Gorgeous Winter Wedding

Last Saturday we designed a gorgeous winter wedding for Scott and Kristen from Ann Arbor, Michigan where they attend dental school at the University of Michigan. Thanks to Ryan Prins I have a few gorgeous pictures to share as a little teaser. I'm so excited to see what's to come because the "sneak peaks" are amazing!

The wedding ceremony took place at the stunning St. Andrews Catholic church in Downtown Grand Rapids followed by an elegant reception at Cascade Hills Country Club. The color palette of rich garnet with antique gold and black accents worked beautifully with the ballroom. Candlelight was an intricate part of creating a warm ambiance and given the blizzard that was going on outside, it was the perfect decor choice. :)

An opulent design of James Story orchids, curly willow, salal and red hanging amaranthus on a large cylinder vase created the WOW factor in the room. Each 40" cylinder was filled with a lush layer of black magic rose petals, bringing just the right amount of glamour to the design. To add a touch of the unexpected an LED light base was used under the cylinder, adding a touch of contemporary flair. I can't wait to share more pics of how amazing this looks in a dimly lit room.

My favorite floral detail was definitely the escort card table design. I'm in complete love with anything couture and thanks to Kristen she allowed us to step out of the box! The container was a cut mirror glass vase with an added black feather and crystal garland embellished collar, don't you just love it! Black curly willow branches, teardrop crystals, feathers and a combination of black magic and black baccara roses topped off this dramatic design. Did I mention I love feathers and they just happen to be one of the biggest trends this year!

How much do you love this photo!!!

Kristen was such a beautiful bride, inside and out! Ryan did an amazing job showcasing her beauty.

This photo in my opinion is the epitome of pure love. Scott and Kristen look incredible, relaxed and so in love.

I know I say it all the time and I'm sure my staff would agree but we have the best job! The couples we work with are amazing and when they trust us completely the end result is magical. I hope you enjoy these tasty morsels and I'll be sure to post more details as Ryan sends pics my way.

Bride and Bloom: Photo Shoot

So, we just finished one of the most all-time exciting opportunities Modern Day has EVER had to date!

Bride and Bloom just happens to be one of my top magazine's of all time, so when Jodi Bos of In Any Event was asked to be a featured designer in the magazine and invited me to do the flowers for her photo shoot... I almost started crying from the excitement!

With Jen Kroll's amazing ability to capture every detail with her camera and her stellar talent, it's safe to say the photo shoot was a success! The table scape design was so clean and modern, with some delicate and pretty accents, words can't even explain how GORGEOUS it all looked! Great design work Jod!

This publication hits news stands in just ONE SWEET MONTH! I am so excited for you to all check it out, and I am even more grateful to have been offered this opportunity! I'll be sure to keep you posted on the release date!!!!

Blog MAKEOVER!!!

As MDF grows with the fast-growing world of social media, I have decided to give my blog a serious face-lift.

My assistant, Jillian, and I have been workin' hard over here on some exciting new design concepts. After stumbling upon the EXTREMELY kind and talented Michelle of Shabby Creations, I knew I found the right designer for our blog. Hallelujah!

We are rolling out with a whole new format and style (and yes, even bigger pictures). I can't WAIT to get the new blog up and running. Estimated time of completion is by the end of THIS WEEK!

STAY TUNED!



(Photo: Courtesy of Toothpastefordinner)

Our Latest and Greatest: Growing in our charity involvement

I am so excited to announce that we are currently researching a variety of charities to get involved with and I couldn't be more thrilled! Giving back is something that is obviously extremely important. So far Modern Day already donates to the March of Dimes event every year, and we also offer our Pay it Forward Program to our clients!

So we will stay busy working on some great new programs that will allow charitable opportunities not just for MDF, but for our customers and clients as well (and I promise, it will be easier for you than you think!)

In the meanwhile, do you have any charities that are close to your heart? We'd love to hear peoples stories and we would love to get involved in your charity. The more suggestions, the better so please share!

(photos: courtesy of Adaptive Path, Susan G. Komen for the cure, ALSA Houston)

WE HAVE A NEW TEAM MEMBER!

