Early in the year, I had the wonderful opportunity to work with the floral designer Claire Bean. Our assignment was a stately post-holiday affair at the James Burden Mansion on New York’s Upper East Side. The event (which I expect to write about!) was as lovely as the couple who married. But the January 2014 affair reminded me of an earlier wedding where I had witnessed Claire’s absolute magic.
It was the fall of 2011 at the Raphael Vineyard on Long Island’s North Fork, where I first met Claire. The couple, Jennifer and Chris, were planning an elegant autumn wedding at Raphael Vineyard, one of the beautiful vineyard’s on Long Island’s North Fork. The bride and groom had planned a sophisticated affair that brought together the warmth of a Long Island Indian Summer, the style of an upscale vineyard, and the vision of an event pro, Claire. I vividly recall arriving at the vineyard on a bright Saturday Morning, on the North Fork. Over the course of the day, I watched with amazement as Claire’s team unfurled a wedding where, in Claire’s words, they “brought the outside, indoors.” At the end of the day, that’s exactly what she did. Throughout the day, I clicked these photos, one after the next, where she choreographed and directed her team in creating a warm, beautiful space for the wedding and reception. Quite honestly, my appreciation of Claire’s magic and eye for beauty has only grown over time.
Now, I know, Claire stages stunning events in every season — and in every possible venue. Her professionalism knows no bounds. And, I look forward to working with her in 2014 and beyond.
Cheers—to Alexandra and Christopher and Jennifer and Chris, and, of course the incomparable Claire Bean. Feast your eyes!
