What’s new and fashionable is at the forefront of many women’s minds all the time, brides notwithstanding. Wedding décor and flower trends change annually as brides pursue their unique wedding look.
According to Peggy Wiebe of the Little Flower Shop, the hot new colour this year is green, specifically kale green and fresh green. “We will see this in décor, centrepieces, long garlands on tables, as well as on canopies and down aisles,” she says. “Although the fresh tone of green is coming in, a lot of brides will still want the grey greens or a really good mix of greens for texture. Bridal bouquets are very full with greens.”
Wiebe suggests the bride start by scouring Pinterest, bridal magazines, and websites for the styles of bouquets, centrepieces, and types of flowers that attract her. Choosing flowers first goes a long way to completing the look with coordinating linens, dresses, and décor. The variety of flower options is constantly broadening as the floral greenhouse industry expands, making typically out-of-season flowers available any time of year.
Next on the list would be a visit to the florist. A good florist can make many recommendations based on the bride’s floral choices and preferred budget.
“When choosing a florist, go with experience, creativeness, knowledge, and a good reputation,” says Wiebe. “If a florist can provide flowers, décor rentals, and decorating services, you will actually save hundreds of dollars. Bring in photos and ideas and build a relationship with the [florist] planning with you. It should be clear that you are important and your ideas are going to work. [Together], try to figure out a budget and expect it to fluctuate. A good florist will work with your venue. Ask if they are familiar with the venue, the layout and what can or cannot be done with décor.”
For brides on a budget, Wiebe recommends sticking with the flowers that are in season to avoid excess shipping costs. A good florist can also incorporate the bride’s own vases, relics, and photographs into the florals. Though some florists will handle everything, including décor set-up and take-down, doing these things yourself can save you money. This is time-consuming, though, and many bridal couples don’t want the bother on the day of their special event.
If you’re one of those brides, make sure to ask your florist at the outset whether decorating your venue is among their services. If so, it’s one less person you need to hire. They will require plenty of advance notice, though, as florists become very busy during wedding season.
