Perfect Petals Design Group

Halle Berry engaged!

2012-03-12T19:50:00.000-04:00

Halle Berry, Olivier Martinez really are engaged, he confirms

Halle Berry may have said a few years back that she would never marry again, but it seems girlfriend wasn't exactly telling the truth -- she is in fact engaged to marry French actor Olivier Martinez, he confirmed over the weekend.
"Yes, of course it’s true," Martinez told Miami.com, clearing up rumors Saturday while promoting his new South Beach restaurant, Villa Azur.
A rep for jeweler Gurhan was saying back in January that the emerald on Berry's ring finger was an engagement ring, and that claim had Martinez a bit miffed -- because the opulent trinket was actually designed by Robert Maslo of Paris, whose family has been making jewelry for "kings and queens for many centuries," he told the website.
In Gurhan's defense, a rep said later that the company couldn't be sure Berry was wearing its design. Guess we know the answer to that question now.
And here's the kind of thing you hear only from the real deal: “The ring is textured and contains codes and symbols which you cannot see ... only the person wearing it can," the jeweler told People exclusively of the emerald and gold bauble, which also has two diamonds. "It's very uncommon. The symbols and codes represent [the couple's] story and only they can interpret it."
Maslo said he didn't realize he was crafting an engagement ring when Martinez approached him last year with the project. Berry and Martinez first stepped out publicly as a couple in October 2010. This will be Berry's third marriage.
RELATED:
Are Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez engaged? Or not so much?
Halle Berry reportedly is engaged to French actor Olivier Martinez
Halle Berry stalker suspect arrested after third alleged trespass in three days
— Christie D'Zurilla

When it comes to the 'little people' in your wedding party, are you thinking outside the box?

2012-03-05T17:57:00.000-05:00

http://pinterest.com/perfectpetals/flowergirls-and-ring-bearers/

Check out these cute signs rocking ceremony aisles this year! Definitely not the 'same ole, same ole'.
Be sure to visit our pinterest board for even more ideas!

http://pinterest.com/perfectpetals/flowergirls-and-ring-bearers/

Love this blog post from one of our favorite planners, Deidra of Sovereign Events

2012-02-23T18:09:00.001-05:00

Wedding Planner… Wedding Coordinator… Event Designer. These terms are commonly used interchangeably , but don’t be misinformed. A planner is not a designer and may not be a coordinator. So, what’s the diff?

The Wedding Coordinator

A wedding coordinator is your basic essential to have a happy, stress-free wedding day. Many coordinators are planners as well, and offer higher packages that include planning help. “Coordinators”, in essence, are around to tie up loose ends and make sense of all of the plans you have put into place. They typically step in anywhere from a month to a week out from your wedding- but not more than that. A “site coordinator” is very, VERY different than an independent coordinator. Do not let yourself be led astray on this. Nearly EVERY site has an appointed contact- a “venue coordinator”. They are not a wedding coordinator- they are venue staff who are appointed, typically not as qualified, and not looking out for the best interest of YOU- the couple. It is a rarity, as well, that any venue coordinator will stay for the entirety of your wedding. A wedding coordinator will be there from dusk til dawn, should your wedding require it, with a happy smile on their face and a determined attitude in their heart.

The Wedding Planner

A wedding planner is someone to help you guide through the industry. They are hired to help you with venue selection, vendor selection, and any details along the way. Their expertise and experience play an essential role in pairing you with vendors to fit your budget, personality, style, and needs. Many wedding planners are coordinators as well and nearly every planner I’ve met will be there with you themselves personally on the day-of, after planning the wedding closely with you. This becomes a special relationship between the couple and the professional and it is so so – I cannot emphasize this enough – SO important that the couple is comfortable and confident in their pick for a planner. Please note that a PLANNER is there to guide the couple for the duration of their engagement. They are like a wedding manager- they aren’t typically hired to inject their style or ideas or to come up with a wedding’s concept, creatively speaking. This is left to the client. I think that brides typically cringe at the thought of hiring a planner because they fear that a planner will kill their creative freedom. Quite the opposite! We are here to foster that creativity, to encourage it, be with you in it, and ensure that the vendors you hire are the ones that will work best to gel with the vision you’ve put into place.

