Demo by Gerry Gregg AIFD at CCSF

Large Centerpiece by Gerry Gregg AIFD

Had a demo today from Gerry Gregg AIFD, winner of the Cal-State Top 10 and owner of the Flower Market Chico, specializing in Manzanita and other natural materials from the Sierra Nevada Range. He came to talk with us about floral design for events (corporate, weddings) and the "California Natural" style.

Gerry made several amazing arrangements for using wood, mushrooms, moss and other materials as an structural base, explaining that he prefers "sheltering, free-flowing lines" and lots of texture with fewer flowers.

He has participated in many shows and competitions, and talked to us a lot about trends in design. He told us that the "Bling" style with all the jewels and sparkly bits is on its way out. "California Natural," a style he's actually been working in his whole career, has finally become a known and accepted design style, which includes such elements as woods, mosses, grasses, mushrooms, a clean architectural look, and elements that seem "grounded."

He talked to us about color trends: red, light blue, silver/pewter and antique gold are happening colors. Cascade wedding bouquets are in, with long sweeping tendrils. "Design for arts sake" he said, "is finally coming into play," meaning modern Eurostyle elements like exposed zip ties. He explained that he used exposed zip ties in a competition but was marked down for it, but times have changed. "Now," he said, "anything is possible if you use it with confidence and you have a reason for it."

He also stressed the importance of identifying what your clients "dislikes" are, the importance of knowing when to stop working on a design and leave it alone, and told us that it was his educated opinion that the Dole float built by Fiesta Floats would win first place in the Rose Parade this year. I found that he also does interesting abstract paintings, that can be seen at Art Circle.