April, my absolutely favorite month of the year (also my birthday month). The sun is a shining although there is a little nip in the air this week, but I am looking for that feeling of spring renewal. I'm trying my best to feel my blessings and find those little moments to celebrate life. To be honest, I was a little hesitant of this year's birthday, as I will the same age that my mother was when she lost her life (I was only 18). She left me before she ever imagined, and the thought of how fragile life is weighs on me. She was so full of love and life it not only broke our hearts to lose her, but it must have shattered hers. She was definitely a woman of faith and always a cup half full type of person so in honor of her, I am going to recall the so many good things from my past year. My wildflowers continue to grow in unexpected ways, my family is celebrating so many milestones, my niece's upcoming wedding and my daughter's coming of age celebration, my husband's new career, and for Wildflower, I am looking forward to expressing my creative energy for so many flower occasions this year and for new flower adventures still to be imagined. I asked my dad what my mom would have thought of me working with flowers, and he mentioned, she would be so proud. To all of your Aprils, may you see what is before you, the beauty of spring, and your potential for your own renewal.
Portrait Party with Anna Wu Photography
I was excited to partake in an amazing idea, a portrait party hosted by Anna Wu Photography in her inspiring studio in San Francisco. At the party, Anna gathers creatives in the event and wedding industry and we all contribute our talents to decorate the celebration. The usual behind the scenes vendors are front and center in the party and enjoy an afternoon of meeting new friends and creative company and having our portraits professionally taken by Anna Wu. For Anna's feature on the party, check out http://annawu.com/blog/2017/02/portrait-party-feb-2016/
Lovely company at this party:
Photography: Anna Wu Photography & Cassie Xie Photography
Hair & Makeup: April Foster Artistry
Vintage Rentals: KatyBirds
Snacks & Drinks: Spreading Lovely
Florals: Studio Wildflower
Viva La Mill Valley Film Festival
When one thinks of a sparkling diamond in the movie star world, one name comes to mind, Nicole Kidman. My husband and I have been huge fans for so very long that when I was asked to design flowers for her showing of the film Lion for the Mill Valley Film Festival, I would have even grown the flowers too if I had had the time. I definitely wanted to create a little beauty to sit next to her so designed a variety of garden, local roses and orchids to embellish her q and a for the festival then many arrangements for her after party. Still feeling a little star struck...
Featured Publication on Wedding Paper Divas
From time to time, I am asked to work on special collaborations such as this styled wedding shoot for editorial led by the ever so talented April Foster Artistry. With photographer Cassie Xie, models from Scout Agency, myself and gowns and props, it was a dream team of like creative souls. We had the chance to work in a historic building in Benecia, with tall ceilings, beautiful details, and amazing light! I am so thrilled with the results and talent I was part of. It is in working with other artists that creates a new drive in me and encourages me to go beyond capabilities and to take risks.
For more on our collaborations, check out http://blog.weddingpaperdivas.com/fun-wedding-dress-ideas-for-any-season/
Creative Direction & Hair/Makeup www.aprilfosterartistry.com
Photography: www.cassiexiphotography.com
Models: www.scouttm.com
Floral Design: www.studiowildflower.com
Props: www.katybirdsshop.com
Vintage Rentals: Cherry's Very Vintage Rentals
Early Spring
Here is some of the spring bounty. My favorite spring blooms, Japanese Magnolias, are here for a second on all the trees in my neighborhood. I love incorporating these lightly scented beauties in my designs.