
Florals, flowers, blooms and greenery are words that increasingly become an important factor of planning a wedding for some couples and not for others. The beauty in florals encompasses the different color tone, size, shape and textures. As each flower has its own uniqueness, different couples have their own unique needs and wants.
We had a chance to talk floral trends and get some advice for couples starting their floral journey with Cecil Payne III, Owner and Florist of Designs By Good Ol’C. A Nashville, TN native and a Tennessee State University graduate, Cecil adores flowers!
He spent 10 years working in his field of Early Childhood Education. Due to being laid off his job because of the pandemic, Cecil began to pivot which lead him to his passion of designing and creating beautiful floral designs. According to Cecil, his inspiration comes from “this journey called life”.

LHE: Cecil, you were unfortunately laid off from your job which lead to Designs By Good Ol’C. Tell us a little more about that journey.
Cecil: As a child, I always had an eye for design. I would love to help my mother and grandmother decorate. Decor was a serious matter at our house. We decorated for every holiday. You name it, we did it. Floral arrangements played a huge part in our decor. Because of the opportunity to help my mother and grandmother, designing floral arrangements became a huge hobby of mine while growing up.

LHE: The word “designs” is the beginning of your business name. What other elements do you design in addition to florals?
Cecil: When I initially started my business in 2017, I originally started as a part-time event designer. With pivoting, I branched into floral design, home decor, Christmas tree decorating and I continue to design events.
LHE: I’ve noticed you have a beautiful unique style. Tell us a little more about your style.
Cecil: I would call my style “The New Nashville” where southern meets big city vibes.
LHE: I have some clients who prefer not to have florals but I find the beauty and texture add so much to the day. Would you agree?
Cecil: I actually agree and disagree. In my opinion, beauty and texture can be obtained in many different forms. To name a few items, table linen, greenery, candles, charger plates/place settings, etc. For a client who may not fancy florals, greenery is a hot trend at the moment, but we can also provide an arrangement of beautiful vases and an array of candle decor.

LHE: What advice do you have for brides and grooms getting ready to start their floral journey for their wedding?
Cecil: Budgets are your friend, set a realistic budget. Floral budgets are all about balance. For example, every guest table does not have to be over the top, some tables can have a simple decor such as an all candle design. You can still achieve a luxury over the top look, and not break the bank. Its all about balance!
LHE: Thank you Cecil for taking the time to drop some gems on our readers. I really appreciate your time! I do have one last question. What are some of the latest floral trends in weddings?
Cecil: With intimate events being a crave this year, I believe brides are focusing on their bouquets vs florals for the entire wedding. Simplicity is making a comeback. Couples are deciding on more simplistic florals/decor and not such a grand look. With so much uncertainty in the world today, I believe backyard and DIY’s will be trending. I will be providing virtual classes for those brides.
Cecil, we look forward to hearing more about your virtual classes for brides. Again, thank you so much.
If you are looking to hire a floral designer, you can contact Cecil via his website at this link. Check out his beautiful designs on Instagram at DesignsByGoodOlC and on Facebook at DesignsByGoodOlC.
NOTE: all photos in this post were provided by Cecil of Designs By Good Ol’C.
We appreciate you stopping by each week to check out our Sunday School Lessons For Engaged Couples. Last week, we talked with Leah from ElleNelle Bridal about custom dresses. If you missed it, read it here. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog so you won’t miss any fun and important information.
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