The Design Process: Finding and Sharing Ideas and Inspiration

For me, the design process starts long before I start placing stems.

Clients come with varying degrees of clarity on what they want. Some have a pretty clear vision and are looking to partner with someone who can bring it to life; for others, the process can involve an engaging conversation and a lot of education, for both of us! I love this part of the process—it’s where we thrive and what makes my job so rewarding.

When Alexandra first reached out to talk about her wedding, she brought her own ideas. As a fashion designer in NYC, she brought her own creative vision, but also knew the process and was ready to work through it, together. As we met, ideas evolved, and the final look started to develop. Colors went from classic whites to a soft, neutral spring palette. We collaborated to design tablescapes and share ideas for her bridal bouquet and other personal flowers.

Even the groom-to-be got involved, building a wedding chuppah that fit into the scene at Hayfield’s picturesque Hudson Valley venue. After seeing one of my pics on Instagram, the couple wanted to incorporate a “hanging garden” installation to complete the look.

Together, we created a memorable look that we all fell in love with. I am so excited when I get to interpret another person’s vision, adding my own experience and style to deliver something that is so uniquely… them. Congratulations Alexandra and Peter!

From Alexandra (via The Knot): “Shuheng and her team at Athabold Flowers brought to life the vision I had for my wedding day and completely nailed it. What started as a few inspiration images (and then more as the planning evolved!) became the most beautiful, dreamy display that I had only hoped for. The colors of the florals were absolutely stunning and I received compliments from guests all night on how amazing everything looked, from the “hanging garden” on the chuppah my husband built to the arrangements on the tables. I can’t stop looking at the photos!”