Welcome to the second topic of my sustainability series in honor of Earth Day. Today I’m sharing how I create sustainable foam-free installations. These include ceremony arches, aisle flowers, escort card displays and sweetheart tables for weddings to installations for corporate events, branded backdrops and seasonal storefront photo moments.
I’ve always been drawn to the larger scale floral moments, they’re my jam! I love the challenge of creating something new and unique for each client in a new setting. Figuring out the mechanics of each installation and seeing it come to life keeps me inspired and is so rewarding. Installations require some serious planning, time and experience to execute. There’s math involved, measuring tape, tools, ladders and so much prep. Let me emphasize this again so much prep!
Check out the the list of materials I use below to make sure my installations are foam-free, sustainable and most importantly they look beautiful too.
I recommend the following when planning to install an arch;
Schedule a site visit if you’ve never worked at a venue before
Ask for measurements and photos if a site visit is not possible
Check the weather and wind prior to and on your install day
Test out your arch stability and mechanics in your studio
On hot days bring a hat, sunscreen, plenty of water, and a pop-up canopy
Hire enough experienced hands to help design, carry items and clean
Bring a sketch or inspiration photo to share with your design team
Arrive as early as you can so you have plenty of time to complete your arch
Here are a few of my favorite foam-free sustainable designs from years past.
Next week I’m wrapping up this series on how I practice sustainability when I strike events. This is where my team and I come back to tear down an event or installation. I’ll share my techniques for how I reduce waste and repurpose the materials I use, including the flowers as well.
Let me know what you think, has this series inspired you to start your sustainability journey? If you are already practicing sustainability and have tips to share, please leave them in the comments below.
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