Planning: In Bloom

Secrets to a Chic Celebration

By: Patricia Canole

A favorite among the Hollywood set (Britney Spears and Christian Slater are regulars), Iris Lee of Anthony’s Flowers for BloomNation.com, has transformed many galas into memorable events. For The Bride recently met with her for a few of her tried-and-true secrets for wedding flowers.

WHAT’S A BIG WEDDING TREND YOU’RE SEEING?

Weddings are becoming ever more enchanting. This year is notably one of true romance—celebrations are softer, sweeter, lusher and more heartfelt. Lately, I’ve been choosing wedding flowers that are larger and more sculptured, such as calla lilies, cymbidium and Phalaenopsis orchids, so the look is unfussy and clean. Another trend I’m seeing is more themed receptions. One bride and groom wanted a beachy feel at a city hotel. We used coral-colored mansanita branches and shells and panels of water with floating flowers.

WHAT ARE THE HOT PARTY COLORS RIGHT NOW?

Orchid is big coupled with accents of white, cream, Champagne. I’m also seeing many shades of pale pinks to lavenders and purple.

ANY DRAMATIC DETAILS YOU SUGGEST FOR WEDDING RECEPTIONS?

I love a reception entrance that shouts “Something fabulous will happen here.”  For one wedding, this meant tall gates covered with manzanita. Or, sometimes it’s a simple drapery tied back with floral blooms. Metallics are also a popular accent. Linens with a subtle gold thread or the luxury of pale gold lampshades will brighten a gathering. A candlelit exit is a wonderful way to end the night for your guests.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR CREATING A LUXE LOOK FOR LESS?

You can do this by using tall centerpieces such as candelabras with long ivory tapers. It’s not only better for your wedding budget but also for sight-lines of your guests. You might want to hang a simple garland from the tapers or add wedding flowers to a small vessels on the tables. Not only does this very elegant and dramatic, but it’s easy to pull off with a limited budget.

DO YOU HAVE ANY LAST MINUTE ADVICE FOR BRIDES AND GROOMS?Keep it simple. Many brides I’ve seen combine too many colors. My advice: Use no more than three shades. It’s also very important to enjoy the process of planning. Don’t forget this is a huge milestone in your life. It can be fun to develop the ideas and see them all unfold. Remember to get the best people, then let go of it. 

Time to relax and enjoy!

For more wedding flowers and decor ideas, visit ForTheBrideMag.com
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