Ask the Pro – White Fig owner and designer Erin Hopkins shares her thoughts on “Wedding Season”

 As we move into wedding season, I’m getting a lot of questions about flowers. There are a few things I like to keep in mind:
Find a Flower Partner
Start by finding a designer. This is all about fit and feel, someone your friend worked with may not be right for you. Find someone who gets you and who you can easily communicate with.
Visual tools can help make sure you are on the same page. By showing your designer what you want, you can make sure what you are calling mauve they aren’t calling grey, or your pink isn’t their blush. At White Fig Designs we love private Pinterest boards to create mutual inspiration.
Look and Feel
Flowers have the power to enhance the story you are creating; they should be a piece of your overall event. Think about what’s in season – peonies aren’t in season in August, using garden roses instead can achieve a similar feeling. For the colors and types of flowers, you can create depth and contrast by thinking about variety in texture and color. Remember when you bring in your photos, the photographer may have enhanced the colors, be sure to talk to your designer to get an idea of the true color.
By looking at pictures for inspiration, rather than something to copy, you can start thinking outside the box. You shouldn’t feel shy about asking your designer for ideas; designers love to come up with creative ways to bring your vision to life.
Your Style is In
I always get asked what’s in or trendy. Many of the brides I’m working with want a really loose design, something asymmetrical and cascading. We’ve been doing a lot of white and green lately, or blush with pops of burgundy. Really anything is in, the most important thing is that your flowers reflect your style.
Planning Budget
Keep in mind a typical flower budget is about 10 to 20 percent of your overall budget. If you are on a budget, talk to your designer. Just don’t skimp on your bridal bouquet – this one should be the star.