When Pantone announced their selection for the top trending color palette for 2016- my first reaction was oh no, pink and blue!!

But on reflection I became inspired by the warm calming pink, Pantone is calling Rose Quartz and the relaxing, weightless periwinkle, Serenity Blue. This harmonious pairing embodies tranquility and inner peace.

I love colors that are evident in nature, in a cool, Catskill Mountain sunset or warm Outer Banks sunrise. It warms my soul and fills my heart with joy!

In this bouquet the beauty of Pink O’Hara garden roses is offset by the delicate blue tweedia. Tons of texture from astilbe, Queen Anne’s lace and silvery dusty miller. Beautifuly balanced with ivory and blush.
Intoxicating scents from gardenia, stock and of course the garden roses!
Stunning. LOVE. LOVE. LOVE.

It’s all in the details. And Christy, my bride, wanted to use her grandmother’s cameo in her bouquet. This vintage piece of jewelry has a sentimental meaning for her, so, I pinned it on a piece of antique rosey ribbon and finished the wrap with tiny pearl pins. Perfection.

You can have fun with your color palette without over doing it. What could be better than a retro candy bar or a tray of cool signature cocktails?

… Wedding wishes tied to a cherry blossom tree!

Remember, when selecting a color palette for your wedding, make sure that it reflects who you are and what you love and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Even pink and blue can be be translated into something spectacular!!

Namaste,
Lydia

Photo credit: Catskill Sunset: Catskill Images
All Other photos: Catskill Weddings

 
Hurricanes and chunky pillars are so yesterday! Today’s brides are looking for towering candleabras- the taller the better- with elegant tapered candles. And although candleabras will put the finishing touch on the most elegant venue- I love the juxposition of using this polished look in a rustic barn. Mixing the old with the new is what it is all about. The candelabra at this wedding at The Hanah Resort warms the table on a cold January evening.
 

 
Continuing the theme- chandeliers. I use them everywhere. In tent installations, barns and of course outside! A large chandelier makes an important statement, but several smaller pieces, clustered together is sublime. Several candlelit chandeliers suspended from a huge branch make the entrance at The Roxbury Barn even more enchanting!

I am often asked if and how I address a “do it yourself ” bride.
In these tough economic times, it is a question that needs to be answered. Naturally I am a proponent for hiring a professional. Whether it is a wedding planner, caterer, florist or photographer, a true professional will come up with creative ideas to make your dreams a reality within your budget.

Every couple should have some idea of what they or their family wants to spend on their wedding. Don’t be afraid to address your budget. It is the most important first step in developing a plan customized to your day.

As a floral designer, I tell brides who think they want to do their own flowers to look at the big picture. There are many things to consider in this undertaking. How will you get the flowers to open, where will you store them, they do need to be refrigerated! There is nothing worse than flowers wilting in the hot sun. I know it sounds like fun to have your wedding party make your arrangements, but will they be up for it, or will you want them to, after a few cocktails at the rehearsal dinner!

Naturally I am a proponent for hiring a professional. A true professional will come up with creative ideas to make your dreams a reality within your budget.

I truly believe that no bride needs the added stress of pulling together her bouquets and table arrangements for her wedding, and I have bailed out many a bride that thought they could. Often I can come up with out of the box ideas for centerpieces that will fit into any one’s budget. If you do decide to do your own flowers- keep it simple and at least have your florist make your bouquet along with your attendants. Keep in mind- your flowers will appear in all your photographs and you will live with them for the rest of your life.

In the long run, working with professionals will save you time, money and a lot of anxiety.

Lydia Castiglia