Blog Flower Wedding Advice - Nancy Liu Chin - Top Floral Designer Bog, Event Designer

Floral Tips: How to Prepare for a Floral Meeting?

2012-02-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

A year or so, I wrote an article on what should a bride to do prepare for a floral meeting. I think that article needs to be revisited because it's still a good read. So, I've rewritten and updated new information to help all those 2012 brides. Enjoy the article.

_________________________________________

I writing this post on how to prepare for your meeting with your floral designer. I truly hope this is not only helpful for engaged couples but for all event planners, floral designers, wedding enthusiasts...and many more.

Wedding 101: Meeting with a Floral Designer****

****(or Florist....I will be using the term Floral Designer in this post for simplicity. Keep in mind that I am using both these terms to mean someone who will be creating wedding flowers. It's interchangeable!)

What should you prepare for?

1) Flower Knowledge

Do you need to know the names of all the flowers?

My God, I hope not. If all clients knew the name of all cut flowers, then most of the floral designers around might be out of a job. To me, it's like asking if a patient needs to know all the medical terms before they see their doctor. It would be unproductive and a waste of one's time. If gardening is a hobby, I can image that you might want to know more about how flowers are produced, cultivated, and cared for. However, for someone who is planning a wedding, there's more productive things to spend your time on.

Keep in mind, a good, knowledgeable, informed floral designer should have a portfolio with plenty of flowers and finished arrangement for a couple to look through. I keep a "deck" of colorful cards which are coordinated by color and alphabetized so that I can "flip" through it during meetings and show clients what flower I am describing. If you serious want to know more, sure, you can go to Sierra Flower Finders on the Internet. But honesty...

Bottom line: Describe characteristics of what you want the flowers to look like?

And here are so good examples.

"Romantic, fluffy, large head flowers like roses, peonies that evoke a garden feel."

Photo by Elile Grover of our bride, Abby!

"Romantic, interesting, bright, sunny, fun, warm and happy flowers" (description from the bride above)

"Modern, architecturally interesting blooms that have beautiful shapely stems. French Tulips in a single vase is very elegant to me."

"Something unusual with lots of spiky tips, fussy, different. Something that wouldn't be fun to touch but would look very different from the standard fluffy flowers."

"Simple, happy flowers that make me smile like sunflowers, daisies, mums."

"Bold, dramatic flowers that works for a grand ballroom". (see dramatic and bold flowers in this inspiring board)

"Seasonal or what's best. As long as it is priced well."

2) Create a Check List

It is very helpful to create a check list of things you need. Email a copy to your floral designer ahead of time is wonderful. You can also bring a copy. Whatever you like.

Of course, you may not know all the flower pieces that you might need so here is my check list.

Personal Flowers
Bridal Bouquet
Bridesmaid Bouquets
Groom's Boutonniere
Grooms men's Boutonnieres
Usher(s) Flowers
Reader(s)
Officiant
Mothers and Father's
Grandparents
Sponsors Male and Female
Ring bearer, Coin bearer, little Boys that need flowers
Flower girls, Junior Bridesmaid, little Girls that need flowers

Photo by Ellie Grover. We have Bride, Junior Bridesmaid, Flower Girls, Ring Bearers

Ceremony Flowers
Altar or Ceremony Large Pieces
Ceremony Containers or Stands
Chair or Pew Decorations
Aisle Decor
Welcome Table
Gift Table
Refreshment Table
Foyer Arrangement
Door or Entry way
Car Decor

Photo by Ellie Grover. This is a ceremony design.

Reception Flowers
Centerpieces
Head table or Sweet Heart Table
Bar
Food Stations
Dessert Stations
Cake table
Bride and Groom's Chair
Dance Floor Decor
Cocktail Table
Place Card Table
Door Ways
Lounge Decor
Walkways
Fireplace Mantels

Photo by Ellie Grover. The planner used these bright paper flowers as a backdrop for the Lounge.

Bottom Line: Get organized and have a list ready.

3) Style, Color, Concept

Of course many couples go to meetings thinking that they will see something in a floral designers portfolio and instantly love it.

I wish this were the case. But it is so NOT.

I think many couples come for inspiration and that's a good thing. However, to make wedding flowers truly unique, come with colorful tear-out pages from magazines or tag books.

Ask yourself, what do you want the wedding to look like? When you walk into the reception, what do you see? Having gone to some weddings, what did you like? What didn't you like?

