Brides looking for inspiration from a celebrity-styled wedding, look no further than famed event designer Preston Bailey who has designed events for just a few stars, including Oprah Winfrey, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas, Donna Karan, Donald Trump and more. In Bailey’s newly released book, Designing with Flowers he gives readers an exclusive look into the weddings and events of Bailey’s star-studded clientele, including the nuptials of Lebron James and Sean Parker’s extravagant woodland wedding. Plus, Bailey lets brides imagination go wild as he shares ideas from elaborate flower-sculptures (including a hot air balloons!) and dramatic flower-infused ceiling and wall treatments to simple and stunning centerpieces.
We caught up with the flower maestro himself, Preston Bailey, to bring brides his expert tips on budgets, bouquets, trends and most importantly, making your wedding unique. And for more of Bailey's inspiration, be sure to check out his tome, Designing with Flowers.
How can brides get the most out of their flower budget? Flowers are much more cost effective during specific seasons. I think the best way to get the most out of a flower budget is by using local, seasonal flowers.
What advice do you have for brides on a budget? If you are on a budget, make sure to manage your expectations when preparing for your wedding. Ask yourself one very simple question: what part of my wedding is more important to me? If it’s the flowers (and I hope it is!), then you must make room to spend more in that area. If it is the dress, get yourself the best dress possible.
What types of bouquets do you especially love? That really depends on the type of dress the bride is wearing. I have one simple rule: if the bride is wearing an understated dress, you can allow for a more elaborate bouquet. The opposite also rings true. The more lavish the dress, the simpler the bouquet should be. You do not want to have your bouquet competing with your dress.
What advice do you typically give brides to make their wedding unique? Forget about trends. It’s your wedding and there is reason to celebrate your own personal style. This is the one time you have the opportunity to really create your own trends based on your own likes.
Can you expand on the idea for ceiling treatments? Is there a setting that is best for this type of display? It depends on the budget, but I am thinking table, wall, and ceiling design when I begin working on a new wedding. A ceiling design, best done in tents, will always bring an additional sense of festivity to a space.
What is something a bride can do with flowers that really makes a unique statement? She can create a dramatic escort card arrangement. This is the first statement most guests see and a fantastic way to set the tone and create a buzz, making guests excited about what will follow.
How do you take an ordinary ballroom and make it extraordinary? One word: Lighting.
Do you have a favorite flower? Yes, orchids. After 34 years in this business, I always discover a new species. Not to mention, I think they are the sexiest flowers around.
Do you have a favorite color palette? My “favorite” palette color changes every year. This year, I am really into turquoise.
What is the one thing brides should keep in mind while planning their wedding? Enjoy yourself. I have seen too many brides miss out on their special day because they were too focused on trying to micromanage vendors instead of trusting them to do their jobs.
For more inspiration, pick up Preston Bailey’s designing with Flowers from your nearest bookstore or online. And to win one of two free copies, head to California Wedding Day’s Facebook page for more details!
