Coming Up Roses

Last night I was dreaming of a weekend in Paris, and found myself perusing gorgeous photos from the majestic George V Hotel (owned by the Four Seasons.)  But what really caught my eye were the incredible designs by in-house florist Jeff Leatham, known as the ‘rock ‘n roll florist’ by his celebrity clientele (as in Kate Moss, Gwyneth Paltrow, & George Clooney.)

Eva Longoria's Wedding Flowers, designed by Jeff Leatham

From an interview with Leatham in France Magazine: “Basically, I’m the John Galliano of flowers.” Settled comfortably into the plump cushions of a Louis XVI chair at the Four Seasons George V, Jeff Leatham matter-of-factly delivers the perfect analogy for his place in the world of floral design.”

Arrangement at Eva Longoria's Ceremony

Style-setting clients like Eva Longoria (who pegged Leatham as florist for her lavish wedding to Tony Parker), are drawn to his strong, architectural looks that often use a monochromatic palette to stunning effect.

Jeff Leatham arranging flowers at the George V Hotel

According to the description by France Magazine, his creativity knows no bounds: “Rather than merely adorning the George V with tasteful arrangements, he has practically turned the hotel into a fabulous backdrop for his daring creations. In fact, the word “arrangements” hardly begins to convey Leatham’s work; “installations” is perhaps more apt.”

Lobby of the George V Hotel in Paris

Recently, the space in front of a majestic mirror was occupied by 15 transparent four-foot-high vases holding up a sheet of glass, which in turn was topped by dozens of smaller vases filled with vara orchids, forming a stunning bright-purple carpet.  The entire composition took up about 100 square feet.

Wedding Arrangement by Jeff Leatham, via Olivier Lalin Photography

Love these simple yet striking clusters of peonies designed by Leatham for a wedding at the George V.  By the way, if you’re like me, you’re curious to know the hotel’s annual floral budget that allows them to refresh thousands of blooms hourly… reportedly, a cool one million.