Common questions about flowers

It's time I post something that would be helpful for everyone (plus, actually get a chance to actually blog!). : )

My inspiration comes from the Minnesota Bride Resource Guide and it has some awesome pointers about flowers that I figured everyone could use.

The article mentions tradition in bridal bouquets being white. Currently brides are pulling in their favorite colors into their bouquets. To add personal touch, blooms from the brides (or families) gardens are incorporated also. When it comes to wedding flowers, find inspiration from the world around you! (and I would agree 100%!).

Finding a florist can be a feat. While you're out and about, attending other weddