Weddingbee PRO

Sometimes, it really isn't the flowers that can change the look of a wedding but the linens, lighting, decor and possibly the “containers”.

To begin, we chose to do a classic, garden arrangement of seasonal flowers like hydrangea, lisianthus, godetia, stock, peonies, imported roses, garden roses and textural foliage. We stuck with a neutral palette of salmon pinks, coral pinks, green, soft whites, peach pinks, and strawberry. We kept the shape simple -a round, dome.

Next we photographed the same arrangement in 4 different containers. Each one was distinctively different in width, height and overall style.

The four choices were:

• Contemporary, Taupe Ceramic
• Sexy, Glamorous, Black Wallpaper-printed Glass
• Vintage, Old World Chocolate Urn
• Updated Classic Glass Compote

You can see that by changing one element, which in this case was simply the container, the arrangement took on a slight and subtle variation.

The first arrangement in the taupe container feels more neutral and clean, and would work with chocolate, taupe, cream, grey linens in a contemporary room.
We could even imagine this on a square table with modern, square white plates. This arrangement could also work in modern restaurants or loft-style art galleries.

The next arrangement is slightly taller in this 9-inch cylindrical container. The wallpaper design on the container makes it a bit more dramatic and moody. You can see how this would work in a ballroom with dark, dramatic linens. For a splash of contrast, you could add dramatic hot pink linens. Pin spots on this arrangement sounds like a must have. Perhaps you might want menus with black velvet trim and black chiavari chairs and cushions. So many choices, oh my!

The last two containers, with their footed shape and rounded style, are by far more classic in shape. I can see the antique urn for outdoor weddings with soft kiwi or peach linens in a vineyard. On a round table with those kiwi or peach linens, I can see natural chiavari chairs and dark chargers with tinted copper glassware.

It can also work in a mansion like the Kohl Mansion in Burlingame, with their dark wooden walls and high beamed ceiling. Can you see mocha chocolate linen with this arrangement?

Lastly, the footed compote glass feels very lady like and daintier. Of course, I can see this arrangement for a wonderful summer wedding with silk shantung coral or blush pink linens. Glass ball chargers, white Chiavari chairs with contrasting pink cushions would be divine.

Bottom line: Beyond the flowers, ask yourself, “What type of container would set your mood and style?”