Feature Friday - Nashville Wedding Vendors

Feature Friday: Larson Floral Co.

Infinity Hospitality — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 23:56:30 +0000

LARSON FLORAL CO.

ONE OF OUR FAVORITE LOCAL FLORISTS

With a keen eye for aesthetics and a love for all things pink, Natasha Larson and her team at Larson Floral Co. are one of our most beloved vendors.

Natasha has worked in the Nashville floral and event industry for over 12 years.

"I have such a genuine love for flowers and weddings. They bring me so much joy," Natasha explains. "Anyone can learn to design, but when you design with love and passion, that makes all the difference."

Working alongside Natasha to make all floral dreams possible are seven creative women; Dena, Becky, Ashley, Destiny, Monica, Angela, and Ashley.

Scroll on for a Q&A with Natasha herself and be sure to check out more of her work in our real wedding blogs.

1. How did you get your start in the floral industry?

I was given a floral manager position at a Kroger 12 years ago. After a few years, I had an opportunity to do my first wedding on my own, and I never looked back. The excitement of the wedding day was addictive!

2. What’s your favorite part of your job?

When you hit it on the nail and your clients and their families tell you you hit it on the nail.
The relationships we [are] building with clients and vendors.
Opening our weekly boxes and seeing what is coming in!

Photos by John Myers Photography

3. How has your experience been working with Infinity?

My team and I love all the planners and staff at Infinity! We have been blessed to be a part of their vendor team! It's wonderful going to a venue on a regular basis!

4. Do you have a favorite flower?

This is a hard one. I love them all, but if I had to pick one it would be stock. It comes in all colors and the fluffy shade is great!

Photos by Teale Photography

5. How would you describe your style or aesthetic?

Whimsical garden; however, we can do all styles from boho, garden, romantic, and traditional!

6. What’s your best kept secret when it comes to florals?

I know how to make a flower look like a peony when they aren't in season!

Photos by Molly Peach

7. What’s your current favorite floral trend?

Color! I am loving all the different shades our clients have picked this year!

8. Any tips for couples?

Be honest with your flower budget. This cuts a lot of back and forth and helps us guide you to your vision but with budget-friendly options in mind. Everyone has a budget. It may be $2,000 or $10,000 for florals, but there is a “I'm not spending any more” moment.
Have a few photos picked out that you like the most to show your florist, [and] then give them the artistic ability to make your vision come to life.

Photos by Frawley Photography

The post Feature Friday: Larson Floral Co. appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

Feature Friday: Lauren Marie Atkinson Designs

Infinity Hospitality — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 17:45:20 +0000

FEATURE FRIDAY

LAUREN MARIE ATKINSON DESIGNS

Growing up on her family's flower farm in New Jersey, flowers are in Lauren Marie Atkinson's blood.

"I started when I was 13 on my grandfather's flower farm," Lauren told us. "He came over from Holland to start his farm and is now one of the largest wholesale growers on the East Coast."

With her floral education already underway, Lauren moved to Nashville to attend Belmont University.

Following graduation, she decided to stay and pursue her own career in floral design. Hence, LMA Designs.

"I'm not originally from Nashville, but I've lived here for 15 years," Lauren said. "So it feels almost like I'm an OG Nashvillian."

A few years and a few new faces later, Lauren and her team continue to raise the bar for floral design. Their detailed collaborative process always ensures that clients' needs are met.

We can't wait to see what innovative ideas they'll dream up next for our spaces! Read on for more from Lauren and the team.

What does your creative process entail? How do you finalize floral selections for a client?

Our initial meetings with clients are very detailed. We prefer to do all of our work on the front end so the client can enjoy their planning process! We take their inspirations and create a plan that works best for their budget and style.

What is a challenge you often face with your job and how do you overcome it?

We have such a great team with so many different strengths. We're able to brainstorm through any challenges that may or may not pop up.

What is something about your job that most people might not know?

It's actually much more labor-intensive than what people realize. It isn't just playing with flowers all day. There is heavy lifting involved and installations require a lot of planning and engineering skills!

What is one of your favorite events that you've done with us?

