Mercedes Pilgrim - CCSF Featured Alumni



The Special Events class (RF 88) at City College of San Francisco https://www.ccsf.edu/ was delighted to have Mercedes Pilgrim present a program on Wednesday, May 10th, 2017.  Mercedes is an alumni from the Retail Floristry Department at City College of San Francisco.  She was an award winning SAIFD member who competed on the college's floral design team.  Mercedes was an outstanding student in all aspects during her time in the department.  She also completed the European Master Certification program with Tomas De Bruyne and Hitomi Gilliam AIFD http://emcprogram.com/.  Mercedes is now the Floral Department Manager at McCalls Catering & Events http://www.mccallssf.com/.  McCall's is a leading catering and event management company located in the San Francisco Bay area that provides in-house floral and event design specialists.

Mercedes spoke about her career path beginning as a CCSF student and now working in the industry for several years.  She explained  the benefits and importance of freelancing for different event companies to keep busy, learn the business and eventually working with a regular team of designers.  She discussed the current wages in San Francisco for a freelance floral designer.  Mercedes described her current job operations from consultations and pricing to the logistics of setting up and striking an event.

Designing an elevated centerpiece for a themed event is each students final semester project. Mercedes presented many different themed designs the company does in popular venues through out the Bay Area. She explained the hot trend of "Futuristic Tech Events".  Her expertise inspired the students further for their final projects and gave them more insight into this type of designing.

Mercedes explained how this centerpiece has a mushroom shape which is currently popular with brides. The flowers are designed in a lomey designer dish that is attached on top of the vase.  The mechanics are floral foam, chicken wire and waterproof bowl tape.

Mercedes gave tips on  how to transport/deliver elevated arrangements by using mache containers upside down.  Then placing arrangement inside a custom wooden delivery box.  The arrangement is initially attached with floral clay to the mache.

 

The popularity and effectiveness of Illuminated designs was discussed and how this design works well for cocktail tables. 

Floating flowers are another quick and simple way to decorate an event.  The cymbidium orchids are inserted with 12 gauge aluminum wire and reinforced with decorative wire.

This Futuristic Event prop can be used  with or without flowers.

Themed centerpiece design for a fundraiser at the San Francisco Zoo.  Mercedes explained how the arrangement coordinated with the animal print linens on the guest tables.

"Yosemite National Park" themed centerpiece design.  Christmas greens, rocks, lichen branches, hydrangea, hypericum berries, feverfew and tiny clusters of waxflower are used to achieve the environmental look of that area.

Mercedes gave tips on making handtied bouquets and rubber banding them so the flowers don't fall out on delivery or set up.  She also discussed using waterproof faux greenery to cover the mechanics in a clear vase.  The faux greenery does not create bacteria and is reusable.

 Mercedes plans to attend the American Institute of Floral Designers National Symposium http://aifd.org/ in July.  She was invited to test for their PFDE.  This is the on site process/step to become an AIFD member.  We applaud and congratulate her on the beginning of this great journey and all of her remarkable accomplishments.  Thanks Mercedes, for presenting and visiting us. We wish you great things with all your future endeavors.

 

Jenny Tabarracci AIFD

"Wedding" Trending at City College of San Francisco

 



 

 

Emerald Green

 

Design by Heather Logsdon

Trends are one of my favorite topics to explore and teach.  The Floristry Department at City College of San Francisco is very fortunate to have dedicated, passionate and talented design students.  I want to share some of my students design projects with special focus on floral wedding trends of 2013/2014.  The designs are from the 80C Advanced Floral Design class.  The students worked all semester learning classic and contemporary styles of wedding design.  This class is offered in the 2014 Spring Semester beginning Wednesday, January 15th, 5:10pm to 10:00pm.  There are still spaces in the class and time to sign up.  If interested you can register online at www.ccsf.edu.

 

The above bouquet is designed by Heather and she themed her final wedding project "A Mod Loves a Rocker"   She envisioned and was inspired by Vintage 60's fashion and design. The bouquet is composed of craspedia , artistically curled Ti leaves, succulents, tillandsia and a vinyl record collar with stems covered in slate gray satin fabric.  The solid colors, groupings, geometric shapes  and choices of materials categorize it as a contemporary style.  Emerald Green the color of the year is dominate in this bouquet and this is another factor that makes it current.  This bouquet is designed for that special bride who would enjoy this themed styled wedding.