Event Designer

Event designers are the top of the line, crème de la crème for weddings. They are hired based on their beautiful past work and glowing references. They’re known for taking care of your floral design as well- as the concept for your wedding is theirs, top to bottom. This works perfect for a busy couple who wants to attend an event that is decked out to the nines! It also works for brides who just can’t seem to articulate their own vision, or who want their wedding to be more of a party thrown in their honor than they want to be mulling over the details of the party. Event designers are known for their unique and personal sense of style and their website and catalogues should reflect just that. Typically they’ll take your notes, ideas, pictures, and vision and create something fabulously YOU, with a twist only they could put onto it.

Please note THIS: not all event designers are planners. They MAY just be florists and designers. They may NOT want anything to do with the coordination of your vendors or details. This is something to be aware of before signing a contract!

The reason that it’s crucial to, at this point in the game, hire for yourself a planner or designer is because the BEST way to create a fabulous wedding is to bring in a professional from the beginning. I cannot tell you how many clients I’ve worked with who have already spent half of their budget on what I [as a planner] consider “the wrong thing”- or maybe the right thing, at the wrong place. Or the wrong amount of the right thing at the wrong place. It’s awful to see your clients- especially the ones who are on a tighter budget- spending money in ways that are unnecessary, which I know will only hurt them more when it gets down to the wire. But once contracts are in place, they’re binding and we’re forced to work miracles and jump through hoops to create the wedding of their dreams. So, in essence, hiring a planner right off the bat will not only save you emotions, stress, and frustration… but it will save you money. YES, you have to spend to save. Plus, and let’s be honest- there’s only so much research you can do, we know vendors. You will be booking blindly based on web ads or magazine articles or bridal shows. Everyone puts their best foot forward on screen or in print, but only people who work weddings nearly every weekend are going to know, when the pressure is on, who is reliable and who isn’t.

If you think you can’t afford a planner…. you can. Trust me. Remember what I said about the saving money part? NO budget is too small. If you think you don’t need a planner… you do. I hate to say it! But I promise you- I’ve yet to meet a bride who has regretted working with someone during their engagement. More than that, I’ve never even HEARD of a bride regretting hiring a coordinator just for the day of. Which is why I count that as an essential. I know money is a big concern but think of it this way: the average, established photographer in southern California is charging anywhere from $4000 to $8000 for one of their packages- and they are important! Planners, for full service, are in a comparable range and may even tend to be a bit lower than that depending on the services desired… and they are with you ten times more than that photographer will be. They may not be providing you with pictures, but they ARE working more constantly for you in the pre-wedding process. Trust me when I say that even hiring a Day-Of coordinator will be worth their weight in gold! And if there are businesses like mine in your area, there’s a coordinator who is training up an assistant or associate who doesn’t have as much of a name or reputation, who would love to work your wedding for a smaller fee. Don’t hesitate to ask. Don’t get sticker shock after the first quote. Don’t get discouraged!

When I spoke about hiring vendors, I talked about picture clippings from magazines, saving pictures from websites and blogs, etc. THIS is when you should start to do this. Sign up for websites like The Knot or Wedding Channel. Stalk blogs like Southern Weddings Magazine, Style Me Pretty [and of course, you’re HERE already!]. Save things you like. From your pictures, determine your style! This will help so much when narrowing down a venue. If you’re looking at tons of venues that don’t resemble- at all- the pictures you’ve clipped, try looking again. Try re-thinking either the picture clippings, or the venues. Think about your wedding as a cohesive styled unit. It must go with the backdrop it’s placed in! If you search for your venue around the style that you’re going for [garden-y, chic, modern, ocean view, spanish, rustic?], then it will make the planning process even that much more of a cinch!

Photo Source: http://pinterest.com/perfectpetals/ceremony-stuff/

Tips from Vera Wang!

2012-02-20T10:02:00.000-05:00

Vera Wang Shares Her Top Wedding Planning Tips And Launches A Wedding App

Posted: 02/18/2012 11:35 am

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Planning 101 , Weddings 2.0 , Vera Wang , Vera Wang On Weddings , Vera Wang Wedding , Vera Wang Wedding App , Vera Wang Wedding Planning , Weddings News

Vera Wang, the iconic wedding gown designer, recently launched a wedding planning and design app to help brides with more than just the search for their dream dress. The app, Vera Wang on Weddings, includes 1,000+ images of everything from cakes and flowers to real weddings and stationery and of course wedding gowns, over 100 planning articles and some of the most innovative wedding tools out there.

