Ashley Slater Photography

3 Tips for Planning Rustic Weddings

0 · Apr 12, 2016 ·

I originally wrote this post a couple months ago as part of my monthly guest feature over on Simply Blue Weddings. It was titled “3 Mistakes Couples Make When Planning Rustic Weddings”. But after it when live, I felt bad. I had just posted something really negative and it bothered me.

So today, I’m sharing it here on my personal blog, but I’ve reworked it a bit, shedding a more positive light on the subject. Here are some things you should do to make sure that you’re rustic celebration is just as fabulous as you always dreamed it would be.

Quicksand Rose | Rustic Wedding Planning Tips | The Day's Design | Ashley Slater Photography

Photography: Ashley Slater Photography | Styling & Floral Design: The Day’s Design | Calligraphy: Wondrous Whimsy

Properly Define Rustic

What does rustic mean to you? In the wedding industry, it seems any celebration that doesn’t take place in a formal ballroom (and even some that do) can easily be defined as rustic. However, these seem to be three different type of “rustic” bride that I most normally come across.

There’s shabby, vintage and sometimes even a little dirty “rustic”. This bride includes décor choices that you might generally associate with a barn wedding. Perhaps horse saddles, wooden crates, vintage table numbers and burlap accents.

Then there’s outdoorsy rustic. Think almost woodland wedding or even more nautical style. Birch bark, tree stumps and mossy touches might be mixed in. You could also incorporate antlers, sand or outdoor activities that the couple enjoy together. This is where natural lovers rejoice.

Finally, there’s the girl who describes her day as rustic elegance. She dreams of a touch of sophistication paired with wide open spaces. Think gold flatware against a raw wooden table. Everything stays sleek and refined while complimenting a slightly more relaxed mood.

And of course there’s a hybrid of any of the above which makes every day extremely unique.

Choose the Right Venue

Michigan is home to a countless number of barns, wineries and other outdoor spaces that lend themselves so well towards this style of gathering. With such a plethora of earthy spaces, I think that’s why we tend to assume that everyone getting married with a loose bouquet of wildflowers is search of that casual vibe. However, we mustn’t forget that there are many hotel ballrooms, elegant restaurants and rental halls that also can host amazing events. And not all of them pair well with burlap, wooden crates or nautical rope décor. Make sure that your venue provides the right backdrop and sets the perfect tone for you wedding day.

Don’t Assume that Planning will be Simple

I hear it all the time, I want a simple wedding day. Don’t we all? Does anyone want their day to be an overly complicated nightmare?? The fact of the matter is, regardless of the style or theme of your wedding day, you’re still inviting guests, they still need invitations, chairs, tables, linens, food, centerpieces, transportation and about a 100 other details that go into the planning of a successful event. Oh and you thought it would cost less because it’s a rustic wedding? While there might be a few details that become more casual and you could possibly skip out on the draping or extremely tall formal centerpieces, but that greenery garland and beautiful compote centerpiece is still cost money. And the price tag on your flank steak is the same whether you serve it in a fancy ballroom or on a tented hillside.

I love working in casual elegance as well as grander ballrooms. I think that’s one of the reasons that I love what I do so much, I get to meet a variety of people, working in different atmosphere and am never limited on my creativity. Each wedding as is individual as the couple planning it.

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Looking for more wedding planning tips? Read my guest feature over on Simply Blue Weddings the second Thursday of each month.

Nancy & Andrew’s Love Story

0 · Mar 2, 2016 ·

Every day has a story. I don’t just mean wedding days, or fancy celebration times but literally every single day. Some tales are bit boring while others are a bit more momentous. Some stories are disregarded by the next morning. Some have a narrative that would rather be forgotten while others want to be relived continuously throughout time.

I don’t know the number of days or how many stories Nancy and Andrew have shared together. I don’t know how he proposed or what their wedding will look like. But I can surmise that their tale will have a happy ending. I can imagine that the day that Ashley followed them around Downtown Grand Rapids on this crisp autumn morning was a happy one, one that will remain in their hearts for years to come.

When an author writes a book, they are then tasked to find the perfect artist or illustrator to portray what the imagination cannot visualize on its own. In the same way, a photographer must tell the story of love, of engagement and then on to the happily ever after – the wedding day.

I will only play a small role in the overall plot of their lives. I’m merely an extra in the background or a set designer, supplying a couple props for the day, whether it’s a halo for engagement photos, a flower for a special occasion or a cascading showpiece for a bride on her wedding day. Photography: Ashley Slater Photography | Floral Design: The Day’s Design | Location: Downtown Grand Rapids

When people ask me how many weddings I do a year, I would rather tell them how many love stories I’ve had the privilege of being a part of. I’m merely helped set the stage, designed the set or illustrated a page where the romance will come to life.

When to Break the Blogging & Business “Rules”

0 · Feb 26, 2016 ·

Love Letters and Lace | The Day's Design | Wildfield Paper Co | Ashley Slater Photography

Calligraphy: Wildfield Paper Co | Photography: Ashley Slater Photography | Styling: The Day’s Design

What do I have to offer the world today?

A fellow blogger posed this question and it’s been bubbling around on my brain for month’s now. Ever read something that another writer, or even friend, has posted online and wondered why on Earth are you telling me this? I have those moments all the time. Why did the world need to know that?

Something very few people (if anyone) knows about me is that I used to daydream about being a writer. I would write short stories, dream up scripts for plays, novels and had collections of poetry. And I kept a journal. But my journal wasn’t a pretty little notebook with flowery thoughts and aspirations, it was a mass collective of random papers, paragraphs and ideas I’d scribbled down during calculus class or angry letters to ignored crushes. My journal was anywhere I could find a scrap of paper, napkins, post-it notes – you name it, I was resourceful and could then stuff them in my purse or pocket only to be discovered later or perhaps never even relived again. It was this way for me to vent and clear my head and figure out what I was really feeling. And usually they were deep, dark and often angry. Those are the moments I most feel the need to pick up my pen.

