raised a lot of laughs around the room and would certainly get the guests talking. Oh and the transport of You all was FAB...A Vinatge Double Decker Bus!

Here is a lovely note from Mr and Mrs Ashford.

"Dear Nicola We just wanted to put in to word our thanks for all that you did on our wedding day. Everything you put together was absolutly beautiful and so many people both commented on your table decorations and my bouquet. We took the top table display to my grandmothers nursing home the next day as she could not come to the wedding and so it was enjoyed by many more people even after the wedding.Please find attached a few photos of the brilliant flowers that you arranged for us. We would thoroughly recommend your services to any potential bridal parties.

Kind RegardsFiona and Tom Ashford"

Wedding Trends 2011

2011-02-10T02:35:00.000-08:00

The Wedding season in not far off now, and the trends are already starting to fall into place for 2011. Vintage is still bang on trend and my absolute favourite style...love love love it! Purples are still srtong, but have nudged slighty by introducing navy blue and berry tones, creating a softer pallete, and more scope for me. New for this year is corals and tangerines. This is a lovely a refreshing change, and great for Spring/Summer. I would team this with soft apple greens , and warm toffee creams. FAB_U_LOUS! Below are a few inspiration boards that I have put together based in these latest trends. Get in touch if you would like me to customise a board for you based on your colour scheme, if you are stuck for ideas! http://www.dessy.com/shareboard/?user=moodboardguest&password=45019 http://www.dessy.com/shareboard/?user=moodboardguest&password=45021 http://www.dessy.com/shareboard/?user=moodboardguest&password=45018 Thank you Dessy, for having such lovely colours and dresses to choose from.

2011 is here! Happy New Year

2011-01-05T10:07:00.000-08:00

After a busy Christmas season of dressing trees, fireplaces, tablescentres and doors. Being covered in glitter, fake snow and having very sore fingers from making holly rings in minus 2 degrees!...2011 arrived.

Royal Navel College, London

2010-10-11T03:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of working on Michelle's wedding at the Royal Navel College in Greenwich. The striking colour combination and detailing of Michelle's amazing asian dress was great to bring to life with the flowers.

Michelle held a full teardrop bouquet of classic roses and lisianthus, teamed with contemporary orchids and oriental lilies.

The ceremony took place in the stunning Painted Hall. Which in itself is a work of art and any flower simply enhances its beauty.

After getting into the building...which was very exciting as the crew of Pirates of the Carribean had just been on site filming the latest movie!!

The flowers were placed through out the Chapel including Pedastalls, Top Table and centrepieces. The flowers were inspired by classical autumnal shades, and flowers including berries, wild foilage and velevet roses.

I had the pleasure of seeing Michelle leave the Chapel as she and her new hubby posed so vibrantly on the staircase. Everybody was sparkling and was a lovely site. Congratulations.

Glamorous Vintage.

2010-09-28T04:07:00.000-07:00

On Friday 24th September, the wedding of Susanne and John took place at Rowhill Grange. The colour scheme was a stunning hue of blush, taupe and toffee. Susanne wanted a garden vintage vibe to her bouquet with rich details of lace and sparkle.

I used a beautiful combination of ecquadorian roses and lizzy. softened with scented eucalyptus and old fashioned vintage fern. Susanne wore a beautiful slim cut satin dress with an overlay of ivory lace, studded with sequins. i matched these rich fabrics by wrapping the stems in lace and studding them with diamontes to.

Susanne and John's special day was the first to take place in the newly refurbished Tuffles Restaurant. The soft tones in the new decor went perfectly with the flowers that I chose to use. Elegant cake stands held compact posies of vintage coloured flowers. As the summer season is fading the mottled tones of the hydrangeas that naturally change with the season looked great.

The ceremony took place in the Orangery and again the tones blended in perfect harmony with the surroundings. Two urn arrangements created a garden romance backdrop to the room and the centrepiece finnished it off.

Congratulations to you both- you looked radiant and absolutly stunning. x

"Nicola
We cannot thank you enough for the wonderful flower arrangements you did for our Wedding at Rowhill Grange on the 24th September 2010, they were absolutely amazing. My bouquet was the best I’ve ever seen, all the flowers and colours were exactly what I had wished for and more. Our guests just could not stop talking about them.
John and I cannot thank you enough.

All our best wishes
Love
Susanne + John Angell "

Wedding date at SE10

2010-09-19T10:15:00.000-07:00

17th September was the Wedding of Sue and Danny. The venue was the Historic Queens House in Greenwich followed by a reception at the Trafalgar Tavern.

