Living Art

2012-02-27T09:20:00.000-08:00

With baby season upon us, we here at Le Petit Gardenia would like to showcase some of our creations for a recent baby shower! Baby Showers are one of our favorite events because let's face it..what's more beautiful than the gift of life?

These particular arrangements were on display at Palihouse in West Hollywood. Our motivation was to compliment the courtyard which inspired handmade wreaths with robin's eggs.

Since the mother-to-be is having a baby boy, we chose blue eggs. We also incorporated large egg vases in white with tulips to pair nicely with the robin eggs. Since the courtyard at Palihouse has various planters, we thought it would be fun to add terrariums and flowers to complement the venue. We used glass terrariums with Dutch Tulips, Mini green Hydrangea and Cymbidium Orchids.

To view more of our work, be sure to visit our site: www.lepetitgardenia.com

2012-02-21T00:13:00.003-08:00

Over 6,500 roses delivered from Passion Growers..and here's what we did with them!!

From this:

To this:

A little bit more for your viewing pleasure!!

The Wedding Yentas

2012-02-15T22:15:00.000-08:00

Alison Friedman, creator of the website, “The Wedding Yentas” has decided to share the story of how The Wedding Yentas came about and we are thrilled to now share it with you!!

We asked Alison what her motivation behind the site was and she explained that planning a Jewish wedding and not having an online resource where information on Jewish tradition combined with modern trends was readily available was rather frustrating. The creation of The Wedding Yentas filled that void and continues expanding in efforts to assist couples who are planning any variation of a Jewish wedding. There are so many great resources on the Internet that serve as inspirational and informational, but until The Wedding Yentas was born, a couple couldn’t find much of anything with a Jewish twist. “No chicken-soup flavored wedding websites to read, and well, now The Wedding Yentas is all about chicken soup..latkes..and bagels”, says Alison.

The Wedding Yentas came about in the spring of 2010. A soft launch featured some Real Weddings and general Jewish wedding planning tips. Soon after, the Vendor Directory began to grow and articles became much more interactive. Real Weddings exploded with brides and photographers looking to be featured. “It’s so exciting to see a successful website grow and grow. It’s my baby, you know?”

We asked Alison how long the conception of The Wedding Yentas took before it was live and she tells us that once the idea was there, the site was built fairly quickly. She adds that since it’s original launch, it has undergone a makeover and content overhaul. The new rebranding effort has also been very well-received with it’s feminine and elegant style. Also, the new areas of content involve the community in a much more exciting way, with real wedding stories by real brides and of course, fabulous giveaways!

Alison tells us that from the beginning, it was very important that The Wedding Yentas maintains a fun yet informative environment. It should be a place where couples come for information, whether general wedding planning or Jewish-specific. But The Wedding Yentas doesn't stop at informative. Their casual, pleasant tone accompanies all information to ensure that the content always feels personable and friendly—like girlfriends dishing over coffee. The articles range from informational to humorous, practical and always sentimental.

We asked The Wedding Yentas to share what they considered their favorite column on the site and here’s what they had to say..

“It's so hard to pick just one favorite column or installment. I think I'd agree with most brides that Real Weddings days, typically Tuesdays and sometimes Thursdays, are a Yentas favorite. Who doesn't like drooling over dresses and flowers and getting ideas and inspiration from brides who've already produced a successful event?!” Another favorite is any piece that's part of Tales From The Veil. These pieces are real tales! -- written by real brides who've submitted their story to The Wedding Yentas. Tales From The Veil can be about anything that's related to wedding planning, the wedding day, or marriage. Whether it's a rant, a piece of advice, or a recap of their proposal, these narratives are fun and insightful by been-there, done-that brides.

Alison Friedman owns and operates The Wedding Yentas and is essentially the Carrie Bradshaw of all things wedding. Alison began planning her own wedding at the age of 5 with the help of Barbie and Ken. She loved everything about weddings and dreamed of finding the man to sweep her off of her feet and complete the most important elements of her own wedding day. Alison met her match, Bryan, on J-date in 2005 and the real wedding planning commenced when they got engaged in January of 2007. Her big day surpassed all of her dreams and expectations and May 25, 2008, their fabulous wedding day came together beautifully. After a wonderful honeymoon to Hawaii, Alison realized that her love for weddings was far from over so she continued to immerse herself in the world of love and “I do’s.” She is a proud Wildcat alumni from the University of Arizona and lives in the suburbs of Los Angeles with her husband and their little pooch, Princeton. It’s never too early to start planning her daughter Madelyn’s wedding, besides Madelyn is already 6 months old!!

2012-02-13T11:01:00.000-08:00

Showcasing two of today's arrangements for Valentines Day. <3

Big Giveaway!!

2012-02-08T22:59:00.000-08:00

The Wedding Yentas is so proud to offer its very first FREE KETUBAH GIVEAWAY! As you may know, this is a very important part of the Jewish ceremony and couples usually spend hundreds of dollars on a beautiful piece of artwork to hang in their home that also serves as the Jewish marriage contract that's signed on the wedding day. It is with great pride that The Wedding Yentas partners with Ketubah Studio by MP Artworks to give away a cash prize toward a ketubah of the winning couple's choice.

Please let all of your Jewish and interfaith couples know about this terrific contest that takes no time to enter and votes from family and friends to win!

The official rules can be found here (and on Facebook):

http://www.theweddingyentas.com/featured/win-a-ketubah

http://www.facebook.com/theweddingyentas

Feel free to help The Wedding Yentas promote this sweepstakes on your social media sites, on your blog, or when you meet with your couples via email or appointments. I'm sure they'd love to know about this great opportunity!

Photo submissions can be sent to me, alison@theweddingyentas.com by February 16th. Voting begins on the 17th. The winner is announced on March 1st.

As always, thank you for your support!! Good luck to your couples, friends, and family who participate in winning a ketubah of their dreams!

Why The Cost of Flowers Increase with the Holidays

2012-02-07T17:28:00.001-08:00

Why does the cost of flowers tend to really increase during and around holidays, especially Valentines Day and Mothers Day? The reason for this is that when the demand is high, getting the flowers from oversea growers to the U.S. and into the hands of consumers can be daunting and downright difficult—especially when you’re moving double or triple the normal volume of flowers in a limited amount of time. That’s not all, though! There are additional shipping and labor costs throughout the distribution process, which result in higher costs to the consumer.

And lastly, another aspect to keep in mind is how often a plant will provide a crop. Because only so many crops are produced in one month, the process of providing enough flowers must begin months in advance and the normal process is altered to provide an immediate fix, however, later stunting the plant’s growth, therefore, resulting in money loss down the line.

That said, we still have 3 days left on our Valentine Day special with 10% off!!

Inside Tips For Selecting YOUR Florist

2012-02-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

So, for this special blog entry, we’ve decided to share our industry insight with you, straight from the florist, herself! Below we will give you inside tips, advice, and strategies for finding the best florist suitable for your needs, even if we know it’s probably us. ;)

Selecting a Florist

At Le Petit Gardenia, we think that two of the most important things a couple should be aware of when selecting a florist for their big day is style and design. The Internet is a great tool to utilize and we always persuade using it to your advantage. A florist’s website design will tell you more about their style than their bio will, but we suggest checking out both! Skim their sites and skim images of their work. Floral art is like any art, it will always be subjective, so find someone whose art you connect to or who is expansive enough to give you what you want!

After you have selected your florist, you should be given a contract that shows payment options. Most florists charge a standard $200 - $500.00 non-refundable deposit fee upon booking, which reserves your wedding date. This deposit is then deducted from the total amount of your wedding. A check or Credit Card payment is accepted. In terms of payment options, it depends on the terms of the company you decide to choose. Everyone works differently. We, personally, work with the bride and groom on paying monthly, or half down with deposit and the remaining balance due 2 weeks prior to the wedding date. Collecting money on the day of the wedding is very uncommon and something we could never practice.

Reviews and Testimonials

We recommend reading reviews about your florist and team. Reviews and testimonials are generally found on the florists’ website, LinkedIn, or Yelp. Wedding Wire is also a great resource when you are picking your florist.

Onto Your Next Step

Once you've selected your top few, you’ll want to call them to set up consultation appointments and go over all of the details. It is important that you feel comfortable with your wedding vendor. This is your big day and no detail should be overlooked, not one! This also means that having good communication with your florist is vital!

Things to Discuss with your Florist

Be sure to discuss what time your ceremony will begin, this helps ensure that your florist will be responsible with timely deliveries, while giving themselves enough time for setting up. If you are renting structures from your florist, discuss pick up times and clean up. After a night of bliss, you do not want to collect rentals after your wedding ends; it's worth paying the florist to come back that night to do it for you.

Once you and your florist agree on a design, we definitely suggest requesting that your florist create a wedding sample for you, so there are no surprises the day of!

On Floral Budget

Generally, couples set aside between 8 and 15 percent of their total wedding budget to cover floral decor. This really depends on the budget and floral needs. Prices tend to increase when specific flowers are chosen, like: peonies, calla lilies, orchids and garden roses. This is because the cost of flowers is based on a few things: design, quantity, type of flower and size of arrangement. A basic wedding with minimal ceremony flowers, reception centerpieces and 2-3 personal bouquets can start at $800 - $4,500. A more detailed wedding with larger centerpieces, abundant ceremony flowers, large bridal parties and laborious set up can start at $5,000 - $15,000. This is why we suggest communicating your needs and budget to your florist and deciding where you would like to see your money go in terms of the overall picture. A creative florist can create something for you within a realistic budget.

Here are some estimates of flower costs from low to high end:

Bridal/ Bridesmaid Bouquets: $85 -$250

Boutonnieres & Corsages: $10 - $25

Arch or Chuppa: $ 300 - $2,500

Church flowers: Per vase $85 - $350 or higher if renting pedestals or other items.

Reception centerpieces: $ 75 - $300 ( depending on the scale and flowers used)

Entrance flowers: $50 - $250.00

Flower Packages

All flowers ordered for your wedding should be included as one order. To keep the design consistent, It's typically best to go with one company to create your wedding flowers, otherwise things will get tricky, fast.

On Liability Insurance

At Le Petit Gardenia, we feel it’s imperative to find a florist who has insurance to cover any damage or injury on the day of set up. Most venues require up to $1,000,000 in liability insurance to vendors working on their grounds.