Collect magazine or books. Going to the book store to purchase wedding books is a great idea. There's a plethora of coffee table books on weddings, event decor, and flowers so for most people you will be able to find lots of ideas. There's also an abundance of magazines that come out bi-annual, quarterly, monthly that contain great images and photos. There are endless blogs including Snippet and Ink, Style Me Pretty, 100LayerCake, Green Wedding Shoes, Grey Likes, Elizabeth Anne Designs, Wedding Chicks. I can go on. The ideas are endless.

Feel free to follow me on Pinterest at @Nancy Liu Chin

Many of you know that I am very fond of Smitten Magazine, Brides Magazine, Martha Stewart Weddings, and many others. You can find plenty of real weddings, stylized weddings, and floral concepts in these magazines. Tag them, tear them out, scan them into your computer....Do whatever you want. Many of my clients are creating storyboards or inspiration boards. These are great tools to bring to a meeting. For story boards, I'm using Pinterest. It is a great tool if you can't explain your concept in words. Go to ww.pinterest.com.
(see Above for our Circus Wedding Inspiration Board)

What else can you do?

Bring swatch samples.

If you haven't picked your bridesmaid or bridal gown, that's fine as well. You can go into home depot and pick out some "paint" chips if this helps. Buy a Pantone book if you really want someone to know what you mean by green because I guarantee you, that if a bride walked into my office and told me her wedding color is green I would ask her, "is it moss, forest, sea, celery, pea, chartreuse, apple, lime, sage, vivid, Kate Spade, Kelly, spinach, pepper green?

Bring Invitations, photos of the location. I guess the bottom line is this. Bring all the things that you think is useful for someone who is creating your weddings flowers. And it doesn't have to be a whole novel, a few printouts, consolidated into something concise is perfect.

Bottom line: Go to be informed, be prepare to show and tell.

4) Ask and you shall receive

In advance of your meeting, be sure to have a list of questions that you need answered. During the meeting many will be addressed however if you don't have a prepared list, you might forget a few important questions. Jot down at least a few key questions. I've prepared a short list of what I would ask a floral designer. Hopefully this will help you.

Can you suggest a few cost saving tips? What flowers hold up the best during the month of
my wedding?
(This question will show if the floral designer is truly knowledge about flowers and thinks off the cuff.)

Have you worked at my venue before? If not, would you mind going to do a site visit.
(This question shows that a floral designer is attentive to the details and wants to be prepared. It also reflects their experience level.)

Do you drop off the flowers or does your staff or crew do the complete setup?
(This question will answer what type of day of service you will get. And if the price for such service is warranted.)

What was your favorite wedding? Do you have an example in your portfolio? What made it so special?
(This question will show you what the floral designer deems tasteful, interesting to them. I love this question because only a couple brides have ever asked me this and I think this one is by far the most interesting. It shows me that a couple wants to get to know me as a designer. )

How many events do you do a week? Will my wedding be the only one that day?
(This question might be important to some of you if you feel that you need your vendors to focus on just you for that week.)

Have you ever gotten so ill that you couldn't complete a job? If so, what would happen to my wedding?
(It's important to know if a floral designer has contingency plans. I know that we do so I think others should be prepared as well)

Bottom line: Whatever quality is important to you, make sure you leave that meeting feeling that you get a good sense of a floral designer's values, creativity, knowledge, and depth.

Inspirations: Today's Bride SF Sweet Love

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Everyone owes their start to a group of people. In my group there were family members, friends, clients, and then industry people. One of those individuals is Cristine Traub-Thomas of Today's Bride SF. Cristine gave me my first opportunity to showcase my work in her magazine. For that, I am forever grateful to her. I have watched Cristine over the years grow her publication Today's Bride SF into a fantastic resource for Bay Area brides. Regardless of the times, her magazine offers genuine advise and directional editorial.

During the fall of 2011, I had the best time working with my husband, Kevin Chin, as well as Frances Liu of Charmed Events Planning on this photo shoot for Today's Bride SF. Our fabulous group of vendors included good pals --- baker, Sonya Hong of Butterfly Cakes and invitation genuis, Sabrina Moyle of Hello! Lucky. We were so lucky to have shoot at Terra Gallery. And of course all the wonderful details came together with the help of Hartmann Studios who supplied the lighting, rentals, and furniture. The list of vendors goes on and on but I do want to do a shout out to Luke Goodman who shot this Behind -the-Scenes short film from our photo shoot.

