Creating Wedding Flower Arrangements: A Step-By-Step Guide

Flower arrangements are a key feature of wedding decor, with large, tall arrangements being particularly popular. They can be used as centrepieces or to decorate the wedding venue, creating a dramatic and luxurious effect. While they may seem daunting to create, with careful planning and the right materials, it is possible to make impressive flower arrangements for a wedding. This involves considering the size of the arrangement, the types of flowers and greenery to use, and the time required for preparation and assembly.

Characteristics of Flower Arrangements for a Wedding

Choosing flowers and greenery

The flowers and greenery you choose for your wedding arrangements will set the tone and style for your big day. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect blooms:

Consider the colour palette:

Choose a colour scheme that complements your wedding theme and venue. Soft pastels like blush, peach, and ivory create a romantic, elegant look, while vibrant hues like fuchsia, orange, and yellow add a bold, modern touch. You can also use the wedding colour palette as a starting point and select flowers in those shades.

Think about variety:

A good rule of thumb is to choose 2-3 types of flowers as your focal points and then add in some filler flowers and greenery to create a well-rounded arrangement. For example, you could pair garden roses, peonies, and eucalyptus for a lush, romantic arrangement or dahlias, ranunculus, and baby's breath for a more whimsical, airy look.

Take into account the size and shape:

Select flowers and greenery that vary in size and shape to add interest and dimension to your arrangements. For example, large, open blooms like peonies or hydrangeas can serve as a focal point, while smaller flowers like spray roses or lisianthus can fill in gaps and add texture. Greenery such as eucalyptus, salal, or ruscus provides a beautiful base and adds depth to the arrangement.

Seasonality:

Choosing flowers that are in season for your wedding date can help ensure they are at their most vibrant and cost-effective. For example, tulips and daffodils are perfect for spring weddings, while sunflowers and zinnias are ideal for summer. If you have a specific flower in mind that is not in season, consider using silk or preserved flowers as an alternative.

Fragrance:

Consider the scent of the flowers you choose, especially if you or your guests have allergies or sensitivities. Fragrant flowers like garden roses, lilies, and freesia can add a beautiful perfume to your arrangements, while scent-free options like orchids or succulents are a better choice for a more subtle approach.

Durability:

Select flowers that are known for their longevity, especially if you are creating the arrangements ahead of time. Flowers like alstroemeria, chrysanthemums, and carnations tend to last longer than more delicate blooms like garden roses or tulips. Preserved flowers are also an excellent option for ensuring your arrangements look fresh throughout the day.

Selecting the right vase

Size and Proportion

The size of the vase should be appropriate for the flowers you intend to use. For tall and large floral arrangements, a vase with a width similar to a door frame or a 24” pilsner vase can be a good starting point. If you plan to use a larger vessel, consider choosing an even bigger vase to ensure proportionate sizing.

Shape

The shape of the vase can impact the overall look of the arrangement. For round and full floral arrangements, a vase with a round or slightly tapered shape can provide a good base. If you want to create a loose and airy arrangement, consider a vase with a wider mouth or a trumpet-style opening, as this will allow for more movement and flexibility in the flower placement.

Colour and Style

The colour and style of the vase should complement the wedding theme and the flowers themselves. For a classic and elegant look, consider a clear glass vase that showcases the beauty of the flowers. If you want to add a touch of glamour, a vase with a metallic finish, such as silver or gold, can be a stunning choice. Alternatively, for a rustic or vintage-themed wedding, consider a vase made from natural materials like wood or ceramic with a rustic finish.

Stability

It is important to choose a vase that is stable and sturdy, especially if you are creating tall or large arrangements. A heavy base or a wide bottom will help prevent the arrangement from toppling over. Additionally, consider the surface on which the vase will be placed, and ensure it is stable and secure.

Number of Vases

Depending on the scale of the wedding and the number of tables or display areas, you may need multiple vases. Consider the overall theme and decor of the wedding and decide whether you want to use the same vase style throughout or mix and match different shapes, sizes, and colours to create visual interest.

By considering these factors, you can select a vase that not only complements the flowers but also contributes to the overall aesthetic of the wedding. The right vase can enhance the beauty of the flower arrangement and create a lasting impression.

Preparing flowers and vase

Preparing the flowers and vase is a crucial step in creating beautiful wedding flower arrangements. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

Selecting the Flowers:

Look for a combination of flowers and foliage that will create a full and lush arrangement. Choose flowers with strong, thick stalks, also known as "beefy" or "leafy" stems. These will act as the structural base of your arrangement. Examples include hydrangeas, viburnum, and roses. Consider the size of your vase or container and select flowers with varying stem lengths to add depth and dimension to your arrangement.