When to Order Flowers

Depending on how big your wedding is, it's best to order your flowers 3-8 months before the wedding. This leaves room to secure the perfect florist as company’s book fast in the spring and summer. It also helps when choosing flowers/designs while allowing the florist enough time to put it into production. A 300 person wedding with tall centerpieces, lots of details, reception and ceremony flowers should be ordered 1 to 6 months before the wedding. If you are just looking for personal flowers i.e. ( bridal bouquets, buttonholes and corsages, 1 to 3 months is fine).

Timely Delivery

Make sure to give your florist the contact info of your wedding planner or the on-site catering manager at the venue you are getting married at. It is important to communicate exact times of guest arrival, ceremony start time, cocktail hour, reception times and completion. This way the florist can gage exactly how much time they need to set up your wedding and pick up any items rented. This time should be discussed in your contract/meetings with the florist. A professional florist know exactly how much time is needed for set up and should be finished with all the final touches no later than 1 hour prior to guest arrival. It's comforting to know, your florist will have on site designers as well and not just labor workers. I think this is important especially when there is alot of details involved. We had a few circumstances where the entire reception location changed due to rain or snow. Having on site professional designers we were able to create the same design on time constraint . Also, if it's really hot and something wilts you'll have designers to aid in a pinch! Customer service is extremely important in the floral industry, don't be bashful to ask these questions.

Inspiration Boards and Wedding Samples

To ensure your flowers are consistent with what you visualized for your wedding, we recommend creating an inspiration board in the theme of your wedding. It's always helpful to compile magazine clippings, pull online ideas, bring a sample of the brides maid dress, wedding dress, and what ever else is important to you to show your florist. These will always help personalize your floral arrangements and give your florist a broad idea of what you really want. You could always then have your florist create an inspiration board for you and sample the centerpiece. Once you see the centerpiece, it will likely help bring the decor you have in mind to life. The beauty of seeing a sample is that you can always tweak it with your florist to your idea of wedding perfection.

Bridal Bouquet’s and debunking the myth

Traditionally, the "Bridal Bouquet" was carried to ward off evil spirits, along with symbolizing fertility and love. However, in current times, a bridal bouquet has become the ultimate expression of one's character.

Your bridal bouquet now generally reflects you and the flowers you love most, because the flowers you love the most generally reflect a piece of you. It’s symbiotic! You can ask your florist to incorporate plant specimens, brooches, jewelry, handkerchiefs and any other ornate, creative object that resonates with you and your finance. Keep in mind, your bouquet will be seen in many photos, so you want looking fresh at all times. You have the choice to use any flower you’d like, but also remember that if you are getting married in the summer, you may want to choose flowers that are hardy and hold up well to the heat. Your florist will be able to assist with choosing the best flowers for the season, and if you have your heart set on something, they can always make a back up bouquet!

Buttonholes and Corsages

A ladies buttonhole, also called corsage, is slightly bigger than a male buttonhole or boutonniere.

A buttonhole can be traditional, artistic, modern or structural. Ladies buttonholes and corsages can be attached with lace, magnets, ribbons, wire, or pearls. Normally buttonholes are worn on the dress or garment of the bridesmaid, where a corsage can be worn on a handbag or wrist.

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Please keep in mind that we do not discriminate against the size or budget of a wedding large or small, we do it all! We are happy to be of service to our smaller, more intimate weddings and to those abundant.

Please tell us how readers can get in contact with you here:

Congratulations on your engagement and enjoy the planning process!

We would love to hear from you, keep in mind, we travel anywhere for weddings! You can view or designs and read a little about us by going to. www.lepetitgardenia.com

email: livingart@lepetitgardenia.com

Phone: 323.424.4076

2012-02-03T00:30:00.000-08:00

Check out our latest inspiration board--arrangement courtesy of Le Petit Gardenia! A Spring Engagement part 2012: Using Dutch parrot tulips, mini green hydrangea, seed eucalyptus, New Zealand cymbidium orchids and variegated aspidistra, LPG creates a jewel toned party!

Fresh Events Company!

2012-01-30T09:36:00.000-08:00

Amanda Ma and Ada Chan proudly launched FRESH EVENTS COMPANY in 2006, when each realized how much they loved planning events and recognized the fresh and innovative approach they would incorporate into their work.

FRESH EVENTS COMPANY is an award-winning, full-service event management and design firm, which builds brands through organizing dynamic events. Fueled by passion and grand ideas, Fresh Events Company provides customized, strategic event experiences that connect guests to the client while keeping things personally relevant and always memorable. The fresh Event’s team offers the creative vision, professionalism, and event expertise necessary to create the perfect event. With a constant eye for detail, quality, and originality, Fresh Events is a one-stop-shop, fully equipped to produce a range of special events. This range includes: grand openings, product launches, benefits, incentive events, meetings, social events and galas.

FRESH EVENTS COMPANY really focuses on creating buzz-worthy events. They love an opportunity to transform a space and deliver a “WOW” event.

So, what sets FRESH EVENTS COMPANY apart from other special event companies? Well, according to Amanda Ma, it’s bringing the brand or the couple to life through very precise customization of color palette to branded items and conception to completion. This company focuses on showcasing what’s important!

When asked if they could expound on a few favorite weddings they organized, the company responded, “My two favorite weddings are very different. Each of our events is unique. One was a high-end, classic vintage wedding…and all elements of the wedding were carefully designed, planned, and executed. It took place at the Ritz Carlton in Laguna Niguel, CA. The other wedding took place in a loft. We transformed an old car loft/ fashion show space into a chic loft-inspired wedding. The décor was modern and involved so many fun elements! Both weddings included a Photo Booth, great entertainment, great food, and each wedding was really, just so much fun!”

FRESH EVENTS COMPANY says that their favorite part of their job is having the opportunity to work with some truly talented professionals, such as Le Petit Gardenia. (awww! *blush!*) “When you have great vendors who are professional and amazing at what they do, the event cannot help but be amazing!” "Getting to meet so many different people and clients who have later ended up great friends afterward, has been incredibly rewarding, too."

FRESH EVENTS COMPANY believes that anyone looking to get into event planning should be detail oriented, a people person, a good negotiator and above all else, hard-working.

They do take on interns who need academic credits or hours for school.

Check out their website for packages and any further information you may need to get your perfect event planned!

www.fresheventscompany.com

Valentines Day Floral Arrangements

2012-01-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

Order your Valentines Day floral arrangements by February 10 and we'll make sure you receive free shipping in selective areas. (Inquire within for more details!)

www.lepetitgardenia.com

Photographer of the Month: Aaron Gil

2012-01-26T12:23:00.000-08:00

Aaron Gil of FotoNuova, found himself enraptured with photography at the fresh age of 15. He was a freshman in High School when he enrolled in his first elective class: Photography 101. He recalls finding immediate love and exuding this tremendous energy and passion for photography. The passion Aaron experienced then was particularly inspired by the earlier photographic process. Where digital SLR cameras were non-existent and medium format were all the hype. Where the process would take you from capture, to loading, to processing, to taking your negatives and making that final print. Before you could replay the images on the view screen of your Canon or Nikon, you had to wait in this giddy anticipation to see the results. Can you imagine the mystery!? The photographic process albeit laborious was worth every second. The scent of a darkroom will forever be nostalgic to Aaron and all who poured into their photographic art in wait of the final result.

As a junior in High School, Aaron took an advanced Photography class. As a senior, he submitted his portfolio to become a staff photographer on the school’s award-winning paper. He was accepted and enjoyed the first of many unforgettable experiences to come.

Aaron Gil’s first camera was a hand me down from his mother. A rarely ever-used silver Nikon FE. A gift he considers, well, not too shabby! Sadly, though, his camera was later stolen—but—in a quick stroke of new found luck, Aaron’s father gave him his rarely ever-used black Nikon Fe. To this very day, Aaron still has this camera in his collection that he coddles like a child. Every time he uses it, he falls in love all over again.

Aaron’s first few weddings were shot with this camera in his armament. It was quite a wonderful experience, winding to advance each frame and manually focusing.

Aaron’s favorite aspect of photography is the creating. He recalls arguing with himself in the past that photography was simply a documentary medium and not so much a creative one. However, his ideas have since matured and now he is certain that the process is actually, significantly influenced by all of your different experiences throughout your lifetime, therefore, making the process expressive and creative. Aaron really likes to go back to happy places in his childhood when photographing his subjects, he finds that this mental course plays a huge outcome in his final images. His wedding images mostly take on a classical style with a touch of romanticism.

Aaron says what persuaded him to make a career of photography was his relentless passion for the subject. He cites that once you’ve acknowledged that passion “you will do whatever it takes to feel it again and again.”

Aaron has now been in the business for ten years and he knows he’s not stopping any time soon! He feels just as inspired now as he did at fifteen.

Aaron Gil offers Wedding Consultations, which entail a lot of listening on his end to the wants and plans of the couple but delve all the way into who is most special to each of them and what they really like and really don’t like to understand them on an individual level, too. He describes it as “almost like a first date but much more relaxed and comfortable.”

When we asked what his dream wedding shoot would be, he tells us, “I’m a big fan of grandeur. My soul is attracted to formality, pomp and to grand experiences.” He likes beautiful, classic cars, grand palaces, royalty. If he had a location and weather of choice it would be the country side of France, a cloud-ridden sky and dim light with a beautiful, old cathedral. He takes it even further now, “Then onto a grand, historical estate with stables, gardens and endless lawns—indoors would contain large works of art, tapestries and huge windows, Alison of Le Petit Gardenia working her stunning floral art, great family and fine foods!! He loves to see grace in a bride, in fact, he ends, “Grace Kelly’s wedding would have been awesome to shoot!” And how magnificent that sounds. Think I’ll go find a husband now!

For more of Aaron's work: http://www.fotonuova.com/

Inspiration Boards

2012-01-26T09:14:00.000-08:00

We love being inspired! So we've decided to start inspiring you! And what better way to do that then an inspiration board!? All of our inspiration boards will implement our own floral designs with decor ideas, event ideas, and color schemes that would complement them. Visuals are fun and you can check our Facebook every Monday for even more!

