The Floral Lab

Navy + Coral

2012-02-27T15:30:00.003-08:00

Walked by this packaging display at Target the other day and the color palette just popped! I'm loving the pairing of navy and shades of coral/red.

Lindsay +Ben's Temescal Gateway Park Wedding

2012-02-27T15:12:00.004-08:00

Lindsay and Ben had their wedding featured on 100 Layer Cake a while back and I'm so happy to finally be showing this one off. Sweet Emilia Jane covered all the details and Katie Neal Photo captured their love effortlessly. See more of the beautiful details here.

Devon + Jake's Firestone Vineyard Wedding

2012-02-26T11:40:00.004-08:00

This adorable couple got their fabulous wedding featured on Style Me Pretty last week. Emilia from Sweet Emilia Jane covered every detail, including design for The Floral Lab. Photos by Nancy Neil Photography. Simply beautiful. Check out more of the details over at SMP.

just for fun.

2012-02-01T14:16:00.000-08:00

{leigh anne}

{tayler}

{alise}

{nicole}

Hooray for interns!

2011-12-27T17:56:00.000-08:00

Love these two because:

They love flowers.

They are friends with one another.

They take a lot of pictures of them jumping.

They are super positive.

They are go-getters.

They have ideas.

They love Miles.

They make yummy beet and goat cheese pizza... and brussel sprouts. {yay dinner parties!}

Please meet and welcome Alise and Tayler. They have joined The Floral Lab team and you'll be seeing a lot more of them this wedding season.

Holiday Inspired Centerpieces

2011-12-16T22:37:00.000-08:00

Fall Inspired Centerpieces

2011-10-18T16:34:00.000-07:00

What better way to pass time on this fine fall day than to take a trip to the flower market to pull some fall flower and foliage goodies for our fall inspired centerpieces. My interns were hard at work placing each stem into their antique urns just so. I think they all turned out perfectly! We'll keep playing with flowers in the off-season and provide more holiday design inspiration in December and February. Now go enjoy a chai tea latte and burn that pumpkin spice candle!

Moroccan Nights Tablescape as Featured in Exquisite Weddings

2011-10-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the idea of global romance Moroccan-style, Sitting in a Tree Events put a new spin on a romantic backyard wedding or private party. Deep fuchsia and coral with gilded accents and dark rustic wood, a simple yet beautiful aesthetic. The florals were created with coral charm peony and garden roses. Paper goodies were designed by Brightly Designed and the yummy food was provided by MIHO Gastrotruck.

Pick up your copy of the new Exquisite Weddings magazine for other inspiring tabletop designs. Hop on over to their blog, the bride suite, for a behind the scenes video of the shoot.

Exquisite Weddings 2011 Fall/Winter Issue

2011-10-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

Make sure you pick up the newest issue of Exquisite Weddings magazine. The Floral Lab hooked up with an amazing team of creatives to design a beautiful tablescape. We can't wait to share more with you soon!

You can pre-order here. Engaged? EWM invites you to celebrate the launch of their Fall 2011 issue on October 12th at The Dana on Mission Bay from 6:30-8:30. The Floral Lab will be there as well as San Diego's premier wedding insiders. Come mingle and introduce yourself to us!

Welcome fall.

2011-10-02T19:53:00.001-07:00

In love with this stunning fall arrangement designed by Emilia for The Floral Lab delivered to Condors Nest Ranch this past weekend. More details from this fall beauty coming soon.

Pies, boots, lace, and country tunes.

2011-10-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

Here are some iphone photos from a recent wedding in Julian. We cannot wait to share more details of this country stunner!

THE FLORAL LAB WANTS YOU!!!

2011-09-21T14:39:00.000-07:00

As we near the end of 2011 and prepare for what looks to be an exciting 2012, The Floral Lab is seeking a freelance floral design assistant. We're looking for one hard-working, reliable individual who can commit to working at least 3 days a week during the busy wedding season. Prior design experience is a MUST and you will be compensated.

If you're interested in working for us, please contact Leigh Anne at leigh[at]theflorallab[dot]com with a resume and a little information about yourself.

WE ARE ALSO SEEKING INTERNS, VOLUNTEERS, AND ENTHUSIASTS!

Real Wedding: Hayley + John

2011-09-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

Hayley and John said their vows and threw one heck of a party on the rooftop of the 10th Avenue Theatre in San Diego. Such and fun and easy going couple. Congratulations to you both!

The bouquets were designed with succulents, air plants, ranunculus, protea, freesia, and craspedia.

Real Wedding: Eunice + Dan {Sneak Peek}

2011-09-20T18:03:00.000-07:00

I LOVE everything about this wedding day! I not only had the opportunity to work with such a sweet couple, but a dream team of Sitting in a Tree Events and Studio Castillero. I'm in awe of their talent (and luck for me we get to work together again this weekend)! The Estancia La Jolla was the perfect site for this New York couple.

Real Wedding: Stacy + Ozhan {Sneak Peek}

2011-09-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

Stacy and Ozhan wed at a beautiful private estate in Rancho Santa Fe. Coordinated by Sweet Emilia Jane and captured by Jackie Wonders made the day feel effortless and fun from start to finish.

Real wedding: Miki + Russell {Sneak Peek}

2011-07-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

Point Vicente Interpretive Center was the site of this lovely Sweet Emilia Jane planned and styled wedding. Katie Neal did a beautiful job capturing this super cute couple and all the details of their wedding day. More pretty coming soon.

Real Wedding: Kaitlyn + Justin {Sneak Peek}

2011-07-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

Another beautifully detailed wedding by the fabulous Carter and Cook. I cannot say enough about these girls. What natural talents they are! The bride, Kaitlyn, gathered pewter containers at flea markets during her time in spent in Germany. With the addition of pheasant feathers, antlers, chandeliers, and a private barn setting this wedding was perfection. You're sure to see more of this stunning couple's wedding day captured by Bonnie Tsang in the months to come.

Kaitlyn + Justin: Same Day Premiere by Aqua Vivus Productions

2011-06-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

I had the absolute pleasure of designing for this fun-loving couple. I was super excited for this one. This wedding was absolutely stunning! I cannot wait to show you pictures by Bonnie Tsang and all the details by Carter and Cook. Until then, enjoy this same day premiere by Aqua Vivus.

Justin + Kaitlyn Same Day Premiere from AQUA VIVUS on Vimeo.

Print: Paper Mache {Sneak Peek}

2011-05-25T19:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a digital sneak peek for an upcoming issue of Paper Mache magazine. The oh so talented Jennifer Altman snapped Polaroid shots of stunning little girls wearing over sized floral head-pieces, necklaces, and this wrist-piece. I cannot wait to share the Polaroid shots and the details of the issue. Until then....

Real Wedding: Lauren + Chris

2011-05-25T18:28:00.000-07:00

This wedding is near and dear to my heart as I've known Chris and Lauren for some time. I had the pleasure of designing for and attending their wedding held at Studio 450 in Manhattan. Aaron Almendral was their photographer who did a wonderful job capturing their love and the fun had by all in attendance. The venue is all white with floor to ceiling views of Manhattan. A clean and simple palette of white and yellow with touches of spring green set the tone for this modern wedding. The ceremony was designed with tall forsythia branches, a bridal bouquet with tulips, and centerpieces with ranunculus, daffodils, and tulips. Another good friend, Lori, of Paper and Thread designed the invitations and menus.