We were hired by a corporate client to do a greenery wall install with tropical leaves. It looked so amazing inside The Bell Tower.

Do you have a favorite flower?

I get this question ALL the time, and it's so hard to choose. I love poppies! They have a special memory of my grandmother, and they are such a resilient flower. They typically arrive with an outer shell protecting the bloom and as that falls off, the flower begins to open up.

Any wedding trends you would like to see more of less of?

No more mason jars and burlap! They have their place but would love to see less of them.

Any favorite real or fictional weddings that you often find yourself referencing back to?

It always depends on what's going on at the time. When Twilight came out, we saw so many inspiration photos of [Edward and Bella's] wedding. But we're currently seeing a lot of the recent Royal Wedding.

If you could work with anyone on earth, who would it be?

We've recently become obsessed with our new living flower wall, and we really think Beyonce would LOVE it!

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Creating a company that is both a family and a team, who are supportive of each other and who want to give back to the community. We have recently started volunteer teaching a flower therapy class to incarcerated women. It has been one of the most beautiful experiences to be involved in.

More by LMA Designs:

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Choosing A Wedding Florist

Infinity Hospitality — Fri, 16 Mar 2018 18:04:04 +0000

FIVE FLORISTRY TIPS

CHOOSING THE PERFECT WEDDING FLORIST

By Ashley Walters of Forget Me Not Designs

Choosing a florist can be challenging to say the least. With social media, family, friends and the internet all pointing you in different directions, it's important to be prepared with a few of your own questions before you commit.

Each florist you consider is talented in their own way. Read on for my top five things to consider when choosing your perfect wedding florist.

1. Experience

Make sure your florist has been in the industry for more than 5 years, and that they have legitimate business experience. Inquiring about how he/she entered the industry is key. Ask about floral schools they may have attended, or if they have worked with other florists. This is crucial because you do not want someone “learning mechanics” during your event.

2. Aesthetic

It’s important to know that your florist has the ability to create the designs you want. Make sure you ask to see their work and similar designs they have done before you commit.

3. Pricing

Pricing definitely varies from florist to florist. There will always be someone cheaper, but typically, you get what you pay for. I have heard many horror stories about brides who have had friends who went with “cheaper options,” and were very unhappy with the outcome. Many variables in the industry can affect pricing such as grades of flowers, seasonal flowers, quantity, and complexity of designs.

4. Connection

You must feel comfortable with the florist you choose! You will have to speak with this person multiple times throughout the planning process. Clear communication will make the process easier, so there is no guessing on what you are actually getting from your florist. A thorough wedding consult, a detailed quote, and a clear invoice are all necessary components for easy, open communication with your florist.

5. Familiarity

It's always helpful if your florist is familiar with the venue and has been a part of other events in that space. As a result, your potential florist will be able to tell you what is possible in that space. For example, what the appropriately sized designs are and what colors will best complement the colors of the space.

The post Choosing A Wedding Florist appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

Feature Friday: Forget Me Not Designs

Infinity Hospitality — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 14:16:54 +0000

FEATURE FRIDAY

FORGET ME NOT DESIGNS

With a keen eye for aesthetic, texture and color, Ashley Walters of Forget Me Not Designs is one of our most beloved vendors.

Originally from Hull, Mass. a small town just south of Boston, Ashley's love of flowers dates back to her childhood and inspired her business.

She moved to Nashville shortly after her college graduation. "After graduating college in Massachusetts I was looking for something new and exciting, I decided to pack up my truck and move to Nashville," Ashley said.

When we first met Ashley in 2014. She has helped us provide clients with fresh, innovative, and simply stunning arrangements and custom pieces ever since. We caught up with Ashley for our March Feature Friday.

How did you get your start in floristry?

As a young child, I always loved flowers. At the age of 13, I begged my mom to let me go help the local florist who was not too far from our house. She agreed and from then on I worked in many different shops around the Boston area.

After high school and before college I attended florist school in Boston which confirmed to me that this was what I was going to do for a career. I then went to Endicott College where I received a degree in business. This has all led me to now owning my own wedding and event floristry business!

