Some of you may have noticed that there are a few sources and vendors that I return to time and again in my inspiration boards. The brilliant and talented Ariella Chezar of
Ariella Chezar Design is one of those people. When you see the lush, organic beauty of her work it is easy to understand why she is a frequent contributer to bridal magazines, and today we're lucky enough to have her stop by and answer a few questions!
photo by Phil MantasSnippet & Ink: On your website, it says that you are inspired by a flower growing in its natural state. What else inspires you in your designs?
Ariella Chezar: Nature in general, both cultivated and wild, never ceases to inspire me. I am inspired by color and beauty. Whether it's the early grey winter light on a field, an amazing painting, a stunning couture dress or one of your inspiration boards! Anything that takes my breath away.
S&I: I love that you say art and life can be intertwined. Who are some of your favorite artists (either in the traditional sense, or otherwise)?
AC: Rousseau, Rothko, Botticelli, Lucinda Williams, Bach, Shakespeare, Pablo Casals - it is a very long list.S&I: What kinds of things do you consider when creating an arrangement for a client's wedding?
AC: The three most important things to consider are my client's vision, the overall feel/style of the location, and which flowers are at their peak. I feel like it's my job to show my clients in their best light. To understand their vision well enough that I create what they would if they could.
S&I: What is the best part of your job?
AC: There are so many bests! I love stepping into other people's minds for awhile and helping them put together a beautiful night. I love working with flowers - who could ask for a better medium! I love growing many flowers that I use. I love color. I love working with my team of designers - we have the best time. I love sourcing beautiful props and decor items. I love bringing the bride her bouquet as she's getting ready.
S&I: What should a bride look for when choosing a floral designer?
AC: She should choose someone who listens well and whose work she loves.
S&I: What advice would you give to a bride whose budget doesn't allow for the flowers she imagines?
AC: Focus the budget where it will have the most impact. Personal flowers matter because you will see them in the pictures forever after. Centerpieces are important because your guests spend a lot of time looking at them during dinner. If you can't do anything else, have lovely centerpieces and personal flowers.
S&I: Your book,
Flowers for the Table, is gorgeous. Do you have any upcoming projects or publications that we should look out for?
AC: I have a few things cooking, but nothing definite yet. My most recent press can be seen in the current issue of Modern Bride.
S&I: One of the events highlighted on your website is your 30th birthday party. If you were to give a party for yourself right now, what would the flowers look like?
AC: Probably much more subdued. I'm still obsessed with green, always have been and probably always will be, but I'm very tired of pink with green. I would probably time the event around tree peonies - June locally, or October when they come up from New Zealand. I can't get enough of this spectacular flower, they just blow my mind.Ariella, thank you so much for taking the time to stop by Snippet & Ink! Your work is such an inspiration, and it is clear that you truly love what you do.
For fun, I have created three inspiration boards based on three of my favorite arrangements by Ariella. Check in later to see them!
Labels: interview