The thing about these writings is they were never really meant for an audience. I couldn’t easily share them with anyone and most people don’t even know of their existence. I had a poem or two that I’d read to a boyfriend on very rare occasion, but never my mother, best friend or even an English teacher – they were much too personal and I couldn’t bear the thought of anyone critiquing my work.

Creative writing was always my elective course of choice. I guess you could look at this as sort of a foreshadow of things to come. Never did I think that I would post writings online, I rarely even update my Facebook status because it is simply “none of your business”.

But from what I have read of “successful blogging” is you must be consistent, follow the 3 part story structure and most of all, have something worthwhile to share with the world today. Those are all three things that I really struggle with – and perhaps that’s why my blog isn’t “successful”. Why would anyone want to read what I want to share with the world? However, I mentally turned a little switch and decided to break these rules and no longer look at this as merely an informative wedding blog but rather my journal. My writer’s block has decreased. I feel like I just gave myself some freedom to be myself and write whatever I want – not what you’d want to read on a “wedding blog”. And I’ve actually had a very slight increase in readership.

So, what do I have to offer the world today? This – be yourself. Don’t do something because it seems like that might be the “rule” of business or “the way” things are done. If it don’t feel right, then stop. Simple enough, right? Just be yourself.

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And a little side rant – I hate the word blog. It so harsh and not poetic at all as it rolls off your tongue, it’s like you just spat the word out. Plus it reminds me of Pogs which gives me a little 4^th grade flashback.

Artful Boudoir

0 · Feb 12, 2016 ·

Boudoir is concept that sometimes I struggle with. It is a French word that means a woman’s bedroom or private room. And I think that’s the key to boudoir – it is private, personal and an emotional experience.

Each January I see a huge influx in boudoir advertising, its right before the Valentine’s holiday and it seems like a very romantic gift. It is, that I can absolutely agree with. And from a marketing standpoint, it’s right on.

Bridal Boudoir | The Day's Design | Ashley Slater Photography

I also get asked to be a part of similar sessions, staging, designing and helping to choose tasteful lingerie. I personally love it, it’s so romantic and raw. There’s an energy that’s created and the form of artistic expression is something special. I understand why the ancient Greeks and Renaissance artists used women in the nude as their muses.

But then I struggle with whether or not I should actually be posting these private images. Is this something that’s too racy and dare I say, pornographic, for me to be a part of?

Enter the gray line. Remember when Glamour Shots from the mall were all the rage? When I was younger, my pastor had one of his wife hanging in his office. She looked amazing. So remarkably beautiful, sexy. Of course, I was 10 at the time so those weren’t the words I used to describe her, but just the same that gorgeous airbrushed image is burned into my mind and I can still see the teal backdrop against her fiery red hair. She was a vision. And not the vision you’d typically think of when you imagine a pastor’s wife.

She was somewhat plain in her everyday existence. I think every woman deserves to feel like a fiery redhead goddess at least once in her life. It’s a boost in self-confidence to be depicted in this way and there’s really no rule that you need to share these images with a man. As someone who often struggles with body images and confidence, I encourage any photography style that will help promote inner beauty and enhancing the outer, in a natural, real way.

Bridal Boudoir | The Day's Design | Ashley Slater Photography

Photography: Ashley Slater Photography

What I have witnessed is a trend towards the art and the thoughtfulness. Boudoir is 2015’s Glamour Shots. I worked with one woman who wore a full length robe. It was silky and feminine, but showed no more cleavage than one might expect to see in a wedding dress. And on the other end, she showed off her ankles and toes. Back in 1915 this might have been controversial, but today it was barefoot and beautiful. Often textures and fabrics add grace to the photos. Some of my favorites would hardly even be considered boudoir. They’re not full of the kinky lingerie, provocative poses and indecent images that convince ourselves are necessary for this type of session. Think long lashes, sweet muted tones and tender beauty.

My thought is if you can’t show them to your daddy, then they should never leave the bedroom. I’ll never post anything that’s revealing beyond an artist’s eye. But I do encourage sessions that show off this more sensual side of being a woman. Whether it’s in a sequin dress, a bridal veil an old t-shirt, be your own definition of sexy.

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The Sand & the Sea

0 · Dec 16, 2015 ·

December’s weather here in Michigan has been a little abnormal, to say the least. The amount of foggy and rain filled days have been unheard of and I’ve hardly had the need to put on my winter coat. This morning, once again, I woke up to a thick of cloud that hung in the air. It’s such a dense and gloomy feeling.

It actually made me think back to this day in May. The temperatures were oddly similar although this spring day was far windier. Ashley Slater and I had been dreaming up a beach shoot. We wanted it to be natural, ethereal and chic all at the same time. We wanted to combine a classic black tux and a streamline wedding gown with driftwood and other neutral touches found on Lake Michigan’s glistening shoreline. We dreamt of a very sun kissed, yet earthy and grounded day with the decor seeming as though it had been washed ashore from a shipwreck.

However, as it so often happens, the weather changed our plans. One of the biggest lessons I have learned it to just roll with it and let the story be a part of your day. Since this was a styled shoot, we had the option to reschedule when the weather was chilly and less than ideal. But we moved forward despite the misty and fog. And one of my favorite outcomes of the day was the moody tone that the beach set. The sky mirrored the muted watercolor lines of Wildfield Paper’s custom paper goodies. The whitecaps and the wind whipping through Caitlin’s hair were perfection. We decided not to fuss with curls, a tie and other formalities. It turned into a wild, barefoot and carefree celebration.

This shoot was also featured on Magnolia Rouge, you can see the post here.

A World without Flowers

0 · Nov 18, 2015 ·

Photography: Ashley Slater Photography

Do you ever feel small? There’s this world out there that’s full of hunger, heartache, tragedy, anger and defeat. And then there’s me, siting here warm in the comfort of my own home stressing about minuet details such as flowers and home decor. Hardly a world crisis. It makes me feel little and worthless.

