5 minutes with Queen of flowers, San Diego-based, Karen Tran

We spend five minutes with the queen of flowers, San Diego-based, Karen Tran. If you don’t already know the Karen Tran name then prepare to be wowed.

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Internationally famous for creating extravagant floral masterpieces, Karen Tran from Karen Tran Florals and Events is the ultimate in wedding florists and designers.

Travelling around the globe with her hugely popular workshops and masterclasses, the designer has provided arrangements for some of the world’s most opulent weddings and galas. Known for her dramatic flower walls and awe-inspiring centrepieces, Ms Tran right creates breathtaking arrangements for every theme of wedding, from nature-inspired seaside ceremonies to the most opulent vintage-glamour weddings.

Considered a trendsetter in her field, Karen has set the standard for modern wedding floral arrangements, constantly delivering dazzling elegance. Inspired by the natural beauty of the great outdoors, the designer’s true passion for her art form transcends into glorious, one-of-a-kind creations.

Karen recently visited Queensland to host one of her world- renowned “Floral Experience” events. It culminated in a breathtaking gala dinner, where attendees and floral enthusiasts were able to experience Karen’s luxurious floral styling firsthand.

It was certainly something very special in Queensland’s wedding calendar. “It was a huge honour to bring Karen to Brisbane to host this extraordinary event – her warmth and talent fill a room,” says Alysia Bridger from Celebrations by Alysia, who was responsible for bringing Karen to Queensland. “Karen’s vision, generosity and expertise explain why she is a leader in our industry and so widely followed. Her visit was an incredible opportunity to showcase our extremely talented wedding industry in Queensland.”

QB: WHEN IT COMES TO WEDDING FLOWERS, WHAT’S THE ONE THING PEOPLE FORGET ABOUT OR UNDERESTIMATE? (OTHER THAN THE BUDGET, OF COURSE!)
KT: The power of statement pieces. Guests will most likely gather around and take photos in front of grand floral pieces such as the entrance, floral wall or a lovely backdrop.

QB: WHAT’S MORE IMPORTANT TO YOU: THE LOOK OR THE SCENT?
KT: Personally I don’t believe it’s one or the other – beautiful flowers, regardless of their scent, can evoke the senses and it’s how all the components are brought together that brings the greatest joy.

QB: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE BLOOMS?
KT: This is a tough question as there are so many gorgeous blooms. But I’d have to say the tulip is one of my favourites. I’m honoured to have had a Dutch tulip grower name a tulip after me. It’s a double-white tulip that has a very high petal count and is just beautiful. To create our signature style we always aim to use the best quality luxury blooms that are in full flower, like open roses, peonies, Phalaenopsis orchids, tulips and Cymbidium orchids.

QB: BASED ON BITTTER EXPERIENCE, WHAT FLOWERS DO YOU DEFINITELY NOT RECOMMEND?
KT: I am deathly allergic to Queen Anne’s lace. It’s important for florists to find out what blooms the bride is allergic to prior to designing the event

QB: WHAT TRENDS DO YOU PREDICT WILL BE BIG IN 2017?
KT: Over the last couple of years, the trend has been leaning toward an over-abundance of floral pieces and statement pieces, such as the flower wall, hanging floral chandeliers and floral table runners. I think this beautiful trend will continue for some time.

QB: WHAT DID YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT HOSTING YOUR BREATHTAKING GALA DINNER IN BRISBANE?
KT: I loved being in your beautiful city and working with the talented industry leaders in Queensland. Our amazing host, Celebrations by Alysia brought everyone together to bring our concept and design to life. The attendees in my masterclass were an incredible group who we loved being with, and who worked really hard over the two days to create the most incredible centrepieces and table runners. We look forward to being back in Queensland.

QB: WHAT’S YOUR ULTIMATE FLOWER- RELATED TIP FOR A BRIDE-TO-BE?
KT: If you have a limited budget, concentrate on focal pieces. You don’t have to have centrepieces on each table – how about a grand piece for the bridal table, and smaller floral pieces with tall candelabras for the rest of your guests? And select flowers that are in season. This will not only cut down cost, but the blooms will be much healthier.

Here at Queensland Brides, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to chat to such a legend in the wedding industry – or showcase some of the images from this spectacular event.

For more photographs of Karen’s sublime work, go to: karentran.com or follow @karentranevents.

Photos: Ted and Li Photography/ Flowers: Bella Bloom Floral Designs/ Ceiling draping: Avideas/ Cake: Krissys Cakehouse/ Venue: Hillstone St Lucia/ Chandeliers: Crystalabra/ Bridal Gown: Jennifer Gifford Designs/ Jewellery: Roman and French/ Model: Billie Bridger/ Makeup: Velbella/ Hair: House of Zion