Color trend 2012: Yellow--This home design board implements yellow Callas and Green Bamboo as our focal point!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Le-Petit-Gardenia-Inc-Living-Art-Floral-Design/104910127487

Mon Ami Events

2012-01-24T09:02:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend we had the pleasure of interviewing Veronica Vargas of Mon Ami Events. Today we are happy to share with you some of her story on how her company came about and some key tips to event planning!

Veronica had always been the one among family and friends to take charge of all the party-planning, vacation get away’s, and all of the other events in between. She had a knack for it and after a while everyone started to talk about it! Her event planning within her personal life had created such a buzz that she was heavily persuaded to start an event planning company. So, in 2010, when she lost her 9-5, that’s exactly what she did!

In November of 2010, Mon Ami was launched. The phrase rolls right off your tongue. It’s a smooth and sexy sound. Veronica (among most of us), loves the sound of the French language and since almost every other French word(s) was taken, she knew it was the right phrase for her company. And so it was, that Mon Ami Events was born.

Mon Ami translates to ‘my friend.’ Veronica stated that this translation didn’t make too much sense to her initially but when she added Events behind the phrase, it worked. Now it translates in a way that promises she’ll be your friend planning your event…and who better to plan an event than a friend?

Mon Ami specializes in non-profit. They have expanded into other events as well…and the company has most recently become very popular with children’s parties.

One of Veronica’s favorite jobs she worked on was one she did for a non-profit organization in October of 2011, located in Long Beach. She describes the event as a fabulous one with a great turnout. She remembers best how amazing the organization was to work with and how grateful they had been for all of Mon Ami’s hard work. “It was my most rewarding event because I knew I was truly making a difference to this group of people and the children they raised money for.”

Veronica’s favorite part of the event planning process is always the event itself. She feels that the day of the event is always an exciting day of preparation and organizing. She adds, “And of course, at the end, when the client is happy and pleased with all of your hard work, that’s also very rewarding.”

And on a last note and a great tip for anyone looking to explore event planning, Veronica shares that the best skill you can have and hone in this industry is

organization, organization, and..well.. more organization!! Additionally, it’s very important that you be a "people-person" (or learn to be!) Lastly, acquire great listening and communication skills, if they aren’t already an inherent part of your personality, it will be pivotal that you hone that as well.

2012-01-19T12:02:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends, Family and Followers!

We took a bit of a break with the holidays but we're back now and thrilled to welcome a new year! A lot has happened since the holidays and we're happy to share it with you.

For Christmas, we had the delight of working with Aaron Gil at www.fotonuova.com and attending the Pasadena Holiday Christmas Tour, where we donated arts and crafts to numerous local children who spent the evening gorging themselves on holiday cookies and ornament decorating! From cookies to hot chocolate to ornament crafting to sitting in Santa's lap, we even had the pleasure of enjoying a beautiful live choir and Pasadena's renown and popular light tour!

One memorable highlight on our light tour was the Balian House, located in Altadena and can be combined with Christmas tree lane. The Balian House has been described as a community castle. It is a 1922 Mediterranean-style mansion owned by ice-cream magnate George Balian. The "castle" sits majestically aglow with thousands of lights adorning it at the fork of Mendocino Lane and Glenview Terrace. The family apparently started with 10,000 colored lights and now those 10,000 lights cover just the front walkaway alone.

In other great news, we've started the New Year with some exciting upcoming gigs. We are booking lot's of weddings already! We're also working with actress/musician Alisan Porter on her wedding ( who was certainly much loved in Curly Sue.) What an undeniable sound, though!

http://www.myspace.com/thealisanporterproject/music/songs/c-mon-50152338

Currently, we're in production for an extensive Valentine's job with CBS. We will be creating living art for The Talk, using over 6,000 roses and various other elements. You don't want to miss it!! We always welcome art directors, so be sure to check in on our site for upcoming shows, movies and more!

Another highlight we will have for you is our weekly inspiration boards. These are created using the seasons trends and colors. Every week we will showcase a favorite DIY along with inspiring photos.

We had lots of fun last weekend at Palihouse in Weho, creating tablescapes to for a baby shower. The flowers coincide with the venue, using dutch parrot tulips, mini green hydrangea, glass terrariums, handmade wreaths with Robbin's eggs (to compliment the baby boy theme), stones and pebbles to tie in the outdoor feel of the courtyard at Palihouse. Take a peak!

And our last fun sneak peak today: We are planning our 2nd Human Vase art exhibit: www.humanvase.com just in time for awards season. It's a great entrance/cocktail conversation piece for any event. Once you see it, it will be hard to stop talking about it!

Le Petit Gardenia's Holiday Decorating Services

2011-12-07T12:54:00.000-08:00

Christmas is undisputedly one of the most enchanting holidays of the year, if not the most enchanting holiday of the year. It’s hard to surpass the spontaneity and endless fun of Halloween and the heartwarming gratitude that Thanksgiving draws upon arrival. Little else, however, summons more bliss than when it’s cold enough for a jacket in L.A., lights are twinkling against a dark sky and the invigorating smell of pine infiltrates your home.

And because we love Christmas so much, Le Petit Gardenia is extending our Holiday Decorating Services to you this year. Branching out from our ever-unique floral arrangements, we are bringing the Christmas trees to you! We deliver any size, color, kind and style right to your door! There is no theme we can’t create and we will graciously offer our extensive background in design to those who love decorating but don’t have the time or resources to execute your vision! We also create holiday planters, ornaments, fresh flower tablescapes, candles, wreaths, garland, holiday gift baskets and anything else you may need to bring the vision and joy of Christmas to your home or event!

We offer: decorating for condos, homes, restaurants, hotels, parties, weddings, office buildings, events and so forth.

We specialize in faux-silk holiday pieces and include our insider tips on the best ways to store the products, so you can enjoy them next year, too!

And lastly, we had the opportunity to transform the set of CBS’s The Talk into a Winter Wonderland and have created a collage of our most recent Christmas arrangements including our winter wonderland set design, we are very proud of!

Go ahead and take a look!

Photographer of the Month: Sara Atkins

2011-12-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

We recently had the pleasure of working with SARA ATKINS of Sara Atkins Photography at a wedding. Today we'd like to appoint her our photographer of the month.

There are a slew of reasons we've chosen Sara Atkins this month, but just to name a few:

-She takes beautiful photographs that capture the essence of her subject.

-She’s got a wonderful spirit about her and you can’t help but love working with her.

Below is a little about Sara's work and photos she took of a recent wedding in which we had the opportunity to add our own floral-magic to!

Sara specializes in wedding, event and portrait photography. Her passion is drawn from documenting life around her and putting a vision to every meaningful story through still imagery. Sara’s style is most unique because she gets deeper than just easing her clients into a state of comfort, but takes it a step further with an earnest desire to hear and know your story. She let’s your narrative guide her photography.

With Sara, you won’t get much photo manipulation. Instead you will delight in results that are crisp, warm and angled to reveal everything going on in that present moment that your story was unveiling.

Sara Atkins Photography is located in the San Francisco Bay area but she has travelled worldwide in pursuit of pictures through all perspectives.

To view more of Sara's work: http://saraatkinsphotography.com/

A story and a Thanksgiving DIY.

2011-11-22T10:14:00.000-08:00

As a teenager, my mother would get really carried away with Thanksgiving. She would claim Halloween was her favorite holiday but you’d never see a woman prance about so merrily when Thanksgiving came. She’d pull us out of bed and hug us and tell us how thankful she was to have us. Then, she’d make us help her with the stuffing and mashed potatoes. And right as things would start to smell really, really good, she would pull out these hideous Thanksgiving table cloths, with matching CURTAINS, if can you even imagine. There were not even words to describe the atrocity that would hang from our kitchen windows and sit upon our kitchen table.

I remember the first time she ever pulled them out, she was beaming and smiling ear to ear. Always an enthusiastic one, my mother was! As a newcomer to witness this décor, you nearly choked from the shock of it all. They were heavy and cream-colored but the most noteworthy oddity of the tablecloth with the matching curtains was when you realized those really, terribly large, colorful things plastered all over the drapes were in fact, TURKEYS. Soon she’d see your mouth agape and confused glances being exchanged. Her big smile would quickly diminish and you could see the hurt creeping up into her small, delicate face, so you’d go, “WOW! Where’d you find these!? They’re really cool, mom!!” And with that, you’d sit down and feast upon all the stuffing and mashed potatoes she whipped up and only when she walked into the kitchen for dessert would everyone exchange glances and snicker.

To prevent you from making similar, memorable Thanksgiving décor disasters, we are here to kindly offer a few DIY’s, to make the process as easy as it is eye-pleasing!

To begin, let’s suggest a beautiful Thanksgiving Wreath. A warm door is a warm welcome and who doesn’t want that?

THINGS YOU WILL NEED”

· 2 wire hangers

· Floral tape

· Fake yellow, orange and red leaves

· Floral wire

· Silk autumn flowers of choice

· Crafting shears

· Hot glue gun

· Gold glitter glue

-First, you will want to bend the two hangers identically to form circles. Make sure you leave the hooked part of the hanger, untouched, though.

-Next you will bind the hangers together to form one piece. Wrap at least 3 layer’s of floral tape around the circle to cover it.

-Then, lay the faux-leaves directly over the tape-covered frame. Wrap floral wire around both the stem and the frame to secure it. Attach one leaf at a time and overlap the stems as you work around the full frame.

-Remove the buds of your silk or synthetic flowers of choice, with your crafting shears.

-Attach the flowers to the wreath by applying a speck of hot glue to the back of the bud. Press down on the leaves at the position of choice. You can use speckle the wreath with flowers or go all crazy with them, it’s your choice!

-Apply small dabs of gold glitter glue to the tips of the leaves. Disperse small amounts of the glitter randomly throughout the wreath for an extra sparkle.

-Allow the wreath to dry completely before hanging it. Use the hook on top to do so.

-And lastly, anticipate all of the ooh’s and ahh’s you’ll get upon guests arriving!!

Source: http://www.ehow.com/how_10042103_make-thanksgiving-floral-arrangements-hang-door.html

George and Megan's Story

2011-11-14T12:35:00.000-08:00

George and Megan met in 2004 at an effects company in Los Angeles, where George was then working on his first feature film and Megan was working as an intern.