Sue wanted a very simple style bouquet and so I arranged a mass of white hydrangeas, their beauty and simplicity do all the work and when grouped together creates a wonderful effect.

The navy blue colour scheme was brought to life with navy blue berries and silver grey eucalyptus to match the Groom's suit. The stems were bound in midnight blue ribbon and finished with pearls.

The Bridesmaids were wearing midnight blue held mixed hand tied bouquets of ivory roses, white lizzy and germinis (one of Sue's fav flowers) dotte with Sky blue hydrangea and midnight blue berries.

The Groom and his best man had simple and elegant heads of white phalanopsis orchids, fragile....but beautiful!

As I arrived at The Park, the sun was glorious, with a cool little breeze. I just love the September sun. The terrace at the back of the house looked over the park and up the hill to the gorgeous skyline. What a perfect place for canapes and champagne.

Outside, to greet the Bridal party I arranged large displays in urns on white columns, filled with blue delphinium and hydrangeas. The shocking blue against the building looked amazing.

After that, I sped off across the road to the Trafalgar Tavern. Another favourite venue of mine, with the views across the river to the dome.

Sue wanted a bit of a wow factor, to sit with the decor of the room. I went for height...lots of it, which filled the room.

Modern touches included the wrapped stems and "barbed wire" base to the vase. I finished the centrepiece with clusters of hydrangea in silver mirrored votives.

The top table featured a low display of flowers from the theme on globe, filled with the navy wire detail.

The navy theme always seems difficult for flowers, but the shading of blue in the flowers along with the navy details from the stationary, ribbons and chair sashes, pulled together to create a stunning and elegant look.

Purple, plum and Lilac

2010-09-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

On 11th September was the wedding of Catrina and Matt. They had chosen a church wedding at Christ Church Chislehurst followed by the recpetion at the Bromley Court Hotel. The theme of the day was Purple, shades from deep cadbury's to powder lilac.

The bridesmaids wore deep purple dresses and the bouquets were a mixture of white roses, Lilac roses, freesia, lisianthus and lime green foilages.

Catrina wanted a romantic but modern look to her flowers so I used a striking combination of the roses and deep purple lizzy. There were hints of sparkle through out the day and so I added diamontes to the roses for a hint of glamour!

The Church was dressed beautifully and traditionally with pedastals and pew ends. The pews were styled with bunched stocks and mint tied with purple chiffon bows. The overall effect was so lovely and smelt amazing. The Priest even told me it was the nicest he had ever seen the Church look which was lovely.

After an emotional ceremony, the guests went onto the hotel. Wow factor was what Catrina wanted as they entered the room. and they got it!

Martini vases filled with light sparkled pearls held huge domes of flowers with amazing coloured mottled hydrangeas that blended all the shades of purple from the day. Oreintal lilies, roses and lizzy added to the mix to create an show stopping centrepiece.

The top table was dressed with a long and low from the theme and finished with a fairy light heart as a backdrop.

The cake was individual cakes all different shades and personalised with the Bride an Groom's initials. I simply dressed around the cake to add to the colours.

Congratulations Catrina and Matt. xx

Vintage Tea party

2010-09-05T07:11:00.000-07:00

3rd September was the wedding of Naomi and Christan at the most stunning venue Buxted Park.
Naomi had dreamed of her wedding day as a pretty, vintage summer garden tea party, and the look was amazing. With this theme in mind, it was great to put together summer blousey blooms with lace details and fill birdcages with bundles of prettiness.

Naomi's bouquet had a informal feel made with peonies, and vinatge roses. The fullness was just lovley. I edged the bouquet with soft fern and the lace overlay on the stems added to the look.

I used shabby chic style birdcages and filled them with informal clusters of hydrangeas, roses and lisianthus. The whole display was set of with shimmering white butterflies.

The wedding was styled by Jenny of jennifer sue weddings. She had gathered and styled a great collection of votives, jars, lace runners, pearls and old fashioned pictures. Along with beautiful china tea sets and floral napkins- just lovely!

http://www.jennifersueweddings.co.uk/

Some of these photos were taken by the best wedding photographer......Lisa devlin.

http://www.devlinphotos.co.uk/

3rd Spetember was the wedding of Naomi and Christan at the most stunning venue Buxted Park.

Autumn Wedding Exhibitions

2010-08-24T12:22:00.000-07:00

As this wedding season is drawing to an end- I now start over again finding new Brides for next year!

This Autumn I am attending two exhibitions.

