Flowers With Style

Of all the decisions you make in association with your wedding, choosing your flowers can be the most intimidating. There are so many varieties, breeds, and subtle variations in color. And that's not even taking into account the seasonal factors such as what flowers are available at the time of year for your wedding.

The following listing includes some ideas on which to base your arrangements, the best types of flowers to use and some seasonal choices.

Bridal Bouquets:
Your bridal bouquet is perhaps the most important - and most photographed - arrangement in your wedding. Consider these ideas when picking your bouquet:

- A gift from the groom. Since the bridal bouquet is a gift from the husband-to-be, let him pick the flowers (with some assistance, of course). Then in those moments before the ceremony when you are holding your bouquet, you'll remember that your groom chose those flowers especially for you. And you'll be able to hold the bouquet of blooms close to you as you process down the aisle.

- A living memory. What did your mother carry in her wedding bouquet? What about your grandmother? Create a tradition by replicating your mom's or grandmother's bouquet.

- A study in contrasts. If you want your bouquet to stand out against your white dress, carry bright flowers.

- A fragrant bundle of joy. A white bouquet featuring a combination of sturdy orchids, elegant calla lilies, sweet gardenias and traditional lilies of the valley will surround you with a natural perfume.

- The shape of your joy. Perhaps you want the extravagance of a cascade, the simple elegance of a round bunch, the beauty of long-stemmed blooms laying in the crook of your arm, or the pure romance of a heart. The shape of your bouquet should reflect both your personal style and the style and theme you've set for your wedding.

- A matching pair. Your groom's boutonniere can be a very miniature version of your bouquet, keeping the same flowers, hues and shape but on a smaller scale.

Bridesmaids' Bouquets and Groomsmen's Boutonnieres:
Your bridesmaids' flowers should match the colors in their dresses, and the groomsmen's boutonnieres should match the color scheme. Following are a few fresh ideas for these flowers:

- If your wedding features multiple colors, have each bridesmaid carry a bouquet that features one of the hues. For example, if you're having a spring wedding, consider having one bridesmaid carry lavender flowers, another yellow, another pink and another peach.

- The groomsmen escorting them should have a boutonniere in a matching color.

Use flowers with symbolism that reflect your values:

- Blue violets - faithfulness

- Forget-me-nots - true love

- Honeysuckle - bonds of love

- Ivy - fidelity

- Jasmine - joy

- Lilies of the valley - return of happiness

- Myrtle - remembrance (especially poignant if you're remembering some dearly departed love ones during your celebration)

- Red chrysanthemums, roses or tulips - love

- Instead of carrying bouquets, have each bridesmaid carry a single bloom to make an elegant, bold statement.

Mother-of-the-Bride/Mother-of-the-Groom Nosegays:
Don't forget mom! Small bouquets make the mothers look lovely when they're being escorted down the aisle. While these bouquets should be consistent in color and style with the rest of the blooms you're using, let the mothers personalize their flowers. If they have a particular flowers that is special to them, ask the florist to include it.

Floral DÈcor:
When discussing the flowers with your florist, don't forget altar flowers, pew decorations, as well as reception centerpieces and displays. Let your florist know your wedding theme and style. If possible provide photographs of your ceremony and reception sites. He or she should be able to provide some innovative ideas for your arrangements.

< Back