Flowers are one of the most beautiful and visually appealing part of any wedding. From bouquets to centerpieces and beyond, they bring a sense of style, scent and sophistication to a theme and color scheme. That said, they can be tricks to pull off. So with this in mind, we’ve compiled a handy list of dos and don’ts to help you plan a blooming celebration!
DO…
Give your florist a colour palette to work with, rather than insisting on specific flowers. This will allow them to create a stunning design that falls within your budget, since they know how to work around factors such as the time of year and the season, both of which play a key role in the availability, and thus price, of certain blooms.
DON’T…
Use floral displays to cover up less polished-looking parts of the venue, such as the fire exit. All you’ll really do is make sure they draw the eye of your guests. Instead, use your flowers to draw attention to the breathtaking parts of the room, such as the tables, the cake or even the dance floor.
DO…
Make sure your bouquet is manageable. Larger bouquets look absolutely stunning in photos, but so do smaller ones. So be realistic about your capabilities. If you don’t have the upper arm strength to go heavy, go petite, and remember – all eyes will be on you anyway.
DON’T…
DIY your flowers if you can help it. Thinking practically, your blooms will need to be purchased and arranged the morning of the big day, which is a big job all on its own. And honestly, it’s the last thing you need to be worried about when there’s thing like hair and make-up going on. So leave it to a pro and focus on getting ready yourself.
DO…
Incorporate non-floral elements in your ceremony and reception displays. Everything from your bouquets to your reception table centrepieces can be jazzed up with non-floral elements such as lights, candles, jewellery, candy and even grasses. Alternatively, use your flowers in unexpected ways, such as to decorate a gorgeous getaway car.
DON’T…
Choose flowers that are sensitive to heat if you are having a summer wedding. We all know how warm Aussie days can get, and there’s a chance they will start to wilt and lose appeal before your ceremony is even over.
DO…
Invite your florist – if they’re not already familiar with them – to make a personal inspection of your wedding venues. This will give them a better idea of what you need to bring your vision to life and will greatly aid their creative process by giving a sense of scope, dimension, ceiling heights and more.
DON’T…
Choose flowers with a strong perfume for your table centerpieces as the scent will overpower your food. And with the care – and dollars! – that went into picking your menu, you don’t want attention turning anywhere else.
DO…
Tell your florist if there are any particular flowers that mean something to you. For example, if your dad grew roses or your grandmother wore gardenia scent, they may be able to incorporate them in your blooms for a lovely sentimental tribute.
DON’T…
Be obvious. Brides can sometimes feel hemmed in by tradition and the need to go with what’s in fashion or on trend. But it’s better to think outside the box and ask for what you really want, rather than what you think you should want. Remember the golden rule of wedding planning – it’s your day so plan it your way.