Rhiannon Hendricks
Flowers are a central element of weddings, but they can be expensive. Greenery is often considered a cheaper alternative, but this is not always the case. The cost of wedding flowers and greenery depends on various factors, such as the type of flower or greenery, whether they are in season, and how they are used. Greenery garlands, for example, can be more expensive than flowers because they are more labour-intensive to put together. On the other hand, loose greenery placed on tables can be less expensive than floral centrepieces. The average cost of wedding flowers in the US is around $2,000 to $3,000, but prices can vary depending on the region and the number of guests. Couples can save money on flowers by choosing local and in-season blooms, selecting small centrepieces, using fake flowers, or opting for non-floral centrepieces. Ultimately, the decision between flowers and greenery depends on the couple's preferences, budget, and the desired look for their wedding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of flowers | The average cost of flowers for a wedding in the US is $2,723. The cost varies depending on the region, with the Western region being the cheapest and the Mid-Atlantic being the most expensive. The average cost of flowers in Boston is $2,000. |
| Cost of greenery | Greenery can be cheaper than flowers, but it depends on the type of greenery and how it is used. Some types of greenery, such as fern and ivy, are less expensive than others. Greenery used as garlands can be more expensive than flowers because they are more labor-intensive. Loose greenery placed on tables is usually cheaper than flowers. |
| Ways to save money on flowers | Use local and in-season blooms, choose small centerpieces or non-floral centerpieces, use fake flowers, and discuss your budget with your florist. |
| Ways to save money on greenery | Use wholesale shops, faux greenery, or local gardens. Keep the designs simple and use greenery sparingly. |
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What You'll Learn
Greenery garlands vs. individual centrepieces
Greenery garlands and individual centrepieces are both popular choices for wedding decor. While greenery is often considered a cheaper alternative to flowers, this is not always the case. The cost of greenery can vary depending on the type, quantity, and how it is used. Greenery garlands, for example, are typically priced per foot and can range from $15 to $25 per foot or even more, depending on the type of greens and the thickness of the garland. On the other hand, individual centrepieces can be made with loose greenery placed on tables, which is generally less expensive than flowers.
Greenery garlands offer a romantic and pretty look, allowing guests to admire the blooms and foliage up close. They are perfect for long, rectangular, or farm tables as natural runners. Garlands can also be draped across ceremony seating, inside chairs, or on sweetheart tables to create a raised aisle runner effect. Combining different types of greenery, such as Eucalyptus, Salal (Lemon Leaf), Bay Leaf, and Ruscus, creates contrast in texture and shades of green.
Individual centrepieces, on the other hand, can be created with assorted palm fronds, ferns, or potted plants, providing a natural and laid-back element to the wedding reception. Centrepieces can be tall or low, with tall centrepieces being more formal and low centrepieces ideal for informal wedding styles as they don't block the view across the table. Centrepieces can also be decorated with candles, flowers, or other elements to create a stylish and timeless look.
The decision between greenery garlands and individual centrepieces depends on the desired aesthetic, budget, and practicality. Greenery garlands may be more labour-intensive to assemble and take down, resulting in higher labour costs. Individual centrepieces, especially those with loose greenery or potted plants, can be more cost-effective and easier to arrange. Ultimately, both options can be stunning choices, and couples can enhance their wedding decor by combining greenery with candles, lighting, or a few simple floral elements.
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Using flowers in season
While greenery can be a cheaper alternative to flowers for your wedding, it often requires more labour to install. If you're looking to save money, using flowers that are in season is a great option.
Seasonal flowers are at their height of freshness and quality, so blooms will be larger, hardier, and last longer. Using flowers at their peak can also add to the overall feeling of your wedding. For example, springtime weddings are perfect for adding pastel shades of pink, peach, lilac, and cream to your wedding style.
If you're planning a spring wedding, consider using flowers such as sweet pea, which comes in a variety of hues from blush pink to deep purple. Another spring flower is the poppy, which has a short blooming season that wraps up by May. Ranunculus is another flower with a similar springtime bloom that is cheap and widely available.
For a summer wedding, you can take advantage of flowers with bold colours and full blooms. Sunflowers, for example, begin flowering in July and are extremely affordable. Snapdragons, which start budding in the spring, are another option for early summer weddings. They come in a wide variety of bold shades and can be paired with larger buds such as roses, lisianthus, and peonies.
If you're looking for flowers in season during May, peonies are a beloved variety, but because they have a relatively short growing season, they are in high demand. Hydrangeas are another option that is great for large-scale installations and are at their peak before seasonal temperatures get hot and cause them to wilt.
