Here, Emily (of www.pdxhomelife.com and www.songbirdfreelancedesign.com) talks with Hilary about what brides can do to make their day special.

Hilary Holmes created Emerald Petals, a little florists shop on Mississippi Avenue, and it’s unlike any other flower shop you’ve been in. Peacock blue walls are awash with succulents, while driftwood, woolen containers, and Pacific Northwest native plants line the shelves. Focusing on sustainability, Emerald Petals nurtures a growing collection of vintage containers and found glass vases. All new containers offered at Emerald Petals are recycled products and/or made in the USA and can be reused. Hilary is thoughtful about her approach to floral design, and her attention to detail and love of local materials shines through.

You’ve been in the industry for 13 years – What got you started as an independent florist?
Its something that I’d always dreamed of. And everything about Portland said YES now, here! I fell in love with N. Mississippi, the opportunity arose, I took it and made it happen.

What is your design philosophy? do you encourage brides to use locally available materials? if so, why?
My design philosophy is to have fun, listen to how the flower lines flow, and be aware of how colors work off one another. I think it’s important to always be aware of what is going on in the natural outside world and incorporate that. I prefer and definitely encourage the use of local flowers and foliage because it is just better all around. I like to see and touch the fresh flowers that’s where most of my designs and ideas stem from.

You use a lot of succulents & distinctly sculptural qualities in your arrangements. How do you think these can be incorporated into bridal flowers like boutonnieres, bouquets, and table arrangements?
I think they incorporate quite nicely into wedding flowers. They give fabulous textures and colors. They are a wonderful non flower option and can be later planted for lasting memories.

What trends do you see in bridal flowers that you’re excited about?
I definitely see a move in the sustainable direction. And texture, texture, texture! Like berries, cedar pine cones, succulents, tillandsia air plants, and vintage ribbons.

Any tips or advice for brides wanting unique floral arrangements for their day?
Do your research. There are so many options out there. You have to ask yourself, “What do you like? What best fits your style?” You can also think about what you can incorporate locally that will not only represent you but keep costs down! What personal touches can be added? Think about color, pattern, jewelry, favorite memories, vacations or hobbies for inspiration.

What materials are you looking forward to using as the spring and summer come on?
Local peonies, sunflowers and dahlias. Fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables.

What’s your top advice to those planning wedding flowers and special event floral arrangements?
It always helps to talk to an experienced florist even if you want to do it all yourself. And it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to hand over some or all of your wedding flower duties – especially if you use seasonal items! Your day should be simple, stress free and most of all a joyful time.

 As it says on the Emerald Petals website, “Emerald Petals is Hilary’s playhouse, a place she created so that a person can get a flower from another real person. A place where she can put creative arrangements in beautiful found objects. A shop that appreciates the little, simple joys of all things growing. She planted the seed for this little shop on Mississippi Avenue in Portland, Oregon, and is helping it grow with sweat, love and whole lot of dirt under her fingernails. Now she gets to watch it bloom.”

The joy that Hilary finds in working with unique and locally sourced flowers and plants shines through in every arrangement she creates. For more inspiration from Hilary, visit emeraldpetalspdx.com and remember: to keep it simple and easy on your wedding day, think local, and have fun!