The Secrets Behind My Floral Design

Heather Payne Photography

I think learning how other artists work is so amazing. Every single artist has a completely different process from the next person, even if a few concepts overlap a little. As a bride or groom, I think knowing a little about your vendors’ processes can help you decide which vendors are best for your wedding day! So today, I’m sharing a few of my go-to secrets when creating for my sweet couples.

I use as few mechanics as possible in bouquets.

I never use mechanics in bouquets (such as wire or foam) because my ultimate goal is to create a really natural bouquet for you; and for me, this is the best way to get that look. By not using things like wire in your bouquet, your foliage and florals are able to fall natural and create a really beautiful, organic shape. Even when I create really classic bouquets, like the one shown here, I like them to still have a more natural feel to them, so I still do not use mechanics in those styles, either!

I use a variety of mechanics in centerpieces and arrangements.

Unlike bouquets, I think mechanics are absolutely necessary for creating really natural arrangements and centerpieces, ironically enough. Using mechanics allows me to manipulate how the flower will lay, hang, or stand up. Without the use of mechanics, I would not have this control over the flowers! I’m able to use things such as wire, foam, and floral frogs to make certain elements hang in a way that looks and feels natural, while still providing something visually appealing.

I always have you and your guests in the back of my mind.

It’s about more than creating something pretty! Your florals should also be functional and serve a purpose, and stay away from the areas they don’t need to be trespassing. If you’re a bride, this often means that I’m thinking about your gown. I never want to place a flower that could leave pollen or discoloration on your gown, so I often choose not to use flowers that would be a risk on the back of your bouquet. This also means there is absolutely always a “front” and “back” to your bouquet! For your guests, I’m thinking about their dining experience - I want them to be able to see and talk to everyone at the table, not just those guests sitting next to them. This also means I never want to place arrangements in their line of vision to you, the guests of honor - either at the ceremony or the reception.

I have a degree in Visual Art, and that’s what I use to design florals.

But I don’t have formal training in floral design. I’m (mostly) self-taught when it comes to florals, except for some intensives and classes I’ve taken throughout the years. Truthfully, I learned a lot of what I know from art school - the concepts apply no matter what the medium is. But I also learned a lot through tons and tons (and TONS) of research, motivation, and practicing on my own time. I believe this is an advantage because nothing is off-limits for me - I’ll use my visual arts background to figure out how to make something come to life!

Okay, so you’re probably wondering why I’m telling you all this, because deep down you’re wondering why you should even care. I think it’s so important to know how your vendors work, because I think that helps in deciding who is a great fit for you and your personal style!

Do these concepts sound like your jam? I’d love to chat with you in further detail!