Planning A Wedding: Easy Steps To A Dream Day

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but creating your own floral arrangements is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your big day. Whether you're a crafty couple or not, DIY wedding flowers can be a fun and rewarding project. This guide will take you through the steps to create beautiful arrangements that will impress your guests and save you money. From choosing the right flowers to transporting your creations to the venue, we'll cover everything you need to know to make stunning bouquets and centrepieces.

Choosing and ordering flowers

Flowers are a key part of any wedding, bringing life and colour to the big day. From bouquets to centrepieces, choosing and ordering flowers is an important step in wedding planning. Here's a guide to help you through the process:

Set a Budget:

Before you start dreaming about your floral arrangements, it's crucial to determine how much you can or want to spend on flowers. Flowers can be expensive, and costs can add up quickly, especially if you have a large wedding party or are set on specific blooms. According to The Knot, couples typically allocate around 8% of their total wedding budget to flowers.

Find Inspiration:

Before consulting a florist, it's helpful to gather some ideas about the style, colours, and types of flowers you prefer. Consider the overall theme and colour palette of your wedding, as well as the venue. For instance, if you're having an indoor wedding in a banquet hall, you may need larger, more dramatic arrangements to make an impact. In contrast, a wedding in a garden setting may call for more subtle floral touches.

Choose a Florist:

Word-of-mouth recommendations are often a great way to find a good florist. Ask newlywed friends or browse wedding magazines and social media for inspiration. It's best to start your search early, ideally 8-12 months before the wedding, as popular florists may get booked up quickly, especially during peak wedding season. When choosing a florist, consider their style, experience, and whether they can work within your budget.

Consult with Your Florist:

Once you've found a florist, schedule a consultation and bring your inspiration, colour swatches, and any other relevant details. Be open to their expert recommendations and modifications, as they will have the knowledge and experience to create something unique and beautiful. Discuss the specific arrangements you'll need, such as bouquets, centrepieces, boutonnieres, and any floral decorations for the ceremony or reception.

Order Flowers:

Based on your discussions with the florist, they will suggest certain types of flowers and create a proposal or quote for you. Be sure to ask about the cost of materials, setup, and breakdown charges, as well as any other additional costs. If you're happy with the proposal, place your order, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the delivery date and any care instructions for the flowers before the wedding.

DIY Option:

If you're feeling creative and want to save some money, you could also consider a DIY approach to your wedding flowers. Websites like FiftyFlowers and Flower Moxie offer wholesale wedding flowers and DIY flower packages, providing you with the flowers and guidance to create your own arrangements. This option can be more affordable, but it requires more time and effort, so be sure to enlist the help of your bridal party or family members!

DIY bouquets

DIY-ing your wedding bouquets is a fun and creative way to save money and add a personal touch to your special day. Here are some tips and instructions to help you create beautiful bouquets for your wedding:

Planning and Preparation:

Before you start assembling your bouquets, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Consult with a florist: Consider consulting with an on-staff flower consultant to guide you in choosing the right flowers and quantities for your bouquets. They can also provide valuable advice on flower care and arranging techniques.
• Order flowers and greenery: Select your desired flowers and greenery, keeping in mind your wedding theme, colour palette, and personal aesthetic. Popular choices include roses, baby's breath, eucalyptus, carnations, lilies, and succulents.
• Gather floral arranging supplies: Ensure you have all the necessary supplies, such as floral tape, ribbon, floral scissors, pins, and vases or buckets for arranging and transporting your bouquets.
• Schedule a floral arranging party: Recruit your bridal party, family, and friends to help with the bouquet-making process. Schedule a day, preferably one or two days before the wedding, to assemble the bouquets together.
• Prepare a cool, dark space: Set aside a room with a cool temperature and minimal sunlight to store and arrange your flowers. This will help prevent the flowers from opening up too quickly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating DIY Wedding Bouquets:

Now, let's get into the step-by-step process of creating your DIY wedding bouquets:

• Inspect and prepare the flowers: When your flowers arrive, open the box and ensure the buckets are clean and filled with fresh, cool water. Cut the flower stems diagonally under running water to the desired length, removing any leaves that may come into contact with the water. Place the flowers in the prepared buckets and allow them to hydrate for at least 4 hours, up to 12 hours for full hydration.
• Create your base: Start by selecting your greenery, which adds stability, texture, and dimension to the bouquet. Add a few pieces of greenery and turn the bouquet to design it from all angles.
• Add focal and filler flowers: Now, it's time to add your focal flowers (your favourite or statement flowers) and filler flowers (textured or subtle pops of colour). Continue adding and layering the flowers, allowing them to rest naturally at an angle to create a messy, unstructured look with natural movement.
• Include statement flowers: Finish the arrangement by adding dramatic statement flowers that add height and dimension to the bouquet.
• Cut and wrap the stems: Once your bundle is complete, cut the stems to a uniform length, leaving about 3-4 inches. Wrap the base of the bouquet tightly with floral tape to secure the stems together.
• Tie with ribbon: Tie a ribbon of your choice around the floral tape. You can use thicker or thinner ribbons to match your wedding theme and colours.
• Secure with pins: Place floral pins upward, cutting them down if they are too long. This will help hold the bouquet together and ensure it stays intact.
• Transport and store: Store your finished bouquets in a cool room or refrigerator until the wedding. Transport them carefully to the venue, keeping them upright and hydrated.

Additional Tips:

• Experiment with different flowers: Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of flowers and greenery to create unique and personalised bouquets. You can also incorporate seasonal flowers or add accents of fall florals for a themed wedding.
• Follow the rule of threes: When arranging your flowers, try working in threes. This helps create a balanced and harmonious bouquet.
• Add depth and dimension: Pull certain flowers forward to create depth and make your bouquet look more natural and full. Emphasise your focal point flowers by bringing them towards the centre.
• Customise your ribbon: Choose a ribbon that complements your wedding colours. You can tie a bow or multiple loops, experiment with different colours, or add accents to make your bouquet truly yours.
• Practice makes perfect: Don't be afraid to experiment and try different arrangements. Remember, you can always remove and reposition the flowers until you're happy with the final result.

DIY centrepieces

Flowers and Greenery

One option for DIY centrepieces is to create your own floral arrangements. You can purchase your favourite flowers or a mix of up to four different types of flowers from a floral shop or grocery store. If you're looking to save some money, select in-season options like hydrangeas for summer weddings. For a simpler arrangement, choose one variety of blooms and place them in a vase with water. This way, all you have to do is cut the stems at an angle and you're done! You can also use floral foam to create more complex arrangements.

Candles

Taper candles are a great way to enhance any wedding look. For a colourful bash, try rainbow-coloured taper candles. If you're going for a more minimalist look, opt for white candles. You can also use votive candles and place them in upcycled jars or flea market finds for a romantic, DIY touch.

Lanterns

Lanterns can serve as a simple yet elegant centerpiece at any wedding. Source metal-rimmed lanterns and place votive candles inside each one before setting them on your reception tables. For a modern twist, select lanterns with black edges and coordinating chargers and glassware.

Fruit

Fruit is a natural and colourful addition to any table. Fill large glass bowls with peaches, oranges, and cherries for a sunset-inspired colour scheme, or choose any other fruit that matches your colour palette.

Books

If you're a bookworm, stack some hardback books as centrepieces to add a literary touch to your wedding. This is perfect for a vintage or literary-themed celebration.

Succulents

Succulents are versatile and can be used in many different wedding aesthetics. Head to your local nursery or plant store to find ones that fit your vision, then place them in the middle of each table.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a popular choice for wedding greenery and can be easily found at floral shops and grocery stores. Create a eucalyptus garland down the middle of your table for a natural and fragrant focal point.

Transporting flowers to the venue

Transporting flowers to your wedding venue can be a tricky task, but with careful planning, it can be simple and stress-free. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for transporting flowers to ensure they arrive in perfect condition:

Choosing the Right Transportation Method:

• Vehicle: Transporting flowers by car is the most common and flexible option. It gives you complete control over the environment and handling of the flowers.
• Plane: If you're having a destination wedding, flying your flowers to the venue can be a good option, but it requires significant pre-planning.
• Mail: Mailing flowers is convenient for long distances, especially if you're using faux flowers. However, it's not ideal for organic flowers as they may not withstand the journey.

Transporting Flowers in a Car:

• Wrap and Secure: For fresh flowers, wrap the stems in damp paper towels and place the bouquet in a sturdy, well-labeled box.
• Anchor with Towels: Surround the bouquet with rolled-up towels to prevent it from moving around during transport.
• Box it Up: Place each floral arrangement in a cardboard box and fill any gaps with tissue paper or bubble wrap for added protection.
• Stable Base: Secure the vase or container to the bottom of the box with tape or adhesive putty to prevent shifting.
• Flat Boxes for Wreaths: Lay wreaths flat in shallow boxes, using tissue paper to prevent movement.
• Protective Cover: Cover wreaths with bubble wrap for extra protection.
• Roll and Pack Garlands: Gently roll garlands and place them in long, narrow boxes, using tissue paper to cushion them.