17th October At Sundridge Park Mansion. This fair is organised by the Wow Weddding company so it is bound to be good!
http://www.thesundridgeparkweddingfair.co.uk/

24th October At Hall Place. This is an exclusive open day and the stunning Hall will be laid out as it would be for your wedding. I am exclusivly the only florist on that day so am really excited about having the place to myself! http://www.hallplace.com/events/calendar/wedding_fairs.html

If you are planning your day please come along to say Hi, there will be some great examples of my work, view all my portfolios and ask anything you like.....oh a a goodie bag for those who book a free consultation!

Shocking Pink with Sparkles

2010-08-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 14th August was Lisa's wedding at Brandshatch Place Hotel. After all the rain we had- the morning was looking like the sun was going to shine. I packed up the van and headed

The theme of this wedding was pink......shocking pink! Lisa wanted a modern look with lots of sparkle to. Her Favourite flower was gerberas and therfore the hot pink gerbera theme came together quickly!
Firstly I dressed the staircase with foilage and fabric, a really pretty entrance and great for the photos to.

Lisa's bouquet was a stunning hand tied of white calla lilies with hot pink gerberas. It was really modern and pretty, and the bold colours were amazing. To bring out the "bling" I added swaroski crystals to the centre of the flowers along with studded ones on the ends of the wispy grass. The weightof these on the grass meant that they bounced beautifully as she walked along.

The boys had mini gerbera's to match and the Groom had the crystals on his too!

The Bridesmaids wore floor length dresses in the hot pink with bodices studded with crystals. They held hand tied bouquets of germinis and white roses with looped bear grass. They were cute and compact but full of colour and impact. On mass the colour looked amazing

The Ceremony was held in the Georgean room, really intimate and romantic. I had arranged two pedastals which filled the room with colour and scent. The Gladi nearly touched the ceiling and so was an amazing backdrop to the ceremony. I used seasoanl flowers but kept the bold and modern look throughtout. The ceremony table was also dressed, along with the chairs with pink sashes!

The Wedding reception was in the ballroom. Large goldfish bowls of compact tied domes of gerberas and white roses looked great, I studded more crytsals to the grass loops which really sparkled and reflected in all the mirrors.

The whole display was sat on mirror bases and surrounded by crystals and candle light. Lisa had put pink runners over the linen to add more colour.

The modern cake was lovley. I simply dressed it with flowers from the theme. Oh and the sun did shine for the ceremony! Congratulations Lisa.

Bowls full of roses and oh so pretty posies

2010-08-10T14:04:00.000-07:00

7th August was the wedding of Gemma and Keiran at St George's in Chislehurst followed by a reception at Coombe Bank, Westerham.

The colour scheme was a gorgeous blush pink and dusky pink. The flowers were to be soft and blousy and be full of romance! My kind a wedding...

Gemma held a hand tied dome of summer blooms- so soft and blousy with peonies, roses and lizzy. The smell was as good as the look to. The soft varigated foilages gave a frilly look to the bouquet which almost looked like lace.

The girls wore two tone dresses and the dusky rose matched just perfectly. The hint of lme green lifted the colour a gave a lovley summer twist. When the girls sore their flowers they were overwhlemed which is so lovely.

After the Ceremony the wedding breakfast was held at Coombe bank. The room is a blank canvas with soft cream walls and alcoves which were draped with white fabric, it looked pretty before the flowers went in.

Bowls full of full bloom roses with soft green foliages filled the room with colour and romance- a real transformation of the room! The bowls were surrounded by rose petals which tied in lovley with the favours of scented rose petal sweeties!

The large sash windows which looked out onto the grounds were dresses with white lanterns and even more rose petals.

Finally I dressed the three tiered cake with compact rose heads and a top tier posy. Romance was definatly in the air. Congratulations to the new Mr and Mrs Smith!

Midnight Blue with Wild Ivy

2010-07-30T00:44:00.000-07:00

Friday 30th July, I had the pleasure of arranging the bridal flowers for Jo Everett.

Jo wanted a wild garden look for her bouquet, with white flowers whilst incorporating the beautiful midnight blue that her bridesmaids were wearing.

I used a combination of white garden flowers including lizzy, roses, and freesia. Jo wanted calla lilies as this was a favourite of hers, but somehow it really worked in well with the garden flowers. Running through all of these was the stunning blue delphinium called "ocean angel" it was almost electric and looked superb.

The ivy theme that Jo wanted run through all of the bouquets and I looped it loosely around the edge of the posy for a wild look.

The Bridesmaids wore stunning dresses in deep blue and they held white posies of wild flowers and foliage.

I used deep blue thistles for depth of colour which stood out beautifully. The Groom had a matching button hole of white rose and blue delph.

The flower Girls held a cute posy version of the bridesmaids flowers with a dinky blue bow- so pretty!

