LUMINARY SPOTLIGHT In Conversation with The World's Most Extraordinary Wedding Professionals

WHAT’S BEEN THE MOST UNIQUE FLORAL EXPERIENCE THAT YOU’VE CREATED FOR A CLIENT? “One particular moment that stands out in my mind was when I was flown to Milan by Lady Gaga. My task was to create giant floral letters spelling out ‘DV’ and surprise Donatella Versace on her birthday. Donatella’s favourite flowers are Gardenias, and through our strategic grower network in Holland, I was able to source thousands of freshly-cut Gardenia flowers to incorporate into the design. This

ARE THERE ANY NEW VENUES YOU’D LIKE TO TRANSFORM WITH YOUR FLORAL MAGIC? “We are thrilled to that we have recently been accredited as an official floral supplier on OCEANDIVA LONDON,

a remarkable CO2 neutral boat that is stationed on the River Thames. My team and I are excited to have the opportunity to transform this unique space for some incredible upcoming events.”

was the ultimate grandiose floral

gesture, and the look of shock and surprise on Donatella’s face when she walked into the room is something that will stay with me forever.”

NEILL STRAIN NEILL STRAIN FLORAL COUTURE LONDON

Originally hailing from Ireland, Neill Strain opened his first flower boutique in London’s posh Belgravia neighborhood in 2008, and became one of the pioneers in fashioning grand floral installations for luxury boutique exteriors. Today, Neill Strain Floral Couture is the go-to florist for Arabian royalty, Hollywood celebrities, and floral enthusiasts who frequent his London boutique and concession at Harrods, London’s iconic department store. Neill and his talented team have also opulently decorated the most exquisite weddings, venues and homes around London and beyond, including superyachts in the Mediterranean. Neill is also reputed for his unique way of sourcing flowers, working closely with the best artisan Dutch growers who select unique and new breeds, some of which have never been seen before. These extraordinary blooms are sent directly from the growers’ glasshouses to Neill’s boutique and arrive within 24 hours of harvesting, introducing an incomparable new quality and freshness to the London flower scene. BEST NEW HOTEL IN LONDON? “ THE PENINSULA LONDON and OWO RAFFLES LONDON are both stunning new hotels that are imminently due to open. At both of which, we are accredited suppliers for events. Both hotels have great event facilities and two of the largest ballrooms in London, so watch out for some upcoming floral installations!” YOUR ULTIMATE SPLURGE? “Weekend stays with spa treatments at VILA VITA PARC on Portugal’s beautiful Algarve coast.”

neillstrain.com @neillstrain • For the full interview, visit wedluxe.com

38

WEDLUXE.COM @WEDLUXE

Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software