When I began my flower journey I struggled with the concept of fresh flowers because it isn’t something that would last. I felt like maybe I was wasting a plant’s potential by plucking it’s blooms and placing them in a vase where they would only last a few days. And then they would be forever forgotten.

A shift in perspective from an another designer made me realize that by picking that flower and bringing it inside, I can now enjoy it for numerous hours at a time, valuing the beauty it brings to my table for those few precious days. If I had left it in the field, I may have seen it for a couple minutes as I drove by every now and then – but even attached to it’s roots, it will too eventually wither and fade away. We need to appreciate beauty while it lasts.

I don’t think there’s anything wrong with trying to add a little beauty to the world around you. I think we all need that moment of peace and refreshment. Can you imagine what the world might be like if artists stopped creating? What if Monet had never picked up a paintbrush because it was frivolous? Or think of all the great architects, what if they’d never hand carved and crafted anything and all the buildings around us were just square boxes? And what if there were no flowers?

What would it be like if we lived in a world without flowers?

Featured :: Sand & Sea on Magnolia Rouge

0 · Oct 20, 2015 ·

It’s no secret that I love the water. The sound of crashing waves and beautiful beaches are so invigorating. It really is amazing all the beauty that God has put on this earth around us. Beyond the obviously picturesque days, I love those that are a little darker. Moody, overcast skies are so intoxicating. There’s a calmness as the wind rips through your hair, the sound of the sand dancing across the shoreline and then… bam, another giant swell meets it’s ending upon the shore.

This inspiration was born out of those overcast skies. A little bit of mist hung in the air and the sand was chilled with a dampness. It was not a day to fuss with curls in your hair or to bother putting on a tie. It was a wild, carefree and barefoot occasion – come as you are and let love prevail. And today I’m delighted to share it in it’s entirety over on Magnolia Rouge.

Ribbon Selection

0 · Jun 24, 2015 ·

Photo: Ashley Slater Photography

I love ribbon. It’s actually really embarrassing how much ribbon I have stashed away in my basement. I could wrap Christmas presents for years before running out. But as with most things, my styles and preferences change and so I find myself favoring one particular type at a time, leaving the others behind.

Beyond wrapping presents, my obsession is really focused on bouquets and finding the most perfectly delicate spools to flow freely from your handful of gorgeous blooms. The right ribbon will complete everything, blow perfectly in the wind and continue the color story beyond where your eye naturally stops at that bottom petal.

As I’m designing with my clients I find that most either have a very strong preference on the type or color of ribbon used throughout their event or they really don’t care much at all, which leaves that detail up to my choosing (which puts a lot of pressure on me… but I love it!) So here’s a little more on that subject, the most common places that ribbons are used throughout designs and how to make the best selection for each of these areas.

The Bouquets

I’ll start with the most obvious. Regardless of what service my clients hire me for, the subject of ribbons for the bouquets always comes up. And the conversation runs much deeper than just popping into Hobby Lobby to pick up a 50% off spool. There’s so much to consider.

Do you want long, flowy ribbons or do you prefer nice, neatly trimmed and shorter tails? Would you prefer multiple layers? Do you want your bouquets tied with a bow? It is necessary for your ribbons to match your blooms or dresses? What other elements are including ribbon throughout the design?

My preferences lean towards long, flowy trailing ribbons on each and every bouquet with multiple layers. I like big bouquets so I think a large amount of ribbon seems appropriate to balance that. Most weddings I’m a part of have a least a portion of the day outside or plans to have portraits taken al fresco and the sight of ribbons freely blowing in the wind makes me weak in the knees, so I like lightweight options that will make that fantasy a reality.

A fairly common practice is to tie the bride’s bouquet with a big, beautiful bow. While I do occasionally accessorize the bouquet like this, more often, I just loop a couple of ribbons together which I will then pin on the front of the bouquets once on site, as not to get them too wet during transport. It’s a slightly more casual approach, but no less elegant and I don’t agonize over creating the most prefect bow (which I am way too picky about!) Whether I choose loops or a bow, I always tend to place them slightly to the left. I’m asymmetrical in nature, so bridesmaids always get the “how to carry a bouquet” speech from me as I’m handing them out. I don’t want them facing that main ribbon straight forward therefore showing off the side of their bouquets.

Color also needs to be considered. In a perfect world, the ribbons should accent the flowers, stand out from the dresses and still blend with the overall design of the day. Just because your colors are navy and white, does not mean you need to use navy ribbons, especially if your girls are wearing navy dresses – you’ll never even see the streamers hanging down. Select a color that will compliment – perhaps silver or gold or white, or another neutral. Then as the bride, you could choose to use navy ribbons if you want a bold, different look or you could also stick with the more neutral tone of the bridesmaids’ ribbons, just keeping in mind what they’ll look like in front of your white dress.

Stationary Pieces

It really pains me when people put all this thought and care into choosing the ribbons for their personal flowers (or allow me to put all this time and effort into choosing) and then just make a willy nilly selection when it comes to choosing what will be accenting their invitations and/or menu cards. This is the ribbon that people are actually going to touch. One day someone came over and was poking through my goodies and found one of my silk ribbons “It feels like butter!” she exclaimed and she couldn’t stop touching it. What if all of your guests had that reaction? Wouldn’t that make your paper goodies seem that much more luxurious and special?

A couple other thoughts, watch what the ribbons will be placed up against – paper colors, napkins, etc. Then consider the texture of the ribbon and how it might tie. If you’re making bows, does it form one easily or do you really have to fuss with it? Do you want to fuss with 150 bows? Or is it really pretty just casually knotted? How will it look after it’s been crammed in an envelope for 3 days before your guests open it?

Styling Pieces

A great way to style details and add a little extra flair is use the same ribbons throughout. Having extra scraps for the photographer to style the invitations suite with, tie the chair back signs or simply have flowing across the cake table. These small details really do make a huge impact.

Obviously there are a 100 other places you can use ribbons and you have to consider the cost and amount of ribbons you need. Save the most special and luxurious pieces for the places it will be most noticed – highly photographed portions of the day and places where guests will touch it. Most importantly – focus on what details matter most to you.

