August 4, 2010 | Eco-Chic Entertaining, Florals + Decor, Inspired By

Inspired By | Sustainable South of France

dvGreen, my sustainable event design and production company, recently partnered with L’Olivier Soirees & Galas, one of NYC’s favorite floral design houses. L’Olivier was founded by South of France native Olivier Giugni, and my focus is high-end eco style, so a Sustainable South of France wedding was right up our alley.

A yellow and neutral color palate came naturally as we found ourselves focusing on sunflowers, herbs, cork and other elements native to the South of France and available here in NY. The white and yellow toile linen gave us a soft, literal backdrop upon which we felt free to go more modern and clean with our designs, using masses of flowers designed in square vessels. Our flowers were not only reminiscent of native France but were also seasonal and local here, so we were able to stay sustainable et tres chic.

French fare? Summer bouillabaisse featuring local seafood presented in cork trays placed family style down the length of banquet tables combined with ceramic terrines of roasted seasonal vegetables with aioli make for the perfect Provencial menu. Et a boire? Why, Pastis of course! Adorable vintage and recycled glass pitchers of NY tap water accented the table and allowed guests to find the perfect h20-Pastis proportion to suit their individual taste.

So, with the right team and the season on our side, it is possible to bring a little sustainable South of France into the East of the United States!

Guest blog by Danielle Venokur

Danielle Venokur Greenberg is the founder of dvGreen, a sustainable event design and production firm. She hosts The Green Party on MNN.com and has been featured in New York Magazine, Gotham, Vogue and Modern Bride as one of their 25 Trendsetters of 2008. Contact 646 872 7872 for more information.

Known for his original event and wedding design, Olivier Giugni is the creative force behind L’Olivier floral atelier which has studios both uptown and downtown New York. Contact 212 255 2828 for more information.

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of dvGreen and L’Olivier