Real Wedding: Melinda + Devin

2011-05-25T18:03:00.000-07:00

Sean Walker beautifully captured Melinda and Devin's love for one another. Melinda and Devin wanted a clean and modern look with a bit of a natural feel as well for their wedding held at Tower 23. The white and turquoise color palette paired perfectly with this oceanfront venue. Bouquets and centerpieces were designed with garden roses, lisianthus, freesia, ranunculus, scabiosa, and dusty miller.

Congratulations to you both!

Upcoming Project

2011-04-04T10:58:00.001-07:00

I'm fortunate to live upstairs from noted photog, Jennifer Altman. She is shooting a spread in Polaroid for Paper Mache - an Australian kids magazine and asked that I create over-styled, avant-garde, floral headpieces. YES, YES, YES! Jen's work is stunning and Paper Mache is such a rad magazine. I'm so excited to be a small part.

{photo: Jennifer Altman}

She took this photo of her daughter shot with new film Polaroid is making. It looks like it could have been shot over 100 years ago {love}. The film also is available in color so the flowers should really pop!

See more of Jen's work here.

More Bohemian Beauty

2011-03-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

A little Brooklyn in LA

2011-03-29T09:34:00.000-07:00

The Little Flower School under the direction of the uber talented Sarah Ryhanen of Saipua and Nicolette Owen of Nicolette Camille travelled up and down the golden coast to share their love of floral design with their many admirers.

Emilia worked it for The Floral Lab and what a beautiful arrangement she made. Can't help but to notice the champagne topper too. Cheers to flowers and great design!

Styled Bohemian Shoot: 100 Layer Cake

2011-03-28T12:37:00.001-07:00

In case you missed it yesterday, this AMAZING styled shoot was featured on 100 Layer Cake. Emilia and Tori killed it. An intimate wedding amongst friends on the beach that captures the free-spirit of gypsies. And hello.....what a georgous couple, right? They're actually getting married very soon. Their love and all the details of the day were documented beautifully and with ease by Katie Neal. A lot of work went into this day and many (so many) great people contributed to make it possible. This is what happens when you surround yourself with talented, fun loving, and passionate people.

Check out the feature on 100 Layer Cake and visit Katie Neal's blog to see more photos.

Published: Exquisite Weddings Magazine Spring/Summer 2011

2011-03-28T11:37:00.000-07:00

Double Feature!

Inside the pages of Exquisite Weddings Magazine's March/April 2011 issue you'll find Nicole and Christian's Real Wedding featured as well as a bouquet shoot. Make sure to pick up a copy and get inspired!

Part 1.

Shot by the fabulous girls of Joielala, our bouquet is No. 7. Designed with garden roses, freesia, ranunculus, mini cymbidium orchids, blue thistle, dusty miller, a succulent, and tied with navy blue ribbon, this bouquet would be perfect for a seaside wedding. For more close ups of our bouquet and all the other beauties that didn't appear in the magazine, visit the Joielala blog.

Part 2.

Remember this pretty couple? Nicole and Christian's dog themed wedding is featured as a Real Wedding in the issue. Held at the Thursday Club in Point Loma, this wedding was all about those doggone details! So happy to have designed for such a warm and welcoming couple and worked alongside Heather of Amorology. The day was beautifully captured The Youngrens, a husband and wife team.

Courted by Ralph

2011-03-02T08:29:00.000-08:00

I've been luck to have been a part of Issues 01, 02, and 05, of Nonpareil Magazine, an online magazine that approaches weddings and other occasions with a focus on hip, stylish, do-it-yourself projects and inspiration.

In the latest issue, which you can view here, the world of fashion inspired beautifully crafted tablescapes and entertaining ideas. Our Courted by Ralph themed shoot was, of course, inspired by designer Ralph Lauren and honored his iconic style. The concept for the shoot was developed and styled by Victoria Hudgins and shot by Jackie Wonders. The cake and desserts were artfully whipped up by Melody Brandon.

The floral arrangement for the dessert table was simple, classic, and elegant designed with green goddess calla lilies. A bit of whimsey came into play with the tennis balls designed with kermit mums.

BHLDN (pronounced "Beholden")

2011-02-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

Anthropologie finally jumped on the "Anthro-inspired" wedding band wagon with the launch of their new bridal (and bridesmaid) dress line, BHLDN, set to launch on 2.14.11. Yup, what better day than Valentine's Day?! Wedding dresses will be priced from $1,000 to $4,000 while bridesmaid dresses $200 to $600. They will also feature designers like Tracy Reese, Fleur Wood, and Catherine Deane.

BHLDN didn't stop at dresses. They will feature designer accessories such as headpieces and jewelry and wedding decor items such as cake toppers and candelabras. For all the goods, make sure you log on to the BHLDN site on Monday. Do you think it'll crash? Hope they're ready.

These one is my favorite....

but I'd still choose my Melissa Sweet gown over any of them.

A sneak peek at genius.

2011-02-10T17:53:00.000-08:00

This is exciting! Emilia of Sweet Emilia Jane (and Manager+Designer for The Floral Lab) teamed up with Tori of Sitting in a Tree Events to create this fresh and forward thinking photo shoot shot by Katie Neal. Together, they pulled together an army of super talented guys and gals. While I missed not being on location, I was able to contribute floral design inspiration from NYC. You'll just love Emilia's floral design detail! I'm sure all who were present would say they were part of something special. You're going to see a lot of this one in months to come. Stay tuned.

Special Delivery to an Upper East Sider

2011-02-01T16:38:00.000-08:00

Twitter is a wonderful thing. I'm a newbie in NYC and thought what better way to reach out to NYers than to send out a simple tweet. I would deliver an arrangement to the first Brooklyn or Manhattan based follower to put The Floral Lab over 500 followers. And the winner was: @nestnestnest or Tamara Stephenson.

Tamara is a residential interior designer journaling her experiences through her blog Nest by Tamara.

Designed with sahara roses, raspberries, dusty miller, anemone, ranunculus, succulents, and astrantia, I really fell in love with the neutral color palette. Soft and pretty.

a year in review

2011-01-23T19:02:00.000-08:00

This posting pretty much brought me to tears. Please read and then I'll explain why.

I love and miss these talented girls so much. Many of the florals in the pictures they included in their "The Best of Two Thousand and Ten" post were designed by The Floral Lab. I have been fortunate enough to work alongside Ashlyn and Heather over the years. True friendships have developed. We've laughed. We've cried. They are so genuine and creative, fun and fresh. They make me a better floral designer. Here's to an amazing 2011 girls!

Catch Carter and Cook at HITCHED at The Ace Hotel in Palm Springs. They'll be blending army chic with ballerina glam. No doubt it will attract attention!

xxoo

Random pics of pretty

2011-01-23T16:56:00.000-08:00

I know I've been slacking in the blog postings lately, my last being last year! Lots of weddings over the summer {I did post new pics on the website} and a move east has attributed to the delay. Don't fret - lots of exciting things are on the horizon and will be documented on this much neglected blog. The website is in the process of getting an update also. People of NYC have to know The Floral Lab is here and ready to design lots of pretty.

I was flipping through pictures on my iphone and found these. They may have been tweeted but never made the website.

Bougainvillea clippings from the yard contained in a vintage glass toothpick holder. My favorite.

Dahlia from the farmers market.

Centerpieces for a friend's baby shower on the farm .