The two have known one another for about seven and a half years and have been together for seven.

They realized that they were in love when they traveled to Europe together, just a year in. Their journey began in Greece and ended in Copenhagen, which they consider their favorite city in the world. They were only 23 at the time and recall being totally in sync. Their time in Europe was adventurous to say the least, with incidents such as enduring a 20 minute hike to find themselves in the center of a jellyfish-infested beach. Then, there was that time they were chased out of an internet café by enormously-sized bees. All laughable in hindsight, of course..

On their last night in Copenhagen, they went to Tivoli Gardens and spent the end of their evening watching the laser-light show. There was no denying the splendor of Copenhagen but this was the culmination of an amazing trip together; sincere compatibility and evidence that even in the midst of jellyfish and potential bee-sting, they could survive and laugh together.

What they most love about one another is that they don’t need anyone but each other. Their Friday nights are most sacred. And with all things sacred, comes with it a ritual. Their sacred ritual is Indian take-out and cozying up together for a movie on the couch.

When the time came for George to propose, he did so with such originality and cleverness that we get giddy just writing the tale! With a passion and proclivity for buying frivolous gadgets, George’s proposal idea was set in motion.

The goal was to find a way to lure Megan outside in complete darkness, flip the switch of their pool light on to reveal the words, “Will You Marry Me?” on the bottom of the pool. And since Megan knew so well George’s love for gadgets, it wouldn’t be difficult to convince her that he had purchased and installed a new light for the pool that intermittently changed colors. Earlier that day, George had spent the entire afternoon diving to the bottom of the pool and placing 400-500 river stones, one by one to spell out the words, “Will You Marry Me.” It was considered a true labor of love and took every last ounce of energy he could muster to place every stone in a perfect position. Other than a 60 some-odd degree pool and an exhaustion to be expected, the plan went swimmingly and caught Megan completely off guard. It was an incredible evening and one never to be forgotten.

Of their most cherished memory of one another, George states, “There are all those quiet, understated moments that we cherish so much and also those priceless moments experiencing something amazing together. Three years ago, we went to Tokyo and Kyoto together. It was winter and brisk out and tourist attractions were relatively uncrowded. We took a train to a shrine outside of the city known for the thousands of Tori gates going up a mountain, creating a tunnel of orange and black through the bamboo forest. We hiked the trail in the rain and saw virtually no one else. We took pictures at every turn because it was just that stunning. Despite the rain, we pushed each other to keep going – not wanting to miss a single sight. Because we both share such a love for travel, the rare opportunities we have to get away and experience something truly amazing and unforgettable together are most cherished.”

Their wedding is set to take place in Manhattan.

So, here’s to George and Megan’s adventurous love and the two, who also happen to share a mutual hatred of mushrooms and fish.

Jennifer and Jason's Story

2011-11-04T01:30:00.000-07:00

Jason and Jennifer met in the fall of 2007 on a fateful night of karaoke at Blowfish sushi in L.A. Jennifer had just wrapped yet another bad date and was complaining about her lack of luck finding a decent man in L.A., when a subtle Jason smoothly interjected that finding a decent girl in this town wasn’t quite so easy, either. (I’m sensing some compatibility already!)
After a few cockails, Jennifer decided to attempt to seduce Jason with her own rendition of Cheap Trick’s “I Want You to Want Me”. Evidently it worked because Jason told Jennifer that he’d like to date her, soon thereafter. Merely three days after karaoke and sushi, they met at the LACMA museum and, well, you know…the rest is just history! Four years of history!

Jennifer knew she was really in love with Jason when he surprised her with tickets to Wicked, for no reason or special occasion at all. They had, at the time, only been dating for about a month and Jason had gone to great lengths to keep the musical a secret. Musicals aren’t exactly his thing but he wanted to surprise her with something that was her thing.

Jennifer most loves Jason for the unconditional way that he loves her and her cat Zoe..and because, well.. he’s an awesome cook.” (This is the part where we ask Jennifer if Jason has a brother, or even a cousin with similar talent.)

Jason proposed one day shy of their three year anniversary during a trip to Seattle they took—he wanted to be able to say that it didn’t take him 3 years to propose!!

The wedding took place at the Hotel Maya in Long Beach, CA.

The inspiration for this location was that it really spoke the beauty of California. Jennifer had a lot of friends and family coming in from the East coast and they wanted a one-stop-shop, somewhere they could be married, have the reception at and where people could stay. Everyone raved and raved about the view, the food and the grounds. It was just perfect.

Their most cherished memory of one another was their wedding day. Specifically, the Queen Mary blowing it’s horn during the height of the ceremony, where Jennifer recalls laughing so hard she thought a button would pop off of her dress.

Cheers to the couple whose boldness over sushi and karaoke in the fall of 2007 brought them all the way to the altar!

LA Girl Secrets!

2011-10-25T00:34:00.000-07:00

Today, Le Petit Gardenia is thrilled to share with you one of our favorite websites we regularly indulge in! We present you, LA GIRL SECRETS.

LA GIRL SECRETS is an online hub with five different and singularly awesome categories to get in lost in! Each topic also has it's own blog, twitter and even a fan page on Facebook to keep up with the daily doings. Aside from providing us with their expertise and exposure, they offer member discounts from all of their collaborators from L.A. County to overseas.

Take a look at the five different L.A. Girls!

The Bride Girls LA.♥´´¯`•.¸¸.Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ

Bride Girls LA is your elegant resource and information center for wedding-relevant businesses like Le Petit Gardenia and so forth that promote: flowers, jewelry, photographers, cakes, bridal dresses, inspiring quotes and tips, invitations, and gifts. You can find D.I.Y.'s along with businesses you can trust to make your big day as big as you've dreamed it!

The Spa Girls LAღ¸.♥´´¯`•.¸¸.Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ

Spa Girls LA is a place to retrieve information for girls who love to be pampered. It is a one stop shop for LA Spa’s and retreats, spa treatments, and Eco-friendly suggestions. Spa Girls LA reminds us that it's more than just the very luxury of pampering our skin and bodies but the way we feel inside and carry ourselves too!

Goddess Girls LA¸.♥´´¯`•.¸¸.Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ

Goddess Girls LA is a spiritual cleansing and informative section, reminding you, that you are a spiritual, centered and radiant being.

Emphasizing the importance of smiling from your heart and letting the love and light you possess, shine through.

As Goddesses, we unite, and channel our strengths together as one.

The Blog Girls LA.♥´´¯`•.¸¸.Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ

As the professional landscape is consistently upgrading into a more technical, cyber world, marketing your business has become crucial! In order to get your business recognized, you'll need an online presence that works. LA Girl Secrets via Blog Girls LA will assist you in getting your blog connected.

The Party Girls LA.♥´´¯`•.¸¸.Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ

And lastly, switch it up with Party Girls LA, where information is always updated and provided about the best salons, lavish accessories, hot clubs, lounges, venues, bars, music in LA, and so forth. So don't forget to check out LA Girl Secrets via Party Girls LA on your way out.

www.lagirlsecrets.com.

Halloween Centerpiece Ideas

2011-10-21T11:18:00.000-07:00

Halloween is fast approaching and what better way to celebrate than with some elaborate Halloween Centerpieces!? Surfing the web, we found some pretty awesome ideas!

First and foremost and probably my favorite of the bunch is the Deranged Centerpiece for it's beautiful but gruesome charm:

What You'll Need:

White roses
A hand full of creepy crawlers
Rose Petals
Vinyl Bugs, orientaltrading.com
Black acrylic paint
Vinyl snakes (if you wish) orientaltrading.com
Floral wire, 20-gauge, saveoncrafts.com
Poster putty
A vase

How To:

Use permanent glue to attach vinyl bugs to rose petals
Paint vinyl snakes using black acrylic paint, let dry.
Use floral wire to create anchors for the coiled snakes. Twist 1 end around the middle of the snake and insert the other end in the vase.
Secure centipede or creepy crawler of choice to vase with the poster putty!

VOILA!
(or LePetitGardenia could always make you one.)

Now for a more elegant Halloween centerpiece..The Pumpkin Flower Vase

What You'll Need:

A pumpkin
A cylinder-shaped container
Knife or carving tool
Pen
Pumpkin scoop or spoon
Flower food
Water
Your choice of flowers

How To:

Put the cylinder-shaped container on top of the pumpkin, to use as a tracing guide. Take your pen and trace the outside rim of the container and score for a great fit!
Cut the top off of the pumpkin and be careful not to break the stem!
Scoop the pulp out and throw it away.
Place the cylinder-container inside of the pumpkin to serve as a vase for holding your selection of flowers.
Pour water into the container and add the flower food to keep them alive.
Arrange your flowers and VOILA! (the darker the better!) (maybe try some Black Burgundy Dahlias or black Tulips and Roses.)

Voila!!

And lastly, a real Batty Centerpiece!

What You'll Need:

Florist's Oasis
Serrated knife
Flowerpot or urn
Large dry branch
Spanish moss
A bat template
Pencil
Construction paper: black, orange, brown and white
Scissors
Hole Puncher
Hot glue gun and glue sticks
Wooden clothespins

How To:

Carve Oasis to fit into a pot of choice, press into place.
Push the branch into the center of the Oasis, cover that with the Spanish Moss
Enlarge the bat pattern or use a photocopier to do so
Cut the center of the body from the brown paper and the wings from the black paper, make as many bats as your heart desires!
Punch two holes per bat from the orange paper, glue to the face as eyes.
Cut two small triangles from the white paper, glue to the face as fangs.
Glue the body to the wings.
Glue the clothespin on the back of each bat and clip bats to the branch!

Voila!!
A perfectly, batty centerpiece for your Halloween dinner-party!

Sources: www.womansday.com and www.marthastewart.com

Tala and Monroe's Beautiful Wedding

2011-09-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

Monroe was a branch manager for Bank of America when he met his future wife, Tala. Their frequent run-ins evolved into a 5-year friendship and a year of dating before the official proposal.

Monroe and Tala’s chemistry was undeniable but after merely 2 months of dating, they both felt certain they were meant to be together.

Monroe loves Tala’s nurturing demeanor. And Tala feels similarly about Monroe stating that his compassion is what she most loves about him.