Jo arranged her own reception flowers at the venue but I provided the centrepiece for the ceremony/ top table.

Monochrome Wedding

2010-07-26T01:33:00.000-07:00

24th July was Rebecca Eaton's wedding. With a modern theme of black and white, I was looking forward to arranging a monochrome theme.

Rebecca held a classic shower bouquet of ivory roses an white lizzy. Although shower bouquets are more traditional, I made it to look more modern by using very limited foilage and compacting the flowers together.

The bridesmaids wore black satin dresses, they held hand tied modern posies of white roses, lizzy and white gerberas with black centres.

There was wisps of black grass and the stems were bound in matching black satin ribbon. They looked really striking.

Altogether the overall effect was lovely.

Rebecca had a church ceremony followed by a reception at the Marriott Hotel in Bexleyheath.

It was an informal recpetion and the ocassional tables were dressed with goldfish bowls filled with domes of white flowers with loops of modern black grass.

I also arranged two large displays on the buffet table which looked great. They were elevated domes on cylinders filled with crushed ice.

The cake was lovely, which I compliemented by arranging a cascading posy for the top tier.

The Art of saying Thank You: Squerryes part 2

2010-07-16T00:24:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love my job- but it is incredibly hard work and stressful at times- particularly weddings as the pressure to get everything just perfect and to meet the brides expectations is huge.

Therefore, when you recieve a thank you letter after a wedding- it makes me feel that it was all worth it, as I made someones day. This letter from Lara's Mum- Mrs Suttie is so lovely.

"Dear Nicola,
I called to see you on Sunday but you were out, I wanted to thank you personally for the magnificent flowers you provided for my Daughters Wedding.

Your arrangements were superb and commented on, and admired by all present. (Even the caters who have done alot of weddings told me they had never seen such lovely flowers as these!) You certainly contributed to making Laras dayperfect and I am extremely grateful to you.

The buttonholes, Lara's bouquet and the martini design were all first class, not to mention the two tall arrangments at the church which we then had at our table.

We had some of the flowers here and my resisdents have all enjoyed their beauty, you have been recommended! I have taken photos of all the flowers as I doubt I shall see such a wonderful display again.

With great appreciation for all your hard work and care. From Susan. "

Summer Loving at Squerryes Court

2010-07-12T23:06:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the beautiful Wedding of Lara Suttie and Anthony Simms. There marriage took place on Saturday 10th July at the gorgeous ChristChurch in Chislehurst followed by a marquee reception at Squerryes House, Westerham.

I first met Lara and Anthony last year at the wedding exhibition at Bromley. Lara wanted unusal flowers with a wow factor but keeping in tradition with pretty look in the church and marquee. After a few meetings and a few samples later- Lara and Anthony could visusalise the look.
It was the hottest week we have had so far and I was really struggling with the heat as I had an abundance of soft summer flowers including hydrangeas, peonies, lizzy and stocks....all of which hate the heat!

I was pleased that the church was being dressed Friday evening- at least it would be cool in there. I arranged simple displays for the alter on white stands, with the stunning stain glass window as a backdrop, the scene was easy to set.

Lara's colour palatte was blush pink, and I used a variety of flowers to compliement. The bridal flowers and the ceremony was going to be paler and romantic but then inject more tone of colour into the reception as the marquee can look bland.
Lara held a stunning shower of white phalanopsis orchids which cascaded simply with ruscus and grass. Lara is very petite and very pretty and so it suited her perfectly. Anthony had a matching buttonhole which looked really smart.

The bridesmaids wore gorgeous floor lengths gowns in a blush pink satin. They had a high scoop neck line with cut away backs- I loved the simplicity of their dresses and knew that the pefect match would be a calla lily posy. I matched the colour and the subtle tone of pink was just right. The groomsmen also had cravats in this shade so the also had matching calla lilie buttonholes.

On Saturday morning first thing I was making the buttonholes and I think it was about 70 Degrees! Phew that Marquee is going to be hot...

After setting up at Squerryes, I had a mad dash back to the church as I was moving the pedastals from the church to the marquee! All this had to be done without me being seen by the bridal party. It was like operation Pedastals! Lucklily I had arrived back in time to see the new Mr ans Mrs Suttie-Simms, walk down the aisle to Take Thats "Greatest Day" They both looked so happy and Lara looked breathtaking beautiful.

I loved the fact they had a Skype link to family oversees set up on a laptop next to the alter so they could see the ceremony- of course I gave them a wave as I whipped out the arrangements- I guess they was the first to see my plan of attack.

Squerryes is a beautiful House with stunning grounds. The perfect setting for a summer garden marquee.