Janelle is our very first intern and we are so happy that she chosen to work with us! (Sorry all, we don't actually have a photo of her yet, she is brand new to MDF!)

She is a Sophmore at Cornerstone University and is going to school for Business and International Relations (she is a smart cookie, I think you probably have to be to learn Russian like she is!) Janelle is a sweetheart and already has helped us concept some very exciting programs for the business (she's only been here one day!) We are so happy to have her aboard!


(Photo: Courtesy of How Design)

When in Rome (Or Northern Michigan...)

Last summer we attended an outdoor wedding up north during Cherry Festival in Traverse City. The weather was perfect, the scenery, amazing, and the wedding decor was fun and whimsy. The bride had decided to switch up the classic flower centerpiece and go for metal, candlelit lanterns at the center of each table, accompanied by small boxes of cherries for the guests to take home. The feel of their wedding really played off the gorgeousness that northern Michigan is known for in the summer. I love seeing people think outside the box. Of course I generally root for flowers because I think they are one of the most beautiful creations on the face of the planet, but sometimes your imagination (and possibly your budget) can take you elsewhere. I just appreciate people being creative and all things beautiful!

The picture above are of some lanterns similar to the ones we saw at the wedding, they are from Potterybarn and are such a great concept for event decor. Having a rustic, outdoor wedding? This idea is fun and different, not to mention a great home decor item after the wedding...what could be more perfect!

2009 Trends for Flowers

The Knot shared a list of the top three flower trends right now. Click here to see all 3 styles and to read up on additional suggestions for each look!

Collections of candlelight and flowers? It doesn't get any more romantic than that!

Happy Valentine's Day!

OK, so I might be a couple days late on that, but we worked our little tails off Saturday so I hope you will forgive me!


I am happy to report we had a smashing weekend! We spent the entire week last week cleaning roses and other special blooms for the big "day of love". Because Valentine's Day fell on a Saturday, we kept our studio open this weekend so everyone could get fresh flowers the day of, and also to fill all those LMHO's (last minute husband orders!) Awww, we're just joking with you guys!

Anyway, I want to give out a big thank you to all our wonderful customers! We hope everyone had a fabulous Valentine's weekend!

(photo credit: tips.webdesign10.com)

Flowers and Beyond!

Indoor Reception Chandelier Decor

Outdoor Pomander Balls

Pretty Flower Garland for Getaway Car

Garland Decor for Reception Tent


Gorgeous Hair Flower Accessory

What do you think of when you think of event flowers? Bouquets, centerpieces... hmmm, is that all? There are a lot of "outside the box" flower ideas that are just itching to come out into the spotlight, and I think it would be great to show the world a few of our favorites!

DECORATIVE POMANDER BALLS - We have hung pomander balls outside in trees and also inside from chandeliers in our previous weddings. They have a great, contemporary look and add a punch of color to an event!

GETAWAY CAR FLORAL - We have provided a stunning array of garlands to the transportation vehicles for our brides and grooms. From greens to bright floral, you can find the perfect look to match your overall wedding style.

TENT DECOR -As an alternative to fabric drape last summer we decorated the inside of a reception tent with fresh garland made of variegated pittosporum and plimosa. Each poll was covered in red curly willow and locally grown blue viburnum along with two 15ft curly willow trees, which added that "wow factor." The overall feel was beautifully botanical and organic.

HAIR FLOWERS - Some brides want to tie in their wedding flowers and bouquet flowers to their accessories. And we are all for this! Who doesn't love the fabulous look of a flower tucked behind the ear?

PURSE CORSAGES - This is a magnetic corsage that clips right onto your clutch, how clever! It is a great alternative to the traditional wrist or pin-on corsage. No more worrying about working your corsage around your outside but rather it acts as a perfect accessory like a great pair of earrings!

...these are just a few, but the ideas and possibilities are endless. If you have any great, unique ideas on different ways to use flowers, I would love to hear them! The more creative the better, I say!

How much does that cost, anyway?

