Create Large, Beautiful Floral Wedding Arrangements: A Step-By-Step Guide

Large floral arrangements are a stunning feature of any wedding. They can be used to create a bold and beautiful entrance, greet guests, and add a touch of luxury to the reception. While they may seem daunting to create, with some planning and the right tools, you can make your own impressive large floral arrangements for your wedding.

There are several factors to consider when creating large floral arrangements, including the types of flowers and greenery to use, the size and shape of the arrangement, and the time and cost involved. It is also important to think about the practicalities, such as how to transport the arrangements and how to ensure the flowers stay fresh.

One of the key decisions is whether to use fresh or artificial flowers. Fresh flowers offer a wide range of choices and a beautiful, natural look, but they require careful handling and can be more expensive. Artificial flowers, on the other hand, are easy to work with, lightweight, and long-lasting. They are also ideal for outdoor weddings, as they are allergy-friendly and less likely to attract bees.

Whether you choose fresh or artificial flowers, the process of creating large floral arrangements follows similar steps. First, you need to select a suitable container, such as a vase or floral foam block, and prepare it by filling it with water or adding floral food. Then, you can start adding your chosen flowers and greenery, building up the arrangement from the base and intertwining the stems to create a sturdy structure.

Large floral arrangements typically take around 45 minutes to create, and it is recommended to make them the day before the wedding to ensure they look fresh and vibrant. With careful planning and a bit of creativity, you can make stunning large floral arrangements that will wow your guests and elevate your wedding décor.

Choosing flowers: Opt for a mix of blooms for your colour palette and theme, not specific varieties

When choosing flowers for your wedding, it's important to opt for a mix of blooms that complement your colour palette and theme, rather than focusing on specific varieties. This approach not only adds visual interest to your arrangements but also helps you stay flexible and adaptable in the face of potential flower shortages or availability issues.

When creating large floral arrangements, consider selecting flowers with thick, strong stalks and good "girth" to form the base of your arrangement. Flowers like hydrangeas, with their large blooms and leafy stalks, can serve as excellent anchor pieces. Intersperse them with other blooms of varying sizes to create depth and texture. For instance, you could use roses, carnations, or lisianthus, ensuring a mix of short and long stems to add dimension.

If you're working with a particular colour scheme, feel free to mix and match the colours of your flowers to suit your theme. For instance, if you're aiming for a summer wedding, you could opt for bright and classic florals, while an autumn wedding might call for warm, earthy tones. You can also incorporate greenery, such as salal or eucalyptus, to add volume and fill any gaps in your arrangement, creating a lush and full look.

Remember, the key is to be flexible and creative. By choosing a mix of blooms, you can ensure that your large floral arrangements for your wedding are not only visually stunning but also adaptable to the availability of flowers and your budget.

Sourcing flowers: Consider local flower farms, grocery stores, online flower ordering, or growing your own

When it comes to sourcing flowers for your wedding arrangements, there are several options to consider. Here are some tips and insights for each:

Local Flower Farms

Supporting local flower farms is a great way to source unique, fresh blooms while also promoting sustainability. For example, Bluma Flower Farm in Berkeley, CA, grows hyperlocal, certified-organic flowers on a rooftop. They offer beautiful and unusual flower varieties while supporting biodiversity. Local flower farms can be a fantastic source of rare and colourful flowers that will make your wedding arrangements stand out.

Grocery Stores

Many large grocery store chains have in-house florists or floral departments that can provide affordable wedding flower options. Some stores even have certified floral designers who can offer guidance and expertise. This option can be especially convenient if you're looking for a one-stop shop for your wedding flowers and other supplies.

Online Flower Ordering

Ordering flowers online has become an increasingly popular option for DIY weddings. Websites like FiftyFlowers offer wholesale flowers, DIY flower kits, and even personal flower concierges to help you choose the right blooms for your big day. This option often provides a vast selection of flowers from various partner farms worldwide. Online flower ordering can be ideal if you're looking for a specific type of flower or want to compare prices easily.

Growing Your Own

Growing your own wedding flowers can be a rewarding and cost-effective option, but it requires careful planning and flexibility. Consider the following:

• Bloom Time: Ensure your chosen flowers will be in bloom on your wedding day by planting the same plants multiple times in a staggered manner.
• Flower Care: Research how to cut and preserve blooms. You'll want to build your bouquet a few days in advance, so knowing how to keep your flowers fresh is essential.
• Flower Varieties: Choose varieties that are hearty and easy to manipulate. Some flowers are more delicate and may not hold up well when cut or arranged.
• Backup Plan: Be prepared for unexpected challenges like weather or disease affecting your flowers. Consider having a backup option, such as supplementing with flowers from a florist or using artificial flowers.

No matter which option you choose, remember to plan ahead, be flexible, and consider the time and resources needed to create your dream wedding flower arrangements.

