Bridesmaids' Single-Stem Style: A Unique Wedding Trend

Flowers are a traditional part of a wedding, and bridesmaids carrying bouquets are a common sight. But what if you want to mix things up a bit? Can bridesmaids carry just one flower?

The simple answer is yes, they can! While it's not the norm, there's no rule saying bridesmaids can't carry a single stem. In fact, some of the latest wedding trends include unique and creative alternatives to the traditional bouquet. From lanterns and books to feathers and brooches, bridesmaids are no longer limited to flowers.

If you're considering a single-flower look for your bridesmaids, it's a unique way to make a statement and can be an elegant and impactful choice. You could choose a flower that holds a special meaning for you, or select a bloom that complements the colour scheme and overall aesthetic of your wedding.

So, if you're looking to break free from convention and explore alternative options, know that you have the freedom to get creative and make your wedding truly your own.

Bouquet size and colour

The bouquet size and colour are important considerations for bridesmaids' bouquets. The bouquets should complement the bridal bouquet, the bridesmaids' dresses, and the overall aesthetic and vibe of the wedding.

For bouquet size, a general rule of thumb is that bridesmaids' bouquets are roughly half the size of the bridal bouquet or slightly smaller. This ensures that the bridesmaids' bouquets do not overpower the bridal bouquet or the dresses, and that they are comfortable and easy to carry. The number of flowers in a bridesmaid bouquet can vary from a single stem to a larger arrangement, depending on the type of flowers chosen and the desired impact.

When it comes to colour, there are a few different approaches to consider. One option is to use varying shades of your wedding colour palette to complement the bridesmaids' dresses. For example, pairing blush pink dresses with soft whites, soft pinks, darker pinks, and greens can create a cohesive and elegant look. Another option is to use the bridesmaids' bouquets to bring in a broader range of colours and create a vibrant and impactful display. This can be especially effective if you are using darker-coloured dresses or want to add a pop of colour to the wedding party. Alternatively, for a sleek and modern look, consider pairing white flowers with exposed green stems and black dresses.

It is also important to consider the types of flowers and greenery used in the bouquets. Popular choices for bridesmaids' bouquets include roses, peonies, hydrangeas, dahlias, ranunculus, baby's breath, eucalyptus, and calla lilies. The specific types of flowers and colours chosen can be tailored to the season and theme of the wedding. For example, dried flowers and grasses can add a whimsical and rustic touch, while tropical leaves and flowers can create a modern or beachy vibe.

Bouquet contents

The contents of a bridesmaid's bouquet are important. While you don't have to stress too much about the flowers your bridesmaids will carry down the aisle, you should give their arrangements as much thought as your own. They don't have to be huge or packed with an intricate mix of different blooms, but their floral bouquets should complement your arrangement, their dresses, and the overall vibe of the day.

• Flowers – A mix of blooms in varying shades of your colour palette can complement the dresses. For example, blush pink dresses with soft whites, soft pinks, darker pinks, and greens. You could also use the bouquets as an opportunity to bring in a broader range of colours for impact.
• Greenery – Eucalyptus, olive branches, ferns, rosemary, ivy, and chamomile are all great options for adding texture and interest to bouquets.
• Filler flowers – Baby's breath can be used to create a whimsical, all-white bouquet.
• Single flowers – Single roses wrapped in ribbon or a single flower type such as calla lilies, delphinium, snapdragons, lupine, or peony can make a romantic and decadent statement.
• Dried flowers – Dried grasses and baby's breath can be incorporated into a bouquet for a boho vibe.
• Feathers – Feather arrangements are a luxurious and glamorous alternative to flowers and can add a touch of sophistication and intrigue to the bridal party ensemble.

Bouquet Alternatives

If you're looking for something a little different, there are plenty of alternatives to the traditional flower bouquet:

• Floral crowns – Flower crowns are a perfect fit for a garden party-themed wedding.
• Books – Beautifully bound books with special meaning wrapped in luxurious ribbons and small floral accents can be a unique and deeply personal touch.
• Parasols – Parasols are photogenic and practical, especially for outdoor weddings. They can add a touch of elegance and whimsy and provide ample photo opportunities.
• Lanterns – Lanterns can be a charming and romantic alternative, especially for evening weddings.
• Clutches – Elegant clutches can be a practical alternative and a meaningful gift for the female members of the wedding party.
• Hoop bouquets – Hoop bouquets made of wood, metal, or acrylic can complement any wedding theme and are easier to hold than traditional bouquets.

Bouquet alternatives

There are many alternatives to the traditional bridesmaid bouquet. Some of these options are whimsical and playful, while others are more glamorous and elegant. Here are some ideas:

• Arm Garland: Arm garlands are perfect for outdoor weddings, especially in a garden setting. They give a whimsical, fairy-tale-like appearance and free up the hands, allowing the bridesmaid to enjoy the celebration without the burden of a bouquet.
• Ribbon Wand: Ribbon wands are a playful and festive alternative, especially popular as wedding favours. They add a wave of colour to the celebration and are a fun alternative to traditional bouquets.
• Pinwheels: Pinwheels are a fun, affordable, and whimsical option for an outdoor or festival-themed wedding. They are especially fitting for younger bridal party members.
• Giant Balloons: Giant balloons are fun and eye-catching, perfect for unique photo opportunities. They may not be the most practical to carry throughout the ceremony, but they can be used as props for post-ceremony pictures.
• Heart Balloons: Heart balloons in elegant colours like black and gold add a playful and modern touch while maintaining a sense of sophistication.
• Yarn Ball Bouquet: A yarn ball bouquet is a quirky and colourful DIY-friendly option that will surely be a conversation starter.
• Beaded Feathers: Beaded feathers are a great choice for making a statement. They combine feathers and crystals, creating a dazzling alternative to the traditional bouquet and adding a touch of glamour.
• Brooch Bouquet: A vintage-inspired alternative that is increasingly popular. While these can be expensive, they are undeniably unique and make for a stunning statement piece.
• Vintage Fan: A vintage fan is a practical and stylish alternative, perfect for keeping cool during a summer wedding while adding an elegant, timeless touch.
• Bridal Clutch: A chic bridal clutch can be a practical and stylish alternative, providing a place to store essentials while adding a fashionable flair.
• Wreaths: Wreaths are a rustic and budget-friendly alternative, especially suitable for winter or countryside weddings. They offer a grounded, earthy vibe with their heavy use of natural materials.
• Natural and Earthy Bouquets: Using natural and earthy materials like wheat, pine cones, or eucalyptus adds a rustic charm to the wedding and can be easily preserved.
• Mason Jars: Versatile mason jars can be used as centrepieces, signature drink containers, or bouquet alternatives. They fit perfectly with rustic or shabby-chic wedding themes.
• Ribbon: Ribbon flowers add a delicate, feminine touch to the wedding. They can be used in bouquets or as table centrepieces and photographed beautifully.
• Fruit Bouquets: Fruit bouquets are a fresh, modern, and photogenic alternative. Be mindful of your chosen fruits; some can be heavy or messy, but they offer a vibrant and unique aesthetic.
• Beautifully Bound Books: Have bridesmaids carry beautifully bound books for a touch of literary romance. Choose books with special meaning, wrap them in luxurious ribbons, and add a small floral accent.
• Fabric Bridal Bouquets: Fabric bouquets are a creative and lasting alternative to fresh flowers. They can be handcrafted or purchased and make wonderful keepsakes.
• Button Bouquets: Button bouquets are a quirky and colourful option that can be customised to match the wedding's colour scheme.
• Paper Flower Bouquets: Paper flowers have improved in quality and can now rival real flowers in beauty. They are a sustainable and creative option, perfect for DIY enthusiasts.
• Sheet Music Flowers: For the musically inclined, a sheet music bouquet offers a creative nod to favourite songs or compositions.
• Teapot: A teapot bouquet adds a touch of vintage charm, perfect for a tea-themed wedding or for brides who appreciate nostalgia.
• Whimsical Fresh Flower Necklaces: For a boho-chic look, consider fresh flower necklaces. They allow bridesmaids to keep their hands free while incorporating the beauty of fresh blooms.
• Boo-quet: For a bride with a love for all things spooky, a boo-quet might be perfect. This unique bouquet features mini skulls and red leather roses, ideal for a horror movie-themed wedding.
• Kissing Ball: A kissing ball, or pomander, is a cute and nostalgic alternative that is easy to carry and can be customised with flowers, ribbons, or metallic accents.
• Fur Muff: A fur muff is a perfect winter wedding accessory, keeping hands warm and adding vintage-inspired elegance.
• Lanterns: Lanterns are a romantic choice, especially for evening weddings, adding a soft, glowing light as the bridesmaids walk down the aisle.
• Grape Bunches: For vineyard weddings, consider carrying grape bunches, real or artificial, to match the wedding's colour palette.
• Palm Leaf Fan: A palm leaf fan is ideal for a beach wedding, decorated with ribbons or small seashells for a personalised touch.
• Parasol: A parasol is a classic and elegant alternative, offering style and practicality. Choose a lace or fabric parasol to match the wedding theme and add old-world charm.

Bouquet costs

The cost of bridesmaids' bouquets is part of the overall floral budget for a wedding. The average cost of wedding flowers in the United States is $2,200, with most couples spending between $500 and $3,500. Typically, couples allocate eight to ten per cent of their total wedding budget to flowers. The average cost of a bridesmaid bouquet is $80, but this can range from $65 to $125, depending on the types of flowers used and the size of the bouquet. The bridal bouquet is usually one of the most expensive floral arrangements, with an average price range of $100 to $350.

There are several ways to save money on bridesmaid bouquet costs. Choosing a local florist can help you save on delivery and setup fees, and they may be able to suggest more affordable, seasonally available flowers. Communicating your budget and vision to your florist will help them make cost-effective suggestions. Selecting less expensive flowers, such as daisies, roses, Baby's Breath, or Queen Anne's lace, can also help reduce costs. You can also repurpose the bridesmaid bouquets as part of the reception decor by placing them in vases on the bridal party table or around the cake or dessert table.

In addition to the flowers themselves, there are other factors that can affect the overall cost of bridesmaid bouquets. The number of bouquets needed, the size of the bouquets, and any additional decorations or accessories, such as ribbons or vases, can all impact the final price. It is important to consider these factors when creating your wedding budget and determining how much you are willing to spend on flowers.

Bouquet preservation

Wedding bouquets can be preserved in a few ways, and there are services that offer bespoke preservation services.

One way to preserve your wedding bouquet is to use a service that will press your flowers and create custom artworks, such as necklaces, abstract frames, and bloom arrangement recreations. This method ensures that your flowers are preserved in a unique way, allowing you to cherish the memories of your special day.

Another option is to use a service that specialises in floral preservation. They can communicate with you about the specific requirements for each bouquet and suggest preservation methods you may not have considered. This option provides you with beautifully crafted pieces that serve as reminders of your wedding day.

If you're looking for a more DIY approach, you can create your own preservation method by drying the flowers and displaying them in frames. However, keep in mind that not all flowers and colours dry the same way, so it's important to carefully consider your options before deciding on a preservation method.

Preserving your wedding bouquet ensures that you can relive the memories of your special day whenever you glance at the beautifully preserved flowers.

Frequently asked questions