Bride and groom standing outside of Melbourne wedding venue, Harbour Room

Wedding Flowers Highlight | Crystal & David

June 28, 2024 Kate Hill

Crystal and David finally celebrated their wedding day on Sunday, May 2, 2021, after being forced to postpone at least four times due to COVID-19.

Despite the extreme stress and unpredictability, they patiently waited to host their dream wedding at The Harbour Room in St Kilda, Melbourne. When the day finally arrived, it was a perfect blue sky day, signalling Melbourne's vibrant return.

The couple shared their vows on the rooftop under picturesque blue skies (in May!) and continued the celebrations conveniently downstairs in the reception venue, with calm seas and ambient lights enhancing the atmosphere.

The rooftop ceremony featured a custom flower wall, a white mesh wall adorned with a bespoke floral installation that framed the couple as they exchanged their vows. Despite the wind, the sturdy installation held firm, demonstrating its simple yet effective design—a cost-effective option for those considering a flower wall for their wedding.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, I never met Crystal and David in person as planned. However, through numerous phone calls, emails, and chats during Melbourne's lockdown, I felt a strong connection with them. Our first phone meeting occurred just before the pandemic hit and Melbourne went into multiple lockdowns. I empathised deeply with Crystal and David, especially during the peak of COVID in January-February. Despite these challenges, the couple remained strong, optimistic, and continued planning their May wedding.

Bridesmaids with brides holding wedding flowers

Without having met Crystal in person, I relied both on my experience and our conversations to design her dream bridal bouquet. Confident in my understanding of her preferences, I created a natural, cascading bouquet with various eucalyptus foliages, peppercorn, premium pure white phalaenopsis orchid stems, locally grown roses, and white freesias. The bouquet perfectly complemented Crystal's gown in both colour and size. Crystal graciously shared these kind words: "The photos honestly do not do your work and the flowers any justice. I still can't believe that you managed to knock my dream wedding flowers out of the park via the phone and email. That is a testament to how truly talented you are."

Reception Flowers at Melbourne wedding venue, Harbour Room

Reception floral designs at Melbourne wedding venue, Harbour Room

The reception venue's florals maintained a consistent and flowing theme, from the entrance to the guest tables. Every focal area featured lush green foliages, white hydrangeas, white mom disbuds, white reflexed roses, and accents of pure white phalaenopsis orchids. We completed the floral arrangements with groupings of candles, creating a cohesive and elegant look. I worked closely with Crystal to ensure her vision for the wedding day was realised, supporting her in sourcing the décor for the venue. As flowers are the most impactful way to decorate the ceremony and reception, all other details—such as linen, candles, signage, and props—aligned seamlessly around the floral arrangements.

Reception wedding flowers in Melbourne venue, Harbour Room

I have immense respect for the couple's hard work and resilience during such uncertain times. When I finished setting up the venue, with all floral and candle styling perfectly in place, I sat out front in tears—tears of emotion and joy for the couple who had waited so long for this perfect day. My team and I become emotionally invested in every event and wedding we are part of, regardless of size, and I was thrilled to see Crystal and David finally celebrate their dream day.