The newest issue of Today's Bride SF is currently out on newsstand. Get your copy before it runs out. And of course, I have to end this post with a huge congratulations to Cristine on her 19th Anniversary of the magazine. Bravo.

Inspirations: TRADhome E mag

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Many years ago I was on a guest panel for an industry event. Someone asked me where I got my inspirations. If memory serves me ---- I think my answer was department store windows, travels, food, and magazines. And to that I added that I read nearly 50 magazines a month. It was probably a bit of an exaggeration but I did and still do read quite a bit of magazines and now, blogs.

The increase of blogs and Iphone apps have left me paralyzed by the litany of information which never ceases. It can drive anyone batty.

Every now and then, I find myself finding digital magazines that are interesting. A collaboration between Traditional Home and Lonny Magazine resulted in Trad Home which is a home decor e-magazine. There's captivating articles, witty expert advice, and terrific images. It's a modern traditional home decor magazine that is equally great for brides to look at. (Hint: The color section in this magazine was spot on. )

When planning a wedding, it's easy to gravitate toward other real weddings or photo shoot concepts but I find home decor magazines more interesting.

Industry News - A Little Savvy....

2012-02-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to one of my vendor friends, Kelly McLeskey-Dolata for the launch of her children party planning business. Kelly is the owner and founder of A Savvy Events in Wine Country.

I am thrilled that Kelly's A Savvy Event has now expanded into the children and teen world with it's new adventure, A Little Savvy Event.

Having planned corporate events, weddings, soirees, Kelly is a natural when it comes to children. I'm so glad to see such attention paid of children and teens parties as it is a void in the market.

Like her tag line, I also believe in "celebrating life's milestones one event at a time". Bravo, Kelly and team.

Edible Trends: Gimme KimChi from Pink Blossom List

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Once again I've borrowed a wonderful article from Pink Blossom List. When the original post came out in early 2011, who would have known that Korean inspired flavors and food would be everywhere helped by the popularity of David Chang's Momofuku restaurant, Chef Beverly Kim's Top Chef stint, Kim Chi Chronicles, and Roy Choi's Kogi Truck. It's got to be one of my favorite cuisines because it fuses spicy, sour, sweet, salty in one bite. Short ribs(kal bi) are one of my delicious items. As a florist, I appreciate the beauty of Korean food with it's many colorful dishes.

______________________________________

According to foodie website Epicurious, Korean cuisine is one of the top ten food trends for 2011. We've seen Korean food take off everywhere from fancy restaurants to trendy Korean BBQ food trucks. Now for a way to make Korean cuisine chic and wedding friendly.

Kalbi and Bulgogi (Korean BBQ beef and short ribs)

Side dish Kimchi (perfect for vegetarian guests!)

Bibimbap- veggies, beef, fried red pepper paste, and granishes served over rice.

And perhaps the most fun part is getting creative with table settings! Try a structured, minimalist theme for food presentation and decor.

Photo Credit: Steamy Kitchen, The East World, Ines Cho

Floral Inspiration: Ovando

2012-01-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

"What floral designers inspires you?"

Rarely do I get asked that question. And when I do, I am not shy in telling people that I love Preston Bailey's work as a whole. Conceptually his designs are so unimaginable and complex, making them extremely inspirational.

Locally, I just adore Grand Rector of Grant and Co. He can do grand without even trying. I'm also a fan of Sharla Flock because she's my buddy. Her work is consistently well done. Plus, I enjoy bantering with her.

And of course, Shawna Futagaki of Flower Divas is a mentor and master floral artist. She is the original MacGyver. Her work is grand, opulent, fun, bright, and tailored. Just my cup of tea. Talking with her motivates me to be better. Pico Soriano of Pico Designs remains one of the most talented and generous hearts in the business. And I'm so lucky that he designed my own wedding. My fabulous creamy, pale white bouquet had peonies, stock, lilac, sweet peas, lisianthus and it was breathtakinglyl loose, natural, feminine. Pretty awesome.

Of course for inspiration I'm a fan of New York's Ovando. I don't know much about owner and founder Sandra de Ovando but I do know that her work is something that I would order for my own home. Her minimalistic, sleek, tailored style is dreamy, daring, and artistic. I'm in love. Simply, in love!

