Creating Wooden Wedding Flowers: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wooden flowers are a fantastic option for weddings, offering a long-lasting and cost-effective alternative to fresh flowers. They are made from the wood of the Aeschynomene aspera plant, also known as Sola or Shola, and are soft, pliable, and lightweight. With wooden flowers, you can create a unique and personalised bouquet that complements your wedding dress and venue, and you can even make them yourself! In this guide, we will take you through the process of creating your own wooden wedding flowers, from choosing colours and styles to dyeing, stemming, and arranging your flowers into a beautiful bouquet.

Choosing colours

Choosing the right colours for your wooden wedding flowers is an important first step in designing your bouquet. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect colour scheme:

Reflect Your Wedding Theme or Venue

Consider choosing colours that complement your wedding theme or venue. This could include incorporating your wedding colours, or selecting shades that match the bridesmaids' dresses. By tying your bouquet into the overall aesthetic of your wedding, you can achieve a well-rounded and cohesive look.

Create Contrast or Go Monochromatic

If you want to make a statement, opt for a pop of colour by choosing opposite shades on the colour wheel. Alternatively, for a softer, more understated bouquet, stick to neutrals or monochromatic shades. This can be a great option if you want to add a touch of colour to your bridal look without taking away from your dress.

Play with Colour Combinations

There are several ways to play with colour combinations to create a stunning bouquet:

• Complementary Colours: Choose one colour and pair it with two complementary shades to make one colour stand out while still ensuring a harmonious overall look.
• Analogous Colours: Select three colours that sit next to each other on the colour wheel for a bouquet with multiple colours that work well together without any one shade overshadowing the others.
• Triadic Colours: Pick colours that are evenly spaced apart on the colour wheel, such as violet, red, and orange, for a bold and vibrant effect without clashing.

Experiment and Trust Your Instincts

Don't be afraid to experiment with different colour combinations. Putting colours together will help you see if they work well, and you'll know when you've found the perfect match. Trust your instincts and go with what feels right for your bouquet.

Picking a theme and style

If you're unsure about what style or theme would suit your wedding, try looking up examples of bouquets and see which one you can imagine yourself carrying. You want your flowers to feel like an extension of you on your special day. You can also try thinking of words that you want to describe your overall look and choose a theme that can be described by those same words.

If you're after a traditional bouquet, you can use timeless wood flowers to create your bouquet. These types of arrangements will mostly consist of white florals with soft green added for colour from fillers. This creates some contrast without being too jarring.

Boho floral arrangements have a romantic and earthy quality to them. These arrangements typically use fuller flowers and have more greenery than anything else. This reflects the rustic and free-spirited quality that boho-style items are known for.

A wild-style bouquet doesn't conform to norms. The main focus of this type of arrangement is shape and texture. You will want to use a wide variety of wood flowers of different shapes, sizes, and colours. When creating this type of arrangement, be sure that the colours go well together. Using a mix of vibrant and soft colours will give it a "just thrown together" look that many brides seek.

A nosegay bouquet is understated and petite. It's made up of a few stems from the same bloom. It's a great choice for a bride that wants something simple. This type of arrangement is also a good choice for a bride that wants her bridesmaids' bouquets to match hers.

Round bouquets are another classic option. These make use of only one type of flower that's arranged in a dome shape. This is one of the easier bouquets to put together because you know the exact look that you will be aiming for.

There are so many different themes and styles that you can use as a starting point for how you want your bridal bouquet to look. The important thing is to pick one that you believe makes sense for your wedding. If you're feeling stuck, take some time to think about your wedding as a whole and how your wooden flowers fit into it.

Deciding on the size of the bouquet

Deciding on the size of your wooden wedding bouquet is an important step in the creation process. Some brides prefer a small and simple bouquet, while others opt for a larger, more extravagant arrangement. If you plan to create a cascading bouquet, it's important to measure the size in inches rather than the number of flowers. For a small bouquet, 14 inches is a good starting point, while an extra-large bouquet can be up to 28 inches.

For a bridal bouquet in a small, hand-picked style that's not a full circle, but rounded, you'll need around 20 flowers for a small bouquet and 40 for an extra-large one. A complete circle bouquet in the boho or wild style will also require about 20 flowers for a small and up to 40 for a very large one. These numbers are just guidelines, and you can always adjust the size to your preference.