Brides can keep track of their guest lists -- everyone knows brides make both an A and a B list -- vendor meetings, and their inspiration. They can file their favorite images in the app, or add photos from the camera roll or web and create an unlimited number of inspiration boards to share with mom, the groom, bridesmaids and vendors.

I had a chance to ask Vera for her advice to brides on finding the one (I'm referring to the dress, not the guy), the wedding planning process and why she decided to develop an app. Here's what she had to say:

What are the first to-do's to be checked off a bride's task list?

The first step is to set a date, time and choose a location. The style of both the wedding and dress will be determined on these three decisions.

How should a bride approach the search for her dress?

A bride should look at everything she possibly can and try on all the different possibilities, just so she can experiment and see what makes her really feel beautiful or glamorous or classic, or whatever she desires to be on her wedding day.

When a bride is trying on wedding gowns, what elements should she be considering?

The wedding's location and time of day as well as how many guests can influence a bride's choice in how she looks. But it's also important for a bride to consider both the headpiece as well as the bouquet. When you look at a dress, and it might be extremely complex, one doesn't remember that you're going to be holding a bouquet and there's going to be a veil and these two factors can actually make or break a wedding gown.

Is there one wedding dress style that always looks good on a bride?

It's important that a bride choose a dress that is true to her own style. She should feel comfortable in how she looks and feel beautiful wearing it.

What's your #1 piece of advice for brides?

Really try to enjoy yourself and the day. One place to take in the moment is right after the ceremony. So many couples just race up the aisle when they should take time to look at their guests who have come to honor them and savor the moment.

What things should a bride consider as she goes through the planning process?

I think the most important thing about the engagement period for a bride, as well as her fiancé, is that this is the time when you're blending two lives. And it's a bit of a dress rehearsal for the rest of your life. It involves families, compromise and friends. Not only the two of you. Make this a learning experience and understand that part of a successful wedding, and a successful marriage, is about compromise.

When deciding on the wedding's details, what should a bride keep in mind -- tradition, trends?

It's important that couples plan their ceremony and reception with their own tastes and not give into family, friends, tradition or trends. Personalize the day with details that feel right to you.

Why did you decide to develop a wedding app?

I'm here, hopefully, as a voice of tremendous experience and also coming from a place that is so dedicated to bridal. The Vera Wang on Weddings app is my way of leveraging all of my wedding knowledge and I hope brides will find ideas and inspiration for both their personal style as well as the style of their wedding day.

The app has a really cool inspiration board. Can you share why you made it part of a wedding planning app?

I think brides are great researchers. I don't know one that hasn't come with pictures of dresses. They're voracious about collecting information and inspiration and it's those two things that make the bridal process so fascinating.

An inspiration board is helpful because you're able to crystallize an idea visually with so many tear sheets and so many books and so many films and you're able to really envision where you're trying to go.

Vera Wang on Weddings is available for free at the App Store through February and beginning March 1st will cost $9.99

Hot Trend 2012! OMBRE

2012-02-13T21:27:00.000-05:00

Ombre is HOT!

...and Atlanta's Brides are jumping on the trend.

What is Ombre?

The meaning of Ombre according to textileglossary.com is:

A term used to describe fabrics with a dyed, printed or woven design in which the colour is graduated from light to dark and often into stripes of varying shades.

Refers to a gradual change in shade from light to dark or from one color to another. May be done as a yarn dye or in printing.

A color effect woven into the fabric that has gradual changes in shade from light to dark, generally produced by arranging different tones in the warp.

A fabric woven with shades of one color from light to dark in the warp, usually creating a striped effect.

Usually a multicolored stripe, with colors graduating from light to dark.

If you are contemplating 'to do or 'not to do', here are some pictures for inspiration.
I would say...Like Whitney Port did....."Just let your hair down" :)

Enjoy!

Be sure to visit our Ombre pinterest board at http://pinterest.com/perfectpetals/ombre/ to see sources and even more Ombre eye-candy.

I love this idea

2012-02-10T09:43:00.001-05:00

Check out this idea I found on Preston's site

http://brides.prestonbailey.com/

How sweet it is!!!!

Chair covers have come a long way!!

