Rhiannon Hendricks
Flowers are often a central feature of weddings, but they are not for everyone. Some people may be allergic, dislike flowers, or simply want to try something different. Luckily, there are many alternatives to flowers at weddings, from carrying lanterns or parasols down the aisle to using paper, silk, or even vegetables in bouquets. For those looking for an eco-friendly option, dried flowers, recycled paper, or even donated flowers can be great choices. Couples can also get creative with their wedding themes, incorporating unique elements like buttons, feathers, or even diamond wreaths.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bridal bouquet | Brooches, sheet music, yarn balls, artichokes, paper flowers, feathers, dried flowers, pampas grass, hand fans, diamond wreaths, lanterns, candles, balloons, parasols, clutches, purses |
| Bridesmaids bouquet | Fabric and gold accents with pearl centres, metal hoop, wreath-style decorated hoops, paper flowers, tambourines, potted plants, lanterns, candles, parasols |
| Centrepieces | Vintage books, potted plants, lanterns, candles |
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Paper flowers
If you're looking for an alternative to flowers at your wedding, one option is to use paper flowers. These can be used in centrepieces or bouquets and can be made at home or bought from specialist boutiques. Paper flowers can be an inexpensive option, with some people spending less than $200 on paper flowers for their entire wedding. They can also be made well in advance, which can reduce stress levels in the lead-up to the wedding.
One way to make paper flowers is to use book pages, which can be a fun activity for the couple to do together. You can also use colourful paper, or even paper from books with personal significance, such as Harry Potter. Paper flowers can be made into bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, and small table decorations. They can also be used to decorate a ceremony arch.
If you're looking for something unique and personalised, paper flowers could be a great choice. They can be made to match any colour scheme and can be customised to suit your style. They are also a good option for those who are eco-conscious, as they produce less carbon and waste than fresh flowers.
However, it's important to consider the time commitment required to make paper flowers. Some people view it as a fun activity, but others may find it tedious and time-consuming. It's recommended to start making paper flowers months or even a year in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
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Parasols
If you're getting married at a historic site, opt for vintage-inspired parasols. You could also try paper parasols in the colour of your choice for a more modern look. For a unique twist, consider using parasols made from other materials, such as lace or fabric with gold accents and pearl centres.
Don't forget that parasols can also be used as a fun accessory for your bridesmaids. They can carry them down the aisle instead of bouquets and even use them to stay cool in the sun.
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Lanterns
If you're looking for an alternative to flowers at your wedding, lanterns are a great option, especially for an evening ceremony. They can create an ethereal aesthetic with a warm glow and cast romantic shadows. You can easily purchase lanterns from stores like Ikea or Home Goods, or even rent them with LED candles inside.
For a unique twist, consider incorporating vintage books and candles into your lantern centrepieces, creating a charming and intimate atmosphere. This combination received great feedback from one couple who used it for their wedding, and it can be a fun DIY project to hunt for vintage books at sales and used bookstores.
If you're looking for something more portable, you can opt for handheld lanterns for your bridesmaids to carry down the aisle. These can be paired with other unique touches, such as tambourines or hand-painted items, for a truly personalised celebration.
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Brooches, buttons, feathers, etc
Brooches, buttons, and feathers are all unique alternatives to flowers at weddings. Brooch bouquets have gained enormous popularity over the past few years, combining vintage glam and sparkle. Antique brooches can be sourced from family heirlooms or thrift stores and arranged into a gorgeous bouquet that will last long after the wedding.
Buttons are a colourful and quirky way to create a bouquet that won't wilt or wither. They can be easily turned into centrepieces and decor, adding a playful touch to the wedding. Feathers are another versatile option, with many varieties, styles, and colours to choose from. A feather bouquet adds a glamorous touch to the wedding day and can be sold afterward to recoup the cost.
For a unique and eco-friendly approach, consider creating bouquets or decorations from recycled or thrifted items. Brooches, buttons, and feathers can be sourced second-hand and arranged into stunning displays. This sustainable approach reduces waste and adds a personal touch to the wedding.
If you're looking for something truly creative and outside the box, consider combining multiple elements. Brooches, buttons, and feathers can be mixed and matched with other materials such as paper, fabric, or even vegetables like artichokes or leafy greens. Get inventive and design arrangements that reflect your personality and style.
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Vegetables
Flowers are often considered a staple of weddings, but they can be expensive and are not for everyone. Vegetables, on the other hand, can be a unique, eco-friendly, and whimsical alternative to traditional floral arrangements.
One option is to create vegetable bouquets. For example, a simple and elegant option is a single artichoke on a long green stem, or a bouquet of artichokes, greenery, and other flowers. You could also include mini strawberries and greenery in your bouquets, either on their own or as part of a larger bouquet. Another idea is to use fresh, potted herbs as centrepieces, which can then be given away to guests or planted in your garden after the wedding.
Fruit can also be incorporated into vegetable arrangements. A red rose fruit bouquet, for instance, can be a unique and memorable alternative to a floral bouquet. Fruit slices can also be used to decorate cakes, either in bunches on top or spread around the layers.
For a rustic look, consider using vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli to adorn the aisle and altar, as well as tables and walls. You can also use hanging onions attached to rope to create a vintage-style decoration.
Using vegetables instead of flowers at your wedding can be a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your special day, while also being eco-friendly and cost-effective.
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Frequently asked questions
Using dried flowers is a great way to have out-of-season blooms while avoiding the floral industry's wasteful practices. Other eco-friendly options include using in-season, locally grown blooms, working with a sustainably-minded florist, and saying no to floral foam.
Lanterns, candles, and potted plants can be used as centrepieces instead of fancy flower arrangements. You can also use paper flowers, origami decorations, or parasols for a unique style.
Some unique alternatives to flowers at weddings include artichokes, brooch bouquets, yarn ball bouquets, and feathers. You can also use spheres of origami paper flowers or kissing balls, which are traditionally carried by flower girls.
