flowers by The Day's Design

Wedding Wardrobes

0 · Sep 30, 2014 ·

I am to be a bridesmaid in an upcoming wedding. While I’ve been a bridesmaid several other times, this is the first time that I’ve ever been asked to shop and purchase a legitimate “bridesmaids” dress, which is proving to be a bit more daunting than anticipated. Previously, I had simply been handed a color swatch or I’ve been told to go pick out a black dress. Simple enough.

When it comes to bridesmaids dresses today, it seems that anything goes. You can match, you cannot match. You can all wear the same fabric, length or color or shop completely independent of one another. It’s really the bride’s choice, right?

When was the last time you went to the mall, picked out a complete outfit for your friend and made her wear it on an important night out on the town, without her ever trying it on first and agreeing. You’d make sure the top hugged her curves just right and the shoes were killer (and comfortable!) You might shop together, but you wouldn’t force her to wear something she didn’t like, right?

I was once a bride. I totally thought it was within my rights to dictate what the members of my wedding party wore. And it was my right, to a certain extent. They want to feel comfortable and beautiful too, even if the day isn’t revolving around them.

So how do you make sure everyone feels comfortable and the bride still gets what she wants? Here are a couple tips for you brides:

Analyze what’s really important to you about what the members bridal party wear. Is it the color? The style? The length? The fabric? The overall look? Pick one or two of these things to really be the focus.

Determine the formality level. Are you hosting an extremely formal or traditional affair? Then everyone matching might be really important to you. If it’s there’s more of a casual, laid back theme, they you might reflect this through your wedding party’s wardrobe choosing patterned dresses or allowing the girls to mix and match.

Consider the weather. If there’s a chance it might be chilly, allowing the girls to wear a floor length gown or tights/nylons might be greatly appreciated, even if the wedding itself doesn’t take place outdoors, there’s a good chance some of the pictures might. Photographer’s love outdoor lighting.

Speaking of photographers – how do you want your photos to look? Deeper colors can be really pretty and make a bold statement. Pastel and neutral tones make give photos a softer more romantic look, blending more with their backdrops bringing focus to the picture as a whole not just the brighter pieces.

Study your surroundings. Clothing should not only coordinate with other décor elements of your day but also locations where you wish to have portraits taken. That cute little red barn might seem like the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos but maybe not if you’re ladies are wearing hot pink dresses.

Budget. Ughh…. I feel like I’m constantly bringing up that nasty word. But being a bridesmaid can be an expensive endeavor – there’s always more to buy than just shoes and a dress. If you have your heart set on a pricy dress option, see if less expensive brands might have a similar option or there’s someone you know who can afford it, as her to wear it and the other ladies to purchase something that compliments her, but do be tactful please.

Be aware of different body shapes. Dresses rarely come in a one-size-fits-all option. At first glance it might seem like your wedding party is all pretty similarly size. But upon further exploration, you might determine that Anna has a long torso and zero curves, Jane is extra busty and Gabby has legs that just don’t quit. The translation – while technically they can all wear the same dress, only one or two are actually going to look good in it.

It’s really a balancing act – trying to make everyone happy, with the bride just slighter happier. That’s how you choose the wedding day wardrobes. Do you have other ideas that should be considered? Or if you’re already married, did you let your wedding party pick their own dress or did you choose for them?

And you can read the other side of the story about being an amazing bridesmaid here.

Saying “Pish Posh”

0 · Sep 25, 2014 ·

It was around this time back in 2011 that I had my first paid floral order. It was a small order, 3 arrangements for a casual, catered dinner party. Needless to say, I was excited.

I researched and schemed. I gathered information and I was going to make these arrangements be the most beautiful flowers anyone had ever seen. Being as it was September, I choose to add some autumn hints, with browns and burgundy, a few sunflowers and some seeded eucalyptus. One large mantel display and two centerpieces later, I was almost pleased with myself. It was missing something…

So off I went for a walk. The perfect mix of green and yellow is what I sought and I found it easily within my reach, right in the comfort of my own yard. Now they were perfect. The foraged greens added the perfect amount of extra texture and completed my color palette.

Upon arrival with my arrangements, the secretary in charge of the dinner did not share my enthusiasm for the foraged greenery I was so proud of. In fact, other than some pleasantries about how nice it was to meet me, the only comment I heard about my flowers was “these greens, they look like they’re dead”.