Footprints in the Sand

0 · Jun 3, 2015 ·

Sunday I awoke to a nip in the morning air. It had the crisp, clean and fragrant smell of summer with the chilling temperatures of fall. It almost felt as though autumn was closing in upon us or perhaps I had traveled north to the place where my dreams often take me. It felt like a Northern Michigan morning.

That same morning, our pastor talked about waiting. I feel like I’m caught waiting a lot. Waiting can be good. Perhaps we shouldn’t but in such a hurry, life doesn’t have to happen instantaneously. It’s interesting to think though what might happen if we never stopped waiting and just sit in our comfort, dragging our feet. And as my mind always tends to wander, I was thinking, if Jesus is always by our side, then he’s waiting right there with to us. Like footprints in the sand next to us, carrying us, guiding us.

While these two occurrences from Sunday aren’t exactly connected, I couldn’t help but think of this image, it just seemed to sum up the day. I was thinking about chilly and cold feet. I was thinking of the misty shores of Lake Michigan and the damp sand. I was thinking of being lonely and yet having love by my side. I was thinking about how many thoughts and words can come to mind with no way to express themselves besides in one visual image. I don’t have the perfect poetic tidings or ideas to sum up this post, but it’s perplexing the emotions, sentiments and a wealth of thoughts that can be conjured up from just one picture.

This beautiful image was part of a seaside inspirations shoot Ashley Slater Photography and I put together last month. So many more moving photos to be shared soon!

She’s Here!

0 · Mar 13, 2015 ·

7 lbs 3 oz and 19 1/2 inches long, Willa June was born at 9:27 am yesterday. Gretta thought you should know that she’s officially a big sister and I’m now Mama to 2 beautiful girls.

Photography: Ashley Slater Photography | Styling & Floral Design: The Day’s Design | Calligraphy: Kaitlin Parisho Designs | Chair: Cameos & Cardigans

A Winter Maternity Session

0 · Mar 6, 2015 ·

I didn’t have maternity photos taken when I was pregnant with Gretta, and I’m not sure if I completely regret that but do know that there’s a missing piece of documentation in my life. I will never have that visual memory. I’ve never thought of myself as very photogenic so I just didn’t entertain the thought too much. I applaud those women who carry pregnancy with such beauty and grace, because that’s simply not me. However with this pregnancy, I decided to go for it. So back in January, Ashley Slater and I snuck outside for a little wintery photo session to commemorate this time in my life. I really set forth to see the beauty in this moment and try to find that every season has a reason to celebrate. It’s what I preach, it’s time to act on that.

As a bonus, I surprised my husband with these for a little Valentine’s gift. These were totally worth facing the frigid temperatures and now I have some beautiful new artwork to freshen up the baby’s nursery. And if you know me at all, you know that any photo session wouldn’t be complete without some beautiful blooms and a little styling.

Photography: Ashley Slater Photography | Florals & Styling: The Day’s Design | Calligraphy: Kaitlin Parisho Designs | Chair: Cameos & Cardigans

It’s a…

0 · Feb 27, 2015 ·

Yesterday marked my 37th week of pregnancy and I’m officially full term. If you follow me across social media you might notice that I’m not very vocal about it. I did make an announcement back in November, however these things are often quickly forgotten… unless of course, you’re the pregnant one! It’s not that I’m not thankful or excited or any of those things, but I just don’t get the warm fuzzy feelings that are people generally find normal from most expectant moms. I find pregnancy and the pregnancy process a little strange and almost borderline creepy – there’s something growing inside me! I try not to think about it. The goal is to keep this space a positive, loving and optimistic one, so it doesn’t always seem appropriate to share what’s really on my mind. Like Mom always said, if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.

But the truth is, we’re having another little girl. She will be here in less than 2 weeks time. And we’re really excited. Gretta was moved into her new “big girl bedroom” last weekend, and Baby Girl #2 will take over the nursery space. We’re still busy at work with the home reno projects, which we’re hoping (fingers crossed really really tightly!!) will just about be wrapped up this weekend. I don’t know what people do that don’t have parents like mine. Seriously, my dad has worked his hiney off in our nightmare of a bathroom and my mom has been a laundry and baby room warrior.

Meanwhile, I’m here wrapping up some really pretty details for 2015 brides and getting ahead of the game, in hopes of taking the next month to find the new norm and balance in life. I’m not sure that any of us are truly prepared for what life has in store for us but things always seem to work out. I’ll still be checking email and staying in planning mode, just on a little slower pace. So I appreciate your patience and understanding.

There are still openings in my 2015 wedding season for both floral design and planning clients but if you’re considering working with me the spots are filling up fast! Have a great weekend friends and be sure to check back next week as I’m going to share the rest of my maternity shoot with Ashley Slater Photography, with some gorgeous calligraphy pieces from Kaitlin Parisho Designs. It’s pretty, you won’t want to miss it!

The Rose

0 · Feb 5, 2015 ·

We’ve downplayed the romance of roses. I had yet another bride tell me that she isn’t a fan of roses. While it’s not uncommon for me to hear, it is somewhat disheartening. I can’t use ANY roses in your arrangements? I think we’re sick of seeing tightly wound bunches sadly wrapped in cellophane, thrown together with a couple sprigs of baby’s breath and being advertised as something we should love. However, when I think of all the beautiful blooms that you’re excluding, it’s somewhat heartbreaking. There are so many great varieties beyond the typical South American blooms we associate with the word “rose” leaving so many flowers behind that we’re simply not appreciating.

I love creating with roses. I love pulling the center petals from the little spray roses to reveal the cute little stamens hiding inside. The way a garden rose can transform from a tight, round bud to a glorious bloom layered with ruffles and frills is really exciting. And I want to share this with you.