 

Design by Paula Lam

Paula designed the above scepter bouquet in a clear lomey column.  She has impeccable taste and a natural flair for fashion and trend spotting. Moss, branches and decorative copper wire are designed inside the column and through out the design.  This is pure, clean, simple designing which is difficult to achieve. The gorgeous succulent grown from my home garden is the only specimen used because this diva stands on her own.  This is also a contemporary bouquet featuring a succulent which is still considered a trendy material.  Shades of Emerald Green are also used in this bridal bouquet. 

 

 

Design by Jennifer Rossi

 

The above design by Jennifer displays another scepter concept for a bridal bouquet.  Today the handle treatment for a bouquet is just important as the bouquet it's self.  The bouquet was designed in a pvc pipe which was then wrapped in ribbon and then finished with curly willow and decorative wired pearls. The treatment adds a woodsy flair and a "Once Upon a Time" element.  This would be fantastic for a winter wedding.  The bouquet is designed mainly with white calla lilies and accents of Emerald Green trick dianthus.

 

 

Wedding bouquet contrast of Lady Diana and Kate Middleton

 

 

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel's Wedding Reception

 

 

The Royals and Celebrities such as Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel have a huge influence on style and fashion.  It's hard to forget Lady Diana's breathtaking cascade bouquet.  This will be a classic to live forever.  Floral and fashion change is evident in Kate Middleton's bouquet above compared to Diana's.  Today we see something in-between these two iconic bouquets with more emphasis in color, texture, unique specimens and accents regardless if the bouquet is structured or loosely design.  Many bouquets of today are themed and tell a story.  Historical periods of time and cultural traditions are influencing designs more than ever. 

   

Designed by Paula Lam



Paula designed this hand tied bouquet and matching hair piece in a chic Victorian style.  A popular look with brides.  Feathers, Lace, jeweled accessories and high petal count flowers such as David Austin roses and peonies define this style along with antique hydrangeas and a dusty miller collar.  Soft and feminine this look is a sure win.

  

Design by Olga Llerena

A wedding trend I discuss in class is the revival of the cascade bouquet.  We've seen a new popularity in this classic style.  Many designers are incorporating themed elements and styles into this bouquet along with the brides favorite colors, flowers and foliage's.  Wire and taping were the mechanics used for the above cascade bouquet.  The cascade segment is wired one calla blossom into the other. The materials used are calla lilies, dusty miller, ranunculus, peony, decorative wire and rhinestones.  What a show stopper this is! 

 

 

Design by Olga Llerena

 

Olga has challenged her self even more by orchestrating this European influenced cascade arm bouquet.  Circular shapes are designed with decorative wire and midollino sticks.  Phalaenopsis and rose blossoms are incorporated into the design with accents of eucalyptus pods.  This bouquet is for the forward thinking bride that wants to make a unique statement on her special day.

Design by Fiona Li

Another stunning cascade bouquet by SAIFD student Fiona.  She brings a modern flair to this design by using air plant material which is in high demand.  The circular collar backing, simple clean lines and decorative wire accents make this bouquet contemporary and unique.

Design by Fiona Li

An important aspect to this final project was to accomplish Unity and Harmony with the bridal bouquet and coordinating hair adornment.  Fiona has achieved a beautiful cohesive relationship between these two designs.  

 

Design by Fiona Li

 

The picture above shows the handle and collar wrapped with wool and decorative wire.  Wool is one of the latest trends in the United States that we see in designs.  This detailing completes the bouquet and is pleasing and comfortable for the bride to hold.  An important factor a professional florist should do for their client.



 

2014 Color Of The Year

 

Group Design by Sachi, Oxana, Fiona and Paula

Moving forward to the trends and styles of 2014 we can study the above unique designs, textures and materials with the forecasted color harmony. The suspended arrangement is a beautiful garden display of ferns and orchids.  We are seeing this look now and even more in the next year. Designers and brides are loving ferns and featuring them in designs. 

 

 

   

Wedding of Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel

 

As we end the semester, I reflect on the astounding development of the students technical, practical  and theoretical skills.  I applaud each and everyone one of you for completing the semester and achieving your goals.  I look forward to new beginnings in 2014.  Hope to see many of you in classes again next semester and those of you who are now leaving the City College nest, I wish the best to you with all your floral endeavors!!  Keep on trending because you are the individuals who will start new exciting floral trends!

