Sticks & Stems Blog



Woodland Photo Shoot on Style Me Pretty! | Sept 20 2012



I had the pleasure of working with some very talented vendors on a beautiful styled shoot this summer. Our woodland wonderland theme was soft and romantic, featuring natural elements and our very own frog prince:) I couldn't be more excited to have it featured on Style Me Pretty! Check out the link below as well as the What's New gallery for more images. Enjoy! http://www.stylemepretty.com/2011/09/05/forest-photo-shoot-by-corina-v-photography-ephra-event-design/



Wedding Flowers 2011 | May 3 2011



The time has finally come for me to start designing all the wedding flowers I have been planning this winter. The first two are now finished and were a success! Amy`s springtime wedding was soft and pretty in shades of mauve, soft yellow, and white. Asia`s dramatic and elegant wedding was black and white with accents of red. Both stunning brides! Congratulations!



5 tips to help you choose your wedding flowers | Feb 7 2011



Some brides know exactly what they want. They have a favourite flower or a picture of the perfect bouquet. Others don't know where to start. For those brides, here are some ideas to help you get things moving.

1. This one's easy – do some research. Look at pics online and check out bridal mags. Don't get discouraged if you don't find the perfect bouquet, just take note of things you like and don't like. Maybe it's the shape of a bouquet, a colour scheme, or a specific type of flower.

2. Decide on the overall look you are going for. Does your wedding have a vintage feel, or is it modern with clean lines? Whatever your vision is for your day, flowers can go a long way to help you achieve the look you want.

3. Choose a colour scheme. This may be one of the first things you do, but if your palette is neutral, flowers can add a pop of colour. Not all varieties of flowers are available in all colours, so this will help your florist narrow the selection.

4. Compile a list of flowers you need(and want). Start with the basics: bouquets for you and your girls, boutonnieres and corsages for the groom, groomsmen, and parents. Will you also need table centres? Ceremony decor? Cake flowers? This list will also help you with tip #5.

5. Determine a budget range. This can be tricky for those who haven't bought many flowers before. Try asking recently married friends or check out my FAQ's blog for some general guidelines. Prices for wedding flowers can vary depending on variety, sizing, container choice, etc. Having an idea of your budget in mind can help your florist when making suggestions.

You don't need to have it all figured out before meeting with a florist. We're here to give you ideas and create the perfect look for your wedding flowers. The process should be fun and easy! Happy Planning!



FAQ'S | Jan 19 2011



So here are some questions I get asked frequently. Hope the info is helpful! Happy planning!

How far ahead should I book my florist?
You can book your florist as soon as you know the date, location, and colour scheme of your wedding. At S&S we recommend between 6 to 18 months prior to the date.

What is the normal process?
The usual process for choosing a florist begins with a free consultation,* in which flower variety, colour scheme, seasonal availability, budget, and overall style are discussed. You would then receive a detailed quote outlining floral choices and pricing. After making any necessary adjustments, a 25% deposit secures the date. Changes can be made up to 6 weeks before the wedding. At this point a final consultation is scheduled to confirm all the details. Then all you have to do is wait patiently for your wedding day to arrive!
*Special arrangements can be made for email or phone consultations for the out of town bride.

What should I bring to my first consultation?
If you have an idea of what you would like feel free to bring pages out of magazines, or email any pictures before hand. Fabric swatches, pictures of dresses and your venue, are all helpful in giving your florist an overall vision for your wedding.

What are some average price guidelines?
Flowers for weddings vary greatly in pricing as every event is unique. The pricing depends on the types of flowers, seasonal availability, sizing, and choice of containers. Your florist should be able to come up with creative and fun ways to achieve the look you desire while staying in budget. That being said, here is what the average bride spends at S&S.

Bridal bouquet - $100 - $200
Maids bouquet - $50 - $80
Boutonnieres - $8 - $12
Corsages - $14 - $20
Table pieces - $25 - $65
Ceremony Arrangements - $100 - $250

What are some simple ways to save on my flowers?
1. Avoid using flowers which are out of season, as they cost more when they have to be imported.
2. See if your florist will let you bring your own vases or if they rent containers. Then hit your local shops and find some great bargains!
3. Keep the most expensive flowers for yourself! If you’re in love with more costly blooms, use them just in your bouquet and sneak in a substitute for your maids and table pieces.
4. Make your flowers work overtime! Use ceremony pieces to decorate the reception venue, or place your bouquets in vases along the head table. Ask your florist to place your toss bouquet in a vase which can then be used as a little extra something for your cake or sign in table(at S&S your throw away is my gift to you!)



Sticks and Stems Floral Studio is located in Waterdown, and services Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton and surrounding areas. I cater to weddings, banquets, corporate functions, or any other special occasion you may be celebrating.

I will work with you to create a unique and beautiful floral statement for your event.

Call or email to set up your free consultation.

The Contact PageSticks & Stems on Facebook