Crafting Wedding Flowers: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding flowers can be expensive, with the average cost of bridal bouquets being around $250. However, you can save money by making your own wedding flowers. This process involves deciding on the type of blooms, sourcing the flowers, preparing the flowers, and assembling the bouquet. It is important to consider the style of your wedding dress and your colour palette when choosing flowers. You should also decide whether you want a classic, tight bouquet or something more whimsical, such as a cascading arrangement. The cost of making your own wedding flowers will depend on factors such as the type of flowers chosen and the size of the bouquet.

Choosing your flowers

Seasonality

It's a good idea to have a rough idea of what flowers will be in bloom at the time of your wedding. This will help you pre-plan some of the flowers you might like to include. For example, if you're getting married in July, peonies usually bloom in the Midwest in late May/early June, so you may not be able to get your hands on them.

Colour

Consider what colours you'd like to include in your bouquet and make a note of these. When it comes to buying your flowers, chances are you will be overwhelmed by the choice, so having a colour palette in mind will help you narrow down your options.

Style

If you're after a classic, tight bouquet, you'll want to stick to one to three varieties of florals and very little greenery. If you're after something more whimsical, such as a garden-inspired, cascading arrangement, opt for five to seven varieties of florals and plenty of greenery.

Suppliers

There are lots of places to buy cut flowers, including flower markets, supermarkets, and online retailers. Flower markets are great if you're looking for very specific blooms, but they often start trading at 4 am! Supermarkets can be a little risky as you can't guarantee they will have what you're looking for, so it might be a good idea to shop around online to find some affordable bouquets that contain the types of flowers you're looking for.

Cost

The cost of your flowers will depend on a number of factors, including whether your preferred flowers are in season, the size of your bouquet, and the type of flowers you choose. If you're on a budget, pick your flowers based on the timing of your wedding. For example, daffodils, peonies, lilacs, and tulips bloom in the spring, while chrysanthemums and dahlias are best in fall.

Planning and budgeting

Set Your Overall Wedding Budget:

Before planning the flowers, it is crucial to establish your overall wedding budget. Determine how much you and your partner can contribute and whether you will receive financial support from family or friends. The average cost of a wedding in the US is around $30,000 to $35,000, but this can vary depending on location and personal preferences.

Prioritize Flowers in Your Budget:

Once you have a clear idea of your total budget, allocate a reasonable amount for flowers and décor. Typically, about 10% of the overall budget is dedicated to flowers. This includes personal bouquets, ceremony decorations, reception centerpieces, and other floral arrangements.

Research and Compare Florists:

Research florists in your area, taking into account their experience, style, and pricing. Compare their portfolios or online galleries to get a sense of the quality and variety of their work. Be transparent about your budget and specific flower preferences to receive accurate estimates.

Choose Seasonal and Local Flowers:

Using in-season and locally grown flowers can significantly reduce costs. The availability of certain flowers varies throughout the year, so plan your wedding around the blooms you desire. For example, peonies are in season during late May or June, while dahlias are typically summer or fall flowers.

Maximize Your Floral Arrangements:

Strategically select floral arrangements that will have the most impact. Prioritize high-visibility areas such as the bridal bouquet, ceremony site, and reception tables. Repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception, such as using bridesmaid bouquets for decoration in the restrooms or bar areas.

Simplify Wedding Party Flowers:

Large wedding parties can quickly increase flower expenses. Simplify and downsize flower arrangements for bridesmaids and groomsmen, or opt for alternative options like single-stem bouquets or greenery boutonnieres.

Combine Flowers with Non-Floral Elements:

Enhance your floral arrangements by incorporating non-floral elements such as candles, linens, unique lighting, or other decorative details that complement your wedding theme. This will create visually appealing tablescapes without blowing your flower budget.

Be Creative with Centerpieces:

Instead of floral centerpieces on every table, opt for a mix of styles. You can have some tables with elevated floral arrangements, others with simpler vase arrangements, and the rest with candles or other non-floral centerpieces. This will add variety and depth to your reception space while keeping costs down.

Plan Ahead and Be Flexible:

Give yourself enough time to research, compare, and make decisions. Be open to alternative flower suggestions from your florist, as they are the experts and can guide you toward more cost-effective options that still align with your vision.

Consider DIY Elements:

If you're crafty, you might consider creating some floral arrangements yourself or incorporating DIY elements into your floral décor. However, be mindful of the time and effort required, as last-minute changes or imperfections can be stressful.

Remember, these guidelines are flexible, and you can adjust them to fit your unique circumstances. The key is to prioritize what matters most to you and your partner, stay organized, and be creative in your planning process.

