Creating Beautiful Wedding Flower Displays: A Step-By-Step Guide

Flowers are an integral part of any wedding, adding colour and aesthetics and communicating the theme of the wedding. One of the most creative flower arrangements that will provide the much-needed wedding aesthetics while saving on wedding expenses is the grounded flower display.

Grounded flower displays, also known as ground-level floral arrangements or ground cover flower displays, are a type of flower arrangement where flowers and plants are arranged directly on the ground rather than in elevated planters, pots, or beds. These displays can be designed in various patterns and shapes and are easily accessible for maintenance. They are also cost-effective and eco-friendly.

The best flowers for ground displays include petunias, marigolds, begonias, impatiens, alyssum, pansies, zinnias, and creeping phlox. When arranging ground flowers for a wedding, it is important to select flowers that match the wedding theme and colour scheme. Common areas to place the displays include the entrance, along aisles, around seating areas, and near the altar or ceremony space.

To create a grounded flower display, choose containers that complement the overall wedding decor, such as baskets, decorative pots, wooden crates, or glass vases. Arrange the flowers the day before or the morning of the wedding, trimming the stems and removing leaves below the waterline. Group the flowers by colour or type, starting with the largest blooms as focal points and filling in with smaller flowers and greenery. Finally, add decorative elements like ribbons, candles, or petals around the base of the arrangement.

Choosing the right flowers for your displays

Flowers are an integral part of any wedding, from the bouquet to the centrepieces and venue decor. Choosing the right flowers for your displays can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and consideration, you can create stunning arrangements that will wow your guests. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect blooms for your wedding flower displays:

Consider the seasonality of flowers:

It is crucial to consider the availability of certain flowers during your wedding season. Do your research to find out which flowers are typically in bloom around the time of your wedding. This will help you create a more realistic plan and avoid disappointment if your favourite flowers are not in season.

Choose a colour scheme:

Deciding on a colour scheme for your wedding flowers will help guide your choices and ensure a cohesive look. Consider the overall style and theme of your wedding, and choose colours that complement each other and your venue. You can also use Pinterest to create a floral inspiration board and gather ideas for your displays.

Select flowers that match your theme and colour scheme:

When choosing flowers for your displays, opt for a mix of colours and textures that align with your wedding theme and colour scheme. This will create visual interest and ensure your arrangements stand out. For example, if you're having a rustic wedding, consider using wildflowers and greenery, while for a more elegant affair, you might prefer classic roses or orchids.

Think about the location of your displays:

Decide where you want to place your flower displays, such as the entrance, along the aisles, around seating areas, or near the altar or ceremony space. This will help you choose the right types of flowers and containers for each area. For example, hanging installations or flower clouds above tables can create a stunning visual impact, while milk churns or vases might be more suitable for entranceways or tabletops.

Opt for a mix of flower types and sizes:

Variety is essential when creating visually appealing flower displays. Choose flowers of different sizes, from small blooms like baby's breath to larger, statement flowers like proteas or peonies. Also, consider using a mix of fresh and dried flowers. Dried flowers can be more cost-effective and long-lasting, while fresh flowers add a pop of colour and fragrance.

Be mindful of your budget:

Flowers can be expensive, so it's important to set a budget and choose flowers that fit within your price range. Seasonal and local flowers are often more affordable than exotic blooms, and DIY arrangements can also help reduce costs. Additionally, consider using more affordable filler flowers or greenery to create volume and stretch your budget further.

Plan ahead and be flexible:

Start planning your flower displays well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. However, be prepared to make adjustments, as your first choice of flowers may not always be available. Have a backup plan and be open to alternative suggestions from your florist or wedding planner.

By following these tips and trusting your instincts, you can create breathtaking flower displays that will enhance the beauty and atmosphere of your wedding. Remember to have fun with the process and enjoy the creative challenge of choosing and arranging your wedding flowers!

How to arrange flowers for centrepieces and bouquets

Arranging flowers for centrepieces and bouquets is a fun and creative way to save money on your wedding. Here are some tips to help you create beautiful flower arrangements for your big day:

Planning and Preparation:

• Consider the seasonality of flowers and plan accordingly. Research flowers that will be in season for your wedding and make a list of the ones you would like to include.
• Decide on a colour scheme and stick to it. This will help you when it comes to shopping for your flowers.
• Use Pinterest and YouTube to find inspiration and tutorials on bouquet and centrepiece designs.
• Start collecting jars, vases, and other vessels for your flowers in advance. Charity shops and car boot sales are great places to find affordable options.

Choosing Your Flowers:

• Opt for local and seasonal flowers to reduce costs and environmental impact.
• Select flowers that match your wedding theme and colour scheme. Choose a mix of colours and textures for added visual interest.
• Some popular flowers for ground displays include petunias, marigolds, begonias, impatiens, alyssum, pansies, zinnias, and creeping phlox.
• If you are buying wholesale flowers, consider local flower markets, clubs, or online wholesale delivery services.

Arranging the Flowers:

• Cut the stems of the flowers and remove any leaves below the waterline.
• For bouquets, start by picking 4 stems and wrapping them with floral tape to create a base. Then, add stems around the base to create a full bouquet.
• For centrepieces, use larger blooms as focal points and fill in with smaller flowers and greenery for volume and texture.
• Use floral tape or twine to secure the stems of your bouquets and centrepieces.
• Add ribbons, burlap, or lace to the stems for a decorative touch.
• Place the finished arrangements in jars or vases with water and flower food to keep them fresh.

