Going Green

Considering that most weddings start at $20,000, it seems obvious that they have a huge footprint, both ecologically and economically. But going green doesn't mean you have to compromise on your big day. Stepping back to take a look at the big picture, can open your eyes (as well as your guests) to the fun and easy ways to go green!

1. Watch your guest count. The fact is that the more people you invite, the more people travel to get there, more food, bigger venue, the more waste. I know it gets hard sometime with, "if we invite cousin Sam, we have to invite cousin Lola..." but just be conscientious.

2. Rent your tux and wear a secondhand wedding dress. Re-using these items can save money and the environment! Plus, wearing grandma's wedding dress could be really personal and romantic!

3. Source locally, look for caterers who source their food locally. Use the local microbrewery for your beer and ask your florist about local community gardens.

4. Create an earth friendly registry. Ask your friends and family to contribute to a fun activity, like skydiving, or have them donate to a cool charity.

5. Don't forget the details, there are so many products available, invitations come in recycled paper and there is everything from organic champagne to biodegradable confetti. Just do your research, there are a lot of great products out there!

The Wedding Expo - Sonoma County's Premier Bridal Show

Visit Kelly and Company at The Wedding Expo, Sonoma County's Premier Bridal Show. The show starts at 12pm and ends at 5pm and we'll be there all day Saturday, January 17th. It's at the Wells Fargo Center for the Arts. There are prizes and discounts galore, not to mention wine tasting and cake! Come on out! We'd love to meet you! :) 

Cupcake Bar

Tired of the Candy Bar at weddings... how about a cupcake bar? Display unfrosted cupcakes, multi-colored frostings (or those that coincide with your bashes theme), candies and of course, sprinkles and let guests express their artistry let their inner child run wild. Messy, but fun! Don't forget take away boxes!
Just as a side note, have you seen the book Hello Cupcake by authors Karen Tack and Alan Richardson? Amazing little masterpieces! Check it out! :)

A Wishing Tree

I admit, I LOVE the idea of a wishing tree: A place for guests to jot down their warmest wishes, fondest memories and most insightful advise. It makes such a statement at the reception, highlighting the wedding overall theme, whether that be a bling wishing tree dripping with crystals and sparkles, a nature friendly wishing tree incorporating mosses and barks, a wine country wishing tree draped with grapes and grape leaves.... There are so many options! Don't forget to give your guests instructions and appoint a "helper" to encourage guests to add to your wishing tree!

As we begin our new journey
a brand new Mr. & Mrs.
We could surely use
your advise and wishes.
Share with us your wisdom
about marriage, love & life.
Jot down a memory
a reminder of our day.
A doodle or picture will do
if you don't know what to say.
Please don't forget, it would be such a shame
Don’t hang your wish on our tree,
without signing your name.
Whatever you pen, we're sure to treasure
long after this day has passed,
your words will bring us pleasure.

Carnation Comeback!

Now it's not really a comeback, because they've been around for a long time, but I think the carnation's bad rap is starting to crumble. I fully admit to having a life long predisposition against carnations. Somehow, their association with the dreaded adjective "cheap" has burrowing into my flower dictionary. I even remember days gone by when my sister would joke, "any boy who gives you carnations is not worth your time..." She taught me a lot about life, ha!

On a usual search for all things beautiful, I came across a lovely centerpiece using carnations amassed in monochromatic tones and it piqued my interest. Thus commenced my search for beautiful and unique carnation applications and overturned my snotty attitude towards carnations putting me first in line to design upscale creations!

With so many brides feeling the pinch of today's economic crisis, I constantly hear, what's a good lower priced option or how can I save a few dollars? I am using the carnation more and more in wreaths, in centerpieces, in pomanders. Carnations used in mass can create amazingly lush, modern, yet romantic, high impact arrangements and more importantly, you get a lot of bang for your buck!

Even Martha is taking notice of carnations. Check out this month's issue of Martha Stewart Weddings for "A Bright Idea" featuring the chic carnation.

The Meaning of the Carnation:
What is delicate, durable, and delightful all in one? The carnation, scientifically known as Dianthus caryophyllus, is a historically rich and meaningful flower choice. With its scientific name dianthus roughly translating to "flower of love" or "flower of the gods", depending on the source, this flower is one that has been revered for centuries. One of the world's oldest cultivated flowers, the carnation is appreciated for its ruffled appearance, clove-like scent, and extended blooming period.

Hi! I'm New Here!

So, here we are, Kelly & Company Event Planning and Floral Design, officially starting a blog. It's kind of exciting! We're planning on posting info about recent events, new design ideas, great articles, images and stuff that gets us fired up! We love our jobs and can't wait to share all of the exciting details! It's like planning a really great party everyday, getting the creative juices flowing and really getting down to what our customers want. Anyway, Kelly & Company is excited to share it all with you! :)