2012-02-06T16:45:00.000-05:00

Check out these ultra-dramatic and romantic chair adornments!
...and be sure to follow us on pnterest to see many more and sources.
http://pinterest.com/perfectpetals/fun-wedding-chairs/

10 Ways to Save Money on your wedding

2012-01-27T17:32:00.000-05:00

Cutting Wedding Costs

From a great source:

Top 10 Ways to Cut Wedding Costs

Every bride wants her wedding day to be the most beautiful day of her life—but there’s no need to land in the poor house in order to make this long-awaited dream come true! “My rule of thumb: There’s no need to spend a ton of money to have an elegant wedding,” states David Tutera, leading wedding and celebrity entertainment expert and star of WE’s My Fair Wedding. “You don’t have to buy a lot of things or have an abundance of trinkets to have a lavish, well-done wedding. Anyone on any budget can have a beautiful ceremony and reception. There is beauty in extravagance but there is also beauty in simplicity!”
David’s book, The Big White Book of Weddings: A How-to Guide for the Savvy, Stylish Bride, is dedicated to this very concept. Here are 10 of his money-saving tricks that will cut back on costs…but not class!
1. Create your budget before spending a dime Before booking or buying one thing for your big day, David strongly advises to figure out how much money is in your wedding fund. “Ensuring you have enough money to purchase what you want—and keeping you out of a disaster zone of debt to come home to from your honeymoon—is our priority here.” And while every bride’s budget is different, David offers these percentages as a guide on how your money should be spent: food and beverage 30%; flowers and decorations 15%; extra cushion 10%; entertainment 10%; venue rental 8%; lighting and sound 5%; tipping 5%; photos and video 4%; cake 3%; printed materials 2%; transportation 2%; hair and makeup 2%; dress 2% and accessories 2%.
2. Aim low on the guest list Guarantee your venue the lowest guest count possible. “You can always go up from there and you won’t ever be contractually obligated to pay for more people than you can guarantee,” says David.
3. Explore the drink options Beverages could run you a fortune, but the first thing to ask your venue is about special drink packages. David also suggests asking about the difference in price and quality between premium bar and a top-shelf bar, as well as asking if you can bring your own alcohol and pay a corkage fee.
4. Inquire about food choices Keep in mind that scaling down from a four-course dinner to a three-course dinner can save you money. Also, certain entrees and hors d’oeuvres may be priced lower than others, along with foregoing food stations and opting for passed hors d’oeuvres.
5. Think “variety” when it comes to flowers “To cut costs from having to pay for large arrangements for each table, ask for a mix of high and low arrangements or a variation of three correlating arrangement designs—varying in cost—mixed throughout the tables,” says David. “This will get you out of paying for all large arrangements and will also add aesthetic variety to the look of your reception on many visual levels.”
6. Find a “two-for-one” company when it comes to photography Some brides hire both a photographer and videographer, but if your budget does not allow to hire two professionals, search for a company that can offer you a package deal for both services. “Another way to save is to have your photographer put your wedding day photos into a video montage with music,” suggests David.
7. Go with one source for music “Have the same vendor provide you with music for each part of your wedding,” says David. “If you want a harpist for your ceremony, a trio for your cocktail hour and a band for your reception, keep it in the family. It will be more organized and you could potentially save money this way.”
8. Ask about bridal gown bargains When it comes to buying your dress, David suggests asking bridal departments and salons about upcoming sales and designer trunk shows. And he says that smaller boutiques may be willing to bargain. “If you buy all of your accessories in one place, they just may come down in price.”
9. Buy a fake cake Believe it or not, you can rent a fake wedding cake—and no one will ever know! “Realistically decorated and beautifully adorned to match your wedding, these faux wedding cakes are made for display only, yet contain a small section to cut into for show,” explains David. “Hidden in the back, servers will pre-cut sheet cakes and serve for a dessert illusion that will save you hundreds of dollars.”
10. Choose a “full” venue Keep in mind that when you find a venue that is just one, big empty space, your budget will need to expand since you will have to bring in everything, from chairs to chinaware. “So look for a venue that has these items in stock, and you will save yourself a bundle in both money and effort,” David suggests.
Have a DIY idea you’d like to share? How’d you cut costs at your wedding? Post a comment below and let us know.