Buying your flowers

The first step in creating your own wedding flowers is buying the flowers. If you want to buy wholesale flowers to avoid the premium added by florists, you can try local flower markets, Sam's Club, or online wholesale delivery services such as FiftyFlowers. If you're looking for a particular type of flower, you can also check online to order flowers in bulk.

When deciding on the type of blooms you want, consider the style of your wedding dress and your colour palette. Think about whether you want complementary colours for a subtle look, or contrasting colours for added drama. If you're going for a modern and simple design, opt for fewer varieties of flowers and very little greenery. For a more whimsical, garden-inspired look, choose more varieties of flowers and greenery, and play with different textures.

If you're on a tight budget, opt for affordable flowers such as alstroemeria, carnations, baby's breath, or daisies. You can also save money by buying flowers that are in season. For example, daffodils, peonies, lilacs, and tulips bloom in the spring, while chrysanthemums and dahlias are best in autumn.

Before buying your flowers, be sure to have a plan for storing and transporting them. You'll need a cool, shady place to store the flowers and a vehicle with enough space to transport them to your venue.

Arranging your flowers

Prepare the Flowers:

• Remove any leaves from the floral stems that will fall below the waterline when you place the flowers in a vase or bucket.
• Cut the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle.
• Place the flowers in a bucket of water while you assemble the bouquet.
• If using tropical blooms in a dry climate, research the best way to keep them vibrant.

Create the Base:

• Start by building the shape and framework of your arrangement, keeping the dimension in mind.
• Stand in front of a mirror while assembling the bouquet to get a clear idea of what it looks like from the front.
• Begin with a base of 4 stems wrapped with floral tape, then add stems around it to create the bouquet.

Add the Focal Flowers:

• Choose a focal flower that will be the centre of attention within your bouquet.
• Hold the flower near the blossom end and add the next flower at an angle, keeping the blooms at the same height.

Add Larger Flowers:

Continue adding larger, focal flowers, rotating the bouquet a quarter-turn to the right each time before adding the next flower.

Include Filler Flowers:

• Once the bulk of the bouquet is ready, insert smaller, green filler flowers between the larger blooms to give a natural look.
• Ensure all filler flowers are inserted at the same angle to maintain symmetry.

Secure the Bouquet:

• Tie the stems together tightly with string or floral tape.
• Cut off any excess string so it is not visible.
• Measure two hand lengths from the string and add 3 cm of wiggle room for comfort if the bouquet will be held for a long time.

Wrap the Stems:

Wrap floral tape around the stems from the top, covering just over the size of one hand to keep the bouquet looking natural but secure.

Add Ribbon:

• Place the shiny side of the ribbon facing the stems, with the matte side visible.
• Wrap the ribbon around the stems, leaving 40 cm spare to tie a knot and add a bow.

Final Touches:

Tie a knot with the remaining ribbon to secure it and finish the bouquet.

Care and Enjoy:

• Ensure the flowers have plenty of water and are kept cool until the wedding.
• Enjoy your beautiful creation and remember that flowers are resilient!

Storing your flowers

Timing

You should have your flowers delivered two days before your event to ensure they have time to rehydrate and bloom. If your event is on a Saturday, get the flowers delivered on Thursday, let them rehydrate overnight, and then arrange them on Friday. This timing will ensure the flowers are at their best for your wedding day.

Tools and Supplies

Make sure you have all the required tools and supplies ready when your flowers arrive. You'll need sharp scissors or a knife to cut the stems, thick gloves for protection, buckets filled with fresh water, and a cool place to store the flowers.

Rehydration

Put your flowers in buckets of clean water as soon as possible and let them rehydrate for at least six hours before arranging. They will appear a little droopy at first, but this is just dehydration from their journey. After rehydrating, they will perk back up.

Stem Preparation

Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle to ensure the blooms have a clear straw to pull water from. Remove any leaves that fall below the waterline, as they can carry bacteria that can infect the flowers and shorten their vase life.

Storage

Keep the flowers in a cool place, away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or refrigerators where food bacteria can be harmful. A basement, garage, or air-conditioned room is ideal.

Water

Change the water daily, using lukewarm water to help the flowers bloom initially, then switching to cooler water to slow down the blooming process.

Packaging

Keep the original packaging around the flowers for the first two hours of hydration. This supports the stems and helps them stay straight. After a few hours, remove the packaging to allow the petals to open up fully.

Maintenance

Continue to keep the flowers in a cool place and refresh the water regularly. You can even spray them with Crown and Glory to lock in moisture and add a nice sheen. If your venue has a walk-in cooler, ask if you can store your flowers there.

Frequently asked questions