As you start envisioning your wedding flower decorations, it's easy to get caught up in the romance of it all. But before you can bring your floral dreams to life, there are some essential details to ponder. You'll need to define your flower style, choose flowers that fit your season and budget, and plan the logistics of getting everything to the venue on time. And that's just the beginning. By taking a practical approach to your flower decorations, you'll be able to create a stunning and stress-free celebration. But where do you even start?
Define Your Wedding Flower Style
Defining your wedding flower style is a crucial step in bringing your vision to life, and key to get it right from the start. You'll want to ponder your personal taste and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Think about the floral theme you're drawn to – is it classic and elegant, whimsical and rustic, or modern and sleek? Your wedding flowers should reflect your unique style and complement your venue, attire, and overall wedding decor. Take inspiration from Pinterest, wedding blogs, or even your favorite flowers to get started. By nailing down your wedding flower style, you'll be able to communicate your vision to your florist and certify your special day looks exactly as you've always imagined it.
Choose the Right Flowers for Season
When it comes to choosing the right flowers for your wedding, considering the season is crucial. You'll want to select blooms that are in season to guarantee availability and affordability. Seasonal flowers are often less expensive than out-of-season varieties, making them a more budget-friendly option. Plus, they're typically fresher and of higher quality. For spring and summer weddings, consider peonies, roses, and hydrangeas. In the fall, opt for dahlias, sunflowers, and cosmos. During the winter months, amaryllis, cyclamen, and eucalyptus are stunning choices. By choosing seasonal blooms, you'll not only save money but also support local flower sourcing. This approach will result in beautiful, unique arrangements that reflect the beauty of the season.
Create a Flower Budget Blueprint
About 10% of your overall wedding budget should be allocated to flowers, so making a flower budget blueprint is vital to guarantee you're getting the most out of your money. This will help you determine how much to spend on each aspect of your flower decorations.
To create a detailed budget breakdown, consider the following:
- Flower costs: Calculate the cost of each type of flower, foliage, and greenery you'll need, as well as the quantity required for each arrangement and decoration.
- Labor costs: Factor in the cost of hiring a florist, their team, and any additional help you may need for setup and teardown.
- Miscellaneous costs: Don't forget to include the cost of vases, ribbons, pins, and any other supplies you'll need to bring your floral vision to life.
Plan Your Floral Logistics Ahead
Three months prior to your wedding, you should have a clear plan in place for your floral logistics, guaranteeing a seamless and stress-free experience for both you and your florist. This plan should include flower storage arrangements, certifying that your blooms are kept fresh and protected from damage. You'll also need to coordinate transport timing, scheduling pickups and deliveries to verify that your flowers arrive at the venue on time and in perfect condition. Consider the distance between the florist, the venue, and any other locations where flowers will be needed, and plan accordingly. By having a solid plan in place, you can relax and enjoy your special day, knowing that your flowers will be stunning and perfectly in place.
Consider the Venue's Floral Restrictions
Your wedding venue's rules and regulations can greatly impact your flower arrangements, so it's essential you're aware of any floral restrictions beforehand. You don't want to find out on the day of the wedding that your beloved peonies aren't permitted. Review the venue's contract and ask about their floral policies. Some common restrictions include:
- Candle and open flame policies: Find out if candles or open flames are permitted, as some venues may have fire safety concerns.
- Fresh flower restrictions: Check if the venue has any rules about fresh flowers, such as no petals on the floor or no flower petals in the aisle.
- Setup and teardown timelines: Confirm the allowed setup and teardown times for your florist to guarantee a smooth and stress-free experience.
Don't Forget the Little Details
Many a wedding flower arrangement has been elevated by attention to small yet significant details. You'll be amazed at how petite accents can transform your overall design. Consider adding decorative fillers like queen anne's lace, baby's breath, or dusty miller to fill gaps and create a lush, full look. These tiny elements can also help tie together your color scheme and theme. Don't overlook the power of subtle textures, like velvet ribbons or lace-wrapped vases, to add depth and visual interest. By focusing on these little details, you'll create a cohesive, polished look that will leave your guests in awe.