What's your favorite part about your job?

My favorite part of this job is working with a variety of people. Every bride is different and I get to do different things every day. I truly enjoy being challenged by a bride who thinks outside the box.

What are a few of your favorite events that you've done with us?

Some of my favorite events are the ones that involve the floral ring that hangs from the ceiling. That piece when covered with florals and greenery is so dramatic and different. It adds an elevated element to an already amazing venue.

What was your experience like with working with Infinity?

The people who work at Infinity are awesome! Everyone I have met is so nice and caring. What I love most is their attention to detail. They do everything to make each event special in its own way. When a bride tells me she is getting married at an Infinity venue I am relieved! Their event specialists make my job a lot easier. They are on top of every detail and keep me in the loop with even the smallest of changes.

Do you have a favorite flower?

My favorite flower has always been a Forget Me Not, which is why I chose it for the name of my business. I just love the blueish purple blooms that look so dainty and fragile.

How would you describe your style?

I wouldn't say I have just one type of style when it comes to floral design. After working in 8 different flower shops, studying styles in floristry school, and being in this industry for over 15 years, I am able to create any style a client throws my way. I am a huge fan of the loose organic floral design style. I just love designs with a mixture of texture and elements.

What is a fun fact about your work that most people might not know?

People are usually surprised when they find out we can build just about anything they are looking for. We create custom arches, crosses, large trees, and other specialty installations for weddings that are custom built by me and my team.

Any tips for couples planning their wedding?

I would advise couples planning their wedding to trust their professionals. Your event is not our first rodeo, so let us relieve the stress and worry. Have fun with it! Planning your wedding should be an enjoyable time, so don’t stress!

More from Forget Me Not Designs:

Stay tuned for Ashley's guest post next Friday on the blog!

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Feature Friday: White Ink Calligraphy

Infinity Hospitality — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 18:27:28 +0000

FEATURE FRIDAY

WHITE INK CALLIGRAPHY

With a strong adoration and admiration for the wedding industry and all that it inspires, Claire White loves to create handwritten memories that her clients will cherish for a lifetime.

Claire is a rare Nashville native, and grew up in the Brentwood/Crieve Hall area. "Go ahead, call me a unicorn," Claire exclaimed. She practiced calligraphy for four years before starting White Ink Calligraphy just over a year ago.

"Four years ago, I took an Intro to Modern Calligraphy class, and the rest just fell into place," Claire said. "I put my practice sheets and work on social media, and slowly started picking up clients here and there - starting off with my closest friends, of course!"

We first started working with Claire in 2016. As an esteemed calligrapher, she has helped us set the tone with beautiful calligraphed invitation suites and original custom pieces, ensuring no detail is overlooked and with flawless execution. With whimsical handwritten text in a variety of styles, themes, colors and textures, Claire exceeds her clients expectations every time. We caught up with Claire for our February Feature Friday.

What's your favorite part about your job?

The people I get to work with! The couples that hire me, the planners I get to work alongside of, and all the other creatives in the wedding industry. Other wedding professionals are truly inspiring when it comes to their trade or skill.

There’s nothing like the excitement of a bride seeing all the pieces of her wedding come together – and most of the time that starts with the calligraphed paper goods. Getting to be a small part of one's wedding day makes my heart smile.

What are some of your favorite custom pieces that you've made?

I’m a huge fan for creative seating charts or displays. My favorite chart to date would be the one I did for an Infinity wedding at The Bridge Building! The Event Specialist, Brittany O., provided me with an inspiration photo. I had the wood cut, and I personally sanded and stained the pieces. I found the vinyl records at a local shop in East Nashville, spray painted them (sorry!), and installed them onto the wood after lettering the names for each table on each individual record. I hand painted the title and then put the individual guitar picks (which were the food indicators) next to each name. I’m also a huge fan of any calligraphy on a mirror!

Furthermore, I love vows! The first wedding anniversary gift is paper – so I absolutely love it when my clients reach out to me to have their vows handwritten for framing. It makes the sweetest gift and is something you’ll cherish forever.

What's a fun fact about calligraphy that most people don't know?