Perfect Petals will be at the Blackbride.com Bridal Show at the Marriott Marquis

2012-01-16T21:11:00.002-05:00

Come and meet our reps at the BlackBride.com Bridal Show on Sunday

Sunday, January 22, 2012
12:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Atlanta Marriott

Marquis Hotel

265 Peachtree Center Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30303

Cost: $15.00 Advance Registration Required

Looking for a unique way to decorate your reception while incorporating cultural traditions, or the latest trends in floral designs? Our bridal showcase will answer your wedding planning questions and provide interactive access to the
best exhibitors in the business. Taking you step by step
through the planning process, our A-list exhibitors
will showcase the most contemporary wedding planning ideas,
advice and services, to help you plan the wedding of your dreams.

Experience a fashion show showcasing all the latest trends
for you, your groom and your bridal party. Explore booths
with fantastic giveaways for your wedding and honeymoon,
on-site examples of floral arrangements, photography packages,
and reception décor, and tasty samples from local caterers and
bakers sure to infuse something special in your menu. Gain
your all-access pass to experts with priceless advice,
all while sipping a glass of Champagne, a Bellini or
a refreshing Mimosa!

A wonderful day, a fantastic couple, a wedding at Legacy Lodge!

2012-01-16T09:16:00.001-05:00

I need to brag a little..I think I am blessed with the sweetest brides ever.
And not only was Danielle a gem, but her new husband, Melvin,

has got to be one of the nicest grooms I have ever had.

I've been so fortunate to have done events for this family in the past,

and nothing thrills me more than when another family member

calls me to add some magic to their celebration.

So we peeked into Danielle's garden of dreams,

and produced the fuchsia flora, lighting, ceiling drapery,

silver chandeliers,and accessories amongst the backdrop of

black and white 'damask'. We also surprised the couple with damask
slip covers with fuchsia rosettes.

Here are a few pics from their gorgeous day!

An offer from one of our favorite photographers

2012-01-15T20:42:00.001-05:00

Did you see Perfect Petals on CBS yesterday

2012-01-06T22:41:00.000-05:00

Follow this link to see the segment, hosted by Sarah Jane Bennett, of Event Perfect!

Colored Bridal Shoes

2011-12-28T09:26:00.001-05:00

The 'continuing' HOT trend

found this awesome article on colored shoes....

COLORED SHOES, what do they say!

The old notion of white wedding is taking a back seat and hence the colored wedding shoes are really “in” currently. When it comes to taking into account the bridal shoes in some color there are many points that deserve your attention. For instance you might want to know the themes with which the shoes for weddings can be coordinated. In case all such questions are bothering you then you for sure are going in the right direction. To get the answer to all such questions continue with the story that deals with colorful bridal shoes in depth. Hang on with colors of joyousness and gladness on your blushing face.

Blue wedding shoes: Remember Sarah Jessica Parke's shoes in the Sex and the City movie? Those gorgeous blue shoes (or something just like them) are right up there (Zenith Pump - blue satin). How fantastic did she look and how great did her shoes look against the pale white of the dress? Whether you choose Tiffany blue wedding shoes or a pair of navy blue wedding shoes, these shoes will stand out and make your outfit look completely elegant.

Purple wedding shoes: Purple is the color of royalty and you are the princess on your wedding day. Choosing one of the gorgeous purple bridal shoes will really make you feel special. The deep purple colors are a great contrast to the white or ivory tones in your wedding dress.

Red wedding shoes: Red bridal shoes are perfect for the bride looking to spice up her wedding day outfit. Show these to your future husband and he will be so excited to go back to your bridal suite. The red color is really sexy and shows off any brides legs and feet really well. Plus, you will be able to wear those red shoes later on to spice up any outfit you are going out in.

More reasons to buy a pair of red, purple, or blue bridal shoes:

Reason 1: Match your wedding day colors. The new trend is to match that gorgeous red or purple palette that you picked out for your wedding day. Plus, have something that ties you to your bridesmaids. While they are wearing red dresses, wear your red bridal shoes. If you’ve chosen a beautiful light blue color, then match that color with a pair of light blue wedding shoes. Or if your dress has a bow or ribbon that is a different color, think about buying shoes to match.

Reason 2: Make this your something sexy, new, or just your something blue. Are you still having trouble finding blue underwear or a blue garter to use as your "something blue?" Well, blue shoes will be just perfect for that. Those Tiffany blue wedding shoes will make you look different from other brides, but still look fantastic and hopelessly elegant.