When our brides come in to see us, they usually have a high curiosity for how much their wedding flowers are going to cost. Well, Sasha Souza's spectacular blog Sparkliatti has recently highlighted a fabulous blog on Nancy Liu Chin's Brown Bag Blog regarding pricing for event flowers. It lays out exactly how many things are factored into the costs of event flowers. Genius!

So if you have been wondering, "How much is that going to cost me?" you simply must go to Nancy's blog to check it out! There's a lot more to florals than you think. Speaking of that, this also ties into the video we created, showcasing how we prep for a big event. Be sure to check it out if you haven't done so yet! We wanted to help our clients see what goes into creating a beautiful event. You think you know, but you have no idea! ;)  It's definitely a labor of love!!  Enjoy!

Just Because....

The sun is shining today, and we feel like spring is right around the corner!

...OK, well we all know it will snow at least a couple more times (it is only February, after all) but today got us thinking about warmer weather and the possibility of spring! Specifically, we have been daydreaming of a glorious wedding we designed last summer in Petoskey, held at the Perry Hotel. Today, in light of surprisingly wonderful weather, we thought you would enjoy these "happy" photos, courtesy of the uber-talented Ben and Laura of Ben Harrison Photography!  Not only is yellow a hot color this year but it brings light to our very long winters...today is a reminder why we live in Michigan!  Enjoy!

Jenn

Lovely coffee table books

So thanks to my buddy Jodi with In Any Event I have successfully spent $156 bucks buying books on Amazon!  She knows my weakness.   I already have an extensive library of design books but as only a friend could do, she encouraged me to buy more.   Now all we need to do is start a book club with other coffee table junkies...anyone interested?

My current favorite is Susie Coelho, Style Your Dream Wedding, it's simply amazing.  Jod's personal favorite is Southern Weddings by Tara Guerard of Soiree, so of course it was first on my list along with Wedding Chic by Colin Cowe, Simply Stunning Wedding Flowers by Karen Bussen and Preston Bailey's Inspiration.  I can't wait to find a few more favorites.

This is going to be a great week, two lovely packages, several appointments, and Valentine's Day!

Thanks Jod for helping me spend my money and I'm serious about the book club!

Jenn

Winning Combination

Welcome All! I am Jenn...

My longtime dream became reality with the opening of Modern Day Floral. Everyday I'm fortunate enough to work with one of the most beautiful mediums in the world, fresh flowers. I absolutely love what I do and thanks to my brides, vendors, retail customers and special event clients I get to live out my dream daily. I would also like to personally thank my incredible staff for all their hard work and passion. They inspire me daily! Enjoy the blog, visit often and remember we love "warm fuzzies!"

MEET THE STAFF:

What do you get when you bring a group of passionate and talented people together? Modern Day Floral! These fascinating women amaze me everyday with their commitment and love for this business. I think what truly makes our group so special is the diverse backgrounds we come from, from interior to clothing designer, retailer, hair stylist and experienced floral designers...wow, what a group!

Emily is one of my lead designers who brings the energy to the group. She has been with me from the beginning and is responsible for the "look" that has become Modern Day! The talent, commitment and positive attitude she brings to work is invaluable. The cup is always 1/2 full... She is my AI in AIFD!

Karen is another one of my lead designers whose calm nature, experience and romantic style bring a complimentary element to MDF. She is the most amazing Christmas tree decorator and is affectionately known as Miss Christmas. :)

Erin brings with her a degree in interior design from Kendall College and an incredibly passionate type A personality. She is my checks and balances girl with a quest for knowledge. Renderings boards are definitely her specialty...This girl is going places!

Jillian, little bird, is our comic relief ...under her hilarious facial expressions and one liners she brings a degree in fashion from Michigan State University. I'm thankful she's chosen Modern Day over Ralph Lauren. Although if New York calls tomorrow I would pack her bags! Life is about seizing the moment. :) Just kidding Jodi!

Marilyn brings life experience and years of working in retail for the downtown Holland Chicos. She could sell snow to an Eskimo and makes sure that Modern Day lives up to it's reputation everyday. The real test of this woman's talent lies in her amazing daughters who love her dearly. In my opinion that's the real test of a woman.