Jenny Tabarracci AIFD 

 





"Steampunk" Trending at City College of San Francisco

 

 

 

Inspiration Board by Ineke Moss

 

The STEAMPUNK trend is a curious area to explore. The are many definitions and variations of this trend.  Adventurous, Victorian, Industrial, and Whimsical are words that come to my mind when I think of this trend.  Steampunk started off as a sub-genre of science fiction writing. Today it's a fictional celebration of steam- powered machinery, spring gadgets and modern marvels that can exist during the Victorian era or at any time in the present, past or future. Think of watches and their parts, top hats, corsetry, goggles, winged jewelry, lamps, computers, robots, weaponry, vehicles, bicycles and books. Brass, copper, glass, polished wood engravings, etchings, leather and lace all play a part in this trend. The possibilities in this genre are endless.

 Design by Ineke Moss

Steampunk Corsetry and Petticoat Trend

 

 Design by Ineke Moss

 

SAIFD (Student American Institute of Floral Designers) Ineke Moss and Oxana Sanukova  were assigned a special project of creating Steampunk designs for the floral industry with concentration on weddings.  I knew this would be a challenge and these two talented students would bring their passion to the project.  The bouquet above displays a Steampunk flair with the mysterious detailing of  whimsical charms, chains, lace and leather.  These elements begin to tell the brides unique story along with this fascinating genre.  The bouquet was composed with eucalyptus pods, seeds and foliage.  The dominate lotus pod captures our attention and is a fantastic specimen for this theme.  Roses, dusty miller, accenting glass flowers and feathers all bring this trend alive for a Victorian styled Steampunk wedding.



 Design by Ineke Moss

The naturalistic color pallet, lace and micro machinery details of this curious boutonniere  bring us into the world of Steampunk.
 

 
The American "Wild West" also plays apart in this trend and I go back to my childhood memories with the television series The Wild Wild West.  The show can be credited as being one of the more visible origins of the Steampunk subculture with its fantasy elements, trains, fashion and technologically advanced devices used by the characters of the program.

Design by Ineke Moss

Design by Ineke Moss

 

The tarnished brass lamp above is a brilliant way to incorporate Steampunk into a wedding or event.   This adventurous design begins a story with the accenting details of scrolls inside hanging glass vases. Reception guests will be intrigued of what is written inside these suspended time capsule like adornments.

Design by Oxana Sanucova

Floral chandeliers and suspended arrangements can enhance the ambiance of an event. They've gained popularity in wedding and event design.  Oxana's eye catching design above displays her interpretation of a Steampunk floral design.  Using jeweled toned flowers such as hanging amaranthus, tulips, dianthus and roses in deep burgundy, red and a hint of blue eryngium, these materials compliment the antique fixture.  These saturated jewel tones are an iconic color pallet for this trend and a favorite of todays bride.  This beautifully crafted machine like fixture finds its place in the Streampunk genre with key shapes, chains, brass, polish wood and spherical shapes that resemble machinery in motion. 

  

Inspiration for Steampunk Fashion and Design

Design by Oxana Sanucova

The powerful bridal bouquet design above displays the contrast of soft beauty and industrial texture.   Mechanics of inside a clock are incorporated boldly into the center of the bouquet.  The design characterizes the Steampunk style that would complement a daring bride.



Steampunk Color, Fashion and Attitude



Steampunk is an inspirational source for all designers. I encourage you to explore this genre and become a trend setter in the floral world.  Bravo and many thanks to Ineke and Oxana my assistants this semester for the outstanding work and joining the Steampunk train with me. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 





 



 





 

 





Hartmann Studios "2013 Client Appreciation Event"

Hartmann Studios - Client Appreciation Event

Jenny Tabarracci AIFD and Michael Daigian

Hartmann Studios held their Client Appreciation Event Wednesday night March 27th, 2013 at the Fort Mason Center in San Francisco, CA. If you want to have a blast and see what's the latest in trendsetting for special events this is the party to attend.  The design possibilities are truly endless at Hartmann Studios.  They are located in Richmond, CA and you can visit them on their website at hartmannstudios.com.

I was fortunate to work for Mike Guelfi one of the owners of Hartmann early in my career. When I was employed by Podesta Baldocchi which was San Francisco's oldest floral company (established in 1871) he was the general manager.  This was a valuable experience in my career, I have much respect for him.  He is one of the brightest professionals I've worked with in the industry.

This year Hartmann had four areas " Pop Art Room", " Library", " Oval Salon" and the "Night Club" flowing with embellished decor, delicious catering and fabulous ambiance.  Many prestigious floral designers from the Bay Area displayed their talents along with Hartmanns extraordinary lounges, stunning environmental elements, unbelievable candelabra structures and Gatsby style settings.  Just to name a few of the decor highlights of the night.