I Loved the heart shaped shrubs in the gardens!

The entrance to the marquee was set with a pair of bay trees dressed with white chiffon, the scattering of white Lanterns and butterflies gave it a real sense of a summer garden party.

By now it was almost 87 degrees!

As you entered the marquee- Wow is what Lara wanted and I think she got it. It always amazes me everytime how the flowers can transform a room. On this ocassion it certainly did. Next time I must do a before and after shot to see if it has the same effect in a photo?

The gorgeous combination of the tones was just lovely, although they were brighter tones, the softness of the actcual flowers and the matt finish of the roses somehow still made them "blush"

On the top table, there was a display of flowers from the theme with added orchids from the bridal flowers.

I also made my rose petal confetti cones in complementry colours, which are personalised for a great, unique touch.

I recieved a lovley letter from Lara's Mum, which made all my hard work seem worth it and truly appreciated. See next blog......

On Saturday morning first thing I think it was about 70 Degrees.

Purple and Ivory sparkles.

2010-07-10T03:36:00.000-07:00

On Friday 9th of July I had the pleasure of arranging the bridal flowers for Jacqui. The ceremony took place at the Ramada Hotel, Maidstone. It was a beautiful sunny day, perfect for their outdoor ceremony.

Jacqui wore a slim Aline dress with subtle details accross the bodice. Jacqui wanted a simple and romantic look to her flowers but with a few modern touches.

Jacqui's bouquet was a delicate handtied bouquet in striking purple and ivory. The deep purple lisianthus was rich against the white roses which I had studded with diamontes for extra sparkle.

I detailed the bouquet by mirroring the purple and diamontes over the white ribbon. Gorgeous!!

The Bridesmaids wore deep purple chiffon dresses and had a mixed selection of purple lizzy, white roses and lilac freesia.

I loved the injection of colour in this photo.

Congratulations Jacqui- you look so happy. x

Bradbourne House Part 2

2010-06-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

The Summer Open Evening at Bradbourne House was a big success! It was a lovely summer's evening and the house and grounds looked great in the sunshine.

After setting up in the main ballroom, the B2B's (Brides to be) began to arrive. They were greeted by a toast master and a glass of bucks fizz-how nice and the smell from the BBQ outside was drawing them all in.

I had decided to go for a pretty summer theme on my stand. Firstly because it was perfect for a summers evening and also I love the look and it summerises my style and love for femine flowers.
I made an array of samples from a tall fluted vase of deplhinuim and hydrangea, to a pretty birdcage in pink and peach.

Sharon, the Venues lovely Wedding coordintor had asked me to dress one of the breakfast tables as it would be on the big day, as it helps to give the "finished look to the Brides" I chose to go with an amethyst colour as it is going to be a big trend for next years bookings. The linen provided by Amicio Linen http://www.amicio.co.uk/ They specialise in luxury linen with elegant brocade/damask textures.

I wanted to show off this luxury look and went full out with an elegant crystal studded candelabra! Against the vivid blue it looked excellent!
I also added small votives of flowers as favours and finished off the luxury napkins with even more luxury ribbon! WOW

I had also set up some flowers in the Green drawing room where the smaller ceremonies take place. In here I went for a subtle pale pink, ivory and green scheme to set off the room. I think that it so important to compliment the surrounding decor- si bear this in mind B2B's when looking at your venues!

I created a centrepiece for the fireplace with pretty Hurricane vases filled with moss and hydrangea. The complimentry chair covers showed off the best colours that work in that room pink, green, ivory and chocolate brown.

Thank you to all the lovely B2B's who chatted to me on the night- I am looking forward to catching up with you all soon.

I am now planning my next Exhibition on October 17th at Sundridge Park, Bromley... Hope to see you there.

Bradbourne House

2010-06-16T14:35:00.001-07:00

17th June, you will see me exhibit at a new venue for me- Bradbourne House, in East Malling.
The house is holding a summer open eveing for all prospective Brides to be this year and next...and I believe the year after that!

I have decided on a theme which I will keep a secret for now and will let you know how I get on later...

Join me if you can its on 6pm- 9pm

http://www.bradbournehousekent.co.uk/index.asp

Wedding with a Wow!

2010-06-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the wedding of Sally-Anne and Ian. I met this lovley couple last september at a wedding exhibition in Bromley. Both Sally-Anne and Ian had strong ideas of what kind of look they wanted for their wedding at Sundridge Park Mansion.

I love this venue- the drive through the golf course feels like it is never going to end and then finally you arrive at the gorgeous house and grounds. This time the ceremony was held in the Blue room, with the amazingly high ceilings. I had the chair covers to do as well as the flowers so had a busy morning! I had Dan (new hubby- who is now very keen on weddings after having his own!) helping me.