Picture: Heather Cisler Photography

The yellow rose – a symbol of friendship. I could stay friends with these lovelies all day long. What you see here is an American grown, buttery yellow California bloom paired with a yellow Finesse rose – which is a standard variety but they have a softer, almost ruffly texture on their outer edges making just a touch more fancy. The butter tones accentuate those found in the ivory spray roses on the left and who can resist adding a couple of tulips and ranunculus to the mix!?

Picture: Kelly Sweet Photography

I created this bouquet for a bride who had her heart set on peonies. There’s no doubt that peonies are one of my all time favorites and I’m hopeful for the day that they’re available year around… or maybe it’s the fact that they’re not that makes them so special. Either way, I wasn’t able to accommodate my October bride’s wishes. However, I don’t think either of us were too disappointed by the results.

I had the roses shipped in from Oregon, which made them extra special. The large ivory ones (Helga Paiget) were especially my favorites as some blooms had just a touch of pink accenting their outer petals. And when they opened it was pure magic. Layer upon layer of delicate petals were revealed. They were placed next to the Romantic Antike roses (the coral-y pink ones). Those too are extraordinary in their own way. While closed, they are a beautifully round bud and opened, they flatten out with a swirling petal arrangement that leads to a golden center. Also shown are a few delicately sweet Champagne roses in blush tones and some PeeGee hydrangeas with peach stock.

Picture: Ashley Slater Photography

I’m not sure what what exactly inspired this combination of roses. The Caramel Antikes and the red garden roses (which the grower considered brown) were shipped to me from California (on a side note… I would love to source more roses from Michigan, anyone want to recommend a grower to me?) and the pale blush/beige one of the left in fact is a South American Quicksand rose. I just threw these in a vase together with some chocolate cosmos and grabbed a couple leaves off a bush in my backyard but I loved the results!

Still think roses are boring? If you still don’t like roses, I understand and will not force my preference upon you. But with so many varieties, colors, sizes and design options I really think we should reconsider.

“That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” – Shakespeare

Farewell 2014

0 · Dec 31, 2014 ·

I was not going to do a year end post, I mean, do people even read these? I don’t think it’s an original idea and I’m not sure that there’s a single person out there that truly cares what my year looked like. But earlier this week I was going through some goals, figuring out how to get where I want to be in 2015 and it really did inspire me to think about where I started in January of 2014 and how my business has evolved over the course of a very short year.

Even though 2014 was The Day’s Design’s second official full wedding season, I was still a little unsure of myself and did not have high expectations. But the thing about having low expectations is, it’s not hard to exceed them — which I did, 10x over. I gave myself a boost of confidence this past year and know that I am worthy of an amazing 2015, which is looking really busy and cannot wait to celebrate with the sweet couples I have booked this year and the ones I am yet to meet.

I hope my journey inspires someone out there to keep moving forward and following their dreams, it’s not easy but if you’re passionate about doing what you love, then it’s so worth it. Without further ado, I’ll take you on a walk through my year.

January

I got the brilliant idea to put together a Valentine’s bouquet and model it myself… in the middle of a blizzard. Thanks Heather for freezing along with me!

February

Rachel, with Sincerely Ginger Weddings, and I collaborated on a gorgeous winter inspiration shoot in my favorite place ever – Leland, Mi! It was so sweet and full of wintery romance and rumor has it, Style Me Pretty will be featuring the shoot in it entirety next month! Photography: Eliza Jean Photography.

Later that month my Valentine’s bouquet was featured on on Burnett’s Boards. You can see the feature here.

March

Cabin fever officially set in and I found myself getting antsy and itching to use a little creative energy. In remedy, Ashley Slater Photography and I teamed up to put together a little tutorial on how you can make your very own gilded floral crown.

April

This month was special for two reasons. First off, Heather Cisler and I teamed up once again to put together a fabulous fairytale inspired photo shoot.

And secondly I made a HUGE business changing decision and took a leap into adding floral services alongside planning and coordination. All I can say is, what took me so long!? This passion was hidden deep within me and a creative freedom has been unleashed and I will never look back. Bring on the blooms!

May

I stepped away from weddings and floral work for a moment to be a part of something a little different, but equally amazing. Kellie Hetler has a heart for service and put together the More Than a Face campaign, which is designed to help high schools girls to find their inner worth and realize what a difference they can make. Each one of these women was so beautiful and unique – I’m so glad I had the opportunity to be a part and bring a little extra style to this shoot.

Shortly thereafter I packed my bags and headed for the mountains of North Carolina. I wasn’t prepared for how this experience would change my life. I realized how to create, how to better see things and found a deep appreciation for my surroundings and finding beauty in the everyday. I climbed mountains both literally and figuratively and walked away with friendships I will cherish forever. Kelly Perry of Philosophy Flowers is an absolute delight and the true definition of a floral artist. The rest of the Team Flower ladies are an equal treasure. If only we could travel back in time, I would relive those moments of and over again, sure to find something fresh and new every time. Photography: Heather Payne Photography.

I rushed home from my workshop to share my experience with those I cherish most, my family. I picked a few foraged blooms and we ventured out to the apple orchard to have our family photos taken with Kellie Hetler. I love these sweet moments.

June

June started out on a rather cold note. I was part of Bloom the Workshop, hosted by Ashley Slater Photography and Michaela Noelle Designs. While I remember how great is was providing beautiful blooms to such an inspiring group of women, I also remember how cold it was that day.

And then came the first wedding of the 2014 season… an intimate ceremony in the woods with an ode to Alice in Wonderland. This was a fabulous way to kick off the wedding season and was featured on Style Me Pretty last month. Photography: Kelly Sweet Photography.

July

July was a month of rest. I had a busy August ahead and took the first part of the month for a little relaxation and the second half and full on wedding prep — but there’s never any pretty pictures to share from that!

August

This was my busy month, but it’s definitely worth my couple moments of being frazzled to see the smiling faces at the end of a wedding nice – so happy, so in love.

First up, a day-of coordination with the ceremony at the blue bridge in downtown Grand Rapids and a beautiful blush and grey reception to follow at the Downtown Market. I haven’t tracked down any pictures yet but think modern, airy space, soft grey silky linens and soft blush blooms.