I was mortified. I thought I had found a way for me to create; I thought I was stepping outside of the comforts and confines of a traditional floral shop and perhaps even finding my niche. I had always picked roadside blooms and other treasures for my garden, I didn’t see why I couldn’t do it even if I were selling the arrangements. And so I let one negative comment stop my vision of becoming a floral designer. Fear and judgment took over.

A year passed before I played with more flowers. And even then it was mostly for my own viewing pleasure. Her voice was always there, in the back of my head questioning my every move, every flower I choose and leaf I picked.

Today I would like to say “Pish Posh” to her. Her who had the audacity to question my art and pass criticism my way. Today I understand that negative criticism will always be lurking around the corner but I will press forward, maybe learning from my mistakes and maybe just taking it with a grain of salt.

“The voice you believe will determine the future you experience.” — I saw this quote last night and thought it was so fitting.

The above bouquet was 100% foraged from my garden and might include a couple of “weeds” from my yard, but I think it’s kind of lovely in its own spunky way. The picture was captured by Hetler Photography.

That’s a Wrap… almost

0 · Sep 24, 2014 ·

I have had a delightfully busy wedding season and have just one more gorgeous fête on the 2014 calendar. Each celebration was so special and unique and I am so honored that so many brides have entrusted me to be a part of their special day. However, I did something during this wedding season which I said I would never do, and I paid the price.

August was a grand slam of a month. When I started my business I promised myself I would limit the number of weddings I took on in any particular month or I might lose my mind. I did not heed my own warning and in the middle of my busiest month – where I not only booked too many brides but also booked two weddings in one week – my grandpa passed away. In an 8 day stretch I had 3 weddings a funeral, 2 trips to Traverse City and I was an emotional wreck.

Moving forward I realized I will endure and how much I can endure, even though I’m still catching my breath. I thought being too busy with weddings was a reality I wouldn’t have face for years to come. It really is an answer to prayer, even if in the craziness of the moment I began questioning every career decision I’ve ever made! So if you’re wondering what I’ve been up to I really can’t wait to share. Unfortunately I’ll have to keep you on the edge of your seats a bit longer as I wait for more photos to arrive. However, I will get back to blogging because there are a lot of ideas in this head of mine I just haven’t been able to write about just yet.

And obviously I have to reveal at least a glimpse of one of my happy couples – this bride was too beautiful for words (and carrying a bouquet created by yours truly).

Photo courtesy of Joe Matthews

Wet Weather Weddings

0 · Jul 10, 2014 ·

If you’re planning an outdoor affair it’s likely that the thought of rain has crept into your mind. Or at least it probably should have. This summer seems to be extra wet, and while I love not having to water my garden and how my lawn is remaining green, it does stress me when it comes to wedding planning.

I’m guilty of saying “the show must go on” and just going for it – I can talk a big game. So we get a little wet, we’re not going to melt. Brides with umbrellas are cute. There are some fabulous opportunities for unique photos. I can look at the glass as half full, for sure.

And I simply adore outdoor parties.

The start of wedding season for The Day’s Design was a drizzly one despite the weatherman’s positive outlook on the day. In fact, we later found out that just a few miles away, they didn’t even receive a drop of rain. That’s crazy Michigan weather for you.

We stayed optimistic throughout the setting up process. We kept moving and utilized our tarps and other coverings. And we pulled though. But it wasn’t as easy as glamorous pictures are sure to show. The heat and humidity cause your clothing to simply stick to you. Papers were soggy and limp. My rain boots rubbed on my toes. There were bugs. And every time we thought the skies were clearing, fresh droplets were released from the clouds. How the bride remained staying so fresh and beautiful is beyond me.

I don’t share this to complain about the wedding day. I simply would like to point out the comfort or perhaps discomfort you and your guests might endure should you decide to move forward with an outdoor ceremony on a rainy day. I wish to express the importance of having a backup plan – although I do understand how hard it can be to utilize that, unless the day is calling for monsoon conditions. But grounds become muddy and even after the showers have stopped, the canopy of trees above us still produced sprinkles every time there was even the slightest breeze.

You should also consider the policies other vendors have regarding rain. Some equipment cannot get wet – cameras, sound systems, etc. And how will the rental company feel if their upholstered lounge seating is returned saturated? Are you risking damage deposits and extra fees? Are there wedding details you’re going to have to give up if the rain doesn’t let up?