Press: Elle and Zach's Real Wedding in Smitten

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when you meet a couple, you know instantly that they have this connection. I felt that the moment I spoke with Elle and Zach over a conference call in 2010. Even through the phone lines, I could sense how much they cared about each other and it really shows! Look at these amazing images caught by my college friend, Michael Muramoto - a true talent. Our fiercely leader was Christopher Lee of Leftwich Events. Thank Hartmann Studios for the terrific job on the rentals and lighting. It truly takes a team to create such a gracious wedding.

Finally....

I'm honored that Smitten Magazine(can I say - giddy!) featured Elle and Zach's urban wedding at the sleek St Regis San Francisco(where the best catering staff works).

About Nancy: Happy Chinese New Year

2012-01-24T17:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Chinese New Year wishes to everyone.

Here are some of my favorite Chinese New Year traditions....

It is traditional for every family to thoroughly clean the house prior to New Year's. Cleaning or cleansing the house is a way to sweep away any bad luck and of course to make room for incoming good fortunes. For me, it's just a great way to declutter. Letting go of things you don't use. Starting a new year on a clean slate. I like that a lot.

Many Chinese families love to decorate their windows, doors, homes with red paper cut outs. Usually red colorful words like prosperity, double happiness, good fortune are things to "hang" on your doors. Red is one of those festive and bright colors, symbolic of happiness and good luck. You will see red mixed with gold as they form a celebratory combination. My hubby and I dressed up in traditional Chinese wedding clothes for a photoshoot but this is not a requirement during the celebrations(you might look a big foolish!).

On the Eve of Chinese New Year, dinner is traditionally eaten with your families. My mom usually orders or makes a combination of Crispy Roasted pigs, Peking ducks, Fried or steamed chicken as well as dumplings and noodles. Treats are sometimes hidden in dumplings. Not to scare you but one year we went to a restaurant that my parents frequent, the chef hid dimes, pennies and peanuts in the dumplings. Luckily, no one swallowed the "hidden" treats. The treats represent what your year will bring.

To all - I wish you a brilliant Year of the Dragon!

Inspirations: What's Hot in 2012

2012-01-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Everyone wants to know what's hot now but also what will be hot for this year. Here's what I think is going to be hot in weddings for 2012.

Post Vintage

Yes, we've loved vintage for so long. We are definitely entering a post Vintage era. The more brides I see, the more that I hear that they don't want to do things that look too stereotypical vintage. Several aspects related to vintage like stacks of old books, antique typewriters, rusty keys, olden luggage, old fashioned mason jars, aged pie tins, country farmer boxes, old loose buttons are now standard and losing their uniqueness. In the post Vintage era, be more refined in your design. Refining what is key, pinpointing beautiful new textures, avoiding cliches are the keys to creating an updated Vintage.

Remember - go beyond.

Courtesy of Style Me Pretty's Best of 2011 Wedding Magazine Issue

Strictly Ballroom
For several years, bloggers and on line wedding resources have inundated us with garden, outdoor, romantic weddings. The reality is that most couples don't have the luxury to exchange vows under a willow tree in Sonoma or walk through beautiful lush grassy fields in Jackson Hole. Some of us don't get married in the prime months where the weather is beautiful and calm. Many of us must face extremely humid and hot climates and/or rainy and windy temperatures. The truth is that ballrooms, halls, indoor weddings have been snubbed. It's really not an editors fault. Who doesn't love when Jose Villa captures a Santa Barbara vineyard, outdoor wedding? Who doesn't love when Karen Tran does those fabulous ceremonies by the San Diego waters? Who can resist the detail designs of those lovely Southern estate wedding by Tara Guerard of Soiree Charleston? Of course we love the graciousness that outdoor venues bring.

But....

Revamped interiors will be a huge trend in 2012. I can't wait to see how couples will transform space. One key thing is utilizing the ceiling as a design element.

As always I love how lighting and sheer drapery can create softer moods.

From Tic Tock Flowers in Los Angeles

Lastly, remember the more unusual the indoor settings, the better. Places not typical for weddings will be a must. Think old railroad stations, university libraries, county halls, or even churches(think of removing pews)

Color Me Mine
It feels as if every color could be trendworthy.

Metals - my favorite new metal is Gold. Soft gold, burnt gold, antique gold. This is not shiny gold but more mutted, more blond. In tabletops, gold is big! I see it in the china, glassware, lighting fixtures, and more.

