Lovely, sweet, and creative – words that describe Confetti Floral Design and words that describe the girl behind the flowers, Kari Dueck. I’m so excited to share a little Q&A Kari and I did via email; a look into wedding flowers, insightful to brides and photographers alike :) On more than one occasion I’ve had the pleasure of working with Kari and her pretty creations – it’s always a treat because not only are her flower arrangements uniquely gorgeous (aka fun to photograph), I love that Kari has a desire to be different and a passion for what she does. I worked with her on our autumn styled bridal shoot and came to her with vague ideas, but she knew exactly how to make them come to life using amazing textures (love!) and colour. Just chatting with her, be it in person or through email, you get a sense of the love and care that she brings to her business…she’s also an LPN at an extended care home, and mother of two adorable little girls, so I think that love and care is a common theme!
How did you come to be a floral designer?
I was first introduced to flowers by my Mom who is an avid gardener and have been interested in flowers ever since. I have always enjoyed creating things, and have always had art projects on the go, so following my high-school grad I was feeling the draw get my floral design certification. I loved it! From there I did countless weddings for friends and family, and even my own wedding, and when I was asked by people who I did not know, I decided the time had come to start my own business.
How do you approach a wedding and its floral designs?
I love weddings and feel that they definitely should reflect both the Bride and the Groom. At the consultation I gather as much info about both of them and then try to channel their personalities into designs that reflect them. Floral designs can be dainty, vintage, romantic, vibrant, simple, loud and the list goes on…
Who is your ideal bride?
My ideal bride is someone who values floral design and who is looking for something as original as she is. I love taking on a challenge or trying something new, so a bride with fun ideas is always welcome to come my way :)
What is your favourite aspect of your business?
My very favourite aspect of Confetti Floral Design is that I get to to be part of the process. I get the opportunity to sit in with brides and discuss their vision or idea and watch that little seed grow, and often I get to deliver my designs to them on their wedding day, and that is such an incredible privilege. I love watching their reaction to their flowers.
I also love waking up early – 4:30 am driving into Burnaby to pick out my flowers. I am like kid in a candy store. Seriously.
How can a photographer best represent your work? What are the shots you are hoping to see?
I would have to say that a bride’s flowers are the only accessory that she cannot keep following her wedding (even if she chooses to dry it, it is never the same) so it is invaluable to take a few moments and get some really detailed shots of her bouquet for her to have to look back on.
Another tip would be for the photographer to direct the bride and bridesmaids to carry their bouquets low in front of them so that their arms are resting gently near their hips – especially when walking down the aisle. Often bouquets are held too high, obstructing the detail of the dress(es) and making the ladies seem uptight in photos.
Lastly, as a photographer, feel free to pluck a random floppy petal from a rose from a boutonniere, if it is just hanging there. Sometimes with all the hugs and events from the day, boutonnieres can start to look a little sad.
To wrap this up, if you were creating your favourite arrangement, what would it look like?
Oooooh that is a hard one. I would say something with lots of textured greenery with pops of yellow and red. My sister is getting married this summer and is letting me go to town with her flowers, so I think we’ll do a fun vintage twist with this colour pallete in mind.
Ashley Martens says
Mikaela, these are beautiful!!! Kari, I love your flowers!
Alyssa Schroeder says
Lovely photos, love the flowers on the tress. So happy spring is here! Also, Kari’s bouquets are beautiful. Just viewed her website too. Nice to see a talented florist here in Abbotsford :)
Michelle LI says
Kari is amazing and her flower arrangements are truly inspired.