You don’t really need a bouquet, and quite often, when it comes to budget, after guest numbers, flowers are the first to go. Which is a shame. You don’t need a bouquet, but it’s certainly nice to have one. I’m a very visual person and I think “flowers” and all those that share it’s decorative hat really breathe life in to an image bringing a brightness and freshness. They add a real sense of occasion. Unless you’re the kind of person who buys flowers for yourself every day (in which case, can I come live with you?) they mark a feeling of specialness. A treat. And too bloody right you want to feel special on your wedding day, so here are the best of the flowers and all their pals for that short walk down the aisle.
Fresh Flowers: I can (and will) do a post on finding your perfect florist in an entirely different post but let me just say I am 100% team real flowers. Yes you can get silk flowers but it doesn’t quite capture the magic of a big poofty bouquet. They smell amazing, can add lots of texture and shape, and importantly, stop you fiddling with your hands when you’re nervous. I wouldn’t trust anyone but Floral Menagerie to do my flowers as she works so closely with you to find out something that fits your wedding style. The only real downside with fresh flowers is that they can be expensive, so tal to your florist and do your research. Go with what’s in season, the more of the same kind the better (those beautiful bunches of wild flowers do not come cheap!) and maybe forgo the hanging wall of peonies. Or not. A hanging wall of peonies would be beautiful and a real centrepiece for the wedding. Basically – learn to prioritise.
Paper Flowers: If the mere thought of flowers makes your eyes swell shut and your purse strings clench, maybe paper flowers are for you. You have access to colours that, simply put – just do not exsist in nature and you can really play with different shapes. This is great if you want something dramatic, minimalist and cool or full on colour. It’s flexible and one of the least traditional options. Go for a full blown bouquet or one giant flower. They last forever and are certainly one for making a statement. If you don’t have the megabudget for the hanging flower wall, a geometric paper back drop may be just the key. Scissorkick design are my local origami merchants and a perfect soloution for the craft challenged.
Brooch Bouquet: Please, for all that is good in this world, do not toss this guy. Brooch bouquets have become more and more popular because they last forever and provide a cheap alternative to real fresh flowers. It’s great to add a little bit of sparkle and glamor to a look but the real appeal to me is the heritage you can add to it. A family brooch can become part o your bouquet and it’s a lovely way to keep someone close who can’t be there on the day. Maybe not the easiest to craft but results vary from full blown brooch circlets, to crystal accents. The above it a little guy from Honey Pop’s wedding (who’s wedding will be in the September issue of Rock n Roll Bride, that’s her skull face on the cover so pre-order it now) and made by Tatty Bon. Super cut and a lovely keepsake.
Alternates: Whatever you damn well want. Barbie dolls, ice cream sandwiches, a puppy pal, a magical girl transformation wand. Your wedding is a big old pool of your love so splash around in it and have some fun!
Is there anything you would like to see on Bride X Tested? Finding the perfect underwear? Navigating the big bad world of catering, or finding an alternative wedding dress within budget? Give us a tweet or insta and I’ll try answer all your wedding worries (and squee along with all the fun things you have planned!) I’m total bride mode so would love to hear from you all!
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