Pastels - my favorite pastel hue continues to be blush, suede, fleshy peach. You can use it as an accent with browns, sable, cement or gravel, warm greys, antique golds, vanilla creams. You name it.

Bolds - Neon brights are hot in fashion. Colored denim is trendy. Given that I think there are nice ways of splashing color without making the wedding appear like trashy '80s nightmare flick. For me, pair a bright bold fuchsia with a neutral color. I like navy with bright white and hot pink and even a splash of lemon. Be your own editor and cut things that might make your wedding a cliche.

Photography by Angie Silvy. Flowers by Nancy Liu Chin

Instead of Pink - Try Lavender or Pale Hyacinth. I'm loving how this color palette can be paired with blues. But it is also really strong with taupe, naturals, creams. And if you think I'm still wrong, check this out.

Courtesy of Canadian Home

New Blacks - Black is always in. Of course in years past it was all about chocolates and browns. I'm passed those. I like true black or even a dark steel.

Neutrals - my favorite neutral is cement, gravel, paperbag. It's not khaki. It's not cream. In fact, it pops against black and white.

Cycle around Cyclamen

My favorite flower for 2012 are cyclamens. I just love their ruffled petals and their clean stems.

Courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings

Return to Gatsby
My God! When I remember watching The Great Gatsby when I was in high school during our American Lit class, all I could remember was Robert Redford in that cable knit Swiss Vanilla Tennis sweater and Mia Farrow in that beautiful sheer white, long sleeve, 20 - 30's flowing dress. That image has been burned in my head.

It's so ethereal, elegant, preppy, serene. And I think the influence of The Gatsby 2012 will be a big influence in weddings. It's Long Island, prestigious, subtle elegance. Can't you see bow ties, black tuxedos, pearls, white flowing 20's flapper dresses, jeweled brooches, pool parties, tennis lawns, Ralph Lauren mets Tom Ford, gardenias, white lilies, lilacs, old fashion champagne glasses, caviar, candlelights, Pre War mansions, vintage convertibles. You get the drift, right?

Courtesy of The Great Gatsby Movie

Best Thing Ever: Winter Branch Motif Cake

2012-01-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

Heavenly is how I would describe this Winter Motif Cake.
It's perfectly balanced. The proportions of this cake is lovely.

I just wished I knew who made this cake. If you can help us identify it, I would be so grateful. It was originally on Pinterest with no cake credit so your help is needed. Send us your comments so we can give the cake designer a well deserved shoutout.

Cake and Sweets: Fudgelicious!

2012-01-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

So appropriate for winter are fudge desserts. Once again I've borrowed something from Pink Blossom List. Enjoy these tempting images....Gotta to run and grab some fudge!

____________________________________

Love chocolate but are looking to keep things fun and interesting at your wedding? Experiment with fudge. Its easy, fun, and delicious!

Fudge can easily be dyed different colors if you are trying to coordinate with a particular color scheme...and the flavor possibilities are endless!

The packaging is another opportunity to get creative and personalized.

If you love the idea of incorporating fudge, but are looking to keep things more traditional, try these mini fudge cakes (courtesy of Martha Stewart) on your dessert table in addition to your wedding cake.

Jars of hot fudge make perfect party favors (or late night snacks)!

Photo Credit: Wedding By Color, New Jersey Bride, Martha Stewart, Wedding Favors to Love

Press: Best Wedding 2011 In Style Me Pretty Magazine

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thank you Style Me Pretty for featuring Leslie and Jeffrey's Alfresco Chic wedding in your Best Weddings of 2011. It was an honor to work with a fabulous team which included Gloria Wong, Jubilee Lau, Lisa Lefkowitz, Paula le Duc, Good on Paper Design to name just a few.

The wonderful images by Lisa Lefkowitz take my breath away.
One of my favorite elements is the delicious ombre cake by Cake Coquette. Sublime.
How awesome were the escort cards. So clever, Gloria.
And who can resist coral peonies? Adorable.

Pretty is truly an understatement for this Chic wedding!

Best Thing Ever: Amazing Wintry Table

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago I got the best(truly best) holiday card from the creative genius behind Tic Toc Florals, Eddie Zaratsian. His beautiful, moody holiday card featured this ethereal, luxe, glam tablescape.

