AVENUE speaks with Mark Masone, florist and event stylist of Designs by Mark Masone, about creating lasting memories for more than 25 years and thinking outside the box. How would you describe your style? My style varies depending on the client’s wishes and ideas of what they envision their event to look like: garden, modern, lush pavé, and more.
How would you describe the Designs by Mark Masone philosophy? The Mark Masone experience is about giving each and every client my undivided attention. As a boutique-style florist, I am the owner, the wedding planner and the designer. I handle all aspects of the event: from the initial consultation to creating flower arrangements the day of the event. Planning that special day can be a stressful time for the client, and I believe dealing directly with the owner is comforting. How did Designs by Mark Masone come about? I founded the company in 1994, but my passion for flowers started when I was 14 years old and helped out at a local flower shop for an after-school job. At 18 I opened my own boutique. Now, after 25 years of creating unforgettable memories, we are a full-retail florist company delivering from Manhattan to the Hamptons and around the globe. Recently we also launched our new website with an online store, where you can order floral arrangements, unique gifts and gourmet foods.
What is your favorite flower to work with, and why? Orchids are the personification of pure beauty: they are gorgeous. I like to use hydrangeas in my designs for the big, fluffy feel and the garden look they give, and roses for the variety of colors they come in and how they open with all the petals. What are the newest trends in floral design? Trends change over time, but candles are a big must today. The energy that candles give off and reflect off the flowers is magical. The use of succulents with the feel and colors they give is amazing. Texture is very important when creating an event or even just sending a loved one flowers for a special occasion. We are seeing people using bolder colors than the traditional all-white centerpiece. But there is something pure and special about all-white and ivory floral design.
pale yellow. Walking into the room was like being in a fragrant rose garden! Who is your dream person to design for? Oprah Winfrey. When she throws a party she doesn’t miss any details and spares no expense when entertaining her friends, from the moment they arrive to the surprise gifts at the end of the evening. She always leaves her guests in awe and talking about it for months after. Most of all, she appreciates the work and time that goes into making an event a huge success. ✦ For more information and to set up a consultation with Mark Masone, call 1.855.448.6729 or visit designsbymarkmasone.com.
What was your favorite event to work on? My favorite event was a wedding at the Ritz-Carlton Battery Park, where I collaborated with my dear friend, the late Kenny Davis from Kenny Davis Designs. We had Gustavian crystal chandeliers over each mercury glass– covered table. The event space was overflowing with 15,000 garden roses, in all shades of cream, ivory and JUNE 2016 • AVENUE ON THE BEACH | 143
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