When choosing your
wedding flowers there are several important aspects to take into consideration. Below is a list of things to research and keep in mind.
Budget
One of the first things you should decide on is your budget. What price range are you looking at, and what are you willing to spend. Having limits, or having none will be a big factor in the overall design and amount of your arrangements.
Silk or Real
After establishing your budget, decide if you would like to go with silk or real flowers.
Silk flowers are lower maintenance, lower in price, and you can buy them well before the big day. Real flowers, of course, look more natural and are beautifully scented. Take time to review the ups and downs, availability, and cost of both.
Season
When your wedding is taking place is also very important to consider. Certain flowers are more readily available at certain times/seasons. When buying flowers out of season, availability and expense will be a consideration. Example: If you adore tulips and are getting married in November, you will run into availability and product quality issues. Also, the cost will be significantly more than normal because of supplies being scarce. Temperature is also a factor if you are using real flowers. Keep in mind the overall look you are trying to create as well. You may have a fall wedding and want the flowers to clearly give that feel.
Type
When picking the
type of flower you would like to use, start by making a list of several of your favorite stems. Again, it’s important to keep in mind the time of year of your wedding as some flowers are more readily available in certain seasons. If you don’t have a specific favorite — try to decide what look you are trying to achieve. Then, speak with a local florist. Most florists will know what flowers create a certain style or are complementary of ones you have already picked.
Color
The color of flowers you choose is very important. Some flowers are only available in certain colors and shades, where others have a wide selection. Same as with the flower type, when choosing your colors, first decide what overall you look you want your wedding to have. Soft creamy shades such as whites, ivories, creams, and pinks with give your bouquet that traditional, elegant feel, where bright, vibrant colors will make a bold and beautiful statement.
Where to Put Flowers
Deciding where you would like your flowers is a big decision. Ask yourself how many arrangements you would like at the ceremony, reception, and where you want to put them; bridal table, cake table, guest tables. Do you want a couple of large displays, or several smaller ones? Also, decide who in the wedding wears what. You will most likely need a bridal and bridesmaids’
bouquets, something for the flower girl, and boutonnieres for the groom, groomsmen, and ring bearer. Don’t forget corsages for the mothers, and boutonnieres for the fathers! Also, decide if you want anyone else to wear flowers, such as the musician, ushers, hosts, or other family members.
Florist
One of the most important steps in choosing your flowers is hiring a florist. Make sure to find someone who is easy to talk to and that you’ll enjoy working with. This way, you’ll feel comfortable telling them what direction you want to go and throwing around design ideas. Make sure to discuss topics like cost, who will be arranging the flowers, and how many other events they have that weekend. Most importantly, make sure they can work with your budget and create flowers you will be happy with!
