Peony Puzzle

   ‘Belle Of The Ball’ bridal suite of varying shades of pink peonies and hints of bright green from kermit mums

Summer of 2008 was ushered in by incredibly hot weather at the end of June, with Kim & Rob Hoogendoorn’s wedding day on the 29th being undoubtedly the hottest. That particular morning was already toasty as I prepared for the transport of their lovely blooms to the wedding venue. Even with our air conditioned vehicle, I admit to being anxious about the potential results such heat can have on preciously delicate flowers.

All the arrangements, consisting mostly of large and lucsious pink peonies, had been carefully juggled into position inside my cooler. It  looked like a giant peony jig saw puzzle in there as each bloom vied for space. But the fragrance was to die for and I checked on my pink ‘babies’ often just to savor the fabulous ‘peony perfume’ each time I opened the door.

As always, I love Minter Gardens for it’s grand display of flora and fauna. As well, the large atrium used for events is so pretty with it’s bright and open space which also captures the surrounding outdoor beauty through large windows. But that day, despite the miserably humid temp, the air conditioning had not been turned on, and I was extremely concerned about the centerpieces – especially the peonies! Even the orchids used in the corsages & boutonnieres were feeling the heat.

Bridal bouquet of peonies and small cymbidium orchids. Kim had provided a rosary and small floral pin which I attached to the handle of the bouquet.  These personal items added lovely sentiment to her piece. Unfortunately I did not take a photo of them, but wish I had.

Although Rob & the guys looked dashing in their black tuxes, the dark color only added ‘fuel to the furnace’ for them. And then there were the trips up and down the path to the ceremony site. The photographer led a little group of us (my hubby included) ALL the way to the top looking for that perfect patch of light to take a picture of me bouting the groom. Needless to say, hubby & I were not amused! It was back up the hill for hubs a while later to place some flowers on the registry table. What a prince!

Meanwhile, I remained at my post by the entrance to flower up the rest of the peeps and await the arrival of the bride & her entourage. We were surprised to learn that there was no motorized transport to the ceremony site for guests with disabilities. So Grandma had to be pushed up the path in her wheelchair by a rather unhappy looking soul, while another unfortunate young lady on crutches had to ‘hoof it on three legs’ if she wanted to witness the ‘I dos’. Even the bride’s request for an easier way up was not granted. I believe the venue has since rectified that situation.

The ‘Belles Of The Ball’ in action

When the bride arrived and I presented her bouquet the words of affirmation I longed to hear were on her lips. She loved her flowers and all was well. Phew! After the last centerpiece was placed & I said a prayer, hubby and I left the venue in search of a cooler spot for some refreshment and found one not far away. There we raised our glasses to celebrate the success of our challenging & very warm delivery!

Kim’s ‘Belle Of The Ball’ bouquet by candlelight

Despite the heat, the ambiance was indeed beautiful. The white pedestal bowls on each table overflowed with soft pink and ivory peonies,fuchsia carnations (they really were fuchsia & not red as the photo shows), and bright green foliage. The bride later informed me that the flowers held up remarkably well.  I guess my prayer helped!

Kim & Rob’s wedding took place at Minter Gardens in Chilliwack, BC

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