An arrangement of leftover flowers from a photo shoot.

An arrangement for delivery.

Flowers from a friend's wedding proudly displayed at the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs...the morning after.

Holiday arrangements sold at Lion in the Sun in Brooklyn.

Buy in Brooklyn

2010-11-30T19:09:00.000-08:00

The Floral Lab will be making its East Coast debut during the month of December as part of Buy in Brooklyn's 4th Annual Snowflake Celebration. Floral goodies will be for sale at Lion in the Sun located at 232 7th Ave, corner of 4th street in Park Slope on December 16th. Stop by and say hello. I would love to meet you. Plus, everything in the store is 15% off!

You'll also be able to support more store employees doing their thing on the side! Check em out...they're awesomely talented ladies.

Stephanie Land

Mallory Larson

Erica Rothchild here and here

Read about the Snowflake Celebration here. Come out to support and show some Brooklyn love!

The Perfect "January Wedding" Song

2010-11-24T09:47:00.000-08:00

Getting married in January and don't have a wedding song yet? Check out this song called "January Wedding" by the Avett Brothers. So fitting and the lyrics are sweet.

She keeps it simple

And I am thankful for her kind of lovin'

'Cause it's simple

No longer do we wonder if we're together

We're way past that

And I've already asked her

So in January we're gettin' married

She's talkin' to me with her voice

Down so low I barely hear her

But I know what she's sayin'

I understand because my heart and hers are the same

And in January we're gettin' married

And I was sick with heartache

And she was sick like Audrey Hepburn when I met her

But we would both surrender

[ From: http://www.metrolyrics.com/january-wedding-lyrics-avett-brothers.html ]

True love is not the kind of thing you should turn down

Don't ever turn it down

I hope that I don't sound to insane when I say

There is darkness all around us

I don't feel weak but I do need sometimes for her to protect me

And reconnect me to the beauty that I'm missin'

And in January we're gettin' married

No longer does it matter what circumstances we were born in

She knows which birds are singin'

And the names of the trees where they're performin' in the mornin

And in January we're gettin' married

Come January let's get married

Fall In Love (Some More)

2010-11-22T17:11:00.000-08:00

For a look at the second fall inspired tablescape with Carter and Cook Event Co. and Jill Thomas, head on over to Snippet & Ink. Here's a peek at what you'll find:

Persimmons, pears, pomegranates, succulents, ranunculus, mini persimmons, privet, broom corn pods, ilex berries, pincushion protea, and berzelia berries, were all used in the design. LOVING all that texture!

Carter and Cook provides all the great DIY details seen in these two shoots. Click here to visit their blog.

Fall in Love

2010-11-22T06:53:00.000-08:00

This morning on Snippet & Ink: Carter and Cook provides great DIY inspiration with a colorful paper garland and gold sequin place mats and swizzle sticks.

Posh Paperie designed these lovely heart locket menus and key place card tags.

The centerpieces were designed with cockscomb and roses. The bouquet was made of bouganvilla.

{Photography by Jill Thomas}

Bouganvilla was the perfect choice for this photo shoot. However, out of water, the life of this paper-like blossom is short.

Real Wedding: Sarah+Kevin {Sneak Peek}

2010-11-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

Real Wedding: Monica +Elliot

2010-11-17T06:52:00.000-08:00

Bright with a bit of whimsy were words used to describe the wedding of Monica and Elliot who shared their vows on August 21st at the La Jolla Bridge Club. The day was coordinated by the lovely Courtney Toney of Joyful Weddings and Events.

Monica's nine bridesmaids carried posy bouquets of billy balls, oncidium orchids, and china mums. Elliot and his groomsmen wore boutonnieres designed with billy balls.

Flowing turquoise satin ribbon were placed on the chairs lining the aisle. Small, medium, and large button mum pomanders resting atop cylinder vases of varying heights provided the backdrop for the ceremony.

I made a wooden box, painted it white, accented it with coordinating ribbon, and filled it with wheatgrass to serve as the escort card display. The tablescapes were designed using bud vases containing billy balls, rectangular vases containing china mums, and eiffel tower vases containing oncidium orchids. For that bit of whimsy (and a pop of orange), Monica provided goldfish for some of the tables and clocks served as table numbers.

(Photos by Anjuli of Photorange )

A Big Apple Announcement

2010-11-12T08:03:00.000-08:00

Fact: I moved to Brooklyn, New York.

Fact: The Floral Lab is still alive and thriving and will continue to do so throughout Southern California.

A job offer from Tiffany & Co for the husband and an opportunity for me to establish The Floral Lab NYC.... too good to pass up. I'll be taking the next few months to get settled in our new apartment and get The Floral Lab's Brooklyn studio up and ready to take on 2011 clients.

I'm beyond excited to welcome Emilia to The Floral Lab! She's has taken the reins and will be managing and designing beautiful floral decor for the business. You may remember that we were paired for the 1st Hitched event in Los Angeles a few months back. She's been super helpful in pulling together the last four weddings of the year and is a natural talent. I couldn't be happier with the relationship that has evolved and cannot wait to see what the future holds. Bi-coastal floral decor domination, perhaps? A girl can dream. Note: Emilia also provides personalized event design, planning, coordination, and beautiful handcrafted decor!

Please continue to refer your clients to The Floral Lab SD and if you know of anyone getting married within the 5 boroughs of NYC, I'm available to meet for a consultation. If you're a photographer, planner, or paper goods designer and are traveling to NYC for a client or for fun, I'd love to schedule a photo shoot with you.

I have a lot of blogging to do highlighting weddings and photo shoots from this past summer and cannot wait to share them with you. Keep checking back for all the exciting SoCal and NYC happenings!

Welcome Emilia!

Real Wedding: Nicole + Christian {Sneak Peek}

2010-11-09T14:14:00.000-08:00

More to follow...

Real Wedding: Kelsey + Jordan {Sneak Peak}

2010-10-30T21:27:00.000-07:00

Photography by Sean Walker

Real Wedding: Daniella + Dan {Sneak Peek}

2010-10-19T08:32:00.000-07:00

Photo by Meurer Image Photography

La Jolla's Estancia Resort and Spa was the location where Daniella and Dan exchanged their vows and became Mr. & Mrs. Sloan on July 23rd, 2010.

Romantic. Natural. Garden. Words used to describe Daniella and Dan's wedding day. Daniella was the biggest breath of fresh air. She has the sweetest heart and was just the most stunning bride. Look at that dress!

Congratultations Daniella and Dan!

Real Wedding: Lauren + Caleb

2010-10-12T09:46:00.001-07:00

Lauren and Caleb's ceremony and reception took place at the Red Horse Barn in Huntington Beach on August 14th. The location set the tone for a wedding full of natural and organic details designed by the fabulous team of Carter and Cook Event Co. The photos by Jill Thomas were stunning and really captured the emotion of the day.

Lauren's bouquet was designed with garden roses, scabiosa pods, dusty miller, silver brunia, sola wood flowers, and star of bethlehem. Her bridesmaids carried posy bouquets of sola wood flowers, dusty miller, and silver brunia. All of the bouquets were wrapped in burlap and accented with natural twine. Caleb and his groomsmen wore boutonnieres of sola wood flowers and natural sticks. The centerpieces were designed after a centerpiece that Lauren had found and absolutely fell in love with. Wooden crates (rented from Atelier Joya - so nice!) held olive branches, dusty miller, hydrangea, and gardenias.

