How many flowers DO I need?
Short answer: It depends on your preferences and event size. You should absolutely feel free to ask for what you prefer, not just the standard approach! And Studio Fleuraison LOVES to think outside the box, so let us help you! ANY of ideas in this post are RIGHT UP our alley, we'd love to help if you like them, too!.
Long answer: keep reading!
1) Do you like flowers? I mean, if you don't adore blooms, you should feel free to plan a wedding with minimal or no flowers! Yes, I am saying that, as a florist. You may want to choose a venue that is aesthetically pleasing on its own, and just add lighting, or go with balloons. So many options!
2) If you DO like flowers, you will need to figure out how you want them to show up. Generally there are two main factors to consider: style and budget/event size.
3) Style considerations.
Are you a Mid Mod fan with a house full of sleek wood furniture and want to bring your modern sculptural sensibilities to the wedding? If so, consider pin frogs or asian-inspired minimalist floral design. Styles like ikebana feature a pared down look that focuses the eye on each element and leave plenty of negative space for conversation to flow. Or bring in non-flower elements (seashells! fruits and veg! mushrooms!) to increase interest. This can be an amazing way to incorporate an element that has special meaning to you as a couple.
Do you dream in Bridgerton or Pride and Prejudice? Lush English garden florals or rich multi-colored Dutch masters florals might be just the thing. As you might imagine, this mode features a lot of flowers, but oh is it ever glorious!
Or perhaps you love the DRAMATIC, and want to bring an astonishing moment of delight? (Oh hi, me too!) In this case, you could think about focusing your floral design and budget on one or two elements that really up the ante! This can work with or without lush florals scattered throughout the event, but I love to work on a big installation or experience that sets the mood to PARTY. Let's talk!
Psst: There's no rule that there have to be flowers on each table. We can be strategic! Gorgeous flowers on each table is just one of several approaches.
Speaking of rules, there are also no rules that you have to carry a bouquet or wear a boutonniere! I love making wearable flowers in all shapes and sizes: I've made crowns, giant headpieces, fascinators, flower clouds, flower tattoos, pocket square boutonnières, the list goes on and on...
4) Budget and Event Size Considerations:
Check out my post about floral budgeting, but as a general rule, the bigger the bunch of flowers, the more expensive. You can sometimes save by choosing a more minimalist style like ikebana-inspired arrangements.
The other main determinant of budget is the size of your wedding party and of your guest list. And of course you know I'm going to say it: Feel free to think outside the box with tables and wedding party florals!
- Can you create a dramatic floral moment in a spot that everyone will see all night long? Go for it!
- Can you create a special floral experience for your guests instead of centerpieces? Might be fun!
(What about a "flower market" backdrop for the sweetheart table that becomes a bouquet bar during the dance hour so guests can take flowers home? OR: What about a dramatic floral arch for them to go through on their way into and out of the reception--maybe you can even reuse something from the ceremony this way!)