Even with the weather, it was beautiful start to the summer 2014 wedding season– the way the light shown through mist in the woods that day was breathtaking. I can’t wait to share more peaks from Kelly Sweet Photography. And after seeing this picture, I’m not sure I would change a thing – including the weather forecast.

A Blank Canvas

0 · Jun 17, 2014 ·

We just sold our huge dining room set. It was a solid maple Ethan Allen table which easily expanded to seat 10 people, along with a huge matching hutch. It was pretty – but it wasn’t right for me. It was so nice that I was scared to touch it and would panic every time guests came to dinner. Considering Hubby is a chef and we love to host dinner parties, this is pretty ridiculous, right?

It’s funny how having an empty dining room is a huge weight off my shoulders. It seems so airy and bright, open to new possibilities and full of freshness.

So what’s next? Well that’s the thing, I don’t have to have it all figured out just yet. Possibly a new office space which could then easily be turned dining room when the occasional presents itself? Or maybe a better place to craft, put together awesome event details and florals? I don’t know.

My previous visions of a new creative space for me aren’t falling into place exactly as planned. There are some hiccups in the scheming of the basement remodel. As a planner, this is sometimes hard to swallow. Sometimes it’s hard to admit that I don’t have a plan or my plans changed. But here’s what I’ve come to realize – first off, it’s a woman’s prerogative to change her mind. And secondly, I plan ALL THE TIME, it’s just what I do. I don’t think there’s ever a moment in time where some sort of creative vision isn’t floating through my head. But I don’t bring them all to life. That doesn’t make me a failure and I’m still awesome with my craft. It just makes me human.

I was reminded of this last Friday as I sat in a room with about 35 other woman who are just trying to figure out their craft, hone their visions and find the right fit and purpose for them. They don’t have it all figured out yet, some are searching for website and social media answers while some are still trying to figure out what they were put on this earth to accomplish. Just because they haven’t figured it out yet doesn’t mean that I don’t respect them or think of them as less of a person or business woman. It just reminded me that this is a constant journey for everyone and I don’t have to feel 100% on top of my game every single moment in time. I should probably cut myself some slack.

For the moment I have a big blank canvas in front of me. And I love it.

Just a little sneak peek from Ashley Slater Photography of Bloom the Workshop last Friday — the styled shoot portion was so much fun, I loved creating these florals for Michaela’s beautiful tabletop.

The Best Laid Plans

0 · Jun 11, 2014 ·

Its peony season here in West Michigan. It’s also time for me to prepare for my small part in Bloom the Workshop. How lucky could I possibly be that fate would bring these two happy occasions together in the same week!?

I have one sad little peony bush in my back yard. She’s slow to bloom and doesn’t produce many buds. But each year she comes back and brings me so much joy. And each year I’m stuck with this dilemma, to pick the flowers and bring them inside to enjoy for a fleeting moment in time or leave them on the bush – where I’ll see them much less but their loveliness will live on a little longer.

This year I decided that they would have a special purpose. They would be enjoyed by others and I would bring them along with me to Bloom the Workshop. They would live long after they’re gone in the memories of all my new creative friends.

In addition, I’ve spent my week scouting out the best roadside/garden side/woodland greens and blossoms to add to the ones that will my arriving shortly at my doorstep from my wholesaler. I never order all of my flowers from a wholesaler – I need to touch, feel and explore to make my creations perfect. I had a plan, a picking spot and even a travel route all schemed out.

And then came the rain.

My poor little peonies are sadly smushed to the ground. And while I haven’t exactly explored my other flowers which I was sure to forage – I have a sinking feeling that all their sweet little petals might not be in tack. What’s a girl to do?

I sadly made my way to the farmer’s market this morning in hopes of finding some fresh cut loveliness like I found the week before, only to find the stalls empty. So now friends, I have a mission. And I don’t know yet how this story is going to end or where my travels today might take me. All I know is that sometimes the best laid plans fail but I will not. I promised to deliver some gorgeous arrangements to Bloom and I don’t break my promises.

Above is a little something I put together earlier this week — and I might have snagged the image from Bloom’s Instagram feed. Be sure to follow along with me @thedaysdesign or the workshop directly @bloomtheworkshop

flowers by The Day's Design

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