I was totally enraptured by it's simplicity luxe beauty - which was artful, wintry, serene, and tailored. Love love love. It's one of those design that you wished you came up with first(I'm jealous!)

I loved it so much that I'm making this tablescape Best Thing Ever!!! Because it really is. Eddie, you are fab.

Lessons: Stressful Jobs

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

If you are reading my first "Lessons" post of 2012 you will realize that the news is not good at all for some wedding professionals. It turns out that CareerCast has listed "Event Coordinator" as one of the most stressful jobs to have in 2012.

Event coordinator aka Event Designer, Event Planner, Wedding Coordinator, or Special Events Manager are all interchangeable to some degree. It doesn't surprise me that event professionals have a stressful job.

There are plenty of reasons why it can be stressful but for me one of the things that makes Event Planning, Design, and/or Coordination so difficult is the amount of ambiguity.

"All people are paradoxical. No one is easily reducible, so I like characters who have contradictory impulses or shades of ambiguity. It's fun, and it's fun because it's hard. - Edward Norton"

Actor Edward Norton likes characters who are contradictory and who have varying impulses. However, in wedding and event coordination this typically adds to the stress of the job. When your client(and I don't care if it is a bride, mother of the groom, corporate committee), has varying likes, dislikes and needs, it leads to ambiguity and chaos. Trying to filter through likes, dislikes, expectations, needs, whims makes for a stressful job because you are never certain if your decision making is align with your clients ultimate wants and priorities.

One of the things that makes my job maddening is lack of inspiration or not understanding one's likes/dislikes.

A white back, I interviewed wedding clients who came to me without any ideas or vision. Their hope was that I would instantly and magically come up with some brilliant ideas upon meeting them yet when asked they couldn't really pinpoint any likes, dislikes, wishes or inspirations. When I asked them for something tangible to build on they said that they were hoping to find something in my portfolio that would click. This dialogue continued for another 10 minutes because I kept saying that I couldn't just come up with something brand new if I didn't have one small thing that was personable and unique to the couple. I asked question of their likes, dislikes in terms of style, flowers, colors. I inquired about their engagement and other relationship milestones. I asked what their favorite hobbies were. I even asked if they had ever gone to a wedding that they thought was wonderful. And the more I asked the more the clients became frustrated and simply said, "Nancy, we're just boring. We don't have any strong likes or dislikes. Once we see something that we do like, we will go with it.".

The problem is how am I suppose to figure out what they might like when I just met them 5 minutes ago. I am no mind reader and I doubt that your event coordinator will have magic powers too. How is anyone to create without some outside influence or brainstorming?

Let me just tell you that it was one of the most challenging meetings I've ever endured. It was completely stressful for me and the clients. Ultimately, I gave up on asking what the clients wanted and showed them 3 varying storyboards that I was working on for other clients in hopes it would spark imagination and show them that I did have creativity and good, solid ideas.

For reasons unknown, the client hired our studio to do their wedding. To this day, I have no idea why because I thought I had failed --- horribly. And that's why my job can be stressful because I work in an atmosphere of ambiguity.

Contradiction and ambiguity come in many forms. Sometimes clients do have a vision but when you see their list of needs and wants, it can often be contradicting in style.

Filtering and narrowing the list to it's key and focal point can be equally as difficult as solving a Rubik's cube or Smullyan's logic puzzle.

Here is a summary of one client's needs and styles. Can you picture this in your head?

Style: Natural, Organic, Modern, Understated
Venue: Outdoor lawn garden, vintage barn, white tent, Sonoma style
Colors: Gold, Red, Teal, Blue. The bride will wear Green/Seafoam.
Favorite Flowers: Green and teal hued flowers. Does not like yellows, reds, terra cotta hues. Likes unusual blooms.
Decor Inspiration: Greece. Mediterranean. Villa life. Terra Cotta walls. Southern California Outdoor Living mashed with Indian culture
Floral Likes: Botancial arrangements. Prefer simple single flowers in modern glass. Nothing romantic, fluffy, vine like. Like tropicals.

Centerpiece Wish: Tall grand all one linear flower. Nothing round.

Decor Items: Colorful linens. Pillows. Comfy Sofas. Moroccan Lanterns

For many creative minds, this list has some definite key words and concepts that are exciting. However, which one should you pinpoint as your focus? What is the most significant and crucial thing? Is it important to get the color right or the mood? These are all valid questions and thus I concur that being an event coordinator might be( I mean IS) very stressful as you have to navigate the ambiguities while always being aware that you might never please them.

