Bountiful Blossoms

Since the time couples decided to sanctify marriage with a ceremony, fresh flowers have been an integral part of the proceedings. Weddings are a celebration of love and romance. What better way to show these sentiments than the fragile beauty and sweet fragrance of fresh flowers?

The most important floral piece, of course, is the bridal bouquet. Many brides today prefer bouquets featuring only one color, though not the onetime favorite white. Though beautiful, an all white bouquet could easily clash with a white gown. White flowers may also blend into a white gown during the photo session, resulting in disappointing bridal photos. However, if a white bouquet is to be used, consider off-white shades such as cream, ivory, or bridal white. In addition to considering color, it is important to coordinate the style of the bouquet with the bride’s figure and dress. Generally speaking, a simple formal dress requires a simple formal bouquet. It also helps to bring in a sample of the wedding gown and bridesmaids’ dress fabrics so that your florist is able to coordinate the colors of the flowers and ribbons in the bouquet.

Personal flowers are another very important part of a complete wedding look. Bridesmaids’ bouquets, boutonnieres and corsages add greatly to the ceremony and provide you with gorgeous photographs for years to come. Don’t be afraid to think creatively! For example, as an alternative to a rose corsage for mother, why not use a nosegay that can be placed in a silver plated tussie mussie holder that can also serve as her thank-you gift? Another popular idea is the use of matching boutonnieres; if you’re using gerbera daises in your attendants bouquet, why not use a single gerbera for the groomsmen boutonnieres?

By all means don’t forget the cake! A wedding cake and table decorated with fresh flowers enhances the entire celebration. During the reception, the cake table is the focal point of the room, especially during the cake cutting. Your photographs will be fantastic with a fresh floral cake topper, cascading blossoms and a garland of greens and flowers encircling the cake. This task can easily be coordinated with a little planning between your florist and cake maker. To complete the effect, try decorating the cake knife, server and champagne glasses with flowers.

Everyone is cost conscious these days, so here is a little savings tip. Transform the wedding bouquets into reception centerpieces! By creating a ‘bridal mound’ with basic greening and shaped floral foam, bouquets can be repositioned to create an arrangement with a whole new look for the reception. This not only saves money but also helps to blend the church and reception hall into one cohesive look.