Next came floral design for a couple who said “I do” at the Bissell Tree House. And in case you’re wondering, Thursday weddings are totally fun! Photography: Joe Matthews.

And then it was off to Northern Michigan for a festive and fun celebration at a llama farm… because who wouldn’t want to get married at a llama farm?! Again, I don’t have pictures to share yet but if you’re looking for a fun celebration – why not get married on a hilltop overlooking Lake Michigan with llamas in the background. Think local wildflowers, a live jazz band and fun dinosaur escort cards.

Then we celebrated one more set of nuptials this month. I feel honored to be a part of any wedding day – it’s a big deal, and these memories are extremely important, but when the bride and groom happen to be a couple of your closest friends, that just adds a whole new level of special to the day. I was lucky enough to provide floral services, and then helped the couple celebrate into the night. Dahlias, dahlias and more dahlias surrounded this love filled day. Photography: Chelsea Seekell Photography.

September

The months of August and September seem to be increasingly popular times to get married. I did a little freelance floral work for not one, but 2 weddings in Northern Michigan with Sincerely, Ginger Weddings. It’s always super fun to collaborate with like-minded, creative individuals.

And let’s not forget Amy & Emyr’s picture perfect day at the Gull Lake Country Club.

Bloom 2.0 brought us back to the Hydrangea Blu Barn for another round of education and fun with Micheala Noelle and Ashley Slater. I love creating flowers and helping with their workshops. Photography: Jenn Anibal.

September also hosted one of my favorite styled shoots ever. I actually hesitate to call it a styled shoot because in reality we invited guests, guests who needed a little extra love and a night to remember just how special they really all. This was the dinner parties of all dinner parties and I’m so thankful for all the vendors who volunteered to be a part. Photography: Ashley Slater Photography.

October

This past summer I received a phone call from the sweetest bride you have ever met telling me how she didn’t have a florist yet for her October wedding. After hearing all the details she had in place for her Northport wedding, I knew I had to be a part. The Willowbrook Mill has been so high on my list “must work” wedding locations that I just about fell out of my chair when she said that was her venue. It was a match made in heaven as I created florals, helped design and coordinated all the details of Christina and Tim’s day.

November

In the name of furthering education, Kaci Muller (of Just Delightful Events) and I got together for a morning of flower talk and coffee and compared notes on how we typically create our beautiful wedding bouquets and Kellie Hetler joined in the fun so we’d have a few pictures to share with you.

I thought my wedding season would officially end with the conclusion of October’s love filled celebration, but surprise… my younger sister decided to push up her wedding date by 6 months and she tied the knot after only a month’s worth of planning. Photography: Katie Grace Photography & Videography.

December

And then to cap off the year, Katie Grace Photography and I just had to go play with a few of my leftover blooms. I’m going to start making bouquet and floral recipes a more common feature on my blog, I can’t wait!

It really has been a fantastic year! I can’t believe we’re bidding it farewell in just a few short hours. Let’s see what 2015 has in store – I”m ready, bring it on!

Shopping with Shelby: Black Friday 2014

0 · Dec 1, 2014 ·

Hi Friends!! Did you have a fabulous holiday weekend? I for one did, however I’d like to chat about this whole traditional thanksgiving feast, who planned this menu? Where’s the chocolate? Move over mashed potatoes and stuffing, I could certainly find some more favorable side dishes. None the less, my weekend included these feasting favorites and then was followed by pie and shopping. Lots of shopping.

Photo: Ashley Slater Photography | Pie: Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm

It’s tradition for my mother and me to burn the midnight oil and head out in the wee hours of the night to do a little holiday shopping. We’re they type of people who are constantly on the prowl for a good deal. However, I must say that I was sorely disappointed that stores chose to open at such early hours on Thanksgiving. As someone who spent many years forced to work during the holiday, I always found myself so jealous of those who were with the ones they love. Because of this, I felt extreme sympathy for these workers and could not bring myself to shop on Thanksgiving night, so I had patience and headed out around 4:00am Friday morning. Twelve hours later we started our trek back home with a full car and much emptier wallets.

I’ve been asked about the fun in Black Friday shopping and the best places to shop. While I know everyone’s approach is a little different, I think the unexpected deals give the most thrills. Sure, I scour the ads on Thanksgiving Day, look at the leaked ads via the internet in the weeks prior to heading out and even map out an action plan. But my go-to’s are always Macy’s and Target, two of my favorite shopping locations regardless of the occasion. After that is when we begin to travel through the mall, making our way from store to store and loving the window signs proudly displaying 40-50% savings off the entire store, including clearance. Straight to those clearance racks I go!

This year, no surprise, Macy’s brought me the best bargains and today I’m still on the lookout for Cyber Monday steals. Did you find any great deals?

Bloom the Workshop :: September Edition

0 · Oct 24, 2014 ·

Well my extremely talents friends are at it again, this past September they brought Bloom the Workshop back to West Michigan and once again I got to be a part. (You can read all about the first edition here.) I’m not going to share all the gorgeous workshop details or the behind the scenes but rather I’m going to skip right to the good part, the styled shoot portion.

With fall beginning to close in, the florals were inspired by shades of berry and orange, with subtle touches of pink set against a bold black and white pattern. A little modern, a little rustic and completely chic describes the tablescape that Michaela designed. It was my job to adorn not only the tabletop but also provide the models with gorgeous blooms. 2 centerpieces, 2 bouquets a boutonniere and a whole lot of pretty made this shoot come to life at Rockford’s Hydrangea Blu Barn.

Bloom the Workshop | Fall bride | The Day's Design

Photography: {Jenn Anibal} | Event Design: Michaela Noelle Designs | Floral Design: The Day’s Design | Dresses: Spring Sweet | Chandeliers & Rentals: The Rental Company | Calligraphy & Invitations: Graceline Calligraphy | Hair & Makeup: Hailey Hollenstien | Table Runner: Mrs. Freund & Co. | Venue: Hydrangea Blu Barn

Those dresses? Aren’t they just amazing, I wish I had the back to pull that off. And the cockscomb in centerpiece number 2 is the biggest piece of locals cockscomb I have ever seen! I can’t wait to see what the these talented girls do for Bloom in 2015!

