Creative Ways To Display Bridesmaids' Bouquets During Dinner

Bridesmaids' bouquets can be reused in a variety of ways during a wedding reception. Some people like to repurpose the bouquets as photo backdrops, adding them to a vase or dish and setting them near the altar, or weaving them into the wedding arch structure. They can also be used to decorate the head table, cake table, or sweetheart table, either in vases or laid out as they are. Another option is to use the bouquets as centrepieces for the welcome table or serving areas.

Bridesmaids' bouquets as centrepieces

Bridesmaids' bouquets can be reused in a variety of ways during dinner, and one popular option is to use them as centrepieces. Here are some ideas and tips for using bridesmaids' bouquets as centrepieces:

Vases

Add the blooms to a vase that matches the wedding aesthetic and theme. If using a smaller vase, fill it with a few larger flowers, some filler blooms, and greenery. Tea-light candles can be sprinkled around the vase to add a warm and romantic touch.

Wooden Trays

Arrange the bouquets on a wooden board or tray along with tea lights, ribbons, berries, or extra sprigs of greenery. This creates a natural and rustic look.

Welcome Table or Easel

The bouquets can be arranged as they are on a welcome table or easel at the entrance, creating a simple and effective display.

Pillars

For an elegant and romantic touch, place the bouquets in vases on pillars. This can be done next to the cake table, head table, or any other area that needs a decorative highlight.

Round Reception Tables

When using centrepieces on round reception tables, it is important to consider the size of the arrangement to ensure it does not block guests' views or conversation. A good tip is to place bouquets in a shorter vase in the centre or front of the table so they don't look disproportionately small.

Timing

Consider the timing of when the bouquets will be reused. For example, if guests have already signed the guest book upon entering, adding a floral display after the ceremony may not be necessary.

Photography

Communicate with the photographer before repurposing the bouquets, as they will want to take photos of the bridesmaids with their bouquets before they are reused.

Using bridesmaids' bouquets as centrepieces is a common and budget-friendly practice that adds a unique and personalised touch to the wedding dinner.

Bouquets on the cake table

If you're looking for a place to put the bridesmaids' bouquets during dinner, the cake table is a great option. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate the bouquets into your cake table decor:

Vases

Add the bouquets to vases that match your wedding aesthetic and theme. If the vase is on the smaller side, fill it with a few larger flowers, some filler blooms, and greenery. You can also add tea-light candles around the vase to create a romantic and elegant atmosphere. This is a simple and effective way to display the bouquets and add a touch of colour and freshness to the cake table.

Wooden Trays

Arrange the bouquets on a wooden board or tray for a more rustic look. You can add tea lights, ribbons, berries, or extra sprigs of greenery to complement the bouquets and create a beautiful display. This is a great way to showcase the bouquets and add a touch of charm to the cake table.

Cake Table Centrepiece

If you have a large or statement bouquet, you can use it as a centrepiece for the cake table. Place the bouquet in a vase or container that complements the cake stand and surrounding decor. This is a great way to make a statement and showcase the beauty of the bouquet.

Grouped with the Cake

You can group the bouquets together and place them next to or around the cake. This creates a beautiful display and adds a pop of colour to the cake table. If you have a variety of bouquet sizes, you can arrange them from largest to smallest or create a cascading effect.

Cake Topper

If you have a smaller or more delicate bouquet, you can use it as a cake topper. Simply remove the flowers from the bouquet and arrange them on top of the cake, or place the entire bouquet on top of a single-tier cake. This adds a unique and romantic touch to your wedding cake.

Displaying bouquets with the wedding cake

Choosing the Right Bouquets

When selecting bouquets to display with the wedding cake, consider opting for fresh flowers that complement the cake's design and colour palette. If you want to include flowers on the cake itself, be sure to choose edible, food-safe blooms like chamomile or orchids. You can also use dried flowers or silk flowers, which can be less expensive and more durable than fresh flowers. Another option is to mix fresh and dried blooms for an interesting contrast.

Arranging the Bouquets with the Cake

The way you arrange the bouquets with the cake can vary depending on the look you want to achieve. You can place the bouquets in vases or containers around the cake, creating a "cake meadow" effect. This is a great way to fill your dessert station with lush blossoms. Alternatively, you can ask your maître d' or wedding consultant to discreetly arrange the bouquets around the cake with a casual, effortless look. This approach can also relieve the bridesmaids from the challenge of balancing their bouquets with drinks and hors d'oeuvres during the reception.

Combining Bouquets with Other Elements

When displaying bouquets with the wedding cake, you can also combine them with other decorative elements. For example, you can add a "cake meadow" of lush blossoms around the cake and then place the bouquets in vases or containers on the same table, creating a cohesive and elegant display. You could also incorporate other natural elements, such as greenery, eucalyptus, olive branches, or herbs, to enhance the overall aesthetic.

Timing and Logistics

To ensure the bouquets are fresh and well-arranged, it's important to coordinate with your florist and wedding consultant. Communicate your vision and ask them to provide vases or containers for the bouquets, as well as guidance on the safest and most aesthetically pleasing ways to display the flowers with the cake. It's also a good idea to have the cake delivered at least two hours before the reception begins, giving you ample time to set up the display.

Using vases for bouquets

Choosing the Right Vase

When selecting a vase for the bridesmaid bouquets, consider the length of the flower stems and choose a vase that complements your wedding aesthetic and theme. If you have shorter stems, opt for a glass cylinder vase that is 5 to 7 inches tall. For longer stems, choose a taller glass vase to prevent the bouquet from toppling over.

Placement Ideas

• Head Table or Sweetheart Table: Place the vases with bouquets on the head table or sweetheart table. This adds a personal touch and allows the bridal party to keep their flowers close by.
• Cake Table: Group the bouquets in vases around the wedding cake, adding a pop of colour and elegance to the display.
• Gift or Memory Table: Display the bouquets on these tables, especially if guests have already passed by them upon arrival, to create a welcoming and romantic atmosphere.
• Reception Entrance or Welcome Table: Greet your guests with a beautiful floral display by placing the bouquets in vases at the reception entrance or on a welcome table.
• Cocktail Bar or Refreshment Tables: Bridesmaid bouquets can add a touch of charm to these tables, creating a stylish and cohesive look throughout the venue.
• Coffee Tables in a Lounge Area: Smaller bouquets in vases can be placed on coffee tables, providing a lovely accent to the lounge area.

Additional Tips

• Timing: Consider the timing of repurposing the bouquets. For example, if guests have already signed the guest book, placing a floral display there after the ceremony might not be ideal.
• Photography: Communicate with your photographer before repurposing the bouquets to ensure they have captured enough photos of the bridal party with their flowers.
• Round Tables: If you have round reception tables, avoid placing large arrangements or centrepieces in the middle as they can obstruct guests' views and conversations. Opt for smaller bouquets or place the vases in the centre or front of the table.

Repurpose bouquets into photo backdrops

Flowers add instant romance and joy to anything they touch, including photos and backdrops. Here are some ways to repurpose bridesmaids' bouquets into photo backdrops:

• Bunch your bridesmaids' bouquets together on a table or near a striking area of the venue for an instant picture backdrop.
• Repurpose the bouquets and your wedding arch by combining them into a photo backdrop for the reception. You can weave the blooms directly into the arch structure or combine them with an elegant set of drapes for added romance.
• If the arch is light enough to move to the reception space, it can make the perfect backdrop for the sweetheart or head table.
• Photo backdrops that use artificial flowers can be repurposed for other events, such as birthday parties, girls' nights, baby showers, formals, or even just fun selfies with the family.

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