When my bride Devin told me several months ago that she had not hired a florist, but was rather doing her own paper floral designs for the wedding, I was admittedly a bit skeptical. I wasn’t sure how folded paper florals would translate. But then I began researching Japanese kusudama, and I was intrigued.
Kusudama — a precursor to the modular origami genre — originated from ancient Japanese culture, and were first used for incense and potpourri. They are now typically used for decoration or as gifts. The images below feature some of Devin’s kusudama creations for her Edna Valley Vineyard wedding. I think the results are absolutely stunning — they are the most unique and memorable wedding design element that I’ve ever had the privilege to photograph (the text petals are from the writings of novelist Jane Austen — fitting for my Cal Poly professor client). Well done Devin!
Central Coast wedding photographer Keith Dunlop is an award-winning San Luis Obispo wedding photographer, internationally published photographer, with over 20 years of professional experience. He is a member of Central Coast Wedding Professionals, the National Press Photographer’s Association, is a contributing photographer to Latitude Magazine, and is a multiple winner of the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Award. His documentary and editorial work is represented by Tandem Stills + Motion in Los Angeles.