Press: Cornerstone Wedding in Style Me Pretty

2012-01-05T19:03:00.000-08:00

Someone once told me that the beginning of the new year will dictate how the entire year will unfold. I sure hope that is right.

For our first post of 2012, I couldn't have picked a brighter, more cheerful wedding to feature. And I hope and wish that the entire year is equally blazing and festive.

This fabulous radiant yet whimsical wedding of Abby and Mike's was photographed by Ellie Grover and planned by the ever talented Kelly McLeskey-Dolata of A Savvy Event at Cornerstone Gardens in Napa.

When I first met Abby and her mother Karen they kept reminding me how fun and fanciful they wanted the wedding to be. And as you can see clearly from the color palette inly, it was prettily brilliant!
One of my favorite details was the ribbon backdrop for the ceremony and the awesome paper flowers in combination with the jeweled chandelier. Charming. So charming.

Thank you to our friends at Style Me Pretty for featuring Abby and Mike's nuptials!

Inspiration: Moody New Year

2011-12-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

These are the last days of 2011. For my last entry for the year, I ask you to pause for a moment to reflect, to remember, to relive.

As this year's journey ends, it is only fitting for us to wonder and ask....

what are you most looking forward to?

what are you happy to leave behind?

what will you miss the most?

where do you dream of going?

how has 2011 changed your views on life?

who can't you wait to meet?

who inspired you?

what one thing do you hope to accomplish?

Happy New Years, 2012....has arrived.

Inspirations: Great Red Est Magazine

2011-12-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

New to the e mag scene is the global design magazine from down under called Est Magazine. We of the iPad world are ever so lucky to have it available to read on our "tablets". Can't wait to sit down with myi Est magazine and a mug of hot apple cider during this winter break.

Like dwell and Wallpaper, Est is equally edgy and urban. It's concepts center around fine, quality decor ideas that are truly and masterfully styled. I find the magazine ethereal, yet organic in its styling.

From it's 3rd issue, I pulled this lovely Parisian Blanc & Noir spread for you to preview. Since New Year's Eve is around the corner, this issue is spot on and sublime.

Cheers!

Lessons: Happy Holidays

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

From all of us at Nancy Liu Chin Designs and especially from my family, we hope 2012 brings you....

Peace at Last

Abundant Laughter

Moments of Tranquility

Long Pauses

Lingering Smiles

We thank the ever talented Lisa Lekfowitz for this beautiful image!

Bear Hugs

Shorter Lines

More Homecooked Meals

Random Acts of Kindness

Evermore Friendships

Lasting Love

Floral Inspirations: Manzanita Branch Menorah

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

In honor of my good friends Matt and Lisa I found this awesome manzanita candlestick that could be a modern twist on the traditional menorah. There's something elegant and soothing about this beautifully crafted West Elm candleholder.

Tomorrow is the beginning of Hanukkah and with it comes wishes for our dear friends.

To those celebrating the Festival of Lights,

I hope it will bring you warmth and good blessings.

May all your homes be bright with happiness and of course, love.

Best wishes during this Hanukkah celebration.

Inspirations: Looney for Lonny

2011-12-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

I often find inspiration for wedding trends in non floral and wedding magazines. One that I like is Lonny Magazine. It's in fact an e-mag which makes it easy, accessible, and fresh.

The Nov/Dec issue is filled with innovative ideas and meaningful trends. Do you know what Gypset is? Or is New England Farmhouse the next decor trend? There is only one way to find out. You got to get yourself some Lonny.

Lessons: Greyston Bakes Brownies....

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

For many of us, the holidays is a time for giving. Not just giving presents to our loved ones but giving to our clients, our vendor and venue friends.

One great gift idea are Greyston Bakery Brownies. Why?

I just love what Greyston Bakery stands for. They don't hire people to bake brownies, they bake brownies so that they can hire people to work. Not only are their treats delicious and marvelous(they are the exclusive brownie suppliers for Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream) but also the more the business grows, they more people they can help train, educate, and hire.

Most businesses including my own started because someone had a passion to create a unique product or service. But how many people think about starting a business so that they can employ people in the community and give back to those who need affordable childcare, who are homeless and who live with HIV? I love their message which is so pure and lovely.

Here is an excerpt from their website on their Social Mission.

