film photography

Imagine a quiet morning, the dew is still on the grass and the birds have just started to sing. There’s an anticipation in the air as guests will mingle and celebrate in the countryside, as one woman and one man will pledge their love eternally to one another.

But before the celebration comes the preparation. So in the dawn of the day, final arrangements are being made. She’s a florist, who’s been a part of hundreds of weddings days. She’s seen too many stressed brides and is committed to focusing only on the things that really matter.

An arbor of foraged greens is constructed in the woods as the backdrop for their vows. Local lilacs are inserted into her bridal bouquet. And a wide brimmed hat is worn to keep the sun off her face as she gathers her last minute blooms.

Potted plants lined the long table at which her closest friends and family will gather. Simple placecards and candles add to the no-fuss vibe. But she’s forever tempted to play the hostess, serving wine and cake to her guests and making the day just as unforgettable to them as it will be to her and her groom.

Last spring Kelly Sweet and I created with this imaginary vision with these thoughts in mind, and today you can see the entire feature on Trendy Bride.

It seems I’ve been on the road a lot lately — quick trips to Holland, wedding planning in Northport and Maple City and then the every day travels throughout Grand Rapids. And while I love traveling, sometimes it’s just good to be in the comfort of your own home office (where’s there’s actually internet and phone service readily available!)

But by far one of my favorite trips this spring was down to Boone, North Carolina where I had an unbelievably amazing flower experience with Kelly Perry, Heather Payne and so many lovely new flower friends. As crazy as it might sound, the experience was life changing. It brought on a whole new appreciation for my surroundings, love of nature and showed me what new bonds and friendships can be formed over something as simple as the love of flowers.

If you haven’t noticed already, beautiful blooms are becoming a much bigger part of The Day’s Design. I have teased myself with the idea that I could be a floral designer for years now, but I now know more than ever that I won’t be happy without a big bouquet in my hand. Flowers have surfaced emotions that I didn’t even know existed. And when I got these pictures back from the workshop, I cried. Ridiculous, right? Who cries over seeing their work on film? Apparently, I do.

So here’s just a glimpse of the magic that took place down in North Carolina this spring. There’s lots more loveliness coming and I’m sure this won’t be the last time you hear me reference my ‘new flower friends’ or the charming Kelly Perry.