Reason 3: Do you want to make your outfit a little sexy, but wearing white just doesn't cut it? Why not try some sexy red heels to show off to your new husband after the wedding? Or, choose a pair of purple shoes that are just perfect to change up your look. Your husband will love that he can peek under your dress and see your shoes and you will love showing them off to him!

Reason 4: Buying red, blue, or purple shoes means that you will definitely be able to wear these shoes again. White wedding shoes are really hard to wear a second time. It is hard to match white with lots of things, but blue, red and purple go easily with many different outfits. For the holidays, you will find yourself wearing these shoes under your best holiday dresses. When you go out and celebrate your anniversary, you’ll be able to wear those red bridal shoes and remind your husband of your wedding day. When you want to go out for a night on the town, those purple bridal shoes will be perfect to dress up any outfit.

Reason 5: Shoes in red, blue and purple are just more fun and interesting. These days, designers are making a lot of different colored shoes. The white shoes are simple and elegant, but the red shoes are a lot more dramatic. Designers choose the colors to match their design and when they want something bold, they will choose a bold color. All 3 colors – red, blue and purple – really stand out and allow designers to explore and do different things. You can also find these shoes in satin or velvet, changing the entire look of the shoe and also your outfit.

Reason 6: Shoes in a different color are really fun and stand out. If you are considering these shoes, you know how fun it is to wear them. When you are wearing a pair of fabulous blue heels, you know that you feel more fun. You just want to kick them up and show them off. So, choose those blue bridal shoes you’ve been envying or those red wedding shoes that you really want and have fun on your wedding day!

from segungele international

All colors are hot in 2012. I expect to see alot of pantones color of the year (tangerine Tango), champagnes and shades of purple.

There is nothing like coordinating the bouquet with the shoes....Ask my why:)

Check out my pinterest board for more pix and sources

Wedding WebSites

2011-12-27T22:01:00.001-05:00

The best invention in modern times, okay maybe not the absolute best...is the wedding website.....and nowadays they come in so many designs and styles. There is one for every personality and theme, and even one for those planning destination weddings. One source that I am more familiar with is weddingwire.com.
http://www.weddingwire.com/wedding-websites.html.

You can select from vintage, to modern or somewhat more traditional themes and even add your own music.

Once you have established your theme, you then welcome your visitors, begin to tell your story, add your pictures, introduce the important details of your wedding and your wedding party, and allow guests to rsvp.

Many people use this site to let guests know about the weather, the activities, the hotels and restaurants in Atlanta. It is also a great place to let your guests know whether your event will be all adult or not, where you are registered for gifts and any other unique expectations you have.

When my brides share their websites with me, I get a better feel for who the couple is and the type of event they desire. It's such a wonderful thing.

Best of all..It is FREE.

Check out Sarah and Nick's site here.

Can't wait to see yours...don't forget to share:)

Steals and deals!!!

2011-12-26T19:09:00.000-05:00

By now you are probably noticing the television ads and billboards promoting the Georgia Bridal Shows...
And guess what? We have two for one tickets to the Georgia Bridal Show-Cobb Galleria on January 22.

Grab and Print your tickets, be sure to make up address labels as many vendors will have give-aways for which you will need to sign up (address labels will save you from the long lines), and be sure to visit our booth.

We have a special space this year, near the actual runway, and therefore will have more opportunity to interact with you and answer all your questions.

We will also be revealing our new chuppah/mandap and are super excited.

Cant wait to see each and every one of you!

One our adorable brides marries at the St Regis

2011-12-25T20:41:00.003-05:00

One of our favorite brides was Ashley, who was just like a princess on her wedding day.

I still remember meeting her and her mother who is equally as beautiful. It was a warm sunny day...and as they turned the corner to approach my desk, it was like a ray of sunshine personally came in to make my day!

Ashley's wedding took place at the wondrous St Regis Hotel, in Buckead, Atlanta in the summer 2011. Her desire was to have a romantic outdoor wedding that incorporated and touch of Venice with all its vintage textured elements. The reception incorporated more traditional, vintage decor complete with a backdrop of corinthian columns highlighting a ten foot cake, and vintage silver candeabras with dripping crystals and flowers, clusters of tonal white and green flora and tons of mercury glass encased candles.

For Ashley's Cocktail hour, we created a lifesize-9ft twiggy tree with hanging note cards with crystals attached for each guest, which truly was an amazing showstopper .