The theme was deep purple and Ian (being a graphic designer) had designed some amazing stationary and invites which had their initials on and a flock pattern. The bridesmaids wore deep purple knee length dresses and this set the scene for the flowers.

Sally-Anne held a hand tied bouquet of white calla lilies with deep purple lisianthus. I created a twist by adding beads to bear grass which bounced beautifully as she walked! I found the perfect ribbon, which I bound the stems with. It had virtually the same pattern on it as Ian had designed!

The flowers had to be modern and striking to work as a contrast to the House and therefore I choose a vivid lime green to go with the purple and white. After a bit of persuasion towards Ian-as to which flowers would work the best- the modern look began to come together. Structured foliage and clean cut glass, lined with wire, were sentences to used to describe the look.

The flowers were based around the striking Alliums with arum lilies, roses, and lisianthus. The above displays were set on the ceremony table and then moved to the top table. I think the ideas of having vases is great as so many bride and grooms tables have a traditional oval shape arrangement whilst all their guests have stunning centrepieces!

The boys all began to arrive- cool, calm and collected....They didn't stay cool for long as it was getting hotter by the minute and they were wearing morning suits! They looked great and Ian's buttonhole had a wicked "barbed wire" finish.

The reception was held in the garden room and this is where the WOW was. Tall glass lined with wire held arrangements of flowers from the theme. They were nearly 2 metres tall and filled the room with drama. It was a great colour against the pale walls and looked stunning.

I loved the personal touches that this couple had at their wedding and they had spent a lot of time getting it right. eg they had made cd's of their favourite songs as favours and wrapped them up in matching paper. and each table was named after a band that they had seen with the guests. I must mention the cheeseboard to- love it!

The new "Mr and Mrs Cole" sent me a lovely thank you card and was over-whelmed with her bouquet. I am soooo glad you had a wonderful day- you deserved it. Congratulations. x

My Wedding

2010-05-19T01:08:00.000-07:00

I have also been a bride to be for the last 6 months and on the 30th March tied the knot with my gorgeous husband. We married at Buxted Park Hotel in East Sussex. To everyone's surprise I did do my own flowers!

I wanted the flowers to be elegant and timeless, with a pretty vintage feel. I chose blush pink sweet avalanche roses, with vintage pinks, mochas and soft green. I managed to get peonies (my favourite flower) which was really lucky as they are really out of season. My Bridesmaids Gemma and Lee, my best friends for over 15 years wore mink satin dresses from Karen Millen, with blush pink bowed shoes. They also had hand tied bouquets of vinatge inspired blooms.

Amber, our beautiful niece was our flowergirl. She wore a tiered ivory chiffon dress with a mink shrug. Amber held a posy of matching flowers to the girls. She was the first to walk down the aisle to "your so cool" from true romance at only six- she took it all in her stride! Thats when the tears began.

After a very emotional ceremony in the beautiful Orangery, where we had readings and Daniel just about managed to say his vows through the tears! We were announced as Mr and Mrs Crush! and we moved onto the ballroom. Our tables were domes of fabulous blooms on martini vases which I swagged with lengths of crystal chains to match the chandelier's that were around the room.

We then went onto the ballroom where the fabulous Adam was signing all our favourites from Frank, Dean and Michael! Everyone loved him. Although it was freezing we managed to get ouside for a few photos. Lisa brough these amazing umbrellas and took ths shot which is our favourite out of all of them.

After a few more pics we went in for dinner, followed by speeechs, more crying and more laughing. I wanted the room to look amazing and opulent. The stunning chandelier's in the ballroom was my inspiration for our centrepeices. I created domes of fabulous blooms on martini vases which I swagged with lengths of crystal chains and droplets to match the chandelier's. I made our favours myself and filled them with mini eggs saying "happy easter love Mr and Mrs Crush" (as it was easter weekend)

It was such an amazing day and would love to do it all over again. My photographer Lisa Devlin is amazing and has some great shots. She has published some of them along with an interview with me on the site Rock my Wedding.

I would like to recomend the following proffesionals who helped make our day truly memorable.

Singer and Entertainment: Adam Chandler http://www.adamchandler.co.uk/

Videographer: Padgham Productions
DJ: Apollo Funk

In love with lilac

2010-05-08T08:22:00.000-07:00

Today I had the pleasure of arranging the flowers for Clare Chitty. It was a very pretty spring wedding, with the most gorgeous colour bridesmaids dresses. It was called Victorian lilac, a shade that I hadn't seen before, but was the perfect shade to compliment the spring flower theme.