Transporting Flowers on a Plane:

• Carry-on Bag: Place your floral arrangements in a carry-on bag, considering the added weight when calculating the overall bag size.
• Protective Packaging: Use tissue paper or bubble wrap to protect the flowers during the flight.
• Check Airline Regulations: Different airlines may have specific regulations for carrying floral arrangements, so be sure to inquire beforehand.

Transporting Flowers by Mail:

• Choose the Right Box: Select a sturdy box that is just the right size for your floral arrangement to prevent unnecessary movement.
• Secure the Arrangement: Anchor the base of the arrangement to the bottom of the box with tape or a gentle adhesive to prevent shifting during transit.
• Add Cushioning: Fill any empty spaces in the box with soft materials like bubble wrap to prevent the flowers from being tossed around.
• Clear Labelling: Always mark the package with 'Fragile' and 'This Side Up' to ensure careful handling.

Refreshing Flowers Upon Arrival:

• Faux Flowers: Use a steamer to gently reshape petals and leaves. The steam will soften the material, allowing you to mould it back into place if needed.
• Organic Flowers: Cut the stems fresh and place them in water with floral preservatives. Mist the petals with water to revive their appearance.

Additional Tips:

• Keep flowers in a cool place before transport and pack them into closed boxes or plastic totes to protect them from bumps and spills.
• Use milk crates or plastic storage totes to transport flowers as they are stackable, sturdy, and easy to carry.
• If using bud vases, consider using cardboard boxes with compartments or the fitted foam inserts that the vases came in to secure them during transport.
• Transport flowers in a cool environment to prevent them from opening up too fast.
• Change the water in the buckets or vases every 24 hours to keep the flowers hydrated and fresh.

Timing and storage

Timing is crucial when it comes to wedding arrangements, and a detailed schedule will help keep everything on track. Here is a suggested timeline for your wedding day:

• 9:00 a.m. - Wedding planner and rental companies arrive for setup.
• 9:30 a.m. - Breakfast for the wedding party.
• 10:30 a.m. - Floral and additional decor load-in.
• 11:00 a.m. - Hair and makeup team arrives and begin services.
• 12:30 p.m. - Lunch delivery for the wedding party and vendors.
• 1:00 p.m. - Photographer arrives and begins capturing details and getting-ready moments.
• 1:30 p.m. - Personal flowers are delivered.
• 2:15 p.m. - Wedding party and VIPs get dressed and ready.
• 2:30 p.m. - Couple gets dressed.
• 2:50 p.m. - Travel to the venue, if necessary.
• 3:10 p.m. - First look and couple portraits.
• 3:30 p.m. - Caterer load-in.
• 3:40 p.m. - Immediate family and officiant arrive for pre-ceremony portraits.
• 4:10 p.m. - Wedding party portraits.
• 4:30 p.m. - Prep for the ceremony, including a break for the couple and wedding party.
• 5:00 p.m. - Band arrives for setup.
• 5:10 p.m. - Ceremony starts.
• 5:40 p.m. - Cocktail hour and extended family portraits.
• 6:00 p.m. - Soundcheck for the band/DJ.
• 6:10 p.m. - Reception room detail photos.
• 6:30 p.m. - Quiet moment for the couple to relax and enjoy a meal.
• 6:40 p.m. - Guests are invited into the reception area for dinner.
• 6:45 p.m. - Pre-dinner reception programming, including introductions, first dance, and welcome toast.
• 7:20 p.m. - Dinner is served.
• 7:30 p.m. - Vendor meals are served.
• 7:35 p.m. - Open dance floor and late-night snacks.
• 11:00 p.m. - Wedding grand exit.

In terms of storage, it is important to keep the following in mind:

• Store flowers in a cool, dark room to prevent them from opening up too fast.
• Use large buckets filled with fresh, cool water to keep flowers hydrated before arranging them.
• Change the water in the buckets every 24 hours.
• Do not overcrowd the buckets; allow flowers room to breathe and bloom.
• Store boutonnieres and corsages in the refrigerator until the wedding.
• Transport flowers and arrangements in cardboard boxes or plastic buckets to the venue.
• Keep the venue temperature cool to ensure flowers stay fresh throughout the event.

Frequently asked questions