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CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING FLOWERS
Flowers, although beautiful, typically require a rather large portion of your wedding budget. As flowers appear in nearly every photograph, choosing the right blooms and the right florist takes good planning.
Most centerpieces and bouquets use flowers, but flowers incorporate into many other areas of your day, such as entryways, cake, buffet, etc. Once you begin thinking about the look you want for your wedding flowers, it's a good idea to start collecting your ideas in one place.
Creating a Pinterest board or saving online photos is a great way to find out what draws your eye and fits your wedding vision. It also helps your florist realize your vision too! Your bouquet will likely appear in the most photos and is a good starting point.
The other wedding arrangements can be based on the bouquet design and colors. Generally, your floral choices should reflect the overall style or theme of your wedding so keep that in mind when idea shopping.
SILK OR FRESH FLOWERS?
When you've decided on the look and feel you want, it's time to decide whether to choose silk or fresh flowers. Start by considering what are the most important attributes you want in your flowers, and compare them to the following lists.
Some florists may be willing to combine fresh and silk if particular flowers are out of season. It's important to keep in mind that using silks is not actually a money saver as good-quality silk flowers can be more costly than using fresh flowers in most cases.
Both options have advantages so let's take a look at what each one has to offer. Which ever you choose, your flowers are certain to be beautiful and memorable.
Top 10 reasons to choose silk flowers:
- They won't wilt or turn brown and always look fresh.
- Extensive variety of colors and styles.
- Are everlasting and non-seasonal.
- Lighter to carry than fresh flowers.
- Less expensive than fresh flowers.
- Easily transported and no refrigeration or watering needed.
- Non-allergenic. (Note: They can be scented).
- Petals do not drop.
- You can receive them weeks in advance of the ceremony.
- They do not attract bees and other insects.
Top 10 reasons to choose fresh flowers:
- They smell wonderful.
- Extensive variety of colors and styles.
- Exquisite detailing missing from silk.
- More traditional than silk.
- More options in choosing vendors.
- They are soft to the touch.
- Create a more opulent feeling than silk.
- Available at a variety of price points depending on season.
- Look wonderful in photographs, even close-up.
- Can be freeze dried.
QUESTIONS FOR YOUR FLORIST
It's important to hire a floral business that will work with you and whose creative process matches your needs and vision. Some florists love working with their clients on ideas and designs, while others work better without to much oversight or they offer pre-designed floral packages at set price points.
Pick a florist that will work with your personality and desires. Also, look for reviews and testimonials before contacting them directly. Questions you will want to ask are:
- Are you available on my wedding date?
- Is my wedding location in your geographic area?
- Which flowers will be in season or available on my wedding day?
- What do you charge?
- Are there extra costs for delivery and setup?
- What are your delivery requirements and set up times?
- Who will be setting up the flowers on my wedding day?
- Have you done many weddings?
- May I see samples of your work? (If their answer is no, do not hire them!)
- Are you familiar with my wedding site?
- Are you willing to work within my budget?
- What cost saving suggestions do you have given my needs and budget?
- What are your deposit and cancellation policies?
- What are your guarantees regarding flower freshness, availability and substitutions?
- Do you rent certain items such as candelabras, fabric draping, chairs, furniture, etc? If not, can you recommend a rental company for these items?
- What happens to the flowers after the wedding?
BEST PLACES TO BUY FRESH GREENERY & FOLIAGE IN BULK
- Fifty Flowers
- Blooms by the Box
- J.R. Roses
- Bloomingful Etsy Shop
- Bloom Culture Flowers
- Bulk Succulents on Etsy
- Flowermoxie
TOP 10 WEDDING FLOWERS
Some of the most popular wedding flowers in recent years have included:
- Roses: Roses are a classic and timeless choice for weddings, available in a wide range of colors to match any wedding color scheme.
- Peonies: Peonies are a popular choice for weddings due to their large, fluffy blooms and romantic appeal. They are typically in season during late spring and early summer.
- Lilacs: Lilacs are a fragrant and delicate choice for weddings, adding a touch of softness and sophistication.
- Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas are a versatile flower that can add a pop of color and volume to any wedding bouquet or centerpiece.
- Calla Lilies: Calla lilies are a elegant and modern choice for weddings, known for their sleek and simple shape.
- Daisies: Daisies are a cheerful and fun choice for weddings, bringing a touch of whimsy and playfulness.
- Sunflowers: Sunflowers are a popular choice for outdoor or rustic weddings, adding a touch of brightness and warmth.
- Carnations: Carnations are a budget-friendly option that can add a pop of color and texture to any wedding bouquet or centerpiece.
- Tulips: Tulips are a springtime favorite, adding a touch of freshness and renewal to the wedding day.
- Succulents: Succulents have become increasingly popular in recent years as a unique and trendy choice for wedding flowers and decor.
TOP WEDDING FLOWER DESIGNS/STYLES
Floral arrangements play a vital role in creating a romantic and memorable atmosphere. Flowers have been a timeless tradition in weddings and have become a way to express love, happiness, and individuality. With each passing year, new and innovative flower and bouquet trends emerge, making it possible for brides to personalize their special day. Here are some top trends in wedding floral design:
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Bold Colors: Brides are expected to opt for bold, vibrant colors in their bouquets and flower arrangements, incorporating hues like deep reds, bright pinks, and jewel-toned greens.
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Mixed Textures: Bouquets and arrangements are expected to feature a mix of textures, such as soft petals, lush foliage, and delicate accents like berries and seed pods.
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Sustainable Flowers: Brides are becoming more environmentally conscious and may opt for sustainable flowers such as locally grown and seasonal varieties, as well as dried or preserved blooms.
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Wildflower Arrangements: Wildflower arrangements, which feature a natural and organic feel, are expected to be popular.
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Monochromatic Bouquets: Monochromatic bouquets, featuring blooms in shades of the same color, are expected to be a big trend this year, providing a cohesive and sophisticated look.
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Dramatic Foliage: Foliage is expected to play a more prominent role in wedding flowers and bouquets, with dramatic foliage such as eucalyptus, ferns, and palm leaves adding a touch of whimsy and texture.
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Unique Blooms: Brides may opt for unique and unexpected blooms in their bouquets, such as protea, anemones, and clematis, adding a touch of individuality and personality to their arrangements.
WEDDING FLOWER INSPIRATION
- 55 Ways to Accent Your Wedding Bouquet
- Seasonal Wedding Inspiration
- Wedding Bouquet Gallery
- Wedding Centerpiece Gallery
- How to Use Greenery in Your Wedding
FREE WEDDING FLOWERS CHECKLIST
We've compiled a general checklist of flowers and arrangements that might be needed for your big day. This checklist is not meant to be all-inclusive, rather it's meant as a guideline only.
Depending on your style and wedding budget, you may need only a few items on this list or a vast majority. Please feel free to print out this list to use when working with your florist.