Bright and Vibrant Bouquet - Yellow, Green & Teal

I wanted to share a design drawing and the final bouquet comprised of bright yellow and green Parrot Tulips (which I love - they are so unusual and fun), soft cream Tulips, romantic jade Roses and the contrasting texture of yellow Statice in a yellow, green and teal inspired design... enjoy!

Behind the Design: Tablescape Scale & Proportion - Prt1

Can I share something with you? I love Orchids... oh how I love Orchids. They are actually one of my favorite flowers. Image the perfect Orchid. Vibrant in color, the petals are soft and lush, flawless in shape and completely unblemished - an element that would be the perfect accent to any design. Imagine placing that same exquisite Orchid in water... can you see it? The perfect Orchid gracefully floating on a shimmering surface, perhaps creating the ideal centerpiece - beautiful isn't it? Now, image that the "water" is actually the size of a "kiddy pool". Let's take it a step further and image the orchid in an Olympic-sized swimming pool. The gorgeous flower is now lost in a vast landscape.... not so impressive huh.

It doesn't matter how beautiful a centerpiece is if it's the wrong scale and is in the wrong proportion for the table's design. One of the biggest mistakes I notice in tablescape design is ignoring the scale of the surface area (table) and using a centerpiece that doesn't work with the total proportion of the table.

In Art and Design the "Proportion" (comparative parts of or measurable ratio of an object) and "Scale" (referring to size) of items are essential in the development of design graphics, layout of interior designs, the creation of sculptures and even the content seen in paintings. In wedding or event design, proper scale doesn't just apply to the massive "over the top" centerpieces seen in some sweeping tablescape designs, it also refers to the most simple, sleek, modern and minimalist designs. Proportion and scale should be utilized to create any well thought out design. The key is for the design to be the right scale for the area in which it will be displayed. Generally speaking, a centerpiece should take up about 1/3 of the total surface area of the table. It should also be designed in balance with all the other items that will take up the space on the table such as glassware, china, place cards, etc. Remember, a "good design" traditionally results in; a fully functioning concept that respects the materials, suites the methods used, and combines them in an imaginative expression.

Why do we dye eggs?

What color are your eggs? Yes, as an Artist I hand-painting Easter eggs with creative zeal but do you know what color the 1st Easter eggs were and why? As I glance down on my slightly stained fingers, I thought it would be interesting to share some information with those who may suggle to explain, "Why we dye eggs for Easter?" to their children tomorrow.

As clever Marketers and product placement evolves it not uncommon for the true meaning of Holidays and symbolism to get lost. And Easter is no different but believe it or not there is a religious foundation behind the colorful little Easter Egg. Easter, of course, is one the most profound events of the Christian religion - referring to the miracle of the Resurrection of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion and death. But it is at "the cross" where the egg make an appearance.

Throughout history and across the spectrum of human civilization food has held great value, especially animals. The ownership and gift of animals have historically been used in establishing status and wealth. They can provide everything from transportation, labor, and even sustenance. Eggs, in some points in history and areas of the earth, can be offered as a value token. In some early Easter stories, it is said that as Jesus hung lifeless from the cross a brave follower offered a basket of eggs and left them at his feet. Blood dripped from his beaten body onto the eggs - dying them red. For centuries many cultures dyed Easter eggs red to symbolize this offering however, over the years more and more festive, spring-like colors were introduced until they take on the vibrant colors we see today.