For July weddings, Calla lilies are a popular option for bouquets and boutonnieres, especially for glam-themed weddings. Gerbera daisies and other daisy varieties are perfect for summer backyard weddings, coming in a range of bright and vibrant colours.
By choosing flowers that are in season, you can not only save money but also ensure that you have access to the freshest and most beautiful blooms for your special day.
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Greenery: labour costs
Greenery can be a great way to decorate your wedding venue, but it's important to consider the labour costs involved. While some types of greenery may be less expensive than flowers, the overall cost can be higher due to the labour required to install and dismantle greenery decorations.
Greenery installations often need to be built on-site within a limited time frame and then taken down at the end of the event. This results in higher labour costs compared to floral centrepieces, which can be prepared in advance and are easier to set up and take home.
The type of greenery arrangement also affects labour costs. Garlands, for example, can be more expensive than flowers as they are more labour-intensive to assemble. They can range in price from $15 to $25 per foot, with some couples spending around $900 on garlands. On the other hand, loose greenery placed on tables can be a more affordable option.
To save on labour costs, consider using a combination of greenery and flowers strategically. For instance, you can use greenery as a filler in floral arrangements to reduce the number of flowers needed and lower overall costs. Additionally, choosing in-season flowers and shopping around for the best prices can help keep expenses down.
If you're crafty and have the time, you can also consider creating your own greenery installations. This allows you to save on labour costs, but it's important to keep your plans simple and realistic to avoid taking on too much work.
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Faux vs. real flowers
Wedding decorations can be expensive, and flowers and greenery are no exception. While some greenery can be a less expensive material, it often requires more labour to install than fresh flower designs. For example, garlands are usually more expensive than flowers because they are more labour-intensive to put together. They can range from $15 per foot to $25 per foot. However, if you just want loose greenery placed on tables, that is usually less expensive than flowers.
The cost of flowers can add up quickly, but there are ways to save money. One way is to choose small centrepieces with one or two flowers in small vases, instead of large arrangements. You can also use fake flowers made of silk or latex, which are cheaper and can be arranged in advance. Going for local, in-season blooms is another way to save money, as flowers that need to be flown in from another part of the world will add to the cost.
Greenery can also be expensive, especially elaborate installs and hanging arrangements, which cost about the same as flowers. However, it can be a cheaper option if you are creative. For example, you can use wholesale shops, which offer great selection and prices. You can also use faux greenery, which is much cheaper than real greenery.
In conclusion, both flowers and greenery can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. The key is to be flexible and creative, and to shop around for the best deals.
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Greenery: buying wholesale
Greenery is a foundational design element in modern floral arranging. It adds depth, texture, and a touch of natural elegance to your wedding decor.
When buying wholesale greenery, it's important to consider the type of greenery you want, the amount you need, and your budget. Wholesale greenery can be purchased from online retailers such as FiftyFlowers and Blooms by the Box, as well as local wholesale shops. Buying in bulk ensures you have enough volume and variation to bring your vision to life. It is also a cost-effective way to elevate your floral arrangements, especially if you're looking for a full, dimensional look.
Some popular types of greenery used in weddings include Italian ruscus, eucalyptus, olive branches, pittosporum, tropical leaves, ferns, and ivy. When choosing greenery, consider the shape, tone, and texture to achieve the desired effect. For example, structured greens like salal or leather leaf fern provide fullness and form, while trailing greens like smilax and ivy add movement and depth.
To save money, consider using a combination of wholesale greenery and fresh flowers from a local florist or grocery store. You can also create a more cost-effective arrangement by mixing in some less expensive types of greenery, such as fern and ivy, with your desired varieties. However, keep in mind that these may not have the exact texture or shape you're looking for and may not handle outdoor elements as well.
Additionally, the labour cost for installing and dismantling greenery decorations can be higher than that of floral centrepieces, which can be made and delivered in advance. Therefore, it is important to consider the overall cost of your wedding decorations, including both materials and labour.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends. Some greenery is less expensive than flowers, but flowers can be cheaper if they are in season or more common. Greenery can also require more labour to install than flowers, so elaborate hanging greenery arrangements can cost the same as flowers.
Opt for small centrepieces or non-floral centrepieces. Use in-season flowers, which are more likely to be locally sourced, and therefore have lower shipping costs. You can also use fake flowers, which can be arranged in advance.
Keep designs simple and streamlined. Use greenery sparingly, and only in the areas that will be photographed the most. You can also use faux greenery, which is cheaper than fresh greenery.
Ferns and ivy are inexpensive, but they don't always have the right texture or shape and don't handle the elements as well.
Using more greenery than expensive flowers can help you save money. You can also use bulk flowers and make the decorations yourself.
