A DIFFERENT KIND OF FOCAL POINT: DECORATING FOR LOVE

It should go without saying that designing interiors is an incredibly personal process; one which requires trust, collaboration, and a deeper understanding between designer and client than almost any other professional relationship.

And while that relationship is already intimate in its own right, I’m especially honored when I’m invited beyond the home, into the heart of a family’s most cherished moments.

Wedding Venue

Since 2017, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wonderful family from Crystal Lake. Our journey together began while staging a previous house for sale, then evolved into designing the main living areas and primary bedroom of their new home. Most recently, we worked together to furnish and style the exterior spaces surrounding their new in-ground pool.

Over the years, our relationship has grown into a true friendship. I’ve helped prepare their home for holiday gatherings, celebrations, and milestones. I’ve also watched their children grow, learn to drive, graduate and even marry. Through it all, I’ve had the joy of helping set the stage for these special moments.

A recent wedding in the family stands out among all these projects. One of the daughters from their blended family, whom I’ve watched grow into a sassy, yet confident & kind woman, asked me to help design the floral arrangements for her big day. Not just another project; it was an opportunity to help create the backdrop for what might be the largest milestone in her life, so far. No pressure there!!!

Waiting for Spring

Now this, I can work with!

In early spring, before the venue grounds had even started coming back to life, we toured the wedding site and began planning together.

Our goal was simple: create elegant, yet understated, decorations which complemented the outdoor ceremony without overshadowing the natural beauty.

The inspiration!

The couple’s color palette included:

Soft whites (roses, Baby’s Breath, and foliage)
Layered greens (eucalyptus of various varieties and other greens)
Striking light and dark blue hydrangeas for depth

We opted to use super realistic, artificial stems outdoors for both their durability and better color options. Live florals would be used indoors for centerpieces and table-scapes as well as boutonnieres and handheld arrangements.

The centerpiece of all the floral arrangements was white roses, matching the bride’s gown— both timeless and symbolic. We added several varieties of eucalyptus and other greens for movement, bright succulents for texture, and a mix of pastel and dark blue hydrangeas to echo the bridal party’s gowns. The blues blended perfectly with the serene outdoor setting, matching the couple’s relaxed, not-too-fussy, vibe.

Every detail was thoughtfully considered: from swags on bridges to the outdoor pergola (the ceremony site) to the spiral staircase inside the venue, the centerpieces on each table and other key focal points. The goal was simple beauty, not grand gestures, creating spaces where the couple’s love could be the true focal point.

Arched bridge swag

Venue staircase

Hard at work

As one might expect, with his bride-to-be partnering with a perfectionistic decorator, the poor groom didn’t dare ask for much save one request: tiny fishing poles in the boutonnieres. “Not big ones”—just small, tasteful rods with maybe a little lure, for “symbolism.” (You know, in a manly-outdoorsy-bonding kinda whatever.)

His fiancée’s reply? “Absolutely not!” She squashed that idea faster than a match in a lace factory.

In the end, the boutonnieres were simple, classic white roses—no fishing gear. But, in a nod to the groom’s request, a couple tiny fishing poles, complete with a “big catch”, made their surprise appearance, tucked into the florals at the pergola and on the sweetheart’s dinner table, thanks to yours truly!

Secret fishing rod 🤫

Being trusted with these moments, especially after working with this family for so long, is something I cherish. Events like this remind me why I do what I do: it’s not just about furniture, artwork, or flowers. It’s about relationships, legacy, and being part of life’s most meaningful spaces and celebrations.