Meghan Markle, Prince Harry’s fiancé, used to be a freelance wedding calligrapher!

Do you have a favorite color that you like to use?

I have super eclectic taste, so my color palette is all over the place. However, a light color ink on a dark envelope is always a favorite of mine – even though it doesn’t make the post office too happy!

Any advice for aspiring calligraphers?

Practice not only makes perfect; but the more you practice, the more of a distinct style you’ll develop. Not all lettering is the same, and calligraphy is an art. You want clients to look at your work and know it is yours!

More by White Ink Calligraphy:

Stay tuned for Claire White's guest post next Friday on the blog!

The post Feature Friday: White Ink Calligraphy appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

Feature Friday: Sara Bill Photography

Infinity Hospitality — Fri, 12 Jan 2018 17:26:03 +0000

FEATURE FRIDAY

SARA BILL PHOTOGRAPHY

With a photo journalistic approach to her photography, Sara Bill loves to capture candid shots.

"90% of the time I’m a fly on the wall to get all those great candids, and 10% of the time I’m working with the couple or bridal party to create composed but natural portraits," Sara told us. "I encourage movement and interaction, and I have a few tricks up my sleeve for those couples who don’t love being in front of the camera."

Sara moved to Nashville by way of Milwaukee, WI in June of 2015. "I had moved back to Milwaukee after college in Chicago for a few years," Sara said. "I was antsy to try out a new city. A few of my good friends moved down to Nashville and after visiting them my mind was made up. I moved a few months later, and I absolutely love the creative community here."

We first met Sara in 2016. As an auxiliary photographer for us at Infinity, she has helped us grow our image library. Capturing vibrant, beautiful images of our events. We caught up with Sara for our first Feature Friday of 2018.

How long have you been a photographer?

I became interested in photography in high school and decided to go to college for photography while applying to schools. My mom was an art major in college and always encourages us to pursue creative interests. I was excited about the idea of capturing weddings so I started assisting an established wedding photographer and learned the ropes.

I got my photography degree from Columbia College Chicago and went into business right after that. I’m from a small suburb of Milwaukee so my business got off the ground by word of mouth referrals in our small community.

What's your favorite part about your job?

My favorite part has to be getting those candid emotional shots. When everyone is truly present and having a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I get to help them remember those moments. Those are always the shots I’m most excited about.

What are some of the most interesting stories behind the shot?

I had an engagement session in 12 South and we planned on ending our shoot in the park, but we quickly realized that wasn’t going to happen when we saw a storm rolling in rapidly. By the time we got to their second outfit, the sky was looking ominous and it was getting dark fast. We headed to one of the only light sources in the area, the Draper James alley wall. We only had time for a few shots and we rushed back to our cars as it started to down pour. I love these romantic dancing shots that we got, but it definitely wasn’t what was planned.

Any other favorite moments?

Everyone is always varying degrees of nervous on their wedding day, especially during the ceremony. This couple hadn’t done a first look so anticipation was maybe higher than usual. When they got to the vows, the groom went first and immediately said “I Do” and the room was filled with laughter. That moment washed away the nervousness of the bride and groom. These “mistakes” become positive memories and are a reminder that perfection isn’t necessary to have an amazing wedding.

What are some of your favorite spots in Nashville to shoot?

I love Long Hunter State Park for a nature feel. It’s on Percy Priest Lake and my favorite trail goes up along the beautiful rocky bluffs. I love to hike, so I’m always excited to work that into a session when my couples are up for an adventure. On the flip slide, shooting in the city is an adventure in its own way. I love to discover cool new nooks and crannies in the city and tend to find the most interesting spots where I least expect it.

What, where, or who would be your bucket list photo session?

Oh man. There’s so many, but if I had to narrow it down I would love to do some elopements or small weddings in National Parks, Iceland, and the Mediterranean. Exploring new places is one of my favorite things, so when that’s combined with an epic destination wedding or elopement, it doesn’t get better than that.

More by Sara Bill Photography:

Stay tuned for Sara Bill's guest post next Friday on the blog!

The post Feature Friday: Sara Bill Photography appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.