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So, you're getting married. Congratulations! You get to be a bride! And you also get to embark on one of the most stressful event planning experiences of your life. (Sorry!)
Planning a wedding is almost always way more anxiety-inducing than we expect it to be. Venue, catering, dress, music, guests, vows, dinner, DJ — there are a lot of decisions before you. And, naturally, you'll want your big day to be just to your taste.
One of the most unexpectedly complex things to plan is the flowers. “Surely, I just find a florist, right?” you may be thinking. Unfortunately, there are probably a few more things you'll want to consider. I'm talking flower type, colour, size, style, placement — the list goes on.
But don't panic. With the right preparation, creating the perfect floral design for your wedding is possible! And it can really transform your venue into the magical, romantic setting of your dreams.
We spoke to the experts at Blooming Haus to bring you a checklist of everything you need to know…
- Start with a visual moodboard
Before meeting your florist, curate a collection of imagery, colour palettes, and floral styles that resonate with you. Include fabric swatches, venue photos, and inspiration from Pinterest or magazines. This visual reference will help convey your vision clearly and ensure a cohesive design from the outset.
2. Collaborate on a bespoke floral palette
Work with your florist to develop a custom colour story that reflects your style, love story, and heritage while also complementing your venue. Move beyond generic for a look that feels curated and refined.
3. Choose seasonal blooms for beauty and value
Seasonal flowers are not only more cost-effective but also more sustainable. Spring offers blooms such as peonies and tulips; summer brings dahlias and cosmos; autumn features zinnias and amaranthus; and winter showcases anemones and amaryllis. Your florist can recommend stunning seasonal alternatives to out-of-season favourites.
4. Prioritise sculptural and architectural florals
Luxury floral design often takes cues from fashion and interiors - embracing shape, movement, and negative space. Statement branches, phalaenopsis orchids, or minimalist ikebana-style arrangements add a contemporary, couture-level aesthetic to your wedding.
5. Invest in signature floral moments
Rather than spreading your budget thinly across multiple arrangements, focus on one or two dramatic floral statements – perhaps a ceremony arch, a floral staircase, or a suspended installation. These show-stopping features create impact and offer breathtaking backdrops for photographs.
6. Repurpose ceremony arrangements
Make the most of your flowers by reusing ceremony pieces for the reception. Aisle arrangements can be transformed into table centrepieces for example, and altar designs can frame the cake table or sweetheart table. Discuss the logistics of this transition with your florist and planner in advance.
7. Incorporate unexpected elements
Add a touch of the unexpected by incorporating fruits, vegetables, herbs, or succulents into your arrangements. Think pomegranates, artichokes, rosemary, and mint — these create texture, intrigue, and a luxe look that often proves more budget-friendly than rare blooms.
8. Consider flower meanings and symbolism
Many flowers carry symbolic meanings that can add emotional resonance to your day. Some of our cross-cultural couples choose blooms that represent their heritage or values. Choose blooms that reflect your journey as a couple for a more personal touch.
9. Think about photography and venue style
Speak to your photographer about how your flower choices will translate on camera. Certain colours photograph better than others – white can appear blown out, while deep purples may look almost black depending on the aesthetic you’re going for. Ensure your florals complement your venue rather than clashing with it.
10. Plan weather-appropriate flowers
If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, choose flowers that can withstand the elements. Heat, wind, or humidity can affect delicate blooms. Your florist will help you select appropriate varieties that maintain their beauty throughout the day.
11. Be mindful of scents and allergies
Heavily scented flowers like lilies or gardenias may overwhelm guests in intimate spaces. If you or close family members have allergies or sensitivities, opt for low-fragrance blooms – especially for bouquets, buttonholes, and table arrangements.
