Spectacular Flower Ideas from Preston Bailey

“Regardless of size or complexity, the perfect floral arrangement is the one that makes you pause and smile,” writes celebrity event designer Preston Bailey in his book Preston Bailey: Flowers. His work is full of stunning wedding flower ideas and dramatic wedding reception décor that can inspire any bride, whether you’re planning a luxury ballroom wedding or a more intimate St. Louis wedding reception.

Every bride who looks through his floral designs wants to frame the photos—his creations are that unforgettable. Bailey has designed events for Oprah Winfrey, Joan Rivers, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jennifer Hudson and Ivanka Trump, and the lessons he shares can easily be adapted for your own wedding décor and reception centerpieces.

Below are a few of Preston’s best tips you can use when planning your own wedding flowers and reception décor.

Although some of the designs are decidedly over-the-top (poodles! merry-go-rounds!), Preston reveals gems of advice that all brides can follow, regardless of their budget:

1. Make a Statement at the Entrance

Most couples think first about wedding centerpieces because that’s what guests look at during dinner. Preston Bailey, however, suggests putting extra effort into your entrance décor. The escort card table or ceremony entrance is where guests get their very first impression of your event, so it’s the perfect place to create drama with flowers, candles, or unique décor pieces.

Even if you’re on a budget, you can still make your wedding entrance décor special. Simple DIY touches, custom escort cards, or seasonal elements can add sparkle and personality. Nothing looks sadder than a bare table with plain cards—this is a great place to show off your wedding theme before guests enter your St. Louis wedding reception.

2. Use Interesting Vessels and Containers

The flowers are important, but the vases and containers matter too. Bailey recommends playing with different textures, heights and shapes to create interest. Unique containers can turn simple flowers into memorable wedding centerpieces.

Ask your florist if they can loan specialty vases or stands, or hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces at flea markets and vintage shops. These vessels can anchor your wedding reception flowers and later become décor in your home, reminding you of your big day long after the music fades out from your St. Louis wedding DJ.

3. Don’t Forget the Power of Lighting

One of Preston’s most powerful examples involves lighting: a ceremony space washed in cool blue with bare trees projected on the walls. At the moment the couple was pronounced married, the room shifted to a warm, bright color and the trees burst into bloom. The transformation came mostly from lighting, not just flowers.

The lesson? Great wedding lighting can take your floral décor to another level. Uplighting, pin-spotting, and color changes during the night can highlight your arrangements and create emotional moments at your wedding reception in St. Louis.

4. Add Non-Floral Elements

Your wedding décor doesn’t have to be all flowers. Bailey often incorporates crystals, lanterns, ribbons, branches and even butterflies into his designs. These non-floral accents can fill space, lower costs and add layers of texture and personality.

Think about what fits your wedding theme—rustic lanterns, hanging crystals, greenery, or candles can all enhance your wedding flower arrangements and create a more immersive environment for your guests.

5. Treat Every Table with Care

Preston warns couples not to create “better” and “worse” tables. Avoid putting flowers on some tables and leaving others bare—no one wants to feel like they’re at the “lesser” table. Instead, use a mix of high and low wedding centerpieces to manage your budget while keeping every table special.

By varying heights and styles, you add visual interest to the room without making any guests feel overlooked. Pair your wedding floral design with great music and a professional St. Louis wedding DJ & MC and you’ll have a reception that not only looks beautiful but feels unforgettable.

Courtesy of: http://www.bridalguide.com/blogs/the-budget-guru/preston-bailey-flowers-book