Wedding Flowers & Bouquets - Infinity Hospitality

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

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The History of the Bridal Bouquet

Infinity Hospitality — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 19:40:53 +0000

WEDDING TRADITIONS: THE BRIDAL BOUQUET

When it comes to planning the perfect wedding, there are a few traditions we almost all agree are essential. Some of us couldn’t dream of walking down the aisle without “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue,” having a flower girl during the ceremony, or wearing anything other than a white dress. But where did all of these wedding traditions come from?

Today, we’re looking into the origin of the bridal bouquet.

ANCIENT SUPERSTITIONS

We don’t have a crystal clear picture of what ancient weddings were like, but we do know their traditional bouquets were filled with fragrant herbs and spices instead of white roses and purple posies.

It was common practice in ancient Roman, Egyptian, and Greek civilizations to outfit a bride with fragrant herbs and spices to ward off any bad luck and signify her new beginning. These brides of times past even incorporated fragrant garnishes in their wedding hairstyles and held a bouquet with herbs like rosemary (a traditional symbol of loyalty), dill (said to increase feelings of lust), and even stalks of wheat (for fertility).

Flowers didn’t become a common part of the bride’s arrangement until the Victorian era, when the young queen carried a bouquet of delicate snowdrop flowers during her influential wedding to Prince Albert.

THE BOUQUET TOSS

Because of this long history and cultural significance, a wedding just doesn’t feel quite right without a little greenery and plenty of fresh flowers these days. But the symbolism and good luck associated with a bouquet isn’t just about the bride!

The tradition of tossing the bouquet originated in England, but its influence quickly spread throughout other Western countries. Since fresh flowers used to be much harder to come by in the past, they were seen as a sign of wealth and prosperity, and the distinct blooms held by the bride were a blessing that guests sought after.

The bouquet was so coveted that some wedding guests would try to snatch it from her hands after the ceremony, occasionally tearing her dress or messing up her hair in the process. To make a quick and safe getaway, she would toss the bouquet into the crowd and dash off with her new groom. It was believed that whoever caught the bouquet was then granted the fortune of the bride and would be next in line to tie the knot.

If you’re planning a wedding of your own, will you incorporate your own lucky herbs or choose a flower with a special message for your bouquet? And will you spread the good fortune around with a classic bouquet toss at the reception?

Photos by Whitney Cadavid Photography. Florals by Forget Me Not Designs.

For more bouquet inspiration, check out some of our previous blogs!

The post The History of the Bridal Bouquet appeared first on Infinity Hospitality.

Our Favorite Summer Wedding Flowers

Infinity Hospitality — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 02:00:21 +0000

BLOOMING INTO SUMMER

OUR FAVORITE SUMMER WEDDING FLOWERS

As we jump into the new season, we wanted to kick it off with some of our favorite summer wedding flowers!

From bridal bouquets to reception centerpieces, florals are an essential part of any wedding. It is important to pay attention to which flowers are in season and which are not to get the freshest look and, not to mention, the biggest bang for your buck!

Keep scrolling for a round-up of our favorite summer wedding flowers from real weddings.

1. Sunflowers

First and foremost, we have the beloved sunflower at the top of the list!

This bright yellow floral brings light to any arrangement. Take a peak at how Marie and Samantha incorporated this fun pop of color into their wedding day.

Florals by Forget Me Not Designs and LMA Designs. Photos by Melanie Grady and Details Nashville.

2. Sea Holly

More commonly known as blue thistles, sea holly adds a touch of whimsy to any arrangement. With such a unique look, this bloom is a standout addition to any summer or fall wedding.

Forget Me Not Designs helped Kelley + Nate incorporate these eccentric perennials into their vintage-inspired Fourth of July wedding, while Rose Hill Flowers placed them in bouquets for Lauren + Grant's classic summer wedding.

Photos by Cody & Allison Photography, Amber Beckham, Jon Reindl Photography, SheHeWe Photography, and Details Nashville. Florals by Forget Me Not Designs, Rose Hill Flowers, Enchanted Florist, and LMA Designs.

3. Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas effortlessly add dimension and fill any arrangement with an extra soft touch. Whether entwined with greenery or on their own, we love how they bring elegance into any space.

Varying hues of blush and ivory hydrangeas set the scene for Ashley + Justin's ultra-romantic summer wedding at The Bridge Building, while all white arrangements for Amanda + Hunter's chic wedding at The Bell Tower created a classic, timeless atmosphere.