Preparing the Flowers:

Once you have selected your flowers, remove any plastic wrapping and cut through the bands. Fill your sink with cool water and let the flowers soak for a while, allowing them to rehydrate. For hydrangeas, place them upside down with the blooms directly in the water first, as they tend to absorb water better this way. This step ensures that your flowers are well-hydrated and will last longer in your arrangement.

Choosing a Vase or Container:

Think creatively when choosing a vase or container for your arrangement. Almost anything with an opening that doesn't leak can be used. Consider the size and shape of your flowers and select a vase that will complement them. For example, a tall, narrow vase will work well for long-stemmed flowers, while a wider vase can accommodate flowers with varying stem lengths.

Preparing the Vase:

Fill your chosen vase or container with water and add flower food if desired. Start with your flowers that have the widest and strongest stems. If you are using cascading greenery, such as cedar or other trailing plants, you can begin with those first. Trim the stems at an angle, and use a knife or clippers for thicker stems. Ensure that your stems are not too short, as you want them to fill out the vase evenly without looking too "tight."

Creating the Base:

Arrange your first four anchor flowers in a crisscross pattern, forming a stable base. Place the stems in opposite directions, stretching them to reach the bottom of the vase. This will ensure that your arrangement has a good foundation and will help it stay in place.

Building the Arrangement:

Once you have your anchor flowers in place, start building upwards. Cut the stems of your remaining flowers to a similar length, and intertwine them with the base stems. Distribute your thickest stems evenly, and then move on to your smaller flowers. Fill in any gaps with filler flowers, such as baby roses, which come in bunches, making them ideal for adding volume to your arrangement.

By following these steps, you will create a beautiful and elegant flower arrangement for your wedding. Remember to allow yourself enough time to prepare the flowers and vase, and don't be afraid to get creative with your choices of flowers and containers.

Building the arrangement

Start by filling your sink with cool water and cutting the plastic wrapping from your flowers. Place them in the water to soak while you prepare the rest. If you have hydrangeas, lay them upside down with the blooms in the water first.

Next, choose a vessel for your arrangement. This could be anything from a vase to a bucket or even a trash can. Just ensure it has an opening and doesn't leak. Place your chosen vessel on an elevated surface, such as a tall vase or overturned bucket, to help you visualise the final arrangement. Fill your vessel with water and add flower food, if you have it.

Now, it's time to start arranging. Select flowers with the widest and strongest stems to create an "armature" or frame for your arrangement. If you're using cascading greenery, start with this. Trim the stems at an angle, using a knife or clippers for thicker stems. Ensure the stems are long enough so that your arrangement doesn't look too "tight" and fills out the vessel evenly. Cross the stems to form a base, then add more stems, weaving them together and intertwining them at the bottom of the vessel.

Once you have your base, start building upwards. Cut the stems of your smaller flowers to a similar height and fill in any gaps. You can also add interest with branches, smaller flowers, or ground cover.

Finally, check for any holes or visible mechanics and use any remaining greenery or flowers to complete the arrangement.

Transporting and maintaining the display

Transporting and maintaining a flower display for a wedding can be a tricky business. Here are some tips to help you keep your arrangements looking their best:

Firstly, it is important to time the creation of your arrangements. Ideally, you should make them the day before the event. They can be stored overnight in a cooler, but if this is not possible, they can be left out. Just be mindful of water evaporation, especially if they are placed near an air conditioner. You may need to add more water the next day. It is also a good idea to have some extra flowers on hand in case of any wilting.

When transporting your arrangements, it is crucial to prevent them from falling apart or getting damaged. For tall arrangements, consider using floral foam to secure the flowers. This will also help to keep them hydrated. Wrap the arrangements carefully and transport them in a stable container, like a bucket or a box, to avoid any movement during transit.

If you are using a vehicle to transport the flowers, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, try to keep the flowers out of direct sunlight by using window shades or a cool, shaded parking spot. Second, avoid placing the flowers in the boot of the car if possible, as the lack of air circulation can cause them to wilt. Instead, place them on the back seat or in the passenger seat. Finally, drive carefully and avoid any sudden stops or sharp turns that could cause the arrangements to topple over.

Once you arrive at the wedding venue, carefully unload the flower arrangements and place them in their designated spots. Make sure they are secure and will not be knocked over easily. If possible, give the flowers a final spritz of water to refresh them. Check the arrangements throughout the day to ensure they still look their best.

Frequently asked questions