If I had the power of Oprah, I would give this to all of you as it is a 2011 Favorite Things.

About Nancy: Goodbye Grandma

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Brown Bag Fans...

I consider you more than fans but friends and with friends, it's so easy to pour out your soul.

It's been a while since I posted and it's probably because of a combination of things. Mainly, my heart is somewhere else these days.

During the last two months, my entire family has been saddened as my grandmother fell gravely ill. In mid September, she lost consciousness and was in coma for a period of time. After two months of being on life support, my 99 year old feisty, brilliant, lovely grandmother(yes, my Ai Po was 99!!!) finally decided she wanted to go to heaven.

On Saturday, December 3rd, Ai Po(that's my nick name for my 4 ft 10 inches Chinese grandma) was placed beside my Ai Gong(that my grandpa!) in their side by side resting place.

Looking back at my grandmother's life I know how remarkable she was. Though never formally educated, Ai Po grew up in Shanghai were women did not have careers and her main life aspiration was to "marry" and settle down. After having 3 children, she endured several devastating wars in China during the 40's. Without the help of my grandfather who was away at war, she was forced to find a way to feed her children. Though having very few skills, Ai Po decided that she would find her own food and prepare it for others during the war times. Taking her prepared meals, she would walk the streets selling her homemade dishes. This is how my grandmother feed her family. I only heard about this story from my aunt two years ago and never knew about the darker times in my grandmother's life because she never let it show on her bright and smiling face.

Another great thing about my grandmother was that she was not highly educated yet she willed herself to read. The only book she ever read and owned was the Holy Bible. It was the one book she read every day of her life. And you could often find her quoting things from the good old Bible. Ai Po had a strong spirit and set her mind on never giving up even when she didn't know how to do things.

It's said in my family that I take after Ai Po. You betcha! I am equally short, tough, and I hope I have her entrepreneur spirit.

A couple things that I learned from Ai Po that I wanted to share with you(after all, my granny lived a long life so who better to follow!)

1. Walk everyday and everywhere.
My grandmother never learned to bike. And she definitely never drove. The lady liked to use her two legs to stay fit.
2. Mediate Daily
She started her day with solitude and ended it the same way.
3. Eat lots of Organic green vegetables.
I don't think my granny ever used a microwave in her life. And she frowned upon processed anything. Even when she lived with us, my Ai Po loved to eat home cooked meals.
4. Wear a nice piece of jewelry. Girl, you deserve.
5. Family is important.
6. Smile often. And if you don't know what people are saying, just nod your head.
7. Keep on learning. Never give up.
8. Have amazing goals.
One of hers was to live to 100! Well, she got pretty close.
9. Eventually, you get pretty old so you've got to forgive others or you won't have any friends left.
10. God gave us two hands, so go make something! Don't sit around.
My grandmother loved to cook. What can you do with your hands?

Thank you for letting me share a little bit about my family. God Bless!

Floral Inspirations: Wreath It Is!

2011-12-09T14:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays everyone. I'm having a blast putting together inspiration boards of holiday ideas via my pinterest boards. Today, I thought I would inspire some of you to create WREATHS! For me, a wreath is that perfect thing to put on one's door or above one's mantel. It instantly greets your house guests. It can even be a conversation starter.

Here are just a few of the gillion favorite wreaths that I adore.

These wreaths below are so creative. They include some floral wreaths, some candy/food wreaths, and lots of fabric and paper ideas. I love them all and each of them are unique. So for the holidays, think outside of the box. Take simple things even "marshmallows" or candy cans and turn them into these works of art.

Which one do you like?

Cakes & Sweets: Butterfly Love by Pink Blossom List

2011-12-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

To start off our day, I just had to share another great inspiration post from Pink Blossom List. This time it's a butterfly inspired cake. It's one of the most decadent cakes I've seen. Since it's cold outside, I think a little colorful inspiration is much appreciated and needed.

___________________________

We just couldn't help but share this magnificent cake! Style Unveiled shared this beauty from Nancy Kay Confections, a custom wedding cake studio in Beverly Hills, CA.

Such a work of art!

Photo Credit: Style Unveiled, Nancy Kay Confections and Michael Segal Photography

Industry News: Smitten Nov + Dec Issues is Here!

2011-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

In an earlier post, you might recall how much I like this Smitten Magazine. Well, their November/December 2011 issues is out and it's just delightful.

Check it out at Smitten-Mag.com