A wedding gown will be incomplete without a flattering wedding hand bouquet. Picking your favourite flower will be the primary consideration for most brides. However, there are a few other little considerations which you may want to keep in mind before making the final decision.
Do your research
Prior research is always a good thing. Scour through bridal magazines and the internet for ideas. Note down what you like and what you don’t. This will be useful in your hunt for the perfect wedding bouquet.
Match it to your built and gown
If you are tall, you could do very well with a larger wedding bouquet. If you are petite, choose a smaller bouquet to avoid it overshadowing you and your gown.
Choose a flower with a special meaning
If you do not know where to begin, how about choosing flowers that convey a special meaning? Roses are the most popular and mean beauty and true love. Lilies are gorgeous and represent honesty and honour.
Select a bloom that is in season
Selecting a flower that is in season during your wedding will present you with more options and save you money. For example, tulips are typically spring flowers. If you are looking to use them during the end of the year, it could still be possible, due to commercial growing techniques. It could also mean that you will have less varieties to choose from, and may cost you more to bring them in.
Silk or Fresh?
Most brides will prefer fresh flowers, if possible. Fresh flowers are always pleasing to the eye and smell good. However, using fresh flowers also opens up the possibility that the blooms may not be available when you want them.
If you are picking a flower that is not in season, then it may not be viable to use fresh ones. In this case you may want to use silk flowers. Using silk flowers also allows you to plan and purchase them ahead. That way, you would not be in for any surprises.
Custom made or off-the-shelf?
Certain florists, like The Blue Leaf, operate on the basis of a personal relationship with their clients. Every arrangement is custom made to suit the couple and their personality. Bring your shortlisted ideas along with you when you meet your floral consultant. This would help them have a better idea about what you are looking for.
If you prefer to select something off the shelf, The Olive 3 has an online store showcasing their creations. Pick a bouquet you like and have them deliver it over to you.
Choose longer lasting flowers
The last thing you would want is to have your bouquet wilt on you. It looks terrible, and for some, they may even consider it inauspicious! Speak to your florist on the rundown for the wedding day. If your day will potentially run late into the day, your florist will be in the best position to advise which flowers will stay fresh till then.
Take your time and think through what you like. Do not be afraid to speak to several floral consultants for more advice before making your decision. Last but not least, have loads of fun!
Images courtesy of The Blue Leaf
