Meet the ladies behind IdeaL

{Above is a mock-up of a design they did for me using my own vintage white milk glass vase.}

Here are a couple ladies you should meet: Imogene and Luzelle of IdeaL {floral art and design} based in the East Bay. I've met with them a few times to see if they're a good fit for our wedding floral design, and I sure do like 'em...and their pricing is affordable since they are still building their portfolio -- as I am with Va de Vie Events. I asked them to share a little about themselves:

1. How did you get started? How did you meet?

We are cousins! We grew up together...and are best friends too! We both have always had a creative itch....we helped with friends'/families' weddings and parties, and even did my own wedding (Luzelle). After a couple years we realized that we should just start our company and go for it! We always had it in the back of our minds but never really did anything about it. One day I asked Imo if she wanted to start the business...when she said,"yeah!" Then we took off from there! We were official in May 2009! Yay!

2. What's your favorite moment in a wedding?

Watching the couple do their first dance...you see so much love and emotion between the newlyweds! A lot of times it is so sweet it makes you melt!

3. What's your inspiration?

Our inspiration is the client's personality and the style that she/he describes....it's so much fun to explore different ideas and pick at the clients' brains! So our inspiration truly differs every time.

4. What should brides look for when selecting a floral designer?

Brides should make sure they are working with someone who is personable and easy to deal with. We think that it's important that you have a good connection with your florist, as well as with every other vendor you decide on. You want to work with someone who can suggest different ideas but and also cater to the style that you want. You also have to feel like you trust your florist. Flowers are an important aspect of a wedding and will set the tone of the event so you want to make sure they know what they are doing. We also believe it is important to work within a client's ideal budget. We understand the value of money and if there is something that a client truly has to have, we do our best to make that happen by helping them choose other options that will allow them to.

5. What's your favorite flower?

We really love dahlias and peonies! They are fun and can bring a lot of life to an arrangement. We also love how romantic they are.