Michael Daigian Design was invited to display their tremendous talents for the night.  Michael's creative design team is top notch and it includes Marisa Tsikounas, Jennifer Lato AIFD and Nixon Tran.  They included part of my Bouquets to Art design in the entrance to their show room. The appropriate modifications were made to my design and it was exciting to see how it coordinated  with their room decor.  They took on the challenge of working with the Pantone color of the year "Emerald" and hit it out of the park with sophistication and radiance.  Michael Daigian is a mentor and dear floral friend that I share many ideas and designs with.  It's so important to have supportive and creative individuals like this in your life.   It was great to see the design used again with different elements. 

Michael Daigian seated at his impressive table display featuring Henry Lauder's walking stick with red floral accents playing a complementary balancing act with radiant emerald green.  Stunning!

Table display by Michael Daigian Design

Table display by Nicole Ha Designs

This charming display shows the diversity with the Bay Area Floral Designers.  What a fabulous way to celebrate a special event! 

Table display by Nicole Ha Designs

 Magical detail at it's finest!  What a joy it was to explore these Alice in Wonderland motifs.

Table display by Passifflora Designs

Hartmanns theme was to "INSPIRE, IMAGINE, IGNITE".  This display captured these words and the attention of so many guests. Bravo! 

Thanks to Hartmann Studios for another spectacular night and Kudos to so many talent designers, planners, caterers and patisseries in the special events industry.

Bouquets to Art 2013 - "Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue"

BOUQUETS TO ART 2013

Exhibitor:  Jenny Tabarracci AIFD, City College of San Francisco

Assistants:  Imelda Iraeta, Sungmum Ryu, David Cushing

Artist:  Richard Diebenkorn

Artwork:  Miller 22, 1951

"Something Old"

These garlands of abaca black mesh, pearls, silver beads and decorative wire were used 4 years ago in an AIFD presentation and ISES event.  I consider this my "Something Old" in the design.  I packed and stored them and was able to use them for the third time for Bouquets to Art this year.  The mesh comes in a roll and originally came from Accent Decor.  You can also buy it at Shibata at the San Francisco Flower market in different colors.  It was cut in half and shaped into garlands with decorative accents.  This is a great mechanic that can be used over and over again.  This was the main mechanic that held the Bouquets to Art design together.  It was attached to the metal stands with black cable ties.

 

"Something New"

The design concept, combination of materials and the way they are used represents the "Something New".   The materials were chosen because in my eye they portrayed a similar feeling and characteristic as the shapes, colors and lines of the painting.  I was also influenced by the other paintings in the room and wanted to create a design that would blend well.  I designed the materials in an organic repetitious fashion with lots of depth, layering and circular motion.  The floral materials used in this design were silver dollar eucalyptus, tillandsia and anthuriums.  The anthuriums were the only material that had a water source which was a water tube sprayed black. 

Detail work through out the entire design.

 The floral design was also inspired by the art work of Robert Motherwell titled "At Five in the Afternoon"

 Prep work for the silver dollar eucalyptus garlands.  Leaves are cut off branches, put in piles and then strung on black 12 gauge aluminum wire with a stacking technique.  The wire is curved tightly at the beginning and end of each section so the materials will not slip off.

 

Silver dollar eucalyptus garlands completed in different sizes. Then attached to metal frames and mesh with black cable ties.  Garlands sculpted around and into the design for final technique.

"Something Borrowed"

I borrowed these metal stands from the Retail Floristry Department at City College.  You can buy them at Accent Decor.  They are the frame work to the design.  Holes were drilled at the base and secured with screws into custom pedestals made out of plywood.

"Something Blue" 

Blue "Co-Flex" a cohesive flexible bandage was used to wrap around the metal frames.  This is something I came across riding horses.  It is used in the horse world regularly and comes in all different colors.  It works well in floral design and does not need glue.  The painting has small accents of blue and I wanted to portray the same effect with the floral design.

Metal frames were first wrapped with the blue Co-Flex and then the mesh was added with black cable ties.  This was the key mechanic to the design.  The mesh really held everything together.

 

Sometimes it takes two people to get the mechanic just right.

Thank you to my assistants Sun, Imelda and David! Hope everyone had a chance to see the show.  Many, Many amazing designs!  Congratulations to all!

Design Supplies

Black abaca mesh, water tubes sprayed black, jewels, beads, pearls from Accent Decor, blue Co-Flex, black cable ties, black 12 gauge aluminum wire, black and silver 24 gauge decorative wire.