Trisha Haislar, AIFD of Elegant Celebrations

Coffee Talk with Trisha Haislar, AIFD of Elegant Celebrations

WC: We noticed the initials AIFD behind your name, what does that stand for?

PH: AIFD stands for American Institute of Floral Designers. They are the floral industry's most respected organization dedicated to higher standards in floral design. These letters denote that I am an Accredited Member of AIFD. To become an accredited member I had to submit a portfolio of my designs, followed by five hands-on design evaluations by the AIFD Membership Committee. There are only 1,300 members worldwide, so I'm very proud to be a member of such a well-respected organization.

WC: What prompted you to become AIFD Accredited?

PH: AIFD is a very education-centered organization. They encourage ongoing education and have opportunities for members to share their skills. I felt that collaboration with other designers would be the best way for me to take my skills to the next level. Through AIFD, I have had many wonderful opportunities to interact with several creative individuals in the industry and I have been able to share much of my own knowledge.

WC: What are some of your favorite aspects about working with flowers?

PH: I love the variety of flowers that occurs with the change of seasons. In the fall there are all types of berries, grasses, and bright-colored foliage. In the winter, holly and cedar and pine foliage make the season smell so fresh. Springtime brings the beautiful bulb-grown flowers such as daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths. And, in the summer, there are wonderful garden flowers such as dahlias, coxcomb, and zinnias. Of course, there are also great flowers like roses which are so beautiful and available throughout the year. But, it's the seasonal flowers which are really fun to work with since they are only available for a short time period.

WC: What other services do you offer to brides?

PH: Actually, we provide quite a few services aside from just rehearsal, ceremony, and reception flowers. We want to help our brides design a complete look for their wedding, so we handle as many details as possible. We rent candelabras, large reception vases and containers, decorative columns, and even chuppahs.

We will also service the wedding. We're there to pin on corsages and boutonnieres, and assist the bridal party until they walk down the aisle.

WC: What advice can you offer a bride who is looking to hire a florist for her wedding?

PH: Find a florist who wants to work with you to create your dream wedding. After all, this is your big day. Make sure that the florist you choose allows you to sit down one-on-one with the actual designer who will service your wedding. And, it is important that the designer not only listens, but understands your wishes. Ask to see a portfolio of the designer's work. It is also very important that you and your designer can communicate easily.

WC: What is the most common misconception brides tend to have regarding flowers?

PH: Flower availability. Many times, a bride will have her heart set on a flower such as Grape Hyacinths for an October wedding. Unfortunately, these flowers are spring flowers and are not readily available in October.

WC: Which type of fresh flowers are your favorites when it comes to wedding design?

PH: I really love Freesia, Stephanotis, and Gardenias. All three have a wonderful fragrance. Freesia has a long straight stem with a "branch" of clustered bell shaped flowers at the top. Stephanotis is a very delicate small white star shaped flower with an almost wax-like texture, it's absolutely wonderful. Gardenia is another white flower with a wax-like texture. They're bigger than Stephanotis with almost square petals. Of course, these are my favorites until I make the next bouquet and I change my mind.

WC: Do you strictly work in the St. Louis Area?

PH: Well, our main service area includes any bride or site in either the Illinois or Missouri areas of St. Louis. We are happy to service any bride anywhere.

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