I loved, loved, loved working with Ashley, from start to finish!
Thanks to 35Atlanta for capturing these gorgeous images.

Check out the fabulous cakes I have posted today!

2011-12-21T17:44:00.001-05:00

I just pinned some gorgeous cakes to my pinterest board

Be sure to visit our board to see all the possibilities for 2012 weddings and events

http://pinterest.com/perfectpetals/cakes-i-love/

Check out these fabulous cakes from Rosebuds cakes

Be sure to follow our boards on pinterest for more fabulous ideas

2011-12-21T00:32:00.001-05:00

I just posted some sparkly, fierce and stunning shoes to a new board. Incredible Jimmy Choos, Fabulous Christian Louboutins and Sensational Gianmarco Lorenzi. Stop by and check them out!
http://pinterest.com/perfectpetals/shoe-addiction/

The Top Wedding Gowns for 2012

2011-12-20T22:54:00.000-05:00

My brides are coming in with the most amazing dresses ever. I am so excited about our 2012 weddings. Some of these dresses are hot.

Source http://www.weddingbells.ca/

An article I wish every bride would read...

2011-12-19T20:13:00.001-05:00

I have countless brides who I have met in the past, some even came into our studios for consultations, and some referred to us...but all either decided or were gifted flowers from family members or friends. Many, have called after the wedding, and many more have referred their friends and other brides to us as a result of the experience.

As you can imagine, most have complained that either their flowers were a disaster or not what they wanted or expected. Others have even said they are no longer speaking to the relative/friend who was responsible for the 'unhappiness'. The common denominator is not that the person did not have the best intentions, it is that they simply lacked the experience to fulfill their promise or the bride's dream.

..And once the wedding day is over....it's over. There is no re-acting, or recreating the day, or photoshopping prettier flowers into the experience.

This article found on the Huffpost.com is 'just in time'.

Carly Cylinder

Owner, Flour LA

Why Having A Relative Do Your Wedding Flowers Is A Big No-No

Posted: 12/18/11 03:36 PM ET

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Planning 101 , Bad Wedding Flowers , Floral Disaster , Florist , Hire a Florist , Hiring a Wedding Florist , Wedding Florist , Wedding Flowers , Wedding Planning , Weddings News

Walking into the room glistening in gold, floors polished, the linens pressed and pristine, I was simply amazed -- astounded is more like it -- at the sheer volume of lush roses, drooping orchids, and Casablanca lilies pouring out of every corner. This must have cost a fortune.

I had been called in on an emergency, as a floral paramedic urged to save the day an hour before the ceremony was to begin. You see, moments before, as my team and I were setting up other parts of the wedding, vases began to break as if a ghost were upset at the sight of these off-kilter arrangements being put out on unstable grass on a particularly windy day.

There was no ghost of course, but the glass vases of these tall arrangements, stuffed so densely with flowers and branches, simply couldn't bear the uneven weight distribution. It was something out of a movie: Bam! One of the arrangements toppled over, crashing against the backdrop of the clear blue ocean, a slow-motion fall, crushing the dreams and hard work of the bride's relative who had arranged these expensive flowers that would eventually go to waste. Then another, bam! crashed, and another...

When I saw this, I saw dollar signs burning in flames. Working with perishables is a risk. Working on arrangements for someone's wedding with no experience is damn right foolish! So here I was, in the five-star hotel room, with a frantic wedding planner swearing that she was going to change her policy, and a relative in absolute panic, making a call to the bride while they were getting ready to let her know the flowers weren't going to happen.

My eyes were wide open, and for the first time I realized just how important my job is when it comes to any type of event, whether it be a wedding, party, or bar-mitzvah. People underestimate the mechanics of creating an arrangement, and so when the orchids were stuffed at the base, and it was one-sided, there was no way it was going to work. My team was there to take care of the personals and other details, while the relative had created unbalanced arrangements the day before the ceremony. We later found out that during the reception -- yes, the reception -- a huge topiary-style arrangement broke, with water and glass flying onto the guests.

Back in the hotel room, I took an assessment of what we had to work with. The relative wanted to put the arrangements in trash cans surround by towels to keep them stable. I'm sorry, I feel really bad that this happened, but you cannot do that, I told her gently. The fact was, there was simply no time to redo anything. We created some rose petals out of the roses, and accented the arbor with the orchids. Some of the family members ended up using fishing wire to tie the arrangements to the back row of chairs, which did end up looking really pretty.

