I’ve been remiss about blogging lately. Mostly it’s been due to playing catch-up on client deliverables. And I have so many things going on in my brain that I’d like to blog, that it bothers me when I don’t get to it. So, here we go.
I’m going to start featuring a fellow wedding vendor once a month in order to help brides that may stumble upon this humble blog. Hopefully it will help my vendor friends too! We’ll learn how they ended up in this industry, what they love and hate about it, what they would like their clients to know and some ideas and inspiration for planning your own wedding. To begin (drumroll please) I’d like to introduce my delightful and talented friend, Lindsay of Lindsay Kessler Designs.
Tell us a little about yourself- especially how you ended up in this crazy wedding industry.
After graduating from Samford University with a degree in Interior Design, I spent several years in the publishing industry as a photo stylist. I designed many of the centerpieces for my photo shoots myself which led to my interest in floral design. I then made the move to Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market in Homewood where I learned even more about the art of flower arranging and event design and eventually decided to open my own business. Lindsay Kessler Designs was later established in 2010.
What is your favorite thing about your job?
Creating beauty that, hopefully, makes someone’s day a little brighter! It is truly an honor to be a part of a couple’s most important and special day. I can only hope that my floral creations add joy and value to each and every wedding we design. 
What is the biggest obstacle you’ve overcome?
Making the decision to go out on my own and start this business was a big leap of faith for me. There is always risk involved and fear of failure, but I have learned to believe in myself, embrace and engage my creativity and prioritize. By doing these things, I have been able to overcome several obstacles and begin to make my dreams come true.
Could you tell us what your favorite flowers are to work with for each season?
Spring brings with it lots of beautiful blooms, such as hydrangea, peonies, tulips and anemones. 
For a rustic summer bouquet, I love to use locally grown sunflowers, dahlias, crespedia and zinnias. 
Fall is fabulous with calla lilies, roses, curly willow and bittersweet. 
And I love a winter white bouquet of roses, dusty miller, paperwhites and amaryllis.
What do you wish brides knew as they come to you during the planning phase?
I think most brides have some misconceptions about what wedding flowers cost and how to budget for the designs and types of flowers they want to include. It might be helpful to research and meet with several florists before deciding on a firm floral budget.
What are your best tips for the budget bride?
Keep it simple. Put your money into the most important things, such as bouquets, altar arrangements and Centerpieces. Smaller details and spaces that are hardly noticed by guests could be omitted. Also, a great way to save some money is by repurposing the bridesmaid bouquets at the reception. With the addition of votive candles, petals, etc. they make a lovely centerpiece and save on the budget as well.
Have you noticed/do you predict any trends for weddings this fall?
For several years now the rustic, vintage style decor has been so popular in weddings; but I think this fall we will see a return to formality, elegance and sophistication with black tie affairs, seated dinners and touches of gold, crystal and silver.
I cannot say enough about what the sweet, talented person of Lindsay Kessler would add to your wedding day. Not only is she kind and gentle, she’s talented and creative in ways that will make an impact on your special day. If you’d like to get in touch with her about yours, here’s the info:
Lindsay Kessler Designs
Email: lindsaykessler@yahoo.com
Find her on Facebook
