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Trends fascinate me. Who starts them, how they develop, and how some trends eventually become classic or even iconic is a bit of a mystery that I love trying to figure out. As a wedding florist I am constantly aware of patterns and trends in my biz and with my clients. I think it's both important and fun. Some of the trends I've watched have DEFINITELY faded (thank goodness) while some have stood the test of time (yay!)
One such look is the "Northwest feel." The first time I really dipped my toes into that look was at the Bravo wedding show a few years back. I was paired with Class Act Events in the Grand Ballroom at the Governor Hotel. For some reason both the coordinator and I had the exact same reaction to the room and thought the same thing that an over the top natural look that still oozes elegance would be perfect. Quite honestly I'd never seen the Northwest look done the way I wanted it to be done so it was a real treat for me to play with.
For the decor I wanted it to feel like guests were sitting along the banks of a stream bed in an old growth forest (more than in a country farm yard.) By incorporating lots of lush green ferns and fresh mood moss the look became rich and colorful. Chunks of slate, marble, river rocks and pebbles from a nearby rock yard lent texture and added to the stream bed look. Tulips, lady slipper orchids and fern curls provided color and let you know a florist had really been there. The final touch was LOTS of clear glass cylinders and column candles. To me candles are essential in transforming a setting and the candle holders themselves can totally alter a mood. I wanted an elegant look so the contrast of the slightly more modern straight sided cylinders worked best. If we'd wanted an even more rustic feel Ball jars would have been perfect. The linens, chargers and printed materials added the finishing touch to the look.
Since I first put these images on my site I've had countless clients come in wanting to incorporate a touch of the Northwest to their wedding decor. Sometimes it's as simple as incorporating a few sprigs of maidenhair fern and twigs, often it's replacing more traditional rose petals with moss and rocks. This summer it feels like the natural look is taking a more feminine turn with incorporation of more terrariums and delicate flowers. Whatever it is I LOVE it because I love the idea of sharing something you love (in this case our home in the NW) with the people you love. Plus, it's just fun to be a little different. :-)
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