Monroe proposed to Tala at the Four Seasons Hotel in Santa Barbara, where he conned Tala into thinking it was a business trip (and since he worked so much, this hadn’t seemed out of the ordinary). When Tala arrived at the hotel, she was shocked to see a trail of rose petals upon entering the room, their song filling the air and chocolate covered strawberries with a bottle of Don Perignon waiting to be consumed. As midnight crept around, marking the end of Thanksgiving, Monroe proposed to Tala…To which, of course, she said yes.

Monroe and Tala’s wedding was held at the Hilton in Universal City. The venue’s main source of inspiration was how centrally located it was and of course the Hilton’s resplendent ballroom.

Monroe and Tala were drawn to extravagant, dramatic floral centerpieces but also desired a more controlled look. The colors they chose were cream, white and a slight peach hue. Since Tala loves roses, Le Petit Gardenia used over 8 dozen with hydrangea and mums in the mix. Mums are especially nostalgic to Tala since they were her grandmother's favorite.

Monroe, on the other hand, requested red in the wedding because it is known to represent good fortune and joy in Chinese tradition. So, Le Petit Gardenia incorporated roses called, black magic red roses.

On their most cherished and never forgotten memory,Tala and Monroe agree occurred on their honeymoon in the Cayman Islands, swimming with the dolphins and string-rays.

So here’s to the couple that Bank of America introduced and to a worthy future investment!

Nicole and Anthony's Beautiful Wedding

2011-09-18T23:11:00.000-07:00

Nicole bet Anthony on their first date that he would fall in love with her in two weeks.

And she was right.

The truth unveiled when Anthony brought her to a Yankee game. Somewhere between a great game, the buzz of the crowd and the drinking Anthony leaned into Nicole and said, “I know this sounds crazy but I think I’m already in love with you.” Nicole retorted, “ I told you it wouldn’t take long!” (What Anthony didn’t know, however, was that Nicole was already in love with him, too.)

Nicole and Anthony met at a pub in Pleasantville, NY, over a football game. Her mother called gushing over the handsome man at the bar, “Oh my god, Nicole! You have to come here!” And when Nicole arrived, Anthony couldn’t take his eyes off of her.

This marked the beginning of what has grown to be 7 years together.

When asked what Nicole most loves about Anthony, she replied, “I love Anthony’s loyalty to not only me but everyone in his life, I love his values and most of all, that he can calm my crazy ass down when I’m in panic mode.”

Anthony most loves how comforting and kind Nicole is. “She puts everyone first and is the first one there if you need her. she’s also a terrific cook!”

Their most cherished memory together was their first Christmas. “We had our very first K-Mart Christmas tree in our first apartment together and our make believe fireplace…Anthony made hot cocoa and we decorated the tree and laid in front of the fake fireplace together, sipping hot cocoa with our dog. It was so cheesy but really sweet and cute, and we have continued the tradition every year since. “

Anthony proposed to Nicole in Central Park over wine on a gondola ride. He was rather cunning about it too, as he had originally told Nicole that his friend Mike was dying for her to meet his new girlfriend. Only when they arrived, Mike and said girlfriend were nowhere to be found, so Anthony coaxed Nicole on a gondola ride while they waited. The best part? The gondola guy had asked if he could take a photo while the sun set behind the two and had actually pressed record so that the entire thing was on video. Everyone standing in front of the fountain at the boathouse was applauding but anxious to know the answer...and of course it was YES.

Nicole and Anthony were wed at the Ritz Carlton in White Plains, New York. The inspiration was the stunning ballroom that the hotel could accommodate the 300 guests who would be attending.

So cheers to two Yankee fans who knew what they wanted from the very beginning!

Kevin & Elizabeths Beautiful Wedding

2011-09-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth and Kevin met one fateful day in 2006 while attending Comicon in San Diego, CA. Elizabeth recalls approaching Kevin’s booth just swooning over his beautiful prints. But no sooner than Elizabeth had approached did Kevin realize he recognized her by her name badge…As it turns out, Kevin was a follower on her blog. It was a nerd match made in heaven! Two creative’s being totally inspired by one another. At Comicon, Elizabeth and Kevin deduced that they might have even possibly met as babies, as both had similar photos with t-shirts reading, “Solvang, CA.“ Elizabeth calls this, “creepy in the best of ways."

While some lovers say I love you on impulse and others with careful planning, for Kevin and Elizabeth it was a mere couple of weeks to speak it but even less time to feel it. Sometimes when you know you know.
When asked what the couple loves most about one another, Elizabeth responds, “I love Kevin’s “I’m having fun” face the most. I think he would say he loves that I’m always right!.”

Kevin proposed to Elizabeth at the Griffith Observatory with her grandmothers ring. They were married at the Page Museum-La Brea Tar Pits. Elizabeth was especially fond of this venue because she has fond, vivid childhood memories of her father always managing to give her a good scare, but what’s more is the couple both love prehistoric subjects such as towering mammals and dinosaurs. And who doesn’t love a dinosaur!?

Elizabeth and Kevin’s most cherished memory to date is their wedding day and night leading through the entirety of their honeymoon. They drank beer, swam in the ocean and indulged in delectable food in Kauai.

Who says you can’t find your Lois Lane or Clark Kent at Comicon?!!

Elizabeth and Kevin gave Le Petit Gardenia all the creative freedom an artist could dream of. Elizabeth's bouquet consisted of black succulents, yellow pin cushion protea, Billy Balls, Mauve Calla Lillies, Song of India & Green Dianthus flower. We implemented copper wire around a champagne satin ribbon to cover the stems of the bouquet. The design was complete with Tilandsia (Air Plants) hanging from the copper. Kevin's Boutonniere was made of Billy Balls and the same flow of satin ribbon and copper. Le Petit Gardenia built bamboo structures and wove hundreds of Oncidium Orchids, Anthurium leaves and succulents around the stalks of dried bamboo to create a tall structural which enclosed the to create a dramatic focal point as they recited their vows.

Le Petit Gardenia on Kate Moss's Wedding

2011-09-08T20:32:00.000-07:00

“I wanted it to be kind of dreamy and 1920’s, when everything is soft-focus,”-Kate Moss.

Kate Moss’s gown, designed by John Gallaino, allegedly inspired by Zelda Fitzgerald, was perfectly minimalistic and elegant...A gown that draped and clung confidently at every turn of the eye. The dress was a delicious-vintage, cream-colored delight; lightly embellished with rhinestones and bottomed with a sheer, translucent skirt. But who could deny husband, Jamie Hince in his beautiful, pale blue, Yves Saint Laurent suit either!? I, personally, can’t decide who looked more breathless.

The bridesmaid’s dresses, designed by Bonpoint, were not to be forgotten either! All 16 of them looked equally as angelic. In looking at the photographs, you’d think they were painted on.

Moss’s wedding entailed a three-day reception, and four wardrobe changes on the big day. With 138 guests attending the wedding and 300 attending the wedding party, it was expectedly teeming with celebrities in top fashion. Moss and Hince were married in a Church of England ceremony at the Noramn, Grade II-listed St. Margaret’s Parish church, in the village of little Faringdon. Photographer Mario Testino was one named photographer photographing the wedding, as seen in Vogue, and of course he delivered infallibly.

As per the décor, it was as classic and sophisticated as you’d dream it. The reception was decked out in various English Garden flowers, Spray roses, Scabiosa, Queen Ann’s Lace, freesia. The cake itself was curtained with an abundance of white roses, as well as topped with roses and fragrant lily of the valley.

Lastly, we couldn’t leave out the veil, as it was one of my favorite pieces..The 1920’s veil was nothing short of stunning, with it’s scattered sequins, pulled tulle and flowers…The vintage-style, lace veil design was reminiscent of the “Juliet Cap” which it’s prevalence and popularity predates all the way back to the 16^th century. While we’re on the subject of bridal head pieces, did you know Le Petit Gardenia now custom makes our own..See below for a recent flower wreath adorning a beautiful bride’s pretty head!

LE PETIT GARDENIAS CUSTOM HEAD PIECES

Sara Rubenstein's and Paul McGlocklin's Beautiful Wedding

2011-09-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

Paul and Sara met their first year of law school in Los Angeles. Though they were in the same section, they didn’t actually meet until Matt Allen, who later becomes their groomsman, mistakenly email-invited Sara to join a study group that Paul belonged to. Sara went to the group aware of the probable mistake but she was readily accepted into their study group, anyway. Friendships blossomed and Sara and Paul began dating a year later in December 2007, marking the beginning of their life together.

Paul can’t remember the very moment he fell in love with Sara, as friends he had developed a deep admiration for her but he recalls shortly after they began dating, that he knew he really loved her. He reminisces that he had known he loved her long before he told her and shared that familiar feeling that those who are in love have likely experienced...The feeling where the words are swelling inside and ready to burst from within. Or how telling the person that you love that, you do in fact love them, cannot possibly be stifled a moment longer.

Sara knew pretty quickly, though. A woman’s intuition being a guiding force, it’s not difficult to understand matters of the heart. She knew she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Paul on a particular evening visiting the city she grew up in. She recalls looking over the city and thinking about the things that led her to this place in her life, the unmistakable present happiness and how perfect it was to be right by Paul’s side.

When asked what it is they love most about one another, their responses were:

“There are so many things I love about Sara, but what I love most is that she is the most genuine person I know. She has real feelings, thoughts and desires and she just follows them. She cares so much about people and is so incredibly kind, but not for one second would you ever doubt her sincerity. She is the salt of the earth!”

“I love Paul’s, for lack of a better word, “spirit.” He is so passionate about life and he naturally brings joy to everything he does, every place he goes and everyone he comes into contact with. He eases sadness, brings humor to everything, makes the good even better, the dreadful things bearable…He just exudes kindness, humor, warmth, sincerity, dedication and support. He’s not so bad to look at either!”