Clare wanted a classic bouquet of ivory garden roses but to soften the look and make it more garden looking, I introduced a soft green viburnum. To bring through the lovely lilac, I used soft lavender freesia Clare said "this is my Nan's favourite flower" and wanted to incorporate it into her bouquet. The fragrance from the flowers and foliage was just delicious

The Bridesmaids held hand tied bouquets of mixed spring flowers in the colour theme, introducing a more zingy lemon. I used a beautiful rose called Ocean song which was made for that colour dress....it even had the perfect texture to the petals that matched the chiffon fabric.
I used lemon ranunculas to give them a lift and they looked delightful.

When I delivered the flowers, Clare was getting her hair done, I saw the Bridesmaids finished look, and there stylish "up do"of high buns on smoothed back looked stunning.

Nice day for a White Wedding

2010-04-19T05:45:00.000-07:00

Being passionate about flowers- there are so many colours and textures to choose from- but there is something about a "white wedding" whether its the crispness and clean lines that appeals or prehaps it just shouts out BRIDE!

This is a classic combination of white bridal flowers, which oozes traditional romance. The shower shape bouquet never really dates and looks so elegant with a aline dress.

Here a classic look follows onto the reception flowers, cake and pedastals. I just love the contrast of the whit with the lime and dark greens

Spring Has Sprung.... and it smells so nice! April 10th 2010

2010-04-09T02:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the wedding of Marie, a Church service followed by a reception at Birchwood Golf Club. Marie wanted a rustic spring look of the lovely seasonal flowers including daffodils and tulips. The vibrant yellows were off set with zingy lime green and soft ivory. The perfume from the roses along with the sweet daffodils and narcisscuss was just lovely. I arrived at Marie's house to be greeting by her Dad all proud and excited in his Morning Suit. The Flower Girl was also ready and looked realy pretty in a cream dress and matching shrug and lots of curls.

The table centres were simple glass cubes filled with compact domes of spring yellows and lime- it smelt amazing! I wrapped raffia around the cubes to give a rustic contrast to the glass. Another lovely touch was placing a cluster of daffodils tied with raffia on each napkin place setting. Cute.
It was a gorgeous sunny spring day and the views accross the grounds was so pretty.

I have to mention the gorgeous cake by Nicola at Hall of Cakes - truly beautiful. The lace effect on the icing was intricate and just lovely

Trends for 2010=

2010-03-02T08:08:00.000-08:00

Hot Trends for Brides= Now that this wedding is in full swing the themes and trends for the season are underway. So far, Blue seems to be the colour, whether its sky, midnight, moonstone or auqa..its got to be blue. In terms of matching up bouquets its a challange, however it makes way for all those lovely details like crytsal tipped grasses, binding blooms and adding accessories.

Paula's wedding had an auqa blue theme and so I used beads and wire to bring the colour through to an all white selection. Chair backs, and ribbons will then pull it all together.

Here are a few other ideas for this colour scheme, using ribbon and glass beads and my very own Bridesmaids wands!

Bling is more than just a ring!

2010-02-10T10:08:00.000-08:00

So many bouquets are being blinged up to match crystals and and diamonds to tie in with themes and dresses. I love it, but only the most tasteful of diamontes should be used. I can either stud the centres of flowers with diamontes or add clusters inbetween the flowers.

The diamontes come in a wide choice of colours and can be used to work in a colour scheme as seen here at Audrey D'Sa wedding last summer. The Chief Bridesmaid had bouquets that laid across there arms with modern looped leaves. It looked great

Kelly's wedding had loads of sparkle throughout her day and so I added clusters of diamontes to her bouquet. I made a butterfly wand to match the colours and sparkle which was perfect for the flower girl. These are ideal for toddlers as they will wave it around which looks really cute.

I even added glitter to the gel which sat in her goldfish bowltable centres.

Here the brides bouquet had the diamontes through the flowers. I had to thread them onto bear grass to create the effect. Pain stakingly slow and fiddlely -but worth it!

I can also add diamonte details to the stems, prehaps using a special brooch or find a vintage looking piece- they are everywhere in the shops now. Alternatively add sparkle to your shoes like I did saying "I do"

Autunmal Elegance. Claire Pickford

2009-11-21T09:24:00.000-08:00

I have just finished a beautiful wedding at Rowhill Grange, Kent Claire had choosen a lovely colour scheme of purple, plum and Ivory. She wanted a romantic look with roses but also loved the clean modern look of calla lilies.
.

For the table centres I decided to use the roses but arranged them in modern cube style arrangements. The deep plum foliage cotinus set them off beautifully and was the exact colour match to the plum. Berries from tree ivy also made in feel autunmal and cosy.