Final Touches:

• Add decorative elements like ribbons, candles, or petals around the base of the arrangements.
• Ensure the arrangements are stable and won't be easily knocked over.

By following these steps, you can create beautiful and affordable flower centrepieces and bouquets for your wedding.

Tips for creating hanging flower displays

Hanging flower displays are a beautiful way to elevate your wedding decor and create a romantic atmosphere. Here are some tips to help you create stunning hanging flower displays for your big day:

• Choose the right flowers: Select flowers that match your wedding theme and colour scheme. Consider using a mix of colours and textures to create visual interest. Dried flowers are a great option as they will last throughout the event without needing a water source.
• Plan your display area: Decide where you want to place your hanging flower displays. Popular areas include above dining tables, hanging from the ceiling in the ceremony room, or dotted around an outdoor marquee. Ensure that the chosen area has a sturdy structure that can support the weight of the display.
• Use the right containers: Choose containers that complement your wedding decor. Options include baskets, decorative pots, wooden crates, or glass vases, depending on the style you want to achieve.
• Prepare the flowers: Arrange the flowers the day before or the morning of the wedding to ensure freshness. Trim the stems, remove any leaves below the waterline, and place the flowers in water with floral preservatives to keep them hydrated.
• Create cohesive arrangements: Group flowers by colour or type to create cohesive and balanced arrangements. Start with the largest blooms as focal points and fill in with smaller flowers and greenery to add volume and texture.
• Secure the displays: Place the arrangements in their designated spots on the wedding day, ensuring they are stable and won't be easily knocked over.
• Add decorative elements: Enhance your hanging flower displays by adding decorative elements such as ribbons, candles, or petals around the base of the arrangement.
• Consider lighting: Incorporate lighting elements, such as fairy lights or industrial-style light bulbs, to create a magical ambiance, especially if your wedding is in the evening or at night.
• Experiment with different styles: Hanging flower displays can be created in various styles, such as floral hoops, chandeliers, flower clouds, or even simple strings of blooms. Choose a style that fits your wedding theme and venue.
• Plan ahead: Creating hanging flower displays can be time-consuming, so give yourself enough time to assemble and hang the displays before your wedding. Enlist the help of your bridal party or family members to make it a fun group activity.

Selecting the right containers for your displays

Choose containers that complement the overall wedding decor

The containers you choose should complement the overall style and theme of your wedding. For example, if you're having a rustic barn wedding, you might want to use milk churns, wooden crates, or mason jars for your flower displays. On the other hand, if you're having a more formal wedding, you might opt for decorative pots, glass vases, or even hanging baskets.

Consider the size and shape of the containers

The size and shape of the containers you choose will depend on the type of flowers you plan to use and the overall look you want to achieve. For example, if you want to create tall, dramatic centrepieces, you'll need containers that are tall and sturdy enough to support the flowers. If you're using hanging flowers, you'll need to select baskets or vases with hooks or handles that can be securely attached to the ceiling or other hanging structures.

Pay attention to the colour and material of the containers

The colour and material of the containers can also play a crucial role in the overall aesthetic of your flower displays. For instance, clear glass or plastic vases can create a modern and elegant look, while coloured glass or ceramic pots can add a touch of whimsy or rustic charm. If you want your flowers to be the focal point, consider using containers in neutral colours that won't distract from the beauty of the blooms.

Don't forget about functionality

In addition to the aesthetics, it's important to choose containers that are functional and easy to work with. For example, containers with a wide opening will make it easier to arrange the flowers, while those with a narrow neck may be more challenging to work with. Also, consider the weight and stability of the containers, especially if you plan to place them in areas where they could be knocked over.

Get creative with your container choices

If you want to add a unique touch to your wedding flower displays, don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to containers. For example, you could use vintage teacups, wine bottles, wooden barrels, or even hollowed-out fruits or vegetables as containers for your flowers. The sky's the limit when it comes to creativity!

How to care for your flowers before and after arranging

Before Arranging

If you're arranging your own wedding flowers, you'll want to make sure they're in the best condition possible. Here are some steps to care for your flowers before the big day:

• Buy your flowers wholesale from a local flower market, or online from Sam's Club or FiftyFlowers.
• When your flowers arrive, remove them from the boxes and put them in water immediately. Use buckets with at least four inches of water.
• Strip the flowers of any leaves and thorns below the waterline, and cut an inch or two off the bottom of the stems at an angle to allow for optimal hydration.
• Keep your flowers in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Change the water if it becomes cloudy or gets sucked up too quickly, and use flower food to help preserve the flowers.
• If you're not arranging your flowers immediately, store them in a cool place and keep an eye on them.

After Arranging

Once you've created your bouquets, centrepieces, and other displays, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your flowers stay fresh throughout the day:

• Keep bouquets in water for as long as possible before the ceremony and photos. Ask your florist for suggestions on flowers that will last out of water, and consider providing vases for the bouquets to be stored in when not in use.
• If it's hot outside, store the bouquets in a cool room, away from windows and direct sunlight.
• If possible, bring the vases along when taking photos so the bouquets can be placed back in water between shots.
• For boutonnieres and corsages, store them in a fridge, away from fruits, until they need to be worn. If refrigeration is not possible, keep them in a cool room.

Frequently asked questions