Laurel is our ray of sunshine, she's our licensed cosmetologist with a raw design talent. I have never met someone who loves to take phone orders more than her. Life is good and no job is beneath her. She is such a sweetheart and a very intelligent young woman.

Charlie and Jonathan (not shown) are the boys of the group (poor souls)! The mere fact that they tolerate all of us for more than 5 minutes is a miracle. Estrogen flows in buckets at MDF but believe it not we're all a loving family!

What I have learned is that you can't train people to have passion, it lies deep within each of us. We must learn to unlock what gets us up in the morning and gives us life. These amazingly talented individuals were a gift and have become the heart of Modern Day Floral. Our goal collectively is to create an experience that is positive and simply beautiful, through a shared passion called floral artistry.

Stunning Couture Linens

Let me be the first to introduce our latest and greatest new vendor.  LaTavola is an amazing couture linen company that is not only scrumptious but affordable.  Jod and I discovered them while walking the showroom floor at Special Event.  As of right now I'm anxiously awaiting the fabulous sample books.  I've already designed three weddings this week using their linens and I can't wait to bring the samples in for the rendering.  I haven't been this excited since my 21st birthday! As an added bonus the company is run by a woman!

Thanks to Sasha Souza of Sasha Souza Events we were introduced to all the fabulous ladies and the concept of mixed linens on guest tables.  This look will quickly become our new look in 2009! 

Be sure to check out their website...love it, love it, love it!

Jenn

Talk About PRETTY Sustainability!

Step 1...

...Step 2

... and the result is a BEAUTIFUL notecard!

I stumbled upon this idea on the Knot and discovered the genius company that is Floral Notes. Get this, this company actually uses the flowers from your bridal bouquet to make gorgeous thank you cards for after your event! Brilliant, right? And as if that wasn't enough, the card makers place a dozen varieties of wildflower seeds into the paper so your guests can actually plant the card and grow a small wildflower garden! My head is spinning right now! This is the most unique idea that I've seen in a while.

Is it just me or does this concept seem like a win-win? The bride gets a second time use of her wedding flowers by giving her guests a beautiful, yummy thank you card, and the environment gets to catch a break, too. Be sure to check out Floral Notes' website to locate a nearby dealer!

LADIES AND GENTLEMAN, WITHOUT FURTHER ADO.....

Ever wonder what it takes for floral designers to prepare and design for those platinum weddings you see on TV? Well, wonder no more...

We are SO EXCITED this week because we can finally show the world an insight into our lives! (You're gonna love this, I promise!) John Pottenger, our wonderful friend from Coastline Studios, has crafted this video ...wait, I should say this AMAZING video... of us as we prepared the flowers for the biggest wedding we have done so far. The video seriously rocks! You'll see everything from start to finish (well, the scenes of us being exhausted and pulling our hair out were kindly removed) Only kidding, but honestly we had a blast and the end result was G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S!

So sit back, relax and enjoy!

Wedding Luncheon

Now that I'm home organizing my thoughts (and suitcase) I've realized that I have blog material for weeks. Good problem to have however judging from my last post you can tell I tend to ramble! :) As all good florist would do I'm going to share all the pretty pictures highlighting my favorite part of the week, the wedding luncheon.

First let me say the VIP ticket was well worth the price of admission! The event was hosted at the Hard Rock Hotel. On a side note, add staying at a Hard Rock Hotel on your bucket list. The one in Chicago rocks! Back to the luncheon...Boy George, Cyndi Lauper, Cher, Madonna greeted us along with servers serving bubbly in sexy red champagne flutes. Of course I couldn't resist getting a photo with my favorite 80's rock stars! :) My primary function was to capture photos of the gorgeous floral, cake, decor, details and dresses while Jod's job was to ensure that my glass of champagne was safe. The VIP gallery preview was amazing and I can still hear Jodi, did you get a picture of the table setting, escort table design, isn't this amazing...it was so much FUN!

