I’ve been writing several posts in this “Suggestions” series now, but this time “Sarah’s Suggestions for…” exquisite centerpieces, artfully placed greenery and the making of eye-popping bouquets aren’t really my suggestions at all. I suggest you go directly to an expert on such, and that’s what I did recently to get some insight for this post. I’m sharing highlights from an interview I had with a favorite vendor of mine – The Pearl Petal’s pundit, Stephanie O’Quin. After all, who better to ask than someone who has had her Floral License (yes, that’s a thing) from the Texas State Floral Association since the age of 16?!
You may have seen us collaborate at different events, including my launch party, and probably gawked at her beautiful floral arrangements in some of my previous blog posts and photos. Now you’re getting some fantastic guidance straight from the sage floral designer herself!
Here are some great tips I wanted to pass along from our recent conversation:
What is your inspiration for creating eloquent flower arrangements and knowing what colors, shapes and textures or fillers go together?
As cheesy as it seems, to me floral design is something that always has to be “felt” with the heart. The inspiration, design eye and capturing of what a client needs, stem from this inner knowing. Over time, my knowledge and understanding of what elements flow together for bouquets or what textures to incorporate have grown naturally. As the floral designer, realizing that each client is different in what he/she deems beautiful and then creating with that freedom of his/her vision allows for beautiful and unique designs to happen organically each time.
What are some common misconceptions about what you do that you wish people understood better?
Design takes TIME. People always seem to think it’s just a simple “bouquet” or a matter of putting this or that together. While what I do is extremely rewarding, it’s rewarding because it is work – and a lot of it. Flowers are what we call a “crunch” industry. You cannot prep weeks in advance or get it done early. You are constantly under pressure to get the most done with the best products Mother Nature provides in the shortest timeframe possible! It’s not for everyone, but it’s nice when it is appreciated.
Can you tell us what is in season right now for in-home décor, festive fall parties or could be accent pieces for say, the Thanksgiving dinner table? And what should folks not expect/use at this time of year?
My disclaimer: peonies are not perpetually in season! I feel like many look on Pinterest and just expect that vision to be executed every time without realizing that everything in Mother Nature is seasonal. We can only achieve so much in that regard. One concept, being in the flower world, I have grown to LOVE is, “Embrace the season you are in!” That goes for the season of life, relationship, home, job, and of course, the season of flowers you’re in! If you look through the right lenses every season is beautiful, not just the one you see a snap shot of on a Pinterest board. Be your own kind of beautiful in the ever-changing seasons of life! Spend time looking up best options for the time of year you are in rather than just looking at a bunch of Pinterest boards.
My list of floral favorites for fall includes dahlias [So pretty!], sunflowers, calla lilies, freesia, allium, amaranthus, agonis, foxglove, astilbe, scabiosa, coffee break roses, ranunculus, protea… I could go on! Fall is truly a sensational time of year for all your floral feels and colors!
How do certain flowers and ornate greenery almost convey a message or express an emotion? Can you give some examples that people should know for specific occasions or seasons in life?
Flowers & greenery do all convey their own message. It’s pretty crazy how styles change over the years and how people find each one so beautiful based upon society’s eye. There is no right or wrong view of this, nor is there a correct view of what emotions should be attached to each one. Flowers truly are, and hopefully always will be, left to their own interpretation.
That being said, some examples of current “styles” that people are loving include:
- Botanical Feels – all greenery with pops of flowers for the earthy vibe, more of a natural style.
- Shabby Chic- a Country girl who is really from the City – your “easy & simple” feels; all baby’s breath or just a few roses here and there. This style is so cute and accurately named as it exudes easy-living feels!
- Romantic – gives off all the moody feels; rich colors that embrace its season. It usually involves imperfectly placed flowers and creates more of a luxury handheld garden. I find this offers the most diversity for each bride to find her own personal style.
Is there any type of flower that is a timeless favorite and acceptable all year-round besides the rose?
One that comes to mind is the hydrangea. It’s big and beautiful and most excitingly universal! It’s timeless and can be paired with virtually anything. Hydrangeas come in all different colors, and they last forever making them truly a divine flower. Cymbidium Orchids are another. They are so detailed and can be paired with just about anything as well. They can be found in various colors and styles. Plus, they can be taken independently as a modern look or paired with a garden of other flowers and still stand out due to their unique design.
Main advice or take-away?
The best thing about working with flowers: there is no wrong way to design. Everyone has his/her own unique style and embracing that as it comes together is what makes each piece unique and beautiful. It pains me to see people try to replicate things exactly. You are not that person, and the flowers are not the exact same flowers. The elements involved – the day, style and time are all different as well. Accept where you are. When people try to fight the product and force it to do exactly what they want they’re often left dissatisfied.
The first time we worked together was for a wedding rehearsal dinner in July this year, but it certainly has not been the last time. I love that Stephanie is so professional but also so passionate and genuine in all she does. She takes great pride in her work, and that is why we get along so well together!
Keep up with her floral journey on her website http://www.ThePearlPetal.com and her social media channels (@thepearlpetal)!