Timing: Make the arrangements 1-2 days before the wedding

Timing is crucial when it comes to creating floral arrangements for weddings. While it may be tempting to craft these ahead of time, it is generally recommended that large floral arrangements be made 1-2 days before the wedding. This timing ensures the flowers are fresh and vibrant for the big day. Here are some tips and steps to guide you through the process:

1-2 Days Before the Wedding:

Prepare the Flowers:

• When your flowers are delivered, they will likely be dehydrated, so it's crucial to place them in water immediately. Use large buckets with four inches of water, and ensure the flowers have plenty to drink to open up and bloom.
• Strip the flowers of any leaves and thorns below the waterline, and cut the stems at an angle to promote optimal hydration.
• Leave the flowers in water for a day or two to allow them to open up and reach their full bloom.

Create the Arrangements:

• Before you begin arranging, decide on the shape and style of your large floral arrangements. Asymmetrical designs tend to look more natural, so keep this in mind when choosing a vase or container.
• Start with the greenery. Create a framework for the arrangement by placing the longest branches on the outermost corners and edges of the floral foam or vase. Gradually add more greenery to build volume and shape.
• Add in the flowers. Begin with the largest blooms, such as hydrangeas, placing them at varying heights to create a statement arrangement.
• Continue adding flowers from largest to smallest, playing with heights and placement to achieve a full and diverse arrangement. Remember to leave some space between the flowers, as a crowded arrangement may appear squashed.
• Fill any gaps with additional greenery or smaller flowers. Look for any holes or visible mechanics and use leftover greenery or flowers to complete the piece.
• Ensure you have a cool place to store the arrangements, out of direct sunlight, until the wedding.

On the Wedding Day:

• On the day of the wedding, add any final touches to the arrangements, such as ribbons or embellishments.
• Transport the arrangements to the wedding venue, being careful to secure them properly to avoid any mess or damage during transit.
• Display the floral arrangements at the ceremony and reception areas, such as the entrance, cocktail area, dessert table, or photo booth.

By following these steps and timing the creation of your large floral arrangements 1-2 days before the wedding, you can ensure beautiful and fresh flowers that will impress the wedding guests and create lasting memories.

Transport: Use a van or large vehicle to carefully transport the arrangements

Transporting large floral arrangements for weddings requires careful planning and execution to ensure they arrive intact at the wedding venue. Here are some detailed tips for using a van or large vehicle for transportation:

When transporting large floral arrangements in a van or large vehicle, it is essential to create a stable and secure environment. Start by clearing the vehicle of any unnecessary items and creating a flat, open space. Line the floor and walls of the vehicle with protective materials such as blankets, bubble wrap, or cardboard to prevent damage to the arrangements. Ensure the vehicle is clean and free of debris that could damage the flowers.

Prepare the floral arrangements for transport by wrapping them securely. Use plastic wrap or floral sleeves to enclose the arrangements, protecting the flowers from moisture loss and physical damage. Secure the wrap with tape or elastic bands to prevent it from coming loose during transport. Handle the arrangements with care and place them gently inside the vehicle.

Large floral arrangements should be placed securely in the vehicle to prevent movement during transport. Use straps, bungee cords, or non-slip mats to hold the arrangements in place. Ensure they are positioned upright and separated from each other to avoid damage. Place them away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or areas where they might be crushed or damaged.

Maintain a comfortable temperature inside the vehicle to preserve the freshness of the flowers. Keep the arrangements hydrated by misting them with water or floral preservative before transport and during longer journeys. Avoid placing the arrangements near vents or in direct airflow, as this can cause dehydration. Ensure the vehicle is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of ethylene gas, which can cause flowers to wilt.

When driving, exercise caution and avoid abrupt movements or sharp turns that could cause the arrangements to shift or fall. Drive smoothly and at a moderate speed to minimise the risk of damage. If possible, have an assistant ride with the arrangements to monitor their condition and make any necessary adjustments during transport.

By following these steps, you can confidently transport large floral arrangements for weddings using a van or large vehicle, ensuring they arrive in perfect condition for the special day.

Display: Place the arrangements in a cool area, out of direct sunlight

Displaying your large floral arrangements is a key part of the wedding aesthetic. You've put in the work to create these beautiful centrepieces, so now it's time to place them in a way that will keep them looking their best.

The first thing to consider is the temperature of the display area. Keep your arrangements in a cool place, and avoid direct sunlight. Sunlight and heat can cause flowers to wilt, so a cool, shaded spot is ideal. If possible, store the arrangements in a walk-in cooler to keep them fresh. However, be careful not to place them near fruit and vegetables, as these release ethylene gas, which can cause flowers to deteriorate.

Another thing to consider is the timing of your display. Ideally, you should create your arrangements no earlier than the day before the event. If you've made them in advance, they can sit out overnight, but be mindful of water evaporation, especially if they are placed near an air conditioner. You may need to water them again the next day.

Finally, choose a display area that is out of direct sunlight. No flowers thrive in direct sunlight, especially on a hot, dry summer day. If your wedding is outdoors, carefully consider the placement of your arrangements in relation to the sun. Place them in a shaded area if possible, and spritz them with water to keep them hydrated.

By following these simple display tips, you can ensure that your large floral arrangements stay fresh and beautiful throughout your wedding celebration.

Frequently asked questions