The preview lasted an hour and anxious observers lined up for the grand reveal of the ballroom. Unfortunately photos cannot capture the gasps heard while entering the room. However the photographer did a beautiful job photographing this event. Just imagine a sea of couture black and white linens, lush extravagant floral arrangements, lighting, custom table settings, decor elements...I felt like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz; lions and tigers and bears, oh my.

Carly Roney, Co-Founder and Editor in Chief of The Knot, Inc. was the keynote speaker. I enjoyed her informative address especially her slide show which featured one the photos from our Payne wedding in August. Jodi missed it because she was busy looking for her Blackberry Storm under the table however she has the bruised arm to prove it. I about knocked her off her chair when the photo came up on the jumbo screens!!! We felt like rock stars as you can imagine! :) Of course we couldn't resist getting a photo with Carly. Thank you!

Lunch was scrumptious, new friends were made, the event was spectacular and life is good!

Enjoy the pics!

Jenn

I want to send a special shout out to the fabulous photographer, committee chairs, designers and the countless volunteers who produced this spectacular event!

Fun in the Sun

Huge apologies for the delayed blog but it was an exciting week and unless you carry your laptop around it's difficult to get it all in.  I wrote this on Friday afternoon and thought I would share what was going through my head at the time.  Enjoy!

It's 2:30pm California time, the conference is officially over and here I sit enjoying the gorgeous weather while sipping on a basil grape refresher, which by the way is scrumptious.  If you love mint mojitos you'll love this cocktail!  As I sit soaking up the sunshine I have to share a little observation I made about fabulous Californians.  This part of the post is dedicated to all you poor souls who endure long winters. 

 So I'm sure you can relate the overjoyed feeling of releasing your bundled up tootsies come spring.  It's a liberating feeling when you can finally wear a comfy pair of flip flops or your favorite open toe shoes while sporting a fabulous pedicure.  The mittens, scarfs and snow gear get packed away for another season.  REAL JOY!  However in California, fashion is fashion, no matter how warm it is outside.  So my conclusion...Uggs are more than just a means of keeping your feet dry and warm,  wool scarfs are merely for appearances and regardless of how warm it is your poor pooch must always look as fabulous as its owner.  Sorry no photos but trust me when I say, it was classic!   I did however capture this cute little photo of a women walking her Chinese Crested...notice the similar hair color and of course the sassy little sweater.  Ok, so I'll cut her a little slack considering the fact the dog is nearly hairless...too cute! :)

Southern California, San Diego specifically is an incredible place to visit.  It is clean, friendly, full of life and the yummy restaurant options are endless.  We dined at several fantastic eateries and enjoyed what I call "BEAUTIFUL MEALS."   My new favorite local, Lynne Silverman, owner of Haute Homes told us about Oceanaire which specializes in seafood and HUGE quantities.  The wedge salad and crab cakes were worth the trip.  

Wednesday we enjoyed a gorgeous meal at Nobu in the Hard Rock Hotel which specializes in Japanese cuisine.  Everything about this restaurant was beautiful from the diverse menu to the detailed plating of each course.  As a Food Network junkie I truly appreciated their attention to perfection.  

From sushi to burgers, probably my favorite place we dined at was called Neighborhood.  It was a mod little hamburger joint where you could enjoy couture burgers and fries, sip on a cocktail all in a swanky environment.  The tables were stainless steal, open air(which means no windows needed) and a super cool painting of one very large man eating a burger.  The plating was so cute that I had to take a picture of the tiny bag of chips.  One of our new found friends, the party goddess, blogged about the restaurant earlier on in the week.  We were told to bring our own ketchup. (which by the way is a joke just in case you're a left brainer like my husband)  I enjoyed a cajun rubbed burger with jalapeno mayo and sweet potato fries.  Jod loved her marsala burg and shoestring fries with garlic aioli.  

Now you're probably wondering what this has to do with floral and event design and to answer your question, it doesn't.  I'm just hoping that I get asked to be a guest critic on Iron Chef America.  If any of you are fans you know that not all judges are qualified so why not a Midwest floral designer/business owner.  :)  Can you think of a better job?

Bon Appetite!

Jenn