Alesa De Jager

i do.

do i love all the bride's bouquets? yes. yes, i do.

spring bouquet recipe:
tulips
grape hyacinth
allium
lily of the valley
corral bells
succulents

I have a ridiculous time of it naming names. I make art; coming up with a title is often the most difficult part. I named my children; it was agonizing. There are so many not great names. My own name is pronounced incorrectly often, though its not a strangers fault, my parents spelled my first name oddly and then I married a dutchman (Alesa De Jager: Aleeeeesa De Yaeger.) I learned from my cousins, Artemis and Alathea, that you should just make up a more simple and spell-able name when ordering your coffee, making it easier and less painful for everyone. Remind me girls, what were your go-to names? How does this all relate to this photo? These roses were named "free spirit"; which is fine but just didn't satisfy my desire to have a name compliment the thing that it is. Maybe you recall when crayola was asking for new names for new color crayons? I had long lists of possibilities, sent them in, did not win. When faced with choosing a paint color I often side with the more fitting name. Rooms I have loved were painted with swiss coffee, persimmon, italian cream, espresso, pumpkin spice, butter cream, toffee - ok, I guess I like food names. Names, titles, mean something. A name gives something to a thing that changes it. It is difficult, but try not to be swayed. Ah, the power of words.

many of the flowers for this september wedding were grown in the bride's mother's garden and in my own garden. the dahlias were amazing despite a few frosty nights; we covered them and crossed our fingers. then the wedding day came and it was sunny and beautiful. my husband was inspired to make this little film to share. (this song is titled "Call me the breeze." by Beth Orton.)

Bouquets for The Wedding Magazine Coulee Region, 2013.

sometimes you find inspiration in a plate, an invitation... these photos were taken at Elmaro Vineyard in Trempeauleau WI for the The Wedding Magazine, Coulee Region 2013 edition. Crystal Layland, wedding & event planner, put together this table & color palette. Flowers are frosting.

stoneflies & rosehips

love in a leaf. earth in art. joy in us... balancing.