When deciding on the size of your bouquet, consider the overall look you want to achieve and how many flowers you'll need to purchase or make. Keep in mind that wooden flowers are typically sold in bulk and may require additional supplies such as floral tape, wire, foam, and stems if they don't come with them.

If you're unsure about the size, it's a good idea to start with a smaller bouquet and add more flowers as needed. You can also experiment with different arrangements and placements until you find the perfect combination. Remember that the choice is completely yours, and you can make your bouquet as unique and personalised as you like.

Selecting the type of wood flowers

Know Your Options

Sola wood flowers are a popular choice for wooden wedding flowers. These flowers are made from the wood of the Aeschynomene Aspera plant, also known as Sola or Shola. This plant is a renewable and sustainable source, making it an eco-friendly option. Sola wood flowers are lightweight, soft, and pliable, making them easy to work with and customise. They come in a natural cream or white colour, which you can dye to your desired shade.

Consider Your Theme and Style

When selecting your wood flowers, think about the overall theme and style of your wedding. Do you want a traditional, boho, or wild bouquet? Are you looking for a simple nosegay or a round bouquet? Choosing a theme will help guide your flower selection. For example, a boho bouquet might include fuller flowers and more greenery, while a traditional bouquet might feature mostly white florals with soft green fillers.

Think About Symbolism

All flowers have different meanings and origins. You can add a special touch to your bouquet by choosing flowers that symbolise something meaningful to you. For instance, magnolias symbolise a love of nature, while pink roses represent happiness. This approach will give your bouquet a deeper significance.

Be Mindful of Size and Shape

Consider the size and shape of the flowers you choose. If you're creating a cascading bouquet, you'll need to ensure the flowers are the right size and shape to achieve the desired effect. For a rounded bouquet, select flowers that will work well together to form a dome shape. Think about the overall size of your bouquet and the number of flowers you'll need.

Experiment with Colours

Wood flowers can be dyed to match your wedding colour palette. You can create a soft, neutral bouquet, add pops of colour, or go for a bold, high-contrast look. If you want to dye your own flowers, use acrylic paint or fabric dye mixed with water. Play around with different colours and techniques to find what works best for you.

Plan Your Budget

The type of wood flower you choose will impact your budget. Some flowers, like peonies, may be more expensive due to their size and design. If you're on a tighter budget, look out for sales and discounts, or consider buying in bulk. You can also save money by making your own bouquets, centrepieces, and other decorations.

Order Samples

Before placing a large order, consider purchasing samples of the wood flowers you're interested in. This will allow you to see and feel the quality of the flowers and experiment with dying and arranging them. It's a great way to ensure you're happy with your selection before committing.

Check Reviews and Recommendations

When ordering wood flowers, be sure to check reviews and recommendations from other brides and grooms. Look for reputable sources and florists who have experience working with wooden flowers. Reading about others' experiences can help you make an informed decision and avoid potential pitfalls.

Remember, your wedding bouquet should reflect your personality and style. Take your time to explore different options, experiment with colours and arrangements, and don't be afraid to get creative. With wooden flowers, the possibilities are endless, and you can create a unique and everlasting memento of your special day.

Dyeing the flowers

Dyeing your wooden flowers is a fun and easy process that allows you to customise your bouquet and ensure it looks exactly how you want. Sola wood flowers are naturally cream-coloured, so you can dye them to create a colour that speaks to you. This process also adds a personal touch to your bouquet that you won't get when using fresh flowers.

To dye your wooden flowers, you can use latex paint made for indoor use, or fabric dye mixed with water. You can also try airbrushing them, as each method will result in a slightly different look. If you want to stick to an all-white bouquet, you can skip the dyeing process altogether.

If you're looking for a cost-effective option, acrylic paint is the most affordable and convenient method. All you need is a bowl of water, your desired colour paint, and some patience. Simply mix your chosen paint with water and dip your wooden flowers into the solution. If you want a darker colour, use more paint and less water, and vice versa for a lighter shade.

Another option is to use fabric dye. This method will require you to mix the dye with water according to the package instructions. Then, submerge your wooden flowers in the dye bath and let them soak until they reach your desired colour. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from staining.

You can also try airbrushing your wooden flowers. This technique will give you more control over the shading and colour placement, allowing you to create intricate designs or ombre effects. However, airbrushing may require more specialised equipment and practice to perfect the technique.

No matter which technique you choose, your wooden flowers are sure to turn out beautifully and uniquely.

Frequently asked questions