Creating A Bridal Orchid Bouquet: A Diy Guide

Orchids are a popular choice for wedding bouquets, and it's easy to see why. They're elegant, fragrant, and full of colour, with a distinctive shape that's often described as elegant, exotic, or tropical. Plus, they're available almost any time of year.

If you're thinking of making your own wedding bouquet with orchids, there are a few things to keep in mind. Orchids are delicate, so you'll need to be patient and gentle when working them into your arrangement. It's also a good idea to practice beforehand, as it can be quite time-consuming to put together a bouquet, especially if you're not a professional.

When choosing your orchids, consider the overall look and feel you want to achieve. For a big, bold statement, go for Cymbidium Orchids, which are large and come in a variety of colours. If you're after something more delicate, Dendrobium Orchids are a better option, with their smaller blooms and slender stems.

With a little creativity and some careful planning, you can create a stunning orchid wedding bouquet that will be the perfect accessory for your special day.

Orchid types: Phalaenopsis, Cymbidium, Dendrobium, Cattleya, Oncidiums, Pea, Mokara

Orchids are a popular choice for wedding bouquets due to their versatility, colour variety, and visual impact. Here is some information about different types of orchids that you can use to make your own wedding bouquet:

Phalaenopsis Orchids

Phalaenopsis orchids are a favourite among brides due to their eye-catching, front-facing form. They come in a range of colours, including white, pink, purple, and fuchsia. These orchids are perfect for contemporary, tropical, or beach weddings. They pair well with garden roses, lisianthus, spray roses, and calla lilies for an elevated garden look.

Cymbidium Orchids

Cymbidium orchids, like phalaenopsis orchids, are a popular choice for brides due to their striking appearance. They can be used to create a bold and beautiful bouquet or a simple and stunning arrangement.

Dendrobium Orchids

Dendrobium orchids are available in a range of colours, including purple and white. They have an average stem length of 16 to 18 inches and an average bloom width of 3 to 4 inches. These orchids are shipped in full bloom and have an expected vase life of at least 8 days.

Cattleya Orchids

Cattleya orchids are known for their elegance and simplicity. They are often used in bridal bouquets to create a sophisticated and elegant look.

Oncidiums Orchids

Oncidiums orchids come in a variety of colours, including yellow. They can be combined with other flowers, such as yellow roses and calla lilies, to create a bright and cheerful bouquet.

Mokara Orchids

Mokara orchids are available in colours such as orange and pink. They are shipped with water tubes to ensure continuous hydration during shipping. These orchids have an average of 6 to 10 blooms per stem and are available year-round.

Pea Orchids

Pea orchids are known for their unique form and structure, as well as their vibrant colours. They are not commonly used in wedding bouquets, but they can add a touch of whimsy and creativity to your arrangement.

Orchid colours: White, yellow, pink, purple, blue, green, burgundy, fuchsia

Orchids come in a variety of colours, including white, yellow, pink, purple, blue, green, burgundy, and fuchsia, making them a versatile choice for wedding bouquets. Here are some ideas for incorporating these vibrant flowers into your bridal bouquet:

White Orchids

White orchids are a classic choice for wedding bouquets and can be paired with other white blooms or greenery for a simple yet elegant look. For a modern twist, consider an asymmetrical bouquet or add a statement flower such as a king protea or a single monstera leaf.

Yellow Orchids

Yellow orchids add a cheerful touch to your bouquet. Combine them with peonies, ranunculus, and summer roses for a bright and colourful arrangement.

Pink Orchids

For a romantic and elegant touch, pink orchids are a perfect choice. Pair them with garden roses, lisianthus, spray roses, and calla lilies for a lush, garden-inspired bouquet.

Purple Orchids

Purple orchids, especially when combined with white orchids, create a stunning contrast. For a bold statement, mix purple orchids with bright flowers such as bougainvillea, coral charm peonies, and poppies.

Blue Orchids

Blue orchids, though less common, can be dyed to create a unique and unexpected bouquet. Pair them with white flowers or pampas grass for a modern and trendy look.

Green Orchids

Green orchids are a unique choice and can be paired with white orchids for a fresh and vibrant bouquet. Add garden roses, lisianthus, and spray roses for an elevated garden-inspired arrangement.

Burgundy Orchids

Burgundy orchids add a rich and elegant touch to your bouquet. Combine them with blush pink peonies, dark burgundy anthurium, and hand-painted palms for a moody and romantic arrangement.

Fuchsia Orchids

For a bright and vibrant bouquet, fuchsia orchids are a perfect choice. Pair them with other bright flowers such as coral charm peonies, Juliet roses, and poppies for a colourful statement.