Telling Your Vendors “No”

0 · Oct 9, 2014 ·

Photography: Ashely Slater Photography / Floral Design: The Day’s Design

Wedding inquiries for me seem to go in spirts. One week my inbox will be flooded and then I might have a drought for the next three. And while I’d love to turn all those inquiries into clients, it just doesn’t happen – I’ve never done the math, but I’d wager to guess that over 50% of those I never hear a peep back from. But it’s that other 50%, the ones that follow up, have questions or even take the time to meet with me that I’d really like to address. Some of these lovely ladies share their wedding fantasies, their dreams, expectations, so much of their life stories and then…

Silence.

I hear nothing more.

So today’s post is all about telling your vendors “no.”

Be Honest. If you’re shopping around and talking to several vendors in my category, that’s perfectly fine. You’ve probably never planned a wedding before and so you might want to explore all your options. You definitely need to find the right fit for you. But let me know your intensions right up front. Let me know if you’re trying to decide if you even want a wedding planner or not. Let me know if you have meetings scheduled with 3 other florists/designers as well. I promise I won’t be offended and you don’t have to share their names.

Be Realistic and Respectful. Enter that first consult with reasonable expectations, most times it’s more of a “meet and greet” not a wedding planning session. I put food on my table by providing wedding services. Please don’t just inquire and consult with me to see how many free tips you can get me to share. Please don’t ask me to draw up a design proposal or hand you a list of recommended vendors for your day if you haven’t signed a contract and sent a deposit.

Tell Me No (bonus points for a brief explanation). Your wedding is all about YOU. While I may have wanted to be a part of your celebration so bad I could taste it, chances are if you decided that I wasn’t a good fit – I felt that too. Some people just click. At the end of the day, my main goal is to make you happily married and sometimes that goal is better achieved by me not being a part of your celebration. But don’t be afraid to tell me that. Please don’t leave me hanging, wondering what happened to you. Was I too serious or silly? Were my ideas a little too far out there for you? Was it my pricing? Telling me “no” is great but if you can give me a little insight as to why, well that helps me better myself and could also help future brides as well.

It would not be physically possible for me to be a part of every wedding that inquired with me. Even if I really loved everything you said, sometimes it’s a relief to have a weekend off. But remember that really great first date you had with no follow up phone call? Sometimes I feel like that. Don’t make me feel like Josie Grossy. I’m a big girl, just tell me the truth.

Styled Shoot Party :: Just a Glimpse

0 · Oct 1, 2014 ·

There’s been an idea brewing inside of me for awhile now and it’s all based on this notion that styled shoots, while absolutely gorgeous, are also a bit of a waste. I enjoy working without limitations and being able to create whatever I envision. Plus the collaboration between vendors can be a really beautiful form of creative expression. But at the end of each day I can’t help but feel that I just set up an amazing tablescape, pieced together what was sure to be an over-the-top amazing soiree and now I have to tear it down, without anyone really appreciating it for months to come.

So last month I took a new approach to the “styled shoot”. Rather than wasting the beauty and hospitality, I invited guests to be a part. They were guests that I didn’t know, people nominated by others who needed a little love and something extra pretty in their lives. The results were more than I could have ever imagined.

I’ve yet to sit down with Ashely Slater to browse through all of what are sure to be incredible memories from the night but I can’t wait. I want to remember the evening that I took a risk and invited complete strangers to a dinner party. In time, I will also share with you the inspiration, the execution, as well as the hiccups that happened along the way as this was not an easy party to pull off. But I can promise you, it was worth it!

Full vendor credits will be shared when I post the results in their entirety but for now I’d like to thank Ashley Slater Photography, The Rental Company, Chef Josh Ferguson, Wondrous Whimsy, Kirribilla and Ed Dunnebeck & Girls Farm Market for being a part.

All in the Details

0 · Sep 3, 2014 ·

As wedding season seems to have flown past, I’ve observed many tips and trips simply by trial and error that I’m really excited to share with you in the upcoming months. One of the biggest things that has been on my mind lately though is the details. You know, all those agonizing little pieces of the wedding day that you spend hour and hours debating, contemplating and Pinteresting.

I love hearing what a bride has in store or coming up with creative ways to help a bride display items, bring some personality into her day and tie all those final touches together. We’re talking ribbon selections for the bouquets, escort cards, linen, favors, hankies, bowties, shoes and the list goes on and on. Weddings are full of details. It’s pretty rare for a bride who has hired me not to care about these things. The memory of these details is sure to fade, do you want to remember?

With the majority of my clients this year being partial planning or floral only, I haven’t had the opportunity to assist many of my couples with selecting their photographers, which is usually one of the first vendors hired. Interestingly enough, the photographers hired aren’t always ones that love details as much as the brides. Different photographers have different styles and focus more on various aspects of the wedding day.

So how do you hire a photographer that loves details? Look at a photographer’s portfolio – are they capturing the cute signs the flowergirls are carrying down the aisle? Can you get a sense of the story of the day from their galleries or do they focus more on portrait and candid photography? Sure they might have a couple of ring shots in their portfolio, but do they schedule a time to get pictures of the entire ceremony or reception before the guests have been seated, drinks have been spilled and flowers have wilted? Are they going to arrive at the reception beforehand to see the escort card display? Are they arriving early enough in the wedding day to get pictures of your gorgeous shoes before you’ve walked through the grass? Do they have a second shooter to help capture some of these extra shots? How balanced are their wedding albums?

It’s completely unrealistic to list every detail that you want photographed but if you want the majority of them captured, then be sure to make these wishes known. You’ve spent time and money on these pieces of your day, so why not have them captured in an artful way? I love this post from Ashley Slater Photography talking about detail shots – great tips for photographers, wedding pros and brides alike!