Photos by Nashville Wedding Collection and Janelle Elise Photography. Florals by PS Designs and Forget Me Not Designs.

4. Garden Roses

These many-petaled, cupped blooms are larger and lusher than standard roses, making them a good substitute for the out-of-season peony.

Bonus? Roses are said to thrive in hot, humid weather. They open up to the sun and can handle hot temperatures with grace.

Garden roses from LMA Designs added a romantic vibe to Maddie + Johnny's sweet summer wedding at The Bridge Building. They also help add dimension, as seen in Amy's show-stopping bouquet by Haute Flower Boutique for her pup-inspired wedding.

Photo by Rae Marshall and Julie Paisley. Florals by LMA Designs and Haute Flower Boutique.

5. Zinnias

Zinnias add a burst of color to any event. Varying in color and size, this floral is extremely versatile and can create stunning looks that stand out from traditional arrangements.

These buds flourish in the summer and are actually one of the easiest flowers to grow if you want to test your green thumb.

Fun fact: The zinnia was the first flower to grow aboard the International Space Station. That's right, zinnias can grow and blossom in microgravity!

Photos by Eden Ingle Photo.

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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.

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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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OUR TOP SEVEN SPRING WEDDING FLOWERS

Infinity Hospitality — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 16:03:24 +0000

SPRING HAS SPRUNG

OUR TOP SEVEN IN-SEASON FLORAL PICKS

There's nothing quite like the first day of spring. The weather gets a little warmer, birds start to sing and flowers begin to bloom.

When planning your event, quite a few factors affect your floral decisions. The season is one of the biggest. Have your heart set on perfect peonies? Rejoice, and read on.

Starting in spring many popular wedding flowers are at their peak, making them accessible and more affordable than in their off-season. You can support your community by buying locally grown flowers and plants, all the while filling your event with the flowers of your dreams.

We have rounded up our top seven floral picks that are in season this spring. Read on to see if your favorite made the list!

1. Peony

The cult classic. The all-time favorite. The MVP. Peonies begin to bloom in April and throughout the months of May and June. Their delicate softness and fluffy, voluminous texture make them a classic, romantic choice, and their variety of shades complement most color palettes with ease.

Photography: Matt Andrews, 30MilesWest Florals: Enchanted Florist, Basil & Bergamot

2. Ranunculus

The twice-removed, more refined cousin of the peony. These sweet blooms emerge in March and add a little something extra to any arrangement. Plus, they're perfect for boutonnieres as they are full through the center with strong structural lines around the edges, allowing them to lay relatively flat.

Photography: High Five For Love, Taylor Lord Florals: Cottonwood Floral, Vintage Florals

3. Hydrangea

This full flowering shrub creates stunning volume without harsh lines and is surprisingly cost-effective. Hydrangeas usually bloom in mid-spring and come in a variety of different shades to suit your taste. They are extremely versatile and can be used in bouquets, arrangements, and even in custom installations like floral arches.

Photography: John Myers, Details Nashville Florals: PS Designs, Forget Me Not Designs

4. Anemone

With striking dark centers and delicate petals, anemones immediately draw the eye. Beginning in early winter, these non-traditional bridal blooms hit their peak in spring and last through early summer. Their whimsical nature will add a little personality to any bouquet.

Photography: Details Nashville, Nyk + Cali Florals: Enchanted Florist, Forget Me Not Designs

5. Calla Lily

This elegant flowering plant is modern, yet unapologetically romantic. Its unique, delicate curves and structured stem allow for a clean look without appearing too masculine. These beauties bloom in late spring and continue throughout the summer months. White is the most popular shade, as it is beautifully bridal.

Photography: DC Events & Design Florals: DIY

6. Magnolia

Magnolias are one of the largest flowers in North America and have been cherished for centuries around the world. Down here in the south, white magnolias are thought to represent bridal purity and nobility. These graceful blooms begin to emerge as early as February and continue throughout the summer months. Their sheer size and delicate folds make them a popular flower for bouquets, and their dark leaves bring the wow factor and create contrastive drama when used collectively or individually.

Photography: Kate Anthony Florals: Forget Me Not Designs

7. Rose

You knew this was coming, right!? The blank canvas of flowers. Available in an astonishing number of shades, the rose is a classic choice for romance, tradition and beauty. Roses bloom in the spring and continue to do so regularly throughout the growing season. Whatever your style, vibe or color palette, there will surely be a coinciding rose to fit your needs!

Photography: DC Events & Design Florals: Forget Me Not Designs

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