One day Sara and Paul drove up to Santa Barbara to enjoy a relaxing weekend away. Shortly after their arrival, though, Sara had come down with Bronchitis and had to be taken to the doctor. Still, they went out to dinner at the ever-warm and inviting, Stella Mare’s Restaurant in Montecito. You can be sure that their fellow diners were less than thrilled with the pale girl, stifling coughs at a table nearby. Sara writes, “I remember glancing over at Paul and thinking he looked kind of nervous but I was so out of it, I couldn’t be sure. (Though, as Paul sees it, he was not nervous at all...what’s to be nervous about he boasts, “Sara is going to make me so very happy!” When we arrived back to the hotel, the room was over-spilling with flowers; it was a sight to behold, absolutely beautiful. At that moment, I thought he was going to propose, so I was kind of waiting to see what would happen next...but Paul surprised me by suggesting instead, that we change into our nightgowns. Now I was the nervous one, because as awkward as it is going to sound, I thought he might just propose in the nude! And with that, the changing process took about .5 seconds. While I changed at a rapid speed, Paul dug into his bag for something…the ring, no doubt! He then got on one knee and proposed and I said YES!”

Their wedding took place at the Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena, CA.

The ceremony was held in the Horseshoe Garden and the reception in the Viennese Ballroom. The two were seeking a venue with a classic elegance but a venue where everyone would feel welcome and comfortable, too. They weren’t looking to do a vintage-themed wedding but were definitely both very drawn to and inspired by a lot of the architecture, design and tone of the 1920’ s-1940.

Of cherished memories, Paul writes that his most cherished was locking eyes with Sara as she walked down the aisle to meet and marry him. He continues…”Just knowing that marrying her was the best choice I ever made.”

Sara writes that her most cherished memory cannot be defined by merely one…what with the wedding events, pumpkin picking in New Jersey, game nights with Paul’s family in San Diego, movie nights and cooking dinners together at home, fun vacations with great friends, law school study sessions, watching Paul do The Twist during his office Christmas party competition, and all the little every day thing, she adds, “every moment I spend with Paul is special…even the cranky ones.”

On anything else they would like to share, “ We wouldn’t be a good cat owner if we left our cat, George, out of our story. We adopted him as a kitten in May 2009.”

Event Planner: Deana Nash

2011-08-25T23:44:00.000-07:00

Ophelia Intimate’s Line; Nevaeh is a feminine and timeless collection inspired by the glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age. The line focuses on the grace and power of every woman combined with an undeniable sultriness. And what is sultriness with out a little comfort? Nevaeh’s elegant designs are constructed with convenient inserts playing off of a most sensuous silk charmeuse. Nevaeh is as versatile as it is luxurious and has just the right day and nightwear to channel your inner-goddess. Made to fit women of all sizes, we won’t blame you for delving into their scalloped lace, or bold color palette, not even the dusted vintage pastels! Inquire within for their stunning color varieties or pricing. Their website goes live next week! We look forward to keeping you posted!

Nevaeh Contact Info:

info@Nevaehintimates.com

(all designs made in NY)

Featured Photographer of the Month

2011-08-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

Le Petit Gardenia had the great pleasure of collaborating on an event at the Natural History Museum with the talented, Henry Chen.

Henry is a wedding photographer who prides himself on capturing the most memorable and evocative moments of a wedding day. He shoots in a photojournalistic style with a touch of his own creativity to give it a timeless but modern feel and his passion for what he does certainly shows!

It is easy to see and feel the intimacy and connectedness that the bride, groom, family and friends express and portray on the big day but documenting it all, Henry considers this a true privilege.

Le Petit Gardenia and many other testimonials agree that Henry is as prompt as he is talented. A true pleasure to work with.

More of his work seen here:
http://www.henrychenphotography.com/

Party at the Ritz- Elizabeth and Tony Tung's Elegant and Playful Wedding

2011-07-27T09:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Le Petit Gardenia had the honor of doing floral design for the wedding of Elizabeth and Tony Tung. Elizabeth and Tony met 10 years ago in at University of Washington in Seattle. They had a class together and here they are 10 years after tying the knot. Tony is a lawyer and Elizabeth has a MBA from USC. Tony and Elizabeth where kind and always brought laughter when we worked together planning the wedding. The floral design of the wedding where inspired by the wedding venue itself, The Ritz Carlton in Dana Point.

Elizabeth & Tony wanted soft hues in shades of White, Cream & Blush. The accent colors were mint and gold. We all loved how the tall centerpieces complimented the ballroom over looking the Pacific Ocean. Elizabeth loved Calla lilies and tulips, I wanted these flowers to have a significant part in the centerpieces for their wedding.

We chose two looks for them: Modern and traditional. Half of the tables consisted of French Tulips, Dutch Hydrangea, Calla Lilies, over 5 dozen roses and rose varieties, crystals and large Alocasia leaves. Whilst the other half had groupings of glass and candle goblets with Hydrangea, Anthurium, tulips and roses. I decided to incorporate light touches of tropicals with softer flowers like Hydrangea to add texture while incorporating the exterior environment of the Ritz-Carlton.

We also added flowers to the bride and groom's cake:

The floral design of the wedding was felt in every inch of the venue, including the woman's bathroom, which we decorated with flower petals.

Like I said at the beginning, This is a fun couple who enjoyed laughing and always having a good time. The wedding became an extension of their personalities by adding some really fun elements to their big day:

The cocktail service had cakepops for guests to enjoy:

The Cakepops made an appearance again on the bride and groom's table:

One tiny guest was celebrating his first birthday at the wedding! He got his own little cake, cute!

The fun didn't stop there- The candybar was open to all and was very popular!

It was an honor being a part of Tony and Elizabeth's big day, I am happy to hear that the couple enjoyed the flowers! Thanks so much to Fresh Events for planning and coordinating the wonderful event!

Natural History Museum Event with The Knot & Bump!

2011-07-01T00:02:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday Le Petit Gardenia created fantastic floral artistry for a wedding networking party hosted by the famous wedding magazine/website The Knot and The Bump, produced by Fresh Events Company. We had such a fun time working with the exhibits in the museum.The Natural History museum is unique and each room of the museum has a specific theme. For our floral designs we made sure that each room complemented the museum's exhibits.

The flowers for the Grand Foyer were inspired by two enormous dinosaurs facing off. The dynamic Dueling Dinosaurs display features replicas of the authentic T. Rex and Triceratops specimens from the museums collection.

We created flowers in shades of wine, mustard and bronze. One of our favorites were the organic wire spheres with mango spiraling calla lilies resting on top a cylindrical glass vase of sand, bones, sea urchins and drift wood. We wanted to accentuate the pieces in the museum with our floral sculptures. The overall effect left people going up to our centerpieces and marveling over the details and obscure items enclosed in glass. It was so much fun creating terrariums with sand, shells, coral, orchids, tropical flowers and coral for the event!

Table coverings provided by Wild Flower Linen

My Partner of the Human Vase (Jennifer Aspinall) and I and I created a Human Vase for the night. We created The Under Water Prince just for this event. Our model was a hit that evening and got the audience to interact and entertain with visual splendor! His costume was made from real Caribbean sea fans, urchin shells and sponge coral. The flowers mimicked the tubes of coral that sway gracefully on the ocean floor. We used cobra lilies, mokara orchids and succulents. Check out a few photos of The Prince hanging with the party crowd!

Left: Carley Roney, Editor-in-Chief of The Knot

The party was made complete with yummy food. The delicious food was provided by About Thyme.

Does that photo make your mouth water, or what?

As for the Knot, working with Monique Matlock (the regional representative of The Knot for Los Angeles) was an honor. She encounters a lot of talent and was so gracious when thanking us for being there. We were beyond thrilled she was pleased with our decor!
Another delight to was finally meeting Carley Roney, Editor In Chief of the Knot. Best part was describing the arrangements to her and posing in front of the pieces!

Who Knew Dinosaur bones and a networking party would make such a wonderful marriage?

Photos: Henry Chen Photography
Video & Photos: Filmfotofusion
We LOVED working with Amanda Ma & Ada Chan. Bravo for creating another Fresh Event!

Australia meets California.

2011-06-13T15:14:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Katie and Peter!

Another successful wedding for Le Petit this past weekend, at the beautiful Lakeside Golf Club, Toluca Lake. It started off a bit gloomy Saturday morning, but by ceremony time the sun made it's appearance over the lake creating the perfect setting for this wedding. From the ceremony to the centerpieces Katie and her mother Margie knew exactly what they were looking for. Long buffet tables with rectangular floral arrangements filled with lisianthus, cymbidium orchids, white tulips and calla lilies twisting throughout. Accents of small vases with floating cymbidiums and an abundance of candles created the ambiance for each table. The ceremony consisted of pomander balls on Shepard's hooks lining the aisle, 2 pedestal arrangements bursting with calla lilies, and the most delicate floating glass votives hanging from the trees behind the couple. The cake adorned with mini callas, New Zealand cymbidium orchids and lisianthus. The pomander balls were added after the ceremony as a fun accent to the table.

We had the privilege of working with one of our favorite event planners, A Diamond Affair http://www.adiamondaffair.com/

Laura and Garry made the entire process so easy. Not to mention, they are hysterical together and business soul mates. We always have a great time doing events with this fabulous duo. Between A Diamond Affair and the wonderful staff at Lakeside Golf Club, this hardly felt like work!

Thank you to everyone for making this such a beautiful wedding.

All the best to Katie and Peter!

Kelly and Amanda May 7th 2001

2011-05-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS, to Kelly and Amanda on their beautiful marriage. LPG enjoyed creating the floral decor for one of our favorite wedding planners, Amanda of Fresh Events Co.

The ballroom of the Westin Pasadena, was transformed into a romantic, modern candle lit setting. Lush Dutch hydrangea in cylindrical glass with cascading phalaenopsis orchids adorned the tables in colors of fuchsia and hot pink. Grand manzanita trees flanked the head table with pink flower spheres nestled between the branches, finishing the display with hanging glass bowls holding a delicate phalaenopsis bloom. Two cherry blossom trees flanked the ceremony courtyard with trailing floral spheres trickled up the stairs to a lovely wooden bridge. It was the perfect day for a wedding and such a pleasure to be a part of! Warm wishes Amanda & Kelly!

The Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T14:13:00.000-07:00

The most talked about wedding of the year....The Royal Wedding has arrived! What a lovely and extraordinary event. The couple made several eco-friendly choices at their royal wedding. They chose floral designer Shane Connolly who is known for his "sustainable approach to floristry," which uses live growing plants and trees, which we think is amazing! The Floral arrangements in Westminster Abbey included British flowers and trees, such as azaleas, rhododendron, euphorbias, beech, wisteria and lilac. 20 foot Maple trees lined the isle, and all flowers will be donated after the ceremony.