All wedding details above captured by Bradley James Photography.

Making It Work

0 · Jul 18, 2014 ·

I’ve been working on several design plans lately. I love it when a bride comes to me full of the most perfect ideas you could ever imagine. Everything from the wedding party attire to the venue to the cutest wedding party favors all match and flow seamlessly, making her a dream to work with and my job rather simple. Then there’s the bride who has a couple ideas, but really needs me to help get the creative juices flowing. That’s why you hire me – because I’m pretty creative. When you can feel her excitement from across the planning table I know I’m doing my job and the excitement I feel is beyond words.

However sometimes it doesn’t end there. Sometimes she continues planning and things go astray. And then there’s the situation that the planning that has already been put into motion really isn’t the direction that you think the event should take and she just can’t see how you’re trying to eat pizza and oranges together in the same meal.

This is where the challenge begins. This is where I have to remind myself that there’s a reason that she hired me. She hired me to make it all work, to make it come together and make it beautiful. I have to find a way to bridge that gap and bring her dream to life.

The problem is we’re so overwhelmed with images and ideas – Pinterest, wedding blogs and various other sources – that we just want it all. And we want it to be amazing, budget friendly and stress free (I mean, you might as well, we’re already living in a fantasy).

Have you ever considered hiring a designer just to unjumble your brain? They can help you focus on your priorities and come up with a plan that is truly you and not what every other Pinterest bride is doing. Maybe mason jars (although sometimes inexpensive), might not be the right “thrifty route” for you. Psst… I have some other fun ideas that are just as cheap, err… cost effective. Talking to an expert – whether it’s a wedding planner, florist, designer etc. before committing to designs and ideas is always a great idea. Who knows, they might have a more inventive, charming or creative idea or perhaps you were on the right path all along. And maybe we can just find a way to make it all work.

Some happy flowers from myself and Ashley Slater Photography for your Friday… Happy Weekend!!

PS – This is not pointed at one of my brides specifically, just general information and thoughts I’ve had based on life and conversations & I love a design challenge xo

Planning Your Dreams

0 · Apr 7, 2014 ·

When I gave my business a name back in fall of 2011, I had this ridiculous notion that by somehow having a name and business cards, people would begin to take me seriously and business would just come to my doorstep. Ha… what was I thinking???

Fast forward 3 years now and I have such a greater understanding of business, life and dreams and how they’re all intertwined. Summer of 2012 was when I really began to put myself out there and make this dream my career and by fall 2012 it became abundantly clear that if I wanted to really make this work, I could no longer also work a full time job. Leap of faith = quit my full time job.

Now all of this is fine and dandy, I had a plan – a real life business plan, I had goals and a little bit of a path cleared out to make it happen. I even had a 5 year dream in place of where I’d really like my business to be.

However, if you never change anything, you’ll never grow and make these dreams a reality. It’s great to have a plan, but you also have to follow that plan. This is where I am now. I’m sitting here telling myself that eventually “this” is how I’d like my business to be. And eventually I’d like to add such-and-such additional services. It’s been over a year since I’ve been voicing thoughts and ideas out loud with no action to move forward. If I keep doing exactly what I’m doing right now, these ideas will never happen. Umm… reality check please!

Same rules apply for so many aspects of life. In your job, in your relationships and where you want life to take you. Sure there are unexpected bumps along the way, but if you never change anything in your present, how can you just expect that the future will be brighter? You have to work for something bigger. Set goals and accomplish things.

So it’s Monday and time for a fresh start. I’m pushing forward and going to MAKE my dreams come true! What are you doing today?

And the gorgeous blooms above were put together by yours truly and photographed by Ashley Slater Photography, thanks love!!

DIY Gilded Floral Crown

0 · Apr 1, 2014 ·

Yesterday was the warmest day we’ve seen so far this year and it was as if the whole world simply came bursting back to life. Neighbors were in the streets, yards were being raked and the snow mounds bordering my lawn shrunk to the point that I can now see the tops of cars passing by my house. And guess what I found buried underneath some of that snow? Life! There, braving the ice and cold, are the little tips of my spring bulbs waiting for their time to bloom.

I’m eagerly awaiting that moment too. But until then, I thought I’d share a little bit of flowery goodness with you today and how you can create it yourself. I’m simply loving the floral crown trend right now and this one is especially glam with gilded gold leaves.

So here’s what you need:

*I used one stem of pink lisianthus (which had two flowers) and a cream garden rose. For greens I used mini coin as my base and filled in with silver dollar eucalyptus – but the options are limitless, use what inspires you!

Step 1: Spray paint your greens. You can completely coat them or let a little green show. I like to leave a little nature shining through.

Step 2: Form a circular base with the grapevine wire. The form should be slightly larger than your head as once the greens are attached the fit will be more snug.

Step 3: Once the paint has dried, clip the long stems so only an inch or so remain, along with the leafy, pretty part of the plant.

Step 4: Using floral tape, wrap the stem of the greens and attach it to the grapevine wire. Continue to attach stems to the grapevine wire, leaving the other end of the greens free until you have created a full circle of greens.

Step 5: Begin filling in the larger leaves, taping them to the grapevine wire. The larger leaves (eucalyptus) are optional, but I like the extra texture they add.

Step 6: With the small pieces of floral wire, attach the loose ends of the leaves to the crown so it creates a full and lovely circle. How tightly you attach the greens is up to you, a looser greens with create a more wild and relaxed look.

At this point you might choose to add an additional layer of gold paint which would help to camouflage any floral tape and wire.

Step 7: Trim the stems and add flowers. I chose to place them off to the side, but the options are limitless. To add them – pierce the base of the bloom with the floral wire and then twist and attach to the crown.

Step 8: Wear your gold crown pretty lady!

All photos by the fabulous Ashley Slater Photography, thanks love!

Ashley Slater Photography

Properly Define Rustic

Choose the Right Venue

Don’t Assume that Planning will be Simple

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