Yakima wedding florist // Alyson Mackay with Something Blue Floristry

Brides! I want to introduce you to an amazing Yakima wedding florist... Alyson with Something Blue Floristry!! Tavis and I have run into her at 3 different weddings lately and she does such an awesome job. Brides are always asking me for vendor recommendations, and I'm happy to recommend people I know are reliable and give a quality product or service, like Alyson! One thing that sticks out to me with Alyson's work is her amazing bridal bouquets. The bride's bouquet is in so many photos throughout the day, it should be something that makes you say "wow" and it always does! The bridal bouquets of hers that I've seen have been very full and eye catching, always charmed with one small blue gem which also makes me know it's her work. The little jewel is perfect too if you forgot your "something blue" on the wedding day she's got ya covered. ;)

I was able to meet with her earlier this week to talk more since usually we're just running into each other at wedding days without much time to chat. Here's some more info about her so you can get to know her as well!

Amy: How long have you been doing floristry?

Alyson: Since 2006~ technically that's when I started out by going to floral design school and working at a shop in Seattle, but it's been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. 

Amy: How did you get into the wedding business?

Alyson: I'm a romantic, I was always drawn to the wedding floral designs. So when my cousin was getting married in 2007 I offered to do the bridal party, ceremony, and reception flowers for a wedding of over 450 guests. I was hooked after that, I didn't sleep at all, but I was hooked.

Amy: What is your company’s philosophy when working with wedding couples?

Alyson:  Something Blue Floristry will approach every wedding like it is the most important wedding of the year, no matter the size or budget, because it is. Something Blue Floristry knows that you are paying for quality designs and products, and that's what you'll get.

Amy: How do you help couples customize their weddings?

Alyson: Well...During the consultation we look at style first, then color, venue, blooms and budget. It's important for me to get a good idea of the brides taste and style, I like to see the choices they have made for the other decor for the wedding. Once I have a good idea of their style I can recommend certain blooms and designs that will fit their needs (like which blooms hold up well in heat or which delicate looking blooms come in lavender). I encourage bride's to add sentimental momentos to their bouquet's, like lockets and/or a piece of their mom's wedding dress. I have had package deals in the past, but because of the nature of flowers, and the different needs of brides, they always end up customized. I don't like doing the exact same designs over and over, brides won't go to another wedding and see their designs there. Even if they prefer traditional style, they are still getting a "one of a kind". 

Amy: At what point in the planning process do you typically work with couples?Alyson: I like to meet with brides for a consultation after they have ordered the bridesmaids dresses (they are pretty sure about the color palette by then)... about 6 to 3 months before the wedding. If they are worried about their wedding date being taken, I will take a deposit to hold the date in the meantime. 

Amy: What are some arrangements that you don’t get requested often but you think look great for a wedding?

Alyson: Single blooms or a succulent on a folded cloth napkin at the reception really add to the tablescapes. It looks so luxurious but can be pretty affordable depending of the blooms you choose. I also think, depending on the venue, that a single large arrangement at the end of the aisle (instead of the traditional two, one on each side) can provide a beautiful backdrop for photos. 

Amy: What inspires you?

Alyson: There are certain, big name, designers that I love to follow. Preston Bailey (if you haven't googled him or his work, you should) makes my jaw drop. I really get inspired by a well-designed garden, interesting containers and unique additions/produce(like kale, baby pineapple, herbs, feathers and different berries). I also like to scim home decor and beauty magazines for the newest color palettes. 

Amy: What do you think sets you apart from other florists?

Alyson: My own mother calls me a "flower snob". I won't work with sub-par products or blooms. I don't like things to look like they were designed in the 80's (that does NOT mean that I don't like baby's breath and carnations that have made a beautiful comeback in tight monochromatic arrangements), or overproduced designs. I offer experience and high-end style in a price that can fit in a bride's budget. I buy USA grown flowers when I can. I also hide a little blue gem in every bridal bouquet. I will meet with a bride several times to get things right and I mean it when I say, "Ya, I can do that" and "It's going to be beautiful". 

Amy: What is something most people don’t know about the process of arranging wedding flowers?

Alyson: Most people aren't aware of the hours of preparation and ordering that go into the order before we even touch the flowers. 

Amy: What are some things brides should look for when looking for a florist?

Alyson: ...Me. just kidding...They should look for someone that they feel comfortable talking too and who listens well. They should check previous pictures of their work to see if they like anything they've done and ask about their experience. The florist should be able to give you a straight forward price for a 2 dozen rose bouquet (this is a common bouquet size and a good gauge of the florist's pricing)...but really, they should just look for me...

I just love this girl! Her work speaks for itself, but after talking more with her it's obvious she is passionate about her work and she really knows what she's talking about. I highly recommend Something Blue Floristry. Book her right now! Pin It Now!