If there’s one thing I’ve learned in this business, it’s that there’s nothing like a true expert. They save precious time and add refinement to everything they touch. Plus, you can always count on them. That’s why I’ve decided to share as many tips as possible from my favorite pros in the field. Ranging from the best in photography, planning, design and more, the talents below will give you a running start and enviable polish in whatever you’re setting out to do. I’ve worked with everyone on this list, so I can attest to these professionals’ talent and superior work. In fact, most have been in the business for more than five years – experience that’s priceless.
BARDIN PALOMO
Robert Palomo, president of Bardin Palomo Ltd., began his event design business with his partner, Robert Bardin, in 1992. As a result of all the collecting they did during their extensive travels creating events for private and corporate clients, the business expanded in 2009 to include interior design, antiques and mid-century furniture. Prior to that, Robert worked in graphic design and at a luxury retail company in human resources, training and development, merchandising and operations. His resume includes beautiful surroundings and floral arrangements for such clients as Bergdorf Goodman, party planner and TV host Colin Cowie, the New York City Ballet, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Robert is originally from Dallas, Texas.
“Bardin Palomo and I have collaborated on some great projects and they always create the most magnificent displays of floral beauty. They are artists and their medium, flowers. When you work with them, it’s so much more than just flowers in a vase. I love how they’re always experimenting with new elements creating trends along the way.” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Bardin Palomo in CeciStyle, or visit bardinpalomo.com for more info.
BELLE FLEUR
Founder Meredith Waga-Perez’s love of texture, color, and composition reflects the romantic, classically modern aesthetic upon which the Belle Fleur brand was built. The acclaimed floral studio is noted for meticulous attention to detail, unyielding commitment to quality and an incomparable sense of beauty. Her passion for all things floral has been validated by an impressive following of celebrities and fashion designers. Over the past 15 years, Belle Fleur has blossomed into one of Manhattan’s most influential and sought after floral and event design firms. Meredith has been expanding her horizons into the world of fragrance, launching 10 sumptuous and distinctive scented candles.
“Meredith is one of those smart businesswomen that has it all – style, grace, and a true passion for what she does. Always trying to outdo herself, she continually creates trendsetting work. And her candle collection is to die for. The fragrances add the perfect touch to any home or office. A must-try!” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Belle Fleur in CeciStyle, or visit bellefleurny.com for more info.
FLEURS
Jessy Wolvek, owner and lead designer of Fleurs NYC, has been creating fantasy events all over New York City and beyond. Initially trained in Japan, her unique style has been featured in multiple publications, including The Bride and Bloom, The Knot, New York Magazine Weddings, and many others.
“Connecting with someone’s personality is key when hiring a designer for your event. Of course, his or her talent is an important factor. But I’ve found that if they’re not a friendly person to work with, that just makes their craft not as attractive. What I love about Jessy is that her passion for excellence is as beautiful as she is. Her bubbly personality and warm heart make her so enjoyable to work with.” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Fleurs in CeciStyle, or visit fleursnyc.com for more info.
LMD FLORAL
Born and raised in California farm country amid olive, almond and peach orchards and gardens full of cabbage roses, sweet peas, and wisteria, Lewis Miller developed a respect for nature early on. At 18, he moved to Seattle where he studied horticulture and landscape design. After seven years of successfully pursuing his interests in design, flowers, and event planning, Lewis moved to New York in 2000 where he worked for one of the city’s top floral boutiques. In March of 2002, Lewis’ vision of a country life in a metropolitan setting inspired him to create LMD New York, Lewis Miller Design. The company incorporates his love of quality, his enthusiasm for detail, and his ability to dazzle using the grandest and simplest of materials. His passion for floral design is nurtured within the walls of a stylish East Village studio, where his attraction to the curious, the antiquated, and the historic is modernized and brought to life.
“I truly believe flowers are an essential part of any event. Without them your room lacks luster and proper ambiance. Turn yourself over to Lewis’ talented hands and your event will be full of floral beauty. His creativity, imagination, and ability to create what no one else has done before makes him one of the most sought-after artists out there. Plus, he’s so wonderful to work with. Lewis has all the essential attributes I’m always looking for!” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on LMD Floral in CeciStyle, or visit lmdfloral.com for more info.
MATTHEW ROBBINS DESIGN
Matthew Robbins is creative director and co-owner of Matthew Robbins Design in NYC. His firm designs and produces events in NYC and all over the world. In addition to the event design projects, Matthew also takes on a limited number of interior design and styling projects. He is a contributing editor for Martha Stewart Weddings, appears regularly on Martha Stewart Radio and TV and his first book is being published next year by Abrams: Stewart, Tabori & Chang. Matthew brings over 15 years of experience in art, design and event production to every project.
“If you’re looking for the most beautiful creations made from nature, Mathew Robbins is your go-to guy. He has an incredible eye for color, style and design. I am continually impressed by his wonderful arrangements and his ability to work with Mother Nature by creating art out of flowers’ natural beauty. It doesn’t hurt that he’s the choice of Martha Stewart, either. You will not be disappointed in what Matthew will create for you. I promise.” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Matthew Robbins Design in CeciStyle, or visit matthewrobbinsdesign.com for more info.
ROUNTREE FLOWERS
When she created her floral design company, Jessie Weidinger named it for her grandfather, Herman Rountree, an accomplished illustrator who lived and worked in Rhode Island. As a third generation artist in a family of painters, Jessie has taken her art from the canvas, through the garden, and into floral design. She creates pieces that explore the colors, pleasures, and paradoxes of the natural world.
“I am always drawn to people that are smart, kind, professional and dedicated to creating something better with their craft. Jessie embodies those essential qualities and infuses them into her floral creations every day. Not only is she the nicest person around but she will have your decor looking better than Mother Nature herself could create! Whether you’re planning a small dinner party or a lavish celebration, Rountree Flowers is a sure win for floral beauty.” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Rountree Flowers in CeciStyle, or visit rountreeflowers.com for more info.
