We may not all speak the same language, but the beauty and sentiment of flowers is universal.
Whether you want to wear an orchid crown or exchange vows beneath a marigold arch, seasonal flowers have the power to transform a wedding scene into a unique experience. According to The Knot, 65 percent of couples wedding vendor lineups included a florist in 2023.
In-season blooms are ideal for weddings since they are fresh, vivid and timely. Tailor-made botanical designs are a creative way to weave meaningful symbolism into the nuptials. Stacey Hellman, the owner and designer of Roots Flowers and Events, shares her expertise on the seasonality, symbolism and practicality of wedding blossoms.
Revel in Autumn Flora
There are many reasons why autumn is an ideal time for couples to tie the knot. From the mild weather to the alluring ambiance, fall is the time of year when change is celebrated and adored. Moreover, fall foliage offers a breathtaking backdrop for exchanging vows, exuding warmth, comfort and nostalgic emotions.
To coordinate with the spirit of this season, Hellman recommends aromatic marigolds or elegant Dahlias to enliven a matrimonial celebration. “In the fall, marigolds are a great sensory experience. I think it’s a scent that everyone has a memory tied to.” she says. “Dahlias symbolize beauty and eternal love.”
Immerse in Wintry Blooms
From snowy sceneries to holiday traditions, winter is considered a magical time of the year for good reason. Hellman suggests considering fruiting branches like kumquats. Kumquats add a cheerful note to a bouquet with their citrus smell, symbolizing good luck and fortune. Cosmos and tuberoses are also recommended. Cosmos, daisy-like flowers that sit atop long, slender stems, represent harmony and balance.
For an ethereal touch, consider tuberoses. These waxy flowers come in a variety of colors, so coordinating them with your wedding palette should come easily. White tuberoses hold a more traditional meaning, epitomizing peace, purity and innocence. “Tuberose is an unusual choice, but a great option. The smell is divine,” she says.
Bask in Spring Blossoms
Fitting for a romantic occasion like a wedding, springtime represents new beginnings, growth and vitality. There are several advantages to holding a marriage ceremony when gardens are in full bloom and the days are brighter, providing natural light that is perfect for photography and outdoor engagements. Hellman suggests sweet peas since they are a symbol of bliss and gratitude, but snapdragons and stock are also worth considering as alternatives.
“Flowers like snapdragons and stock are two great examples of seasonal blooms that are budget-friendly and also add a lot of movement to designs. We like to incorporate these with higher end blooms in large-scale designs such as centerpieces and arches,” she says.
Allergy-Conscious Florals
Spring is often associated with allergies, but there are ways to work around this for a wedding party. To avoid the outbreaks and flare-ups, opt for non-allergen plants. Before making your final decision, be sure to consider any possible allergic reactions from the floral arrangements you plan to use in your decor.
“There are a handful of flowers that we stay away from completely because the scent can be overwhelming as well as flowers and certain greenery that is known to cause rashes, such as kangaroo paw, amaranthus and lilies. An experienced floral designer should be familiar with the options and can identify flowers that could be a problem.”
Dazzle in Summer Petals
From lively concert festivals to swoon-worthy getaways, you can’t deny that the sunny months evoke a feeling of romance. Beach weather is ideal for couples planning a destination wedding since skies are clear and natural light is abundant. For a classic look, peonies are complementary to sun-drenched nuptials, but keep in mind that not all of them are fragrant.
If you are seeking something out of the ordinary for summer lovin’ festivities, consider anthuriums. “I think Anthuriums are a flower that are often overlooked, but when used in bulk, can be stunning. They come in an astounding amount of colors,” she says “Anthuriums symbolize love and passion. I’ve created several bouquets filled with Anthurium and they are always a hit.”
Always Love, Always Flowers
For something more spontaneous like an elopement, there is one flower that is fitting year-round regardless of the weather and location. This flower is one you can find nearly anywhere at any given time. They are also versatile in terms of style and composition. When in doubt, buy roses.
“Roses are always a really great choice, no matter what season you’re getting married. They come in hundreds of different shades and hues, many of which you will never see unless you hire a professional floral designer,” she says. “They are a hardy flower that does well in different designs and climates.”
For more information about wedding floral arrangements, visit rootsflowersandevents.com.