MEET SHERRY DONNELLY OF GERTIE MAE’S FLORAL STUDIO

TBC:  What wedding trend would you like to see disappear?

SD:  I am certain this may cause some grumbling amongst my fellow designers, but I think the vintage/mason jar /”oodles of stuff décor” has become completely saturated. I do believe, just as in fashion, everything has its cycle and a more streamlined/ clean look is on the horizon.

TBC:  Where do you find inspiration?

SD:  Inspiration can come from the strangest of places, but the key is to just go with it and not question it…sometimes from a memory, a song, a piece of fabric… it just hits me and then the visual begins to develop in my mind. I have to see it which is different from some artists…once I can visualize it there is no stopping the flow.

SD:   love to go junking, thrifting, and antiquing, for interesting vessels and containers, as well as  visiting some regular auctions in my region. I would love to tell you about my favorite vendor but then my secret weapon of sorts wouldn’t be secret anymore! I do have the pleasure of working in a setting that is nestled on 10 acres of North Georgia pasture and woods. The wildflower and indigenous elements are always a favorite of mine to incorporate into my arrangements alongside the commercially grown flowers.

TBC:  Describe your design style.

SD:  I am not sure there is a name for it…I love to use a mix of textures and elements that maybe you wouldn’t think of putting together. If I could choose one or the other, I am mad for texture! My style is one of looseness and natural gathering, more than fixed or geometric. I am not school trained in my trade, but I think that can be a plus…not being tied to design parameters and requirements, lends itself to an unleashed creativity that becomes more playful and whimsical.

SD:  Oddly enough this interview is the highlight to date. I received your invitation to be featured while I was working a wedding in Charleston and I started to cry…my daughter Grace was working with me and asked if someone had passed away when she saw my tears. I told her no and explained that one of my very favorite blogs that I follow, specifically for the floral designer features, was inviting me to be interviewed. Hard work and perseverance does pay off and I thank you for the validation!

SD:  Most important is to be yourself, design in your own style and don’t worry about what everyone else is doing!

TBC:  Who are a few of your favorite floral designers?

SD:  I love Jane Packer and have always wanted to attend her classes and workshops in London. Being open to learning something new on a regular basis helps my work stay fresh and relevant. Another designer I love is Nicolei Bergmann. He is innovative and his designs are incredible. I look at his work and wonder how he thought of doing what he did!

SD:  I have to admit I love to crank the music up and even shake it a little while I am working….I am telling my age with this, but loud 70’s /80’s disco and rock works best!

TBC:  If you had to make a career change, what would you do?

SD:  I would love to work in advertising, marketing, and public relations. Sometimes I get so many ideas running around in my head for new businesses, business names, and tag lines I can’t sleep. I love to write as well, so a career in journalism would be delightful!

SD:  I would call my style “low-maintenance”. I have a “uniform” I usually wear when I work… a fitted black tee and a great pair of jeans…there is a section in my closet for just black tshirts.  I love silver jewelry and have since before it was popular…lots of silver bangles…they have a wonderful sound as well as looking attractive. I wear just enough makeup to accent my features which makes me quick at “getting ready”.
 
My husband adores that! I would say I am a minimalist in fashion and on the home front…time is a contributing factor to that. Owning my own business tends to leave me without a lot of time to design for myself…I am like the cobbler whose children have no shoes…it is rare to see flowers in my home.

TBC:  Do you prefer tea or coffee?

SD:  LOVE LOVE LOVE coffee!!

TBC:  Do you prefer blogs or magazines?
 
SD:  I like both blogs and magazines, but there is something timeless about a publication.

TBC:  Do you prefer Grey or Colour?
 
SD:  I love color and especially in concentrated groupings like in the garden.