Charlotte Balbier's wedding diary: big ideas for beautiful blooms

Photography by Lesley Meredith

The vital part of a jaw-droppingly styled venue is beautiful flowers that bring it to life. With touch-me texture, elegant tones and eclectic arrangements, the flowers really can make it a WOW-worthy wedding.
Knowing how important the right flowers would be to pulling together my dream day look, I've been busy researching what flowers are in season for December. And along the way I've become something of a full-on flower geek! Did you know there are over 100 flowers in season in the U.K in December? I certainly didn't. Now my mind is overflowing with ideas and visuals for how I want our décor to look. It's a little overwhelming so I'm tackling it like I do with all major decisions and making lists of what I like and creating mood boards. I'm a creative creature and mood boards filled with beautiful and striking images are what inspire me and help me order my ideas. My current board for flowers and décor is awash with peonies, roses, gypsophila, pine cones, ferns, and lush green foliage. But what colours do I choose? All ivory for a simple, classic feel or maybe my favourite shade of pink for a personal touch? This is where it really pays to get the guidance of a pro and I've found just the man for the job.

Ten years ago I first came across Red Floral Architecture and their magical and extravagant work has wowed me ever since. When my friend, designer Rachel Bates got married, I was in awe of her astoundingly beautiful wedding, especially the décor and flowers which stood out as they were so different to anything I had seen before. It turned out the main man behind the genius creations was a guy called Mat and this was his first ever wedding. His creativity must have blown other brides away too, as 10 years down the line, Mat Hepplestone and Red Floral Architecture have gone on to be one of the UK’s best-loved florists, winning several awards along the way.
They gained their reputation via their fool-proof philosophy; taking ideas from fashion, season, colour and environment while the central inspiration at all times always comes from the flowers themselves. Designer Mat has vivacious ideas that really do capture my imagination and I love the way he adds a real sophistication to floral design.

I was lucky enough to work with Mat in May last year when I launched my 2013 collection Romantic Decadence at Styal Lodge. I wanted the day to be ultra beautiful and I knew I had to have RFA in on the act. Mat came in to see me and I described my vision, showed him the collection and then left it to him to create the magic. I trusted that Mat would create something outrageously beautiful, softly romantic and decadent. And wow, he did not disappoint! Take a peek here at the launch and some of the creations from Red.
I am delighted that Mat has agreed to be part of mine and Teddy’s big day and I simply wouldn’t wish for anyone else.
Until next time, lots of fun-filled floral love & kisses,
Charlotte xx