Claire's bouquet was a dome of white roses, edged with cotinus foliage and detailed with beads which I wired all myself by hand! The girls wearing the deep purple had smaller versions of the brides bouquets with deep plum foliage. and the two flower girls had mini posies with roses, germini's and berries.

The girls wearing the deep purple had smaller versions of the brides bouquets with deep plum foliage and berries and the two flower girls had mini posies with roses, germini's and berries. The stems were bound in a sumptious purple satin ribbon for a luxury finish.

Claire chose some lovely personal touches like using picture frames to hold her table names (Disney Characters- love it), and had a friend hand make cup cakes.

Congrats Claire. Have fun in Disney!

Midnight Bue with a wow factor

2009-09-19T03:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the wedding of Jodie and Chris at the beautiful Turkey Mill. It was a really hot day and just perfect for the outdoor ceremony, as romantic music echoed arounds the grounds as I arrived I couldn't help but feel the romance in the air!

Jodie wore a beautiful silver grey dress and was lovely to see something non coventional. Jodie wanted a wow factor for her flowers with a modern and contempory feel.

She held a modern shower bouquet of pale pink calla lilies studded with silver beads, which picked up the silver of the dress.The bridesmaids wore navy blue floor length dresses with contrasting handties in hot pink gerberas and deep purple lizzy. As the girls walked across the bridge dressed with white chiffon bows, the drama of the blue was just stunning.

For the recpetion tables I chose elevated vases with large domes of lilies, gerberas and lizzy. I carried on the silver by putting a sparkle effect onto steel grass that shot up into the air above the displays. The striking colours gave a wow factor to the room and was a perfect match to Jodie's look.

Well done- it looked great.

Garden Party @ Gastro Pub

2009-07-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the Wedding of Claire and Tom. Their Wedding ceremony was at St Giles Church, a really pretty oldey welldy church in Farnborough Village. The wedding theme was vintage summer garden with sparkling butterflies. As I arrived the Groom and his men were al arriving and looked v.dashing in their chocolate brown suits. I created two vases which sat either side of the alter. The bold alliums stood out perfectly.

Claire held a stunning bouquet of pink peonies, blush roses, vintage roses and mint. The smell from the mint was just amazing! The colours and textures from the mottled colour roses and soft wispy asparagus fern gave just enough of that vintage feel.

The four flower girls held "just picked posies". In soft pink, muted brown and lilac. While the flower girls had clusters of summer garden flowers wired onto their ivory satin hairbands. The Reception was at The Bickley a lovely pub with great food. The centrepieces were goldfish bowls with domes of summer blooms in pale pink and purples, alliums. peonies and pholx all topped off with white buterflies. SOOOO pretty!

Alan, Lisa and Co- Tiffany Blue

2009-06-21T07:06:00.000-07:00

20th June was the wedding of Alan and Lisa (also my Brother and Sister-in-Law) the wedding took place at Holy Trinity Church in Eltham followed by a reception at Oaks Farm in Shirley.

The theme was Tiffany Blue as they got engaged in New York. Lisa looked absolutly beautiful and held a classic bouquet of ivory roses and white peony's edged with eucalyptus. Lisa had a beautiful train on her dress and the romance factor as she entered the church was huge!

The Bridesmaids Angie and Natalie wore torquoise satin dresses and held mixed summer blooms all in white and Amber the flower girl wore an ivory chiffon dress and held a delicate posy of ivory sweet peas.

I have to also mention the boys, Alan, Dan, Ant, Tommy and Alfie who all did a brilliant job and looked very handsome indeed.

Outside of the church, I had made matching cones filled with rose petal confetti and personalised them saying " To sprinkle Alan & Lisa with Love"

The recpetion was stunning, the barn looked perfect with all white elevated flowers, including scented scented stocks and peonys. There was gentle candlelight which flickered across the room. It was just the most perfect day!

Muscari Blue

2009-04-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

4th April 2009 - the wedding of Henrietta and Laurence. They are getting married at the Bickley Manor Hotel and the theme is spring sky blue.

The bridesmaids are wearing moonstone blue and the flowers are all scented spring flowers inluding hyacinths and narrcissus...Gorgeous!

Using scented narrcissus, hyacinths and muscari, a delicious selection of all things spring- I created posies to complement the theme. The unusal shade of blue was just perfect with the muscari and the compact style looked great.

At the reception Henrietta had glass tanks with domes of matching flowers., introducing daffodils and zingy lime green daisys. there was even the scent of freshly cut grass hovering in the grounds-