Tools and equipment: Floral tape, pins, scissors, ribbons, foam

Making your own wedding bouquet with orchids can be a fun and economical choice for your wedding. Before you get started, it's important to gather all the necessary tools and equipment, such as floral tape, pins, scissors, ribbons, and foam. These items will help you create a beautiful and elegant bouquet that complements your wedding gown.

Floral tape is essential for securing your orchid bouquet. It is a stretchy and sticky tape designed specifically for floral arrangements. You can use it to bind stems together, add stability to your bouquet, and even cover wires for a seamless finish. Floral tape is usually green to blend in with the stems, but you can also find it in other colours to match your flowers or theme.

Pins are another important tool for creating your bouquet. Straight pins can be used to secure ribbons or other decorative elements, while U-shaped pins, also known as floral pins, are ideal for connecting flowers and greenery. These pins are often green, thin, and have a sharp end that easily pierces through stems and a loop at the other end to secure the flowers together.

Scissors are a must-have for trimming and shaping your bouquet. When cutting flower stems, it is recommended to use a floral knife or floral shears instead of regular scissors to avoid crushing delicate stem cells, which can affect the flower's ability to draw water.

Ribbons add a romantic and elegant touch to your bouquet. You can choose a colour that matches your wedding theme or complements the orchids. Ribbons can be used to create bows, add texture, or simply enhance the overall design.

Lastly, floral foam is a crucial component for creating a sturdy and long-lasting bouquet. It provides a source of water for the flowers, helping to keep them fresh and hydrated. By soaking the floral foam in water and flower food before arranging your bouquet, you can extend the life of your flowers. The foam serves as a base for your bouquet, allowing you to securely insert the stems and create the desired shape.

With these tools and equipment, you'll be well on your way to crafting a stunning orchid wedding bouquet. Remember to plan ahead, be gentle with the orchids, and don't be afraid to enlist the help of your friends and family to make the process more enjoyable and efficient.

Flower markets: Go alone if you know what you want, take someone if you need help deciding

Making your own wedding bouquet with orchids can be a fun and economical choice. Orchids are elegant, fragrant, and come in a variety of colours, sizes, and shapes, making them a flexible choice for your bouquet.

When it comes to buying flowers at a flower market, it's important to consider whether you want to go alone or with someone. If you know exactly what you want and prefer to be in control, going alone can be more efficient. However, if you're unsure about your choices and need some help deciding, taking someone along can be beneficial. They can provide suggestions and a fresh perspective to ensure your flower choices align with your wedding theme and personality.

• Be prepared: Flower markets can be overwhelming, so it's helpful to have a plan and a list of the items you need. Know the concept of your orchid bridal bouquet and ensure you have all the necessary tools, such as floral tape, pins, scissors, ribbons, and foam.
• Understand your flowers: Orchids are delicate, so patience and gentleness are necessary when working with them. Use sharp shears and carefully select the flowers to cut, ensuring they are not torn or broken.
• Practice beforehand: Creating a bridal bouquet is a skill that takes time to master. Consider practising beforehand so you can refine your technique and feel more confident on your wedding day.
• Be mindful of timing: Many flowers wilt quickly, so plan to craft your bouquet the day before your wedding.
• Ask for help: Flower arrangements can be time-consuming, so enlist the help of friends and family to make it a fun group activity.

By following these tips and seeking assistance when needed, you can create a stunning orchid bridal bouquet that enhances your wedding gown and garners admiration as you walk down the aisle.

Orchid care: Cut stems at an angle, place in fresh water, add floral preservative, keep out of direct sunlight

Orchid Care is essential to ensure that your wedding bouquet stays vibrant and fresh. Here are some detailed instructions to keep your orchids looking their best:

Cut Stems at an Angle:

When you receive your orchids, place them in a vase of water. Cut the orchid stems on a diagonal with sharp pruning shears or a knife. Cutting the stems underwater prevents air bubbles from clogging them. This helps the flowers absorb fresh water more effectively.

Place in Fresh Water:

After cutting the stems, remove any leaves below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth. Allow the orchids to sit in the water for about 10 minutes to refresh. Change the water in the vase every 2 to 3 days to provide oxygenated water and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Add Floral Preservative:

If you don't have a floral preservative, you can create your own mixture to nourish the orchids. In a 2-quart pitcher, mix 2 teaspoons of plain white granulated cane sugar, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of chlorine bleach, and 1 quart of lukewarm water. Fill the vase halfway with this solution, and top it up as the water level decreases.

Keep Out of Direct Sunlight:

Orchids thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate petals. Instead, set them in a well-lit room with filtered sunlight or natural light.

By following these steps, your wedding bouquet orchids will stay fresh and beautiful, enhancing your special day with their elegance and fragrance.

Frequently asked questions