Kate carried a small shield-shaped wired bouquet of myrtle, lily-of-the-valley, sweet William and hyacinth. The modest bouquet draws on the traditions of flowers of significance for the Royal Family, the Middleton family and on the Language of Flowers. Tiny blooms compliment the delicate lace on the bodice of the classic Alexander McQueen dress. The flower girls adorned small hair wreaths of green and white to mimic the feel of Kate's Bouquet.

What a remarkable event!

Mark and Audrey...

2011-04-15T10:27:00.000-07:00

Le Petit had the pleasure of being a part of Mark and Audrey's amazing wedding on April 2nd, 2011. Held at the stunning Athenaeum in Pasedena.

Once again we were able to work with one of our favorite wedding coordinators, Amanda and Ada of Fresh Events Company http://www.fresheventscompany.com/ and we also were introduced to Henry Chen http://www.henrychenphotography.com/ who did all the incredible photography for this gorgeous occasion. We want to share some of his amazing pictures with our fans! Thank you Fresh Events for another successful wedding, and thank you Henry for capturing such beauty!

"Springtime in Paris"- Philidelphia International Flower Show

2011-04-04T15:53:00.000-07:00

LPG was so inspired by the 2011 Philadelphia International flower show we wanted to share it with you. This is an event that explores creativity to it's maximum. We were so happy we were able to witness such extraordinary displays and flower magic!

“Springtime in Paris” was held March 6 – March 13, 2011, a nod to the world’s most popular tourist destination.

The Eiffel Tower was the gateway to this year's show, which included Paris cafes and courtyards, the catacombs, historic Victorian-era French gardens, rooftop and edible gardens featuring fabulous French food, and of course the city's most famous museums and artists.

Featured displays drew inspiration from the Louvre, the Musee d’Orsay, artists such as Renoir, Monet, and van Gogh; modern art collections of the National d’Art et de Culture Georges Pompidou; and the beloved Cimetiere du Pere Lachaise and le Catacombes where the remains of Chopin, Moliere, Gertrude Stein, Jim Morrison, and Oscar Wilde reside.

This is the largest indoor flower show in the world. There's simply nothing else like it! Here's why...

Pamper Me Fabulous...

2011-03-23T18:55:00.000-07:00

Get ready ladies...It's time to get pampered!

We want to show our love and support to Amanda and Ada of Fresh Events for their 5th edition of Pamper Me Fabulous. This is an amazing event for the ladies, empowering mind, body and spirit. Le Petit has been to every Pamper Me Fabulous event, and trust us....you do not want to miss this!

This event has been featured on LA Confidential, Yelp, OC weekly, Spa Magazine, New Beauty Magazine and more.

It is a lifestyle experience where fabulous women gather to network, beauty, fashion, be empowered, celebrated, and be loved by the best brands in town! This event focuses on The Bazaar (shopping/beauty/fashion), Expert Corner (seminars), and Fitness Area.

So come on out ladies. Enjoy a glass of bubbly, eat some sweets, and take home a free gift bag!

We hope to see you there!!

Pamper Me Fabulous

March 27th, 2011

Vibiana, Downtown Los Angeles

11am- 5pm

Get your tickets at: http://www.pampermefabulous.com/site/main.html

Interior Floral & Plant landscaping...

2011-03-09T15:44:00.000-08:00

Le Petit's experimental approach to floral design and our desire to push the envelope are the driving force behind what we call "Living Art." This intimate approach blends an appreciation for classical art with an affinity for bold expressions of style and personality, channeling it all through flowers and other natural elements.

At Le Petit, one of our most favorite under takings is working on our house accounts! The ability to create interior floralscapes that play off of ones personality, furniture, and art work is our specialty. Its a custom niche in the floral industry where we really get to know each individual and compliment their living spaces.

Enjoy these pictures of our current projects!

Le Petit Gardenia's custom Bridal Bouquets

2011-02-23T17:54:00.000-08:00

The perfect bridal bouquet.......

Well, we all have our ideas on how to express exactly who we our through natures beautiful flowers! Some feminine, soft, and romantic...others mordern and edgy incorporating elements outside the box. Whatever you love and whatever your bouquet might symbolize or mean to you personally, I will bet its much different than warding off the evil spirits it once did for our ancestors.....Let's take a trip, back in the day, for a history lesson!

The History:

The custom of bouquets has its origin in ancient times. Women carried aromatic bunches of garlic, herbs and spices to ward off evil spirits.

In ancient Greece and Rome, the bride and groom wore a garland around their necks, symbolizing new life, hope and fertility. Traditional Celtic bouquets included ivy, thistle and heather. The garland was not made of flowers but of strong-smelling herbs and spices. The strong-smells were thought to have mystical powers and meant to keep away evil spirits.

Were gearing up for many beautiful weddings, which means many gorgeous bouquets. We thought we would pull a few of the Le Petit favorites from our potfolio. Enjoy! :)

Wedding Season 2011

2011-02-16T16:34:00.000-08:00

Le Petit is excited to announce the start of preparation for many fabulous weddings to come this season! From Los Angeles to New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, we've got our work cut out for us! March begins wedding appointments and meetings in NYC. We're also working with some fantastic wedding planners including:

Wish Wonder Dream http://wishwonderdream.com/#

A Diamond Affair http://adiamondaffair.com/Home.html

SJL Events http://sjlevents.com/

and

Fresh Events Company http://fresheventscompany.com/,

one of our personal favorites!

So many fun, fancy design concepts and creations await us....

April holds Audrey and Marc at Athenaeum on South Hill in Pasadena. The reception will have a very soft, feminine, whimsical feel with centerpieces of varying styles. The Le Petit favorite being, vintage gold picture frames outlining unique and different vases filled with lush hydrangea, lisianthus, ranunculus in shades of pinks, creams and soft mauve's. Audrey's lush bridal bouquet will consit of the seasons finest peonies, ranunculus and lisianthus.

Another wedding were looking forward to later in the season is Danielle and Ramsey, being held at The Barn at Wesleyan Hills, in Middletown Connecticut. With a more rustic, organic feel, we will be adorning the entrance with not only stunning mango calla lilies, hydrangea and spray roses, but also with apples, grapes, and berries. River rock will be scattered among the place card table with accent candles. Other tables will have cylindrical vases with crisp apples filling them among berry adorned branches shooting out to add height and drama. For the non-traditional bridesmaids, Le Petit has designed curly willow ball cages with spiraled mango calla lilies inside. Last but not least cocktail tables with adorable fresh asparagus votive holders!

Here are some lovely pics we've pulled up from our wedding portfolio...Here's to Wedding season!!!

Your Wedding Day Magazine- Photo Shoot

Biltmore, Downtown Los Angeles

Ranch, Moorpark, Ca

La Brea Tar Pits, Los Angeles

The Ritz Carlton, NYC

The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Beach

Behind the Scenes- Human Vase

2011-02-09T16:37:00.000-08:00

We want to send out so much gratitude to everyone involved in the Human Vase event. It was such a huge success and would not have been possible without so many talented artists to help. From make-up artists to designers of all sorts....you helped in making this an fabulously fun, one of a kind event!

A special shout out goes to, phenomenal photographer, Paul Drinkwater for capturing these amazing works of art.

Also, Thomas Paul Fine Art Gallery, for allowing us to put on such a remarkable exhibit. http://www.tpaulfineart.com/

Thank you to Ty Donaldson from Buddha Cowboy Productions for producing this event. http://www.buddhacowboy.com/Welcome.html

Here are some behind the scenes photos of the elaborate production of this outstanding event :)

Thank you to Editorial and Celebrity Photographer Natalie Sojka for these wonderful shots!

www.sojkaphotography.com/

Human Vase- Living Art Thomas Paul Fine Art

2011-02-09T15:31:00.001-08:00

Le Petit Gardenia and Inti Creative Design are excited to announce the tremendous success of, LIVING ART, THE HUMAN VASE. Held January 29th, 2011 at the Thomas Paul Fine Art Gallery in Los Angeles.

Imagine an ethereal goddess adorned in exotic flowers and elaborate paint. This is the Human Vase, an otherworldly creation developed by make-up effects artist Jennifer Aspinall and floral designer Alison Franchi, the talented duo behind LIVING ART.

THE HUMAN VASE is an original concept created by Living Art in which a live model is adorned with layers of body paint, jewels, and a brilliant display of perfectly manipulated flowers. The result is a spectacular marriage of floral design and fine art on a human canvas. This intricate process takes 12 hours to create, and each Human Vase is unique down to the smallest detail. For this exhibit, four models were transformed into characters of different cultures, historical times, and fictional works while paying homage to the artists’ personal journeys. The Human Vase epitomizes the idea of living, breathing art.

LIVING ART is an amalgamation of two genres through the collaboration of Jennifer Aspinall, an Emmy Award-winning make-up artist, and Alison Franchi, renowned floral designer. Inspired by the Renaissance era, Aspinall and Franchi pushed their creative and technical capabilities beyond the present demands for contemporary art and infused the artistic world with a refreshing dose of whimsical sophistication. Living Art is a celebration of diversity and imagination through the masterful vision and dedicated production of the Human Vase.The exhibition will brought together a team of award-winning make-up artists and special effects experts to create the Human Vases. As Jennifer Aspinall describes the experience, “Rallying a team as established and gifted as this, purely for the sake of art, is a testament to our inherent passion to create.”

Partnering with Aspinall has enabled Franchi to create a world of art that has remained undiscovered until now. “With everything in life, we are always changing. It's fascinating to watch the arrangements bloom and change shape, morph colors and decompose, just like our life cycle,” Alison Franchi explains.

LIVING ART has produced THE HUMAN VASE for high-profile events and social galas including last year’s L.A. Art Show hosted by EVO South and Los Angeles Confidential Magazine’s Fall Fashion Issue featuring the Kardashians. Aspinall and Franchi have received critical acclaim for their ground-breaking work.

LA CONFIDENTIAL MAGAZINE FEATURES ALISON FRANCHI OWNER & DESIGNER OF LE PETIT GARDENIA

2011-01-19T14:21:00.000-08:00

Alison Franchi, owner and designer of Le Petit Gardenia was recently featured in LA Confidential Magazine, "Remeber Their Names" Article.

