Dance decor from a florist’s view
As a Houston florist, the challenge of decorating events like graduations and parties requires more than a centerpiece on the table. Venues are becoming secondary in planning as decorations take on more importance. Today’s parties are elaborate productions that create memorable occasions. The images are as important as the sounds and the place in which it is presented. There are three items to consider before decorating for an event:
* The Budget: Set a realistic budget for your event. When using an event decorator or florist, the cost can range from $50.00 to $400.00 per table decoration. Costs can add up considerably when tablecloths and lighting are taken into account. For those who like DIY projects, a reasonable budget per table can range from $25.00 and up. It is possible to create a centerpiece for less than $10.00, however the results can be disappointing.
* The Inspiration or Theme: What is the purpose of the event? Stay true to the theme. The saying “less is more” is true when it comes to decorating. The more contradictory elements that are placed in a design, the more uncomfortable the feeling will be. I was having dinner at my favorite Chinese buffet and noticed this family sitting next door. The girl had returned from the food station with a plate full of boiled shrimp, cocktail sauce, and ice cream. She proudly announced “Daddy, I brought you a plate of all your favorite foods.” All of her favorite elements may not fit comfortably into the design.
* What are contradictory elements: When the season, theme, materials and colors cannot exist in the same space in harmony. Example: If your December women’s luncheon theme is “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and you are planning to use the pumpkins you have on sale with the beautiful burgundy and white bouquets you have at the market.
* Color Palette: Don’t be afraid to use color. Some people choose all white because it’s safe, your eyes will tell you that a splash of color is spectacular. When you work with a florist or event decorator, they can guide you in selecting fresh and exciting colors that will make your event stand out.
The budget of today’s events is higher compared to “the latest generation of balloon and crepe paper parties” of the late 1980s. There is now very little distinction between high school prom and other events, except the age of the party group. Many extravagant services once reserved for high society finery are now affordable and easily accessible through a variety of resources.
I have learned from the experience of working with some great designers that the venue no longer dictates what kind of party it is going to be. For example, a backyard party that was once synonymous with a family barbecue can be transformed into a fancy dinner party. One of the designers I collaborate with had a client who enjoys outdoor entertaining under tents. The first party I attended was a wonderful dinner with Chinese food, beautiful linens, gorgeous table decorations and candlelight, southern smilax hanging from the ceiling, and hanging baskets of bougainvillea. When the decoration was complete, the backyard was transformed into a beautiful Spanish-style atrium.
And just because the event is at the VFW Post, it doesn’t dictate a cold one in a can, plastic tablecloths, Styrofoam plates, and beat up old silk flowers that were salvaged from good old Gus’s funeral, it was the order of the day. . . [Gus was buried at the V.A. Cemetery a couple years ago and they will only allow one flower on the grave you know]. I had the privilege of doing a wedding reception at a VFW Post and it turned out to be an absolutely perfect venue for a western themed reception for the couple and their guest. Although they both lived and worked in the city, the bride was from the country, her family were ranchers, and the groom was a “nice guy” from East Texas. The ceremony was a traditional formal church wedding, but the reception was a whimsical country and western affair. It featured a live country music band, hay balls, and other Western accents such as an actual wagon wheel, saddles, ropes, lanterns, etc. were brought in. Simple white cloth with a red satin tie. The centerpieces were bubble bowls filled with open red roses and rhinestones for sparkle. Ivory column candles of various sizes were added to create illumination on each of the tables and also took the eyes off all the imperfections in the room.
When you’re decorating for a prom or any event, there’s no limit to the simplicity or grandeur of the theme.