The bride of course loved the bouquets, and was absolutely glowing in the photos. She and the groom were clearly over-the-moon in love, so not even floral mishaps could've dampened her day (which is how it should be, right?).

In the end, if you want to go the D-I-Y route, know your limits. Constructing large, complicated arrangements is not only time-consuming, but also extremely stressful, and too risky for a major event. For the amount of money spent on the flowers, plus the hotel room and time to arrange, they could've hired a professional for not much more than they already spent. The same goes with bouquets -- unless you really want a just-picked-from-the-garden look, it's worth it to hire a pro. You really can't put a price on peace of mind.

To hear more from Carly and Flour LA follow along @flourgal and flourla.com

Bling! Bling!!!!!

2011-12-14T00:38:00.000-05:00

Sparkle, sometimes known as 'bling', always gets the attention of today's modern fashionistas. These haute booties fused with intricate patterns of sparkly gems are pretty fierce.

After incorporating sparkle in your wardrope. consider a touch 'here and there'...perhaps at the reception as linens on the guest tables

...perhaps covering the tables with this Lady Diana" overlay from BBJ's linens

napkin rings with rhinestone broaches or belts

or charger plates with faux rhinestone accents

a cake platter of rhinestones

(pic from Raise the Cake)

Stay tuned for much more sparkle this week....

To RSVP or to not RSVP

2011-12-13T12:06:00.000-05:00

DEAR MISS MANNERS: We received a wedding invitation and are wondering if an RSVP is necessary. The invitation came with a stamped envelope. It did not ask for a yes or a no. It simply asked for your name and the number of people attending if you were to go.

We believe you need to RSVP only if you plan to attend, and no response is needed if you are not. If there were boxes to check yes or no, then you reply either way. Can you please set us straight?

GENTLE READER: Please, Miss Manners begs you, apply a modicum of your own common sense here. If you issue an invitation, even the most offhand of invitations, such as “Want to take a break and go down to the cafeteria for a cup of coffee?” don’t you expect a response?

Well, the R in “RSVP” means, in French, “respond.” It is not that regrettable term “regrets only,” which makes it clear that the event is so massive and impersonal that the hosts won’t notice whether or not you are there. (Yet they take it upon themselves to assume that you will regret not attending.)

Silence is an insult, not a response. It means that the hosts have to keep a place for you in case you are tardy in replying or, even worse, just plan to show up.

Your non-response illustrates the folly of hosts attempting to corral neglectful guests by doing most of their job — supplying paper, stamps, and even most of the words. Is it really too much to expect the invited to use their own paper and stamp to write back? In this case, the envelope and stamp are already provided, and all you have to supply is a reply. Miss Manners of course would prefer a formal one, written out by yourself, but if that defeats you, you could at least state your intentions on the card.

These people thought enough of you to invite you to their wedding. You don’t have to go, and you don’t have to send a present. But ignoring them — not replying and not sending your good wishes — is callous.

Article found in the Washington Post

Invitation picture found on 'style me pretty'

More Sparkly Little Luxuries

2011-12-12T20:08:00.001-05:00

Looking for other avenues to show off your love for sparkle?

Check out these chandeliers that I found on carenstyle.com

or glam the look 'up' with glitter eyeshadow

some pinky, delicious, sparkly kissable lips

or make it fierce with sparkly red lips

WOW!

..then some nail colour - nail sparkle - that no one will miss..

Dior happens to be the polish J-Lo loves

Do you like her style?

Stay tuned for more sparkly glam ideas this week, when we focus on sparkly decor and floral adornments.

2011-12-12T05:39:00.000-05:00

Sparkle is in!!!!

2011-12-11T23:34:00.003-05:00

From minimal to over the top, sparkle never really went out....but next year, sparkle is everywhere. This year sparkle was mostly silvery- crystals or rhinestones, but in 2012 expect to see more colored sparkle. Many of my brides are choosing some element of sparkle in their dresses and shoes.

From accents of sparkle like the Christian Louboutins' above. to even more sparkle ..... on the heels...on the platforms like the Jimmy Choos' below

and the even more popular glitter pumps that are all the rave this year.

And here is a pair that one of my brides sported this summer...

Sparkle Heels

.....and here's some sparkle for the Engagement Party!

Stay tuned for some sparkly accessories in my post tomorrow!!!!