Even though I had been to McMichael Art Gallery before, I had never actually done a wedding there. So it was a new venue.

It was accessible, ample parking, indoor or outdoor ceremony locations and a rustic lodge feel to their reception room.

Reception room had wooden walls and vaulted ceiling and was also the lobby of the whole gallery. Even though the wedding was at 5pm. We only had access to set up the centrepieces at 3:30pm. This is also the time they are setting the tables. This is when set up STARTS. I would highly recommend a drop and go centrepiece that can just be added to the tables without much set up. I would not recommend a centrepiece that has to be set up heavily on site. It was a very hot day, so when guests started to arrive at 4:15pm they came into the reception room to keep cool instead of sitting in the hot sun. So there we were, about 20 reception staff, the planners, coordinators and many guests all in one space while we were setting up. We finished moments before 5pm. Reception was directly after a short ceremony – so it was a tight squeeze to get everything completed. Even with a bit of timing drama, it looked really beautiful in there.

I was pleased with these summer garden bouquets, which is kind of my signature. Erin and I met in the winter, she was not picky, we talked budget and style and she let me do my flower thing. It’s such a pleasure to work with clients who have some ideas or a bit of a plan but are looking for guidance and trust my knowledge and experience. Not only will your designs look better – you will get more bang for your buck.

Congrats to Erin & James!

Photos by Ali Turton