Carter and Cooked designed the ceremony backdrop and all of the table top details: the burlap runner accented with lace, gold rope wrapped around the votive candles, wooden utensils tied on fabric napkins with natural twine, and bottles of water with table numbers displayed. The natural and organic details that went into this wedding were amazing and added to an already beautiful wedding day.

Congratulations Lauren and Caleb! xxoo

Runway Bouquets

2010-10-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

Here are snapshots of the bouquets that were sent down the runway at Hitched, taken by yours truly.

The first bouquet was designed with Cattelya orchids.

The second bouquet was designed with cockscomb, ranunculus, mini calla lilies, snowberry, roses, and cymbidium orchids.

{love}

From Inspiration Board To Reality

2010-10-11T14:50:00.000-07:00

I approached my first meeting with Emilia, of Sweet Emilia Jane and my Hitched partner-in-crime, with a bunch of energy. I hoped that I hadn't scared her off after using the words "street chic" and "modern" as my inspiration for our Hitched table design. I wanted to do something different, something other than the wildflower look that has flooded the blogs. Don't get me wrong, I love wildflowers, mason jars, and all things anthro, but I thought that Hitched would be a great venue to change it up a bit and think outside the box. Here's the inspiration board Emilia designed after our meeting {she totally rocked it}:

I've seen a lot of engagement pictures using graffitied walls as a backdrop. It's perfect, super colorful, interesting, and fun. Exist 1981 created the most amazing designs for our cinder blocks that we used to contain white hydrangea and phalaenopsis orchids. Throw in some gimp wrapped votives, silverware dipped in white paint, hot pink chevron napkins, crystal candlesticks, chilewich place mats, some rock candy, and we've got our table.

Hitched and the Smog Shoppe overflowed with talent and provided incredible inspiration for brides-to-be. A most genuine thank you to:

Paige Appel, Kelly Harris, and Audrey Woolen for creating such a venue for the modern day bride-to-be and asking The Floral Lab to come play.

The Smog Shoppe for being a gracious host.

Exist 1981 for artwork that was beyond our expectations.

Sarah Yates and all the talented photographers that snapped pictures of our table and the event.

All the blogs that featured Hitched.

Lastly, Sweet Emilia Jane for being the raddest partner {you haven't seen the last of us - wink wink}.

Hitched takes over the Ace Hotel & Swim Club in Palm Springs on January 30, 2011. See who got snagged here!

A Hitched Farewell

2010-10-10T17:23:00.001-07:00

There has been a lot of blog love for Hitched. For those of you who missed it, Hitched was the wedding event of the year. To be a part of something so great was so overwhelming. The love, support, and encouragement was truly inspiring.

Hitched from Shark Pig on Vimeo.

Real Wedding: Monica +Elliot {Sneak Peek}

2010-10-04T22:32:00.000-07:00

Photo by Photorange Photography

Hitched: Sneak Peek

2010-10-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

Photo by Sarah Yates

Inspired by great packaging and product.

2010-09-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

While shopping this weekend, I stopped by one of my favorite stores, Grounded, in Encinitas. As I was checking out, the owner was unwrapping a new jewelry line for the store. I was instantly attracted to the packaging and immediately picked up a pair of earrings. They were packaged in a mini glass bottle. I was sold!

verre new york: let them wear glass is the company name. Verre is the french word for glass and each piece is handmade by the designers. I couldn't agree more with their belief that simple is elegant and that less is more. Event better is that 10% of all verre new york sales goes to selected charities.

Their necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets are a perfect gift.

Feeling inspired by great packaging and product.

Real Wedding: Molly + Donovan

2010-09-18T23:26:00.000-07:00

The O'Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs provided the outdoor setting for Molly and Donovan's summer wedding. Fun was had by all in attendance at the Ace Hotel in the days leading up to and the day after their big day. Their wedding day was effortlessly coordinated by Carter and Cook Event Co. and captured by Windy Dougall Photography.

A natural beauty, Molly is one of the sweetest girls I have ever met and I'm so happy to have her as a friend. She is fun loving and just radiates positivity. Her friends and family mean everything to her and she tells you that often.

Molly's bouquet was designed of light pink astilbe.

The bridesmaids bouquets were designed of white astilbe.

Molly's dad looked as sharp as could be to walk his daughter down the aisle.

The ceremony was designed of a variety of cylinder vases filled with rocks and lit pillar candles. Simple and stunning.

The happy couple, ready to get the party started.

The tablescapes were designed with a combination of ghost wood with succulents, bottles with billy balls, and large mason jar terraniums. All were able to withstand the desert heat and are still thriving today.

Dear Darling created Molly and Donovan's wedding invitations and cute table numbers.

All the sweet treats were provided by Melody over at Sweet and Saucy Shop. I don't think there was a piece of cake or mini cupcake left on the table at the end of the night. So yummy!

I had so much fun working with Molly in the days leading up to the wedding. I had a weekend in Palm Springs to talk about the floral design and chill with a good friend by the pool. I was wined and dined at Donovan's family restaurant, Guiseppe's Pizza and Pasta, and got a taste of the mouth watering food that would be served at the wedding. Seriously, when you find yourself in the desert, you have to eat there....and you have to order a side of spinach!

Thank you so much for asking me to share in your special day. Love you guys!

xoxo

Real Wedding: Lauren + Caleb {Sneak Peek}

2010-09-18T23:11:00.000-07:00

Lauren and Caleb's stunning wedding was captured by Jill Thomas Photography. Seriously, check out her website. Not only is her work beautiful, but she's such a joy to work with!

More to come.

Nonpareil Magazine Issue 5: A Spectrum of Inspiration

2010-08-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of working with Vicky of City Cradle Design and Jackie of Jackie Wonders Photography for Issue 5 of the newly designed Nonpareil Magazine. Vicky had such great vision and direction for the shoot and all the DIY details were perfectly captured by Jackie. Two amazing girls to work with, these two. The shoot was more like three girls hanging out, crafting, designing, and laughing. I loved every minute of it! Get inspired and get crafting.

Purple, so hot right now. Purple.

Real Wedding: Julie + Forest

2010-08-25T17:57:00.000-07:00

Although Julie wanted Forest to take her last name of Green, Julie and Forest became Mr. and Mrs. Stanley after an intimate ceremony on Friday, July 16th on the grounds of City Hall in downtown San Diego. Their wedding weekend was captured by Melanie of Goodnickles Photo.

Julie carried a bouquet of dinner plate dahlia, scabiosa, tweedia, and delphinium wrapped in a natural twine.

Forest wore a boutonniere designed with scabiosa and tweedia.

The relaxed reception took place on Sunday, July 18th in the Walled Garden located at the SD Botanical Gardens in Encinitas. A simple mason jar arrangement was designed with a dinner plate dahlia, delphinium, scabiosa, seeded eucalyptus, stock, and nigella and placed on the guestbook table.

Thank you Julie and Forest for allowing me to design for your beautiful wedding. You're such a sweet couple to work with and were so fun to get to know. Only the best! xxoo

Come see me at HITCHED!

2010-08-04T21:14:00.000-07:00

Click on the Hitched logo on the right and purchase your ticket to what is sure to be one of the biggest and most badass events ever!

Real Wedding Nichole and Chris {Sneak Peek}

2010-07-31T22:12:00.000-07:00

Nichole and Chris became Mr. and Mrs. Gregg at the oh so amazing Condor's Nest Ranch in Pala on June 26th. Their "vintage east meets country west" theme was beautifully captured by David Champagne. More details to come.

