Love's on Fire

La Petite Fleur was a hot spot this Valentine's Day! Our team warmly greeted waves of customers (new and familiar) throughout the holiday weekend with everything lovers love to give (and receive)-- from confections and jewelry, to blooms.

This year, our rose arrangements were wrapped in 'hugs and kisses.' Wraps are a design element we (and our events) are known for. And although we won't kiss-and-tell about how they're created, we will say they are nothing less than fabulous! High-quality, upscale design is at the heart of our every effort. So of course, our roses didn't stand alone in a well-dressed vase, nor did they "wear" the fillers many florists favor. Rather, our roses were arranged with lush hydrangea and tropical leaves, which made their way into many of our floral selections this season. What can we say? We like it (our design) hot.

Of course, our Love's on Fire Valentine's theme permeated our confectionary selection, which featured old-school Hot Tamales, couture hand-crafted chocolate hearts that read 'Light My Fire' and 'Hot Lips' by Anna Shea and Indoor S 'mores Kits by Three Tarts. We searched high and low for delicious, lovely packaged, tummy yummies and hit the jackpot.

Centerpiece and 'Perfect Match' table card design by La Petite Fleur. Photo by SAS Becker Creative Photography.

Photo of table scape designed by La Petite Fleur by SAS Becker Creative Photography

Lastly, igniting our hottest of holiday themes was our sultry window display, which boasted the ultimate sweetheart table-- complete with matchstick table number, "Mr. and Mrs." place cards, flame-inspired linens from Choice Party Linens, and chiviarri ballroom chairs and china by Party Rental, Ltd. At the heart of the display though was a massive tissue paper heart and "fireball" arrangements by the La Petite Fleur design team.

Photos courtesy of SAS Becker Creative Photography.

And although we're heartbroken to see this holiday go, we're psyched about what lies ahead.

Setting Your Sights on a Single Site?

Planning on getting hitched at one of the Philadelphia-area’s fabulous historic estates? Or thinking of tying the knot in a rustic suburban barn?

We’ve seen a lot of non-traditional wedding venues in the past year. In fact, we’ve seen a lot untraditional approaches to the “big day” recently. Many couples are moving away from ceremonies at a place of worship-- opting to exchange vows on the links, by the river, in quaint gardens and along ocean fronts. 

Photo of Cairnwood Estate, courtesy of Lori Gail Photography

So, if you intend on saying 'I Do' at the same location you do your first dance, ensure single-site set-up a success with these steps:

Invest in an insightful invitation. Invitations are a fabulous way to give your guests the information they need in advance to really enjoy themselves. Perhaps include a card with the history of your venue, and a little snippet about why it’s the perfect place for your special day. Be sure to include specifics about special requirements for parking and travel arrangements. Or, consider including details regarding attire—for an August wedding in the garden, guests should plan to dress comfortably.

Take care, hire a coordinator. Never underestimate the value that an on-site coordinator can bring to managing the logisitcs of your day. This is especially critical in the single location wedding. You might be thinking that it would be easier to manage if everything takes place in one spot. Not necessarily. Challenges could arise--especially when you're just renting a space without a built-in kitchen, furniture or caterers. Someone needs to be the point person who directs your vendors and guests, and helps manage your timeline. 

Walk this way. Especially when you're celebrating in a non-traditional way, consider that your guests may not be familiar with the venue or how you've planned your day. Consider custom signage (in addition to point-people) to help inform and guide your guests where to park, leave their belongings, and enjoy a cocktail.  You may even want to offer a floor plan of the mansion, with information about where food stations and entertainment are located.