Photo by Larissa Cleveland (www.larissacleveland.com)
Our Twitter followers spoke, and we listened. So this week's expert is none other than Michael Daigian of Michael Daigian Design in San Francisco, California. The third-generation floral and event designer is known for his modern, eclectic style, which isn't surprising given his more than 30 years of experience in the field and his interesting background (in college, he majored in marine biology and worked for the Academy of Sciences before opening his own floral design studio). When he's not designing for the big screen -- Patch Adams, the Bachelor (the movie starring Chris O'Donnell, not the show starring Jake Pavelka), and What Dreams May Come are just a few -- he spends his mornings perusing flower markets for unique materials to incorporate into his designs.
You can check out his blog and website, but in the meantime, write in your questions about seasonality, where to find the coolest containers, and how to spice up your table arrangements in the comments section below. Then check back here on Friday afternoon for the answers!
From: Lauren | 8/16/10 at 4:53 pm
I am planning a beach wedding that I hope to have a laid-back, beach town vibe. Many ideas I've come across for relaxed, casual weddings look a bit underdone and "country cute." How can I design an event that will be both casual and elegant? I want to retain the relaxed atmosphere but still look chic.
From: Sara C | 8/16/10 at 9:30 pm
I know this is on the other side of the country, but I'm planning a spring wedding on the water in the Hamptons. Despite the snazzy locale, we don't have a limitless budget. What flowers would be beautiful, affordable, and seasonal from late April to mid-May? We are partial to white and French blue...thanks so much!
From: Melissa | 8/17/10 at 8:38 am
What are your thoughts on the bride ordering her flowers wholesale, and assembling them the day of? I'm fairly certain I could tie together some hydrangeas, but I'm afraid of the condition they'll come in after being shipped, and how they'll hold up during the wedding.
From: Sacha | 8/18/10 at 7:07 pm
I am having my wedding reception in a large industrial space in Toronto. I really want to use florals to 'soften' the concrete and steel and add some height, but I don't have a huge budget. Additionally, we are getting married in September and would like to use seasonal flowers in a soft (think white, peach and grey) colour palette. Michael, can you give me some suggestions?