I heart ML

2010-07-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

June 23rd marked our 3 year anniversary. My husband and I like to look at our wedding pictures and think back to that day. We laughed, we ate, we danced....a lot. Our ceremony and reception were held at the historic Eisenhower House in Newport, Rhode Island. Kristin Spencer captured our day perfectly. She and her husband Jared are awesome and we've become great friends over the years. I hope you enjoy our photos.

Some details of the day: Matt and I made buttons with icons that were designed by our good friend, Dustin Ortiz. He also made our save the dates and invitations. He's a super talented artist. Votives served as seating assignments. We set up a photo booth for guests to enjoy. They took home pictures to remember the night, some sweet and innocent, some naughty. Little did they know we were able to view all of the pictures taken that night. Haha, classic!

I splurged and bought myself a pair of Prada flats. Matt added some flair with a vibrant belt. I gave all my bridesmaids necklaces from one of my favorite stores in Encinitas, Dreamy. They were designed by Chris Bolton and had each of my friend's monogram engraved on the silver charm. I chose my color palette based on that store!

Our ceremony was simple, focusing on our love for each other, our families, and friends who were there celebrating with us.

When Matt decided to take our relationship to the next level, he brought me to a special place that was special to him and his close friends, a small bar in Providence called The Custom House Tavern. It was jazz night and the "jazz beaux" as they were known at the time were playing their usual set. Ken "Kenny" Carpenter and Robert "Buzz" Buzzerio, those two names stuck with me. We discovered The Custom House had closed when it came time to plan our wedding, but I thought about how cool it would be to have the "jazz beaux" play at our wedding. So I began searching and was having a difficult time finding Kenny and Buzz. One day, I happened upon a music student who provided a phone number for Buzz, his former trumpet teacher. It worked. I found them and they agreed to play music for our ceremony and cocktail hour. Truly EPIC!

After announcing our wedding party, we danced our first dance to Dustin Kensrue's "Pistol." His words were so fitting of the two of us and our relationship. Dustin himself hand wrote and sent us the lyrics to this song on a piece of paper for us. So awesome!

The Eisenhower House in Fort Adams State Park is an absolutely stunning place to get married. Ceremony and reception in one spot, right on the water overlooking Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. We bused our guests from their hotel to the site by yellow school bus. This was much appreciated after a night of partying.

Take a look at that food. It took my father a while to warm up to the idea of having meals served in martini glasses. "How does one cut their foot exactly?" Let me just say that our caterer killed it! The food was so good. Family and friends still comment three years later. Hungry yet? Save room for dessert.

We chose to forego the traditional wedding cake, another idea not quite understood by my father, until the words "Coldstone Creamery" station were uttered. Enough said. Our caterer had the cold stone slab and all the fix ins. Everyone loves ice cream, right? It was a hit!

How can I go any further without talking about our flowers. I had always loved orchids, still do, and I wanted a centerpiece that guests could take home with them. Cymbidium orchids were chosen for the bridal and bridesmaid bouquets. White and fuchsia phalaenopsis orchid plants in modern black square containers were the perfect fit, clean and simple. Stoneblossom did an amazing job with the design.

One of the best compliments that we received was from our caterer's waitstaff. They came up to us at the end of the evening to tell us that our wedding was the most fun wedding they have ever worked.

THE best of the best:

Dress - Melissa Sweet from Chez Bride Moderne

Shoes - Prada

Bridesmaid dresses - J.Crew

Necklaces - Dreamy + Chris Bolton Jewelry

Venue - Eisenhower House

Photographer - Kristin Spencer

Photobooth - RI Photobooths

Florist - Stoneblossom

Caterer - Russell Morin (special thanks to Heather Morin who went above and beyond for us and our guests)

Band - The Jazz Beaux, Ken Carpenter + Robert "Buzz" Buzzerio

Invitation + Button Designs - Dustin Ortiz

Tent - ABC Rent-A-Tent Inc.

First song - Dustin Kensrue's "Pistol"

Real Wedding: Julie + Forest {Sneak Peek}

2010-07-20T18:57:00.000-07:00

Julie and Forest said their "I dos" and became Mr. and Mrs. Stanley on Friday with an intimate gathering on the lawn of the County Administration Building in San Diego. On Sunday, they celebrated with friends and family at Quail Gardens in Encinitas. Congratulations Julie and Forest. Enjoy your two weeks in Costa Rica!

*Photos by The Floral Lab

LBB

2010-07-03T12:44:00.000-07:00

As a small business owner, I'm constantly setting little goals for my company. There are also those few big goals that I hope to someday reach. It's just little old me here running this ship (with a lot of love and patience from my biggest fan, my husband). I'm with my clients from start to finish. I meet with them, design a proposal, purchase, prep, arrange, set up, and break down. So, meeting those few big goals could take some time.

Well, I am overjoyed to blog today because I reached one of my big goals. It came unexpectedly and I have to admit, it made me a bit nervous. A few weeks back I was asked to be a member of Style Me Pretty's Little Black Book of San Diego Floral vendors. Style me Pretty is not just another wedding blog. It's so well respected and it's the go to blog for today's modern bride.

One of my favorite features is the Inspiration Board. I meet with a lot of brides who need a visual. This wedding planning tool allows you to pull all your inspiration together to create a cohesive look and view other boards created by others. I think it's genius!

Thank you Style Me Pretty for this most amazing opportunity. I hope to make you proud.

Tara + Dom: "Day" After Shoot

2010-06-28T18:51:00.000-07:00

This was a special day for Tara and Dom, termed the "Day" After shoot, the lovely and talented Katie Neal snapped pictures of the two love birds nearly three years after they said their "I dos." You see, Tara and Dom were not happy with their wedding photos and they wanted pictures they could hang in their home that captured their personalities. Katie did just that and got their story featured on Style Me Pretty!

Tara's bouquet was designed with ranunculus, sweet pea, scabiosa, basil, and oregano.

Lori of Paper and Thread Studio designed these super cute love notes, written by Tara and Don, that they exchanged during the shoot.

I just love this picture.

Katie, thank you for thinking of The Floral Lab and pulling together the fabulous team of Paper and Thread Studio, La Boheme, and Beauty to Be.

Real Wedding: Molly + Donovan {Sneak Peek}

2010-06-28T18:36:00.000-07:00

Good friends Molly and Donovan became Mr. and Mrs. Funkey in Palm Springs on 6/19/10. Here's just a little sneak peek captured by the oh so talented Windy Dougall.

The Floral Lab got snagged!

2010-06-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

SOMEONE PINCH ME PLEASE! I got snagged.

So, I received an email from the much admired Kelly of succulentLOVE and bash, please asking me to be a part of something great. She and her business partner, Paige, discussed the need for a modern curated wedding event. With their dear friend Audrey of Urbanic on board, they were on a mission to make their idea come to life and so HITCHED was created. The date: Thursday evening, September 23, 2010. The location: Smog Shoppe

Are you kidding me? Of course I said YES! This event is going to be so RAD! I'm nervous with excitement to have my work featured. My mind is flooded with design ideas. What will I come up with? You'll just have to wait and see.

To learn more about the event and see who got snagged, check out the HITCHED website and blog. Purchase tickets here and get ready to have some FUN!

