Setting the Scene
By Brian Joyce and Richard Streitler
www.flourishproductions.com

In weddings and real estate, the message is clearly the same; location, location, location. However, in event planning what you do with that location determines the feel of the celebration you’re presenting.

Couture design is the latest craze. Adapted from the high fashion runways of New York and Milan, couture design expresses a high end product that is customized to individual desires.
Where weddings of the 90’s were marked by latticework archways, wildflower bouquets, and pew markers; weddings of the millennium are defined by lush fabric draping, custom table linens, staging and dramatic lighting.

The difference is how you set the scene.

On the rise are the use of floral production companies who specialize not only in flowers but what is known as floral décor. Floral designers are in tune with the latest trends and also able to forecast what will be haute in the months ahead. Flourish Floral Productions handles every element from the bride’s bouquet to the overall design and presentation of your fete.

Floral Production houses knows to begin with the end in mind. It’s the big picture concept, that whole forest through the trees thing that ultimately ties all the individual elements together to make your celebration a success. Your responsibility is to determine the type and quantity of trees you want to incorporate to create your coutured forest.

Gather information like pictures and articles that you like into a binder before you meet with your event designer. That way, during your first meeting if you say you like candlelight, your designer can suggest where candlelight would enhance the look of your location or perhaps backlighting to create a more dramatic effect. If you desire a certain color scheme collect swatches so your designer can suggest complimentary accents for both flowers and table linens. Anything that strikes your fancy should be discussed.

When all is said and done, it’s best to approach this first meeting with a list of items you must have, items you’d like to have, and items that you’ve dreamed of having.

It all comes down to budget. Most production houses have a minimum for events which cover the delivery, set-up, and removal of your elements as well as the actual pieces themselves. The budget is entirely up to you. Keep in mind, items like staging, draping, custom table linens or exotic flowers will clearly carry a higher price tag than standard items like in-house linens or wildflowers. You are setting a scene, and the budget you set will determine how extravagant or minimal that setting will be.

Picture an empty room. Look for a solid foundation or something that ties everything together like a lovely dance floor or a custom aisle runner. Next add furniture, your tables and chairs, possibly even staging. Those elements take on new character and shape with linens and table covers. Adding candlelight and dramatic lighting add depth and warmth to any room. Staging sets items apart, and finally floral elements like cascading bouquets set the tone of the event you are hosting.

When you begin with a solid foundation, like your marriage, you’re certain to set the perfect scene.