"I was 16 when I made my first bouquet and decided I was destined for this industry. Le Petit Gardenia was conceived as a vision combining several ingredients: flowers, art, and interior design." ~Alison Franchi

"Each day varies, whether it is finding myself on a six-foot ladder designing large displays, meeting brides to talk about their weddings, using my creations to decorate my client’s homes or condos, or checking out industry events for inspiration and new trends. However, my 6 AM flower-market run is the best part of my week." ~ Alison Franchi

Blog Post Updated by LA Girls Blog Agency. For more info contact: info@lagirlsecret.com

Alison Franchi's Tis The Season!

2010-12-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

Alison continues to reach new levels with her designs and thrives on the appreciation and trust of her LA clients. "Their receptive attitude and constant encouragement is the most rewarding feeling as an artist," remarks Alison, "it pushes you to create something special, custom and unique!"

She revels in the relationships with her house accounts which are more like family than business associates. "Bringing life into their private homes with plants and flowers, playing off their art work and décor, designing living installations to compliment their personalities, all on a weekly basis, is beyond challenging and rewarding." Alison has reached her stride since landing in LA and continues to push her limits with every project.

CC Skye & Le Petit Gardenia: An Evening Under the Stars

2010-12-03T11:39:00.000-08:00

CC Skye the fashion forward accessory designer, Le Petit Gardenia, and the fabulous ladies of LA Confidential Magazine, put together the perfect evening under the stars with the most breathtaking views of the Pacific, intimate crowd and amazing food. An evening to celebrate CC Skye and her GOTTA HAVE new jewelry line!

CC Skye embraces the "It" Girl with the gleaming gold hardware and fashion forward sensibility that has made her moniker line with virtual wardrobe staples for super stylists and today's brightest stars.

Blog Entry Updated by LA Girls Blog Agency. info@lagirlsecrets.com

Nine Zero One Photo Shoot with Le Petit Gardenia

2010-11-30T09:58:00.000-08:00

Le Petit Gardenia teamed up with the talented Riawna Capri & Nikki Lee for their 2010 bridal photo shoot. Pictures can be seen at the Nine Zero One Salon in West Hollywood. Take a peak:

Hair & Makeup: Nine Zero One Salon
Stylist for dresses: Jessica Paster

Located in a historic West Hollywood building, Nine Zero One Salon
is one LA's newest premiere salons. With a wide
range of specialty services, the salon boasts expertise in the area of
Great Lengths Extensions.

For more information on Le Petit Gardenia, go to http://www.lepetitgardenia.com/

Entry Updated by LA Girls Blog Agency. info@lagirlsecrets.com

LA Confidential Magazine October Issue: Le Petit Gardenia Showcased

2010-11-19T11:45:00.000-08:00

CC Skye and Los Angeles Confidential editor in chief Sari Anne Tuschman hosted a private party in Malibu to preview CC Skye's latest collection of jewelry, handbags, and accessories. H Studio outfitted the venue's pool area with chic and ubermodern lounge furniture, while Le Petit Gardenia's gorgeous floral arrangements added the perfect finishing touch. Guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres provided by Salt Kitchen & Fine Foods and Susina Bakery as as La Marca Prosecco and Grey Goose cocktails.

Makeup Artist Jennifer Aspinall and florist Alison Franchi can bring something truly unexpected to your next event with The Human Vase, a live model bedecked in body paint, hundreds of glass stones, and a dazzling array of flowers. Now that;s what we call a conversation piece.

- LA CONFIDENTIAL MAGAZINE

Entry Updated by LA Girls Blog Agency. info@lagirlsecrets.com

The Human Vase: EVO Event & LA Confidential Kim Kardashian Event

2010-11-08T15:22:00.000-08:00

Is she a statue or is she real?

That was the question of the evening about the Human Vase, created by artists Alison Franchi and Jennifer Aspinall, which compelled guests to linger in the lobby of Downtown’s EVO South luxury residence, before going up to the Rivera and Rivera Gallery Fine Art party in conjunction with the L.A. Art Show.

Posed in EVO’s lobby for the entire evening, the Human Vase was an otherworldly life-sized goddess. Drenched in blue and green stardust lighting effects, she held a sensual arrangement of over 50 flowers and plants; her almost nude body painted a pearl alabaster and sequined in glass gems to evoke the notion of a crystal vase.

“When our guests discovered she was a live girl, it only put them in more awe,” said Lisa Goldstein of Think Public Relations, who represents EVO and coordinated the party. “Some guests even remarked that the Human Vase was better than anything they’d seen at the L. A. Art Show.”

The Human Vase is the brainchild of floral designer Alison Franchi, owner of Le Petit Gardenia, and Emmy Award-winning make up effects artist Jennifer Aspinall.

Franchi and Aspinall pitched EVO the concept of an ethereal goddess as a floral arrangement that would look at once human and non-human. She would be perceived as a statue, then surprise guests flirtatiously before striking another pose. And the Human Vase was born.

To complete the look Franchi created a cascading floral sculpture of over 50 pieces comprised of soft-toned Peonies, Calla Lilies, Freesia, blue spiky Thistle heads, Echiveria, silver leafy Dusty Miller, and braided lily grass with crystal spilling out of their heads.

Alison and Jen off the back of their last successful collaboration, joined forces to replicate the Human Vase for a Kim Kardashian event that LA Confidential were hosting at the London Hotel for their September issue and now featured in their November issue.

Entry Updated by LA Girl Secrets Blog Agency. Contact: info@lagirlsecrets.com

The Harry Potter Event

2010-11-08T11:59:00.000-08:00

The Harry Potter Event was held at a Private Resort in Palm Springs, Alison Franchi and staff of Le Petit Gardenia worked on this event in conjunction with Grand Central Marketing (www.grandcentralmarketing.com).

The next installment of the franchise is available to watch in cinemas from the 19th November. The riveting trailer can be viewed through the Warner Bros website on www.harrypotter.com. Prepared to be amazed!

Alison of Le Petit Gardenia worked in conjunction with Lacey Hoff of Grand Central Marketing, to create a scary display of props, devilish flower arrangements floating glass orb's and other materials to proudly exhibit a theme that is synonymous with Warner Brother's, Harry Potter.

This was achieved by using Alison's vision of autumnal displays with gourdes and pumpkins, coupled with an abundance of berries, dahlia, calla lilies, sunflowers, oak leaves and bittersweet vines.

The transformation of the vast ballroom was done to replicate the Hogwarts dining room in under 4 hours!

Entry Updated by LA Girl Secrets Blog Agency. Contact info@lagirlsecrets.com

Living Art & Wedding Florals from Le Petit Gardenia

2010-10-05T13:27:00.000-07:00

For the bride and groom looking for something truly unique with their wedding florals, look no further than a "Human Vase"...

"Is she a statue, or is she real?" That was the question being asked from guests at the opening of EVO, a new luxury apartment complex opening in downtown LA, at the live floral art installation created by artists Alison Franchi and Jennifer Aspinall. Posed in the event lobby for the entire evening, the "Human Vase" was a living floral and art installation. The model was drenched in blue and green stardust lighting effects, and she held an exotic floral arrangement of over 50 flowers and plants. In addition, her almost nude body was painted a pearl alabaster shade, and adorned with a glass gems to evoke the notion of a crystal vase.

“When our guests discovered she was a live girl, it only put them in more awe,” said Lisa Goldstein of Think Public Relations, who represents EVO and coordinated the party. The Human Vase is the brainchild of floral designer Alison Franchi, owner of Le Petit Gardenia, and Emmy Award-winning make up effects artist Jennifer Aspinall. For the design of the Human Vase, Franchi and Aspinall were inspired by 20th Century art deco design master Erté. “We combined traditional theatrical make-up techniques with 3-D pieces to create the illusion of a sculpture,” Aspinall explained.

Why not surprise your wedding guests with a similar art/floral installation! Perfect for the couple with a taste for unique decor and/or fine art. For more information be sure to contact LePetitGardenia and Jennifer Aspinall.

WL Vendor Roll: Florals, Concept and Photography: La Petit Gardenia | Makeup and Art Design: Jennifer Aspinall | Location: EVO South Apartments and Condos.

-Entry updated by LA Girl Secrets Blog Agency. info@lagirlsecrets.com

Living Art

The Wedding Yentas

Big Giveaway!!

Why The Cost of Flowers Increase with the Holidays

Inside Tips For Selecting YOUR Florist

Fresh Events Company!

Valentines Day Floral Arrangements

Photographer of the Month: Aaron Gil

Inspiration Boards

Mon Ami Events

Le Petit Gardenia's Holiday Decorating Services

Photographer of the Month: Sara Atkins

A story and a Thanksgiving DIY.

George and Megan's Story

Jennifer and Jason's Story

LA Girl Secrets!

Halloween Centerpiece Ideas

Tala and Monroe's Beautiful Wedding

Nicole and Anthony's Beautiful Wedding

Kevin & Elizabeths Beautiful Wedding

Le Petit Gardenia on Kate Moss's Wedding

Sara Rubenstein's and Paul McGlocklin's Beautiful Wedding

Featured Photographer of the Month

Party at the Ritz- Elizabeth and Tony Tung's Elegant and Playful Wedding

Natural History Museum Event with The Knot & Bump!

Australia meets California.

Kelly and Amanda May 7th 2001

The Royal Wedding

Mark and Audrey...

"Springtime in Paris"- Philidelphia International Flower Show

Pamper Me Fabulous...

Interior Floral & Plant landscaping...

Le Petit Gardenia's custom Bridal Bouquets

Wedding Season 2011

Behind the Scenes- Human Vase

Human Vase- Living Art Thomas Paul Fine Art

LA CONFIDENTIAL MAGAZINE FEATURES ALISON FRANCHI OWNER & DESIGNER OF LE PETIT GARDENIA

*Alison Franchi's Tis The Season! *

CC Skye & Le Petit Gardenia: An Evening Under the Stars

Nine Zero One Photo Shoot with Le Petit Gardenia

LA Confidential Magazine October Issue: Le Petit Gardenia Showcased

The Human Vase: EVO Event & LA Confidential Kim Kardashian Event

The Harry Potter Event

Living Art & Wedding Florals from Le Petit Gardenia

Alison Franchi's Tis The Season!