The Floral Lab featured on WeTV

2010-06-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

I received an email a while back from the wonderful Jessica Solloway, a writer for WeTV. She was doing a feature on unique twists on a typical bouquet and asked me to submit my work. I was thrilled. Here are the two bouquets she chose and so cutely named:

Beautiful Bouquets: Herbal Delight

Beautiful Bouquets: Organically Elegant

View the entire feature here.

Flowers and furry friends.

2010-05-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

Special Feature :: Inspired Bride DIY Week :: Parts 2-4

2010-05-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to The Inspired Bride and Jackie Wonders for a fun DIY week. Boutonnieres galore!

Something Blue:

Country Charm:

Desert Bloom:

Special Feature :: Inspired Bride DIY Week :: Part 1

2010-05-03T10:12:00.001-07:00

Maddy from The Inspired Bride asked me to make some boutonnieres for their DIY week. I jumped at the chance because the blog rocks and I love making boutonnieres. They're quick and easy and you can utilize pretty much anything to create a sweet piece of art for your groom and his men. Special thanks to fab photog Jackie Wonders for coming up to the lab to snap these pics. You're the best Jackie! Click here for instructions on how to make this beauty.

Here's a sneak peek on what's to come this week. Stay tuned.

Real Wedding: Aimee+Colin

2010-04-18T21:25:00.000-07:00

Aimee and Colin were such a wonderful couple to work with. Their energy and excitement was contagious. The two, along with the talented girls of Carter and Cook, designed such a beautiful day enjoyed by all who attended. The ceremony and reception were held at the amazing Condor's Nest Ranch in Pala. The views stretch for miles and you really feel atop of the world. The day was so effortlessly captured by Colleen Sherman.

What a gorgeous bride. Aimee carried a bouquet designed with roses, ranunculus, hydrangea, hypericum berries, and peonies.

The girls carried simple posy bouquets designed with roses.

Look at that ceremony backdrop. Crazy, right?! Colin made this structure of reclaimed wood and old windows. Perfection!

The reception tables were family style. The tables had runners designed with shutters, old books, peaches, and a random eclectic mix of vases and flowers. Each time you looked down at the table, you noticed a handmade detail.

Simply stunning!

Bravo Baby Shower - La Mipa Organica Farm, Escondido,CA

2010-04-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

La Milpa Organica Farm in Escondido was the location of our friend's baby shower. Guests gathered under this most amazing tree to celebrate the the much anticipated arrival of baby Bravo.

Guests walked through a passion fruit covered archway on their way to the big tree.

Off to the left was this great man made structure.

Picnic tables lined with mason jar arrangements.

A close up of the centerpiece designed with dusty miller, sweet pea, chamomile, and ranunculus.

A craft station for the guests to draw pictures on fabric squares that will be made into a quilt for the baby's room. A huge hit with the kids.

The Mattson Two played amazing jazz throughout the show. Check these boys out. Trust me, you'll love them. Perfect for a a cocktail hour!

Nonpareil Magazine Issue 2: Naturally Sweet, Beautifully Bold

2010-04-12T15:13:00.001-07:00

After Issue 1 of Nonpareil Magazine launched, the talented Daisy Varley contacted me to assist her in creating the floral design for her tablescape featured in Issue 2. Issue 2 was all about color! The color palette Daisy was inspired by was made up of turquoise, creamy peony, honey yellow, saffron, and walnut. Natural with pops of color! For the natural elements, I knew I had to incorporate air plants for texture and because I just LOVE them! Pussy willow, birch, seeded eucalyptus rounded out the natural elements while the ranunculus, anemone, acacia, and chocolate cymbidium orchids added pops of color. All of the paper styling was created by Kristen Ketola of Dear Clementine Invitations.

Exquisite Weddings Magazine

2010-04-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege to work alongside the girls of Carter and Cook on this stunning, shabby chic inspired table top design for the Spring/Summer 2010 issue of Exquisite Weddings Magazine. The Floral Lab making its debut in a print magazine! Alyssa McNees, the Creative Director for the magazine referred to Carter and Cook and The Floral Lab as "fresh talent" and "newbies" who "went for a youthful, whimsical look." I couldn't have described who we are and what we're about any better!

It was an incredible feeling to be a part of this shoot and I hope to have another opportunity like it again soon. Go pick up a copy for yourself to see all the other inspirational table top designs. All of my thanks for the following team of people who made this shoot possible:

Exquisite Weddings Magazine www.exquisiteweddingsmagazine.com

Table Designers: Carter & Cook Event Co. www.carterandcookeventco.com

Florals: The Floral Lab www.theflorallab.com

Cake: Sweet and Saucy www.mysweetandsaucy.com

Linen: Classic Party Rentals www.classicpartyrentals.com

Paper Stylist: Love at First Invite www.loveatfirstinvite.com

Photography: Terri Rippee, Rippee Photography www.rippeephotoweddings.com

Location: Rancho Valencia Resort www.ranchovalencia.com

Print baby!

2010-03-31T18:57:00.000-07:00

The Floral Lab was asked by Carter and Cook Event Co. to contribute the floral design for a tabletop shoot for Exquisite Weddings Magazine. Of course, I jumped at the opportunity to work with Carter and Cook. The girls pulled together a great team to make this shoot happen two days before Christmas! The Spring/Summer 2010 issue is on stands NOW!

More to follow.....

Real Wedding: Erin + Michael

2010-03-12T15:54:00.000-08:00

The Maderas Golf Club in Poway was the location of this summer wedding. Erin's outgoing personality and Mike's Brittish reserve make them a perfect pair. So cute and so young, their energy was infectious! Photos by Rod Foster Photography.

The arch was designed with various greenery, hydrangea, and roses.

Erin's bouquet was designed with calla lillies, orchids, freesia, and roses.

Mike's handsome boutonniere was designed with a cymbidium orchid.

The bridesmaids carried bouquets designed of calla lillies. They are so classic and stunning on their own.

The mothers of the bride and groom carried small posy bouquets designed with cymbidium orchids.

The piece de resistance were the free standing shepherd hooks that I made for the patio. I searched far and wide for freestanding shepherd hooks and came up short so I decided to get my craft on. I wrapped them with smilex and hung rose pomanders and mason jar arrangements {later used as centerpieces). The bottom was accented with moss and a cymbidium orchid. The freestanding shepherd hooks are available for rent.

Wedding Chicks {Part II}

2010-03-12T14:50:00.000-08:00

The afternoon was devoted to an engagement session styled after the button brunch. Katie wore a dress from Anthropologie and Heather of Carter and Cook made the turquoise bow. So crafty that Heather! The felt flower is crafted with love from Ink and Button.

I created this oh so perfect bouquet of bright yellow acacia or "mimosa" and wrapped it with the button garland made by Carter and Cook seen in the earlier post.

It was easy for Katie and her husband Ryan to bring the love for the engagement shoot shot by Jessica Claire. This shoot is for the little homemaker in all of us!

All the little details by Carter and Cook and yummy button cookies made by Erica O'Brien.

A HUGE thank you to the Wedding Chicks for the opportunity to work with you and all who inspire me: Carter and Cook, Jessica Claire, Paper and Thread, Ink and Button. I hope to work with you all again soon. xoxo

Wedding Chicks {Part I}

2010-03-12T13:20:00.000-08:00

It all started with a tweet. I jumped at the chance to be a part of a bridal shower photo shoot for the wedding chicks blog. Next thing I know I'm sitting in a quaint little cafe brainstorming with a killer group of creative minds. Amy {one of the wedding chicks} gathered an all-star team for this shoot which was held at Cafe Mimosa in San Clemente.

