I’m so happy to work with the best of the best wedding vendors here in Hawaii. Over the years I have created some awesome relationships with vendors across the islands, and I’m lucky enough to now call a lot of these amazing people friends. Planning a destination wedding in Hawaii from across the ocean can be stressful. I will be highlighting some of my preferred vendors in my vendor spotlight series to help make the process easier! First up is Oahu florist, La Flor by Vanessa Olsen.
I first met Vanessa a couple of years ago when she was the coordinator for one of my Waimea Valley weddings. Yes, this boss babe also does coordination! I was immediately impressed with her attention to detail and how gorgeous the florals were. Over the years we have worked together on weddings and styled shoots (like an adventurous boho inspired elopement you can see here!), and I just adore her and her work! We recently collaborated on florals for my adventure elopement video you can see on my homepage, and we have another fun project in the works.
Get to know Vanessa below!
How long have you been in business? How did you get started in the wedding industry here in Hawaii?
I started off in the event business at the age of 15 in Los Cabos, Mexico, my home town! Instantly gravitated to the decor, set up and thrill that comes with each event. I started off as a wedding coordinator, took a couple breaks and explored a career in food & beverage and came full circle back to weddings in Hawaii. I’ve owned my floristry business for 2 years.
What would you say your speciality is?
Customized and unique floral arrangements. I love flowers and the best part of my job is meeting likeminded flower lovers. I adore and enjoy when my clients come to me with a vision and have throughly enjoy the creative process of planning.
![florist in hawaii](https://chelseastratso.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6603/2019/07/oahu-florist-1.jpg)
What is your favorite part of your job?
Using flowers that are in season, constantly designing new pieces and using local Hawaiian flowers.
What’s your favorite kind of wedding day and why?
A day filled with lots of beautiful flowers and the perfect setting. This is every wedding day here in Hawaii!
![oahu-florist](https://chelseastratso.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6603/2019/07/oahu-florists.jpg)
What is a piece of advice you love to give brides to help them with preparing for their big day?
Let this time be a fun and creative process. It’s your special day you should have it look and feel the way that you have always dreamt of. Be creative and think outside the box!
Vanessa Olsen of La Flor is a preferred Oahu florist for my weddings in Hawaii. I love helping couples find the perfect vendors for their destination wedding! Contact me today to talk not just photos, but about all of your wedding vendors!