At District Weddings, we truly believe that inspiration is everywhere. No one could agree with us more than floral artist Michael Lanni of Volanni. Living by the phrase “capture the moment and keep it alive”, Michael creates arrangements and installations that exude elegance and give natural flow to any event. I was lucky enough to speak with Michael and learn more about his inspiration, style, and a few floral tips for the holiday season…
Where does Volanni find inspiration to create such artistic and beautiful arrangements?
Ultimately we feel that our inspiration comes through us from a higher source and we are just the vessel. You can call it Mother Nature or God, we just feel each design out intuitively. We also get ideas from inspired themes in other mediums, such as fashion and architecture- from the past to the present.
What are overarching themes to the Volanni ‘style’? Can this be easily incorporated into the visions of your clients?
Good design and clean lines, but form and balance hold the style together. The design could be architectural or it could be very lush, but it has to be well balanced. We can accommodate any clients, from those that prefer the traditional to those that connect with the contemporary. We are best known for our contemporary design.
What are a few of the most rare or striking flowers or plants that you use in your work?
I love green goddess calla lilies and all types of orchids. It just depends on what comes to me when I am designing because I can find beauty in any flower. They all inspire me.
What flowers or plants do you recommend to your clients during the holiday season? What are the most popular, and are there any ‘hidden gems’ that are often under-utilized?
I love red dogwood, ilex berries, and all types of holiday greens (magnolia, cedar). My holiday design is either very architectural or natural. I love what is outside. So everything is right there and not necessarily hidden.
What is the largest arrangement or installation that has been created by Volanni?
A good friend of ours, Jenny Peterson, got married at the Halcyon House in Georgetown and we constructed a 15ft x 6ft tower covered with white gerber daisies and a band in the middle that was made of green goddess calla lilies. The tower doubled as a video screen that had abstract images projected onto it.
That must have been quite a beautiful site! Thank you very much Michael, and we look forward to seeing and experiencing many more of your breathtaking creations.