Carter and Cook stole the show with their styling abilities. They were behind every last detail. That is what makes them so great. Working with them is a blessing. If you are a bride or hostess, you can relax and have piece of mind because they've got it covered. They go above and beyond your expectations every time.

Jessica Claire shot all of the beautiful images. Jessica was so fun to work with and she had us all laughing throughout the day. She came up with the key words for which the shoot was based: yellow and buttons. For all of you photogs out there, Jessica is the genious behind the camera bag company, shootsac.

For the centerpieces, I used three rectangular white vases. Clean, simple, and fresh. The white allowed the colors pop! The floral recipe was as follows: tulips, hydrangea, ranunculus, mini daffodils, and kumquats. Perfect for a Spring wedding or bridal shower.

Lori of Paper and Thread made all the paper goods for the shoot. I love the recipe boxes that served as the placecards. So cute! She made the invitations, menus, recipes, and the Cute as a Button sign. Lori's passion for all things paper is clear. She loves what she does and it shows in her work. She's also one of the nicest people you'll ever meet.

Erica of Erica O'Brien Cake Design. What can I say? I wish this girl lived closer because we'd hang out all the time. A fellow east coaster with an awesome personality. She makes you feel like you've known her for years. Her cakes were right on! Those flowers, those buttons, they're not real. They're made of fondant. Such talent! And look at those mini cakes, so cute! She also made button cookies for the afternoon engagement shoot.

What's a bridesmaid brunch without a bride and her bridesmaids? Three of the four models are photographers. Katie from Katie Neal Photograph y, Rachel from Studio Castillero, and Lauren from Bullock Productions. All the girls wore dresses from Ruche. Don't you just love the felt flowers on the recipe boxes and in Katie's hair? Those were made with love by Lisa Raser, the creator of Ink and Button. Everyone was talking about them!

The Wedding Chicks {Sneak Peek}

2010-02-19T23:14:00.000-08:00

{photo by Jessica Claire}

Here's a sneak peek from Jessica Claire of a photo shoot put on by The Wedding Chicks. The shoot was styled by the fabulous team of Carter and Cook and the super cute menu card was created by Paper and Thread. So many creative people came together to make this shoot amazing. They are all truly inspiring and I had the privilege to be a small part. Stay tuned. More details and credits to follow.

Love.

2010-02-14T14:18:00.001-08:00

I went non-traditional this Valentine's Day. No red roses, green fern, and baby's breath here! I jazzed up purple tulips in a clear glass vase with two beautiful white laces and accented them swarovski crystals.

Pretty pale pinks and whites for this second arrangement designed with ranunculus, tulips, queen anne's lace, white lilac, and anemone. I accented the vase with simple pale pink satin ribbon.

Nonpareil Magazine

2010-02-06T16:48:00.000-08:00

Maddy Hague of the Inspired Bride and Kristen Magee of Paper Crave have collaborated together to bring you Nonpareil Magazine, an online magazine focusing on hip, stylish, DIY projects and inspiration. Their first issue, Beautiful on a Budget, recently launched, and I was given the amazing opportunity to contribute. Coral and Shimmer was the theme, the shoot styled by Carter and Cook, the paper goods designed by Posh Paperie, and photos captured by Jackie Wonders.

Keep reading...The Floral Lab will be contributing to Issue #2!

For Pet Owners

2010-01-18T20:27:00.000-08:00

If you have animals in your home and you love to have fresh flowers and plants in your home, please take the time to review a listing of toxic {and non-toxic} plants identified by the ASPCA as having systematic effects on animals and/or intense effects on the gastrointestinal tract. It's not an all-inclusive list, but when in doubt, do your research.

Save the Honey Bee

2010-01-18T19:52:00.000-08:00

Bees and I don't get along. My husband tells me to stand there and let it do it's thing and that it's not interested in me. That is when I usually take off running. My fear stems from summer camp when I was a kid. I went blueberry picking and the boy next to me stepped on a bee hive. As all the others were yelling BEES!!! and running down the path to safety, there I stood, content in picking my berries...and covered in bees from head to toe. When I caught up to the others, the camp counselor was nice enough to pick up a very long stick off the ground and brush them off. {Yes, I was stung. Many times. All over.}

However, with that being said, the little buggers are in danger and I feel like I should throw up the white flag and surrender to my fear. Read more about the crisis below, but first enjoy this pretty picture of wildflowers.

There is a crisis underway, but few people know about it. An estimated 40-60% of honey bees in the United States died or were severely weakened in 2005. California has the largest beekeeping industry and lost 50% of their honeybees in 2005. Our most important crops: fruits, nuts, seeds, and many vegetables are the mainstay of our economy and provide the basics of a healthy human diet. Looking at it from another perspective: about a third of human food requires pollination and plants simply cannot grow without it.

Do a small part and purchase honey bee wildflower seed mix here.

Hello. My name is _________

2010-01-18T19:01:00.001-08:00

{Hello. My name is Leigh Anne. It's so nice to meet you.}

Photograph by Jackie Wonders

Let them eat cake!

2010-01-18T18:36:00.000-08:00

My husband and I chose not to do a cake for our wedding. It was a tough pill to swallow for the parents until we mentioned the idea of a cold stone creamery station. My dad's eyes lit up and immediately was sold on the idea. After all, everyone loves ice cream!

I do, however, come across a creatively designed cake every now and again. This is one of them. Super cute cake topper too!

Photography by Kristin Spencer

Cake by Mark Soliday of Confectionary Designs

Welcome 2010

2010-01-05T22:30:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite arrangement to date and it was delivered today to the winning bidder from the Animal House 2009 Event to benefit the Rancho Coastal Humane Society. Enjoy!

Check out the Rancho Coastal Humane Society's website. Adopt a pet, volunteer your time, or make a donation if and when you can. Every little bit helps!

Creating a tradition to savor…and to share.

2009-12-06T00:30:00.000-08:00

A must have for this holiday season! I just picked one up today at Dreamy. Seriously, this candle makes the best present, but I promise you'll pick one up for yourself too. Check out the whole Thymes collection.

Holiday Blooming Calendar

2009-12-04T23:04:00.000-08:00

{source: terrain at home}

::::The Inspired Bride::::

2009-12-04T21:34:00.000-08:00

The Floral Lab is on it's 1st wedding blog!!! The Inspired Bride is an awesome wedding blog providing inspiration for a hip and modern wedding. Thank you to The Inspired Bride for highlighting Kate and Daniel's wedding day.

Special thanks {again} to Carter + Cook, Posh Paperie, and He & She Photography. You're all so fun to work with and your energy is infectious!

None of this would have been possible without Kate and Daniel. You're wedding day was stunning and full of love. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it!

Kate + Daniel, Point Loma

2009-12-02T21:13:00.000-08:00

McCullough Park at Point Loma Nazzarene Univeristy was the backdrop for the stunningly beautiful and intimate ceremony of Kate and Daniel. I had the opportunity to work again with the girls of Carter & Cook and Posh Paperie and got to meet the super rad photographers, Randy and Erin, of He & She Photography. Kate and Daniel's love for each other was captured with ease. I especially loved all the details of the day.

I love this picture!

Ashley + Dave, Rhode Island

2009-11-10T18:28:00.000-08:00

First came the invitation, then came the question: "Want to do our flowers?" The answer was of course, "Yes!" How awesome is Ashley's fuschia bouquet?! Set against the wall of graffiti, her flowers really pop! It's one of my favorite photos to date captured by friend and noted photog, Kevin Trimmer. I also love how Ashley's bouquet was the perfect accessory to her shoes! The ceremony was held in Conanicut Battery National Historical Park in Jamestown, Rhode Island. A short walk down a tree lined path and you arrived at the ceremony site. The backdrop, the most amazing and beautiful old tree. The reception was held in the Kinney Bungalow at Sunset Farms in Narragansett, Rhode Island. It was a perfect fall day. Congratulations Ashley and Dave!

Bach Flower Essences

2009-11-04T23:33:00.000-08:00

"The actions of certain flowers, shrubs, and trees that grow in the wild raise our vibrations and open our channels for the reception of the Spiritual Self to flood our natures with the particular virtue we need, and wash out from us the fault that is causing the harm. They are able, like beautiful music or any glorious uplifting thing that gives us inspiration, to raise our very natures to bring us nearer to our Souls, and by that very act bring us peace and relieve our sufferings."

~ Dr. Edward Bach

So for my birthday, I enrolled myself into an introductory Bach Flower Essences class. Upon entering the class and meeting the instructor, she muscle tested me. What? Muscle test? I had never heard of such a thing. I held out my arm and without hesitation, she asked, "Are you tired?" My reply: "Yes" and "wow." Then she went in her bag of flower essences, pulled out the olive essence, and placed two drops in my mouth. With that....I was sold! This is fascinating stuff, flower essences and homeopathy.

I enjoyed the class very much, but did not act on impulse when the instructor passed around the sheet to enroll in the Bach Flower Essence Level II class. I practiced self restraint, passing up the purchase of the pack of 36 flower essences. Level II starts Monday, so I have to decide stat if I'm moving on to a more in depth study. I do have the laboratory to make the floral healing concoctions.......

More to come.

reduce, reuse, recycle

2009-10-18T20:07:00.000-07:00

Wedded 'Bliss'

2009-10-17T10:49:00.001-07:00

A sketch from Monique Lhuillier's soon-to-be-launched, less expensive bridal dress line. Photo courtesy of Monique Lhuillier

Ok girls....time to get excited. If you are like me, you have pulled wedding dress inspiration from the amazing Monique Lhuillier. Inspiration because her dresses are beautiful but slightly out of reach financially. Well, she has done something so lovely....she's appealing to the masses with her new 'Bliss' line of dresses. The line will offer the same trademark styles but the price will range from a reasonable $2,300-3,500. 15 available styles will be available soon at Monique Lhuillier retailers worldwide.

Friends and crazy good photographers, Kristin and Jared Spencer, are currently in NYC bridal fashion week. A whopping 42 runway shoots! If they snap some shots of the line, I'll try and get a picture to post.

As promised

2009-10-14T20:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the fabulous photos from the Out of the Box event captured by the very talented Julie Dentt of Journey of the Lens. Thank you again to the girls at Posh Paperie, Sweet and Saucy Shop and Wine Steals Point Loma. A very special thank you to the creative team of Carter and Cook Event Company for asking me to join them for such a fun event.

Picturzzzzz

2009-10-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

Long overdue pictures from the DWR in-store event.

My deconstructed store bought bouquet from Seaside Market, plus some left over orchids and callas.

Test tube vases at checkout with a single calla lily.

More callas.
The glamorous white phalaenopsis orchid under the much desired cellula chandelier.

Succulents! Love em.

The extras....awww.

creative minds

2009-10-02T18:16:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of creating a centerpiece for a tablescape designed by the incredibly creative team of Carter and Cook. The intimate event, which took place at the Wine Steals in Point Loma, was an opportunity to meet some of the industry's up and coming elite. The girls of Posh Paperie were on hand to display their custom holiday cards, gift tags, and invitations. Guests devoured custom desserts from Sweet and Saucy Shop that tasted as good as they looked. The whole evening was captured by the lovely Julie Dentt of Journey of the Lens. Please take some time to check out these amazing businesses and the talented girls behind them! Pictures to follow...

97 degrees

2009-09-24T20:46:00.000-07:00

Yup, 97 degrees is the forecast for Saturday. Designing for a whimsical wedding of white and pink. Picked up the flowers and they look amazing. I cannot wait to see it all come together. I made freestanding shepherd hooks for this one and I'm pretty excited to showcase them. I researched them to no end. It blows my mind that they aren't readily available for those brides having a ceremony on a patio or indoors. Lots of blogging about the idea and no action. So yeah, I got all DIY and made my own. New business venture? I think so. Booyah!

Design Within Reach+The Floral Lab

2009-09-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

Flowers, modern design, and wine....oh my! I am super excited and honored to take part in such a fantastic event. It's going to be one amazing night, so I hope you can make it.

Get Your Bid On

2009-09-06T16:27:00.000-07:00

The Rancho Coastal Humane Society Animal House 2009 Auction is Officially Open!

So what are you waiting for?....Bid for a floral arrangement designed with fresh seasonal blossoms by The Floral Lab now!

Whether you're looking for something unique for yourself, searching for a gift for the special someone, or looking to add a little adventure to your life, you're sure to find something in the auction catalog. Every bid helps support a great cause.

View all items here.

eames lounge chair update

2009-08-21T19:26:00.001-07:00

An amazing find for an incredible deal, a few bucks spent to get some broken parts repaired, some patience, a tiny bit of elbow grease and its back to perfect condition!

O'Natural

2009-08-20T21:28:00.000-07:00

The La Jolla Woman's Club set the scene for a fabulous luncheon held for employees of Kashi. They will be launching a natural lifestyle curriculum website. It's really cool and kind of a big deal. It will have tasks and activities and a wealth of information about natural lifestyle.

I created simple and natural arrangements. The lows designed with hydrangea, Queen Anne's lace, lady's mantle, chamomile, tweedia, and mint to add greenery and a subtle scent. The highs designed with calla lilies, curly willow branches, and hydrangea.

all things paper - all things unique

2009-08-16T15:11:00.000-07:00

For all of your paper needs, check out the neighborhood press blog and etsy store. Lori's little niche is combining fabric, sewing, and paper. Each of her designs is unique to each client and made of the finest quality paper. Made by hand and super cute!

my hidden oasis

2009-08-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite places to go relax and regroup, Bergamot Spa in Leucadia, has moved. I went to check out their new location on Vulcan and I was really taken back. I knew the new location would be just as amazing as their first, but it was even bigger and better than I imagined. Picture #1 above is where they do all of their nails. Off the left side of that building is where they do hair. Picture #2 above looks onto the grounds with the future site of the yoga studio to the left. Picture #3 captures a massage hut and meditation hut, both over a huge koi pond.

After a tour of the new grounds, it was off to what will eventually be their yoga studio for my 90 minute massage with Natalie, who I highly recommend! I pulled my power thought card and it couldn't have been more right on! I'll admit, I fell asleep during the massage. It was wonderfully relaxing.

Go check it out for yourself. Be prepared to leave the daily stressors at the door.

Jackie's Retirement Party ~ San Diego Yacht Club 08/15/09

2009-08-15T18:04:00.000-07:00

Possibly maybe one day.....