The $40,900 Question: Alexandra Wise-Blush Botanicals

1. How did you get into the floral design business?I was working in finance at Merrill Lynch out of college and I wasn't happy with my job, so I began throwing parties for family and friends. I soon realized that the floral and decor portion of the event took up most of my focus so I figured I would try starting a business doing what I love, and the rest is history.

2. What makes Blush Botanicals so wonderful?

I'd say what makes Blush special is that we're always trying to stay ahead of the trend and create new pieces. We have a fabricator that can create anything we dream up and we are trying to do things that are on a larger scale (physically larger) and are trying hard to focus on getting an emotional response from guests and clients. We want clients to see the value in exactly what we are producing for them, so we want each piece to be unique and sophisticated. I think working with other fabulous vendors elevates us as well and we are so lucky to be able to do that.

3. What is something brides should ask about in regards to florals but often do not?

We wish more of our brides would ask us about ways to donate the flowers at the end of the evening as it is such a great thing to do!

4. Color pallets you are loving lately?

I'm a huge lover of the mixed metallic tones paired with fresh, soft greens and whites.

5. Is there a wedding tradition that you just love to see?

I enjoy when a bride asks me to incorporate a family heirloom on their bridal bouquet. It personalizes it and makes it a bit more special.

6. If you could do another profession other than yours, what would you do?

I would probably go to culinary school to be a chef or potentially go into interior design.

7. A helpful tip for somebody looking to get into the floral business?

Invest in a large, walk in cooler early.

8. Any summer activities you have been enjoying?

I go for beach runs in the mornings.

9. Three things you can't live without?

My dog, living by the ocean, the ability to sketch my thoughts.

10. If you had $40,900 to spend on one trip, where would you go and what would you do?

African Safari.

One Pic : Cristina and Simone

“If I had a single flower for every time I think about you, I could walk forever in my garden.” Claudia GhandiI was taken on a journey with Cristina and Simone and every step of that journey was magical.  May you both continue to create and share the magic, congratulations.

xoxo,

Suzanne

4 things...Surreal Dubai

Hello everyone,I hope your weekend has been rejuvenating. This is the last weekend of my trip and I'm ready to come home to Mike. It's been amazing to see so many new places with Cristina and the Italian wedding was perfect. It is however over 100 degrees and super humid in Dubai. I'm looking toward to some easy going weather and Mexican food :)

Dreaming of - El Zarape and Mike Ofeldt

Inspired by - Almanara Art Museum and it's big dreams of the future.

Reading - Lonely Planet Dubai

Listening to - The cool acts at Music Hall. I felt like I was in a movie.

The $40,900 Question: Lisa Lippe-Details Defined

It is always inspiring to see how people use their studies and degrees to make impacts on other people's lives. In Lisa Lippe's case, she took her production background and used it to build Details Defined- a San Diego wedding and event design business. Her careful attention to detail takes your ideas and turns them into reality. Read on to find out more about what is inspiring Lisa and how she got into the wedding and event design business.1. What got you started in wedding and event design?

I worked in Hospitality while studying production for live theater, TV, and journalism. I worked with couples while working at resorts and fell in love with the process. I decided to apply my production skills to live events. I get to apply my story telling journalism background to helping others tell their story through ceremony and celebration and in live events.

2. Favorite part of your job?

Working with people, defining the details and the day it all comes together is like an opening night at the theater in a way.

3. What is something brides should ask about but often don't?

Why certain vendors are referred over others, what makes them good/great, how are they a good fit for them.

4. What has been inspiring you lately?

The clients I work with is where I get my inspiration. Their stories, what they love. The rest comes from time outdoors, and nature, beautiful sunrises. Maybe that sounds cheesy, but Mother Nature has a lot to offer in the area of inspiration!

5. If you could do another job other than yours, what would you choose?

Author

6. Three things you can't live without?

Family, love, and chocolate

7. What summer activity have you been enjoying?

Hiking, driving up the coast, wine tasting, and cooking classes

8. Favorite flavor of ice cream?

Mint and chip

9. If you had $40,900 to spend on one trip, where would you go and what would you do?

Italy, Greece, and Ireland. Meet the locals, learn about the culture, history, culinary, wine, agriculture, landscape, art, local favorite activities.