Ashlilium. Dallas now, tomorrow, the World.

A month or so ago, I held the first POSER:EXPOSED workshop with the Quasi-Wedding as the main attraction.  My idea was not only to provide the attendees with a unique learning experience, but provide local up and coming wedding professionals with an opportunity to gain some exposure where they might not get it otherwise.  I wanted artists.  People who want to push the status-quo with their talent.  I wanted people who are not afraid to take chances.

I knew immediately who was going to design the flowers.  Ashley Kirk of Ashlilium.

In the interest of full disclosure, I have known Ashley for a long time, and she is married to someone whom I consider a very good friend, and I have talked with them quite a bit in regard to the direction of  Ashlilium.  But the reason I have, is because I recognize the passion and desire in her heart.  It’s a lot like mine was when I started.  She has bigger things in mind than making something pretty for someones wedding.  Ashley is an artist, and flowers are her medium.  She has a burning desire to change the way people think about flowers at a wedding.  She has a unique vision.  It’s her alone.  And she trusts in it.

The reality is that can be a double edged sword in business.  You always want to be on the cutting edge, but if you truly are, there are always going to be people that don’t get it, or are hesitant to give you a shot.

All Ashley needed was a shot.  I gave her complete creative freedom.  I told her it had to be completely HER vision, no input from me.  I wanted what she was passionate about, what she would do if she could do whatever she wanted to.  She didn’t disappoint.

Everyone that was involved in the Quasi-Wedding, from the photographers to the extras there to fill seats, were completely blown away with her vision.  Brilliantly delivered and seamlessly flowing with the feel of the day.  It was perfect.  She made the bouquet out of cactus (ok, succulents, but who’s counting?), and you can plant it after the wedding for a one of a kind keepsake for crying out loud!  VISION.

Ashley is exactly the type of person I want to associate my business with, nay, my SELF with.  Someone who knows who they are, and is unapologetic.  We all know someone like this.  I was that person.  I got a chance.  I’m so glad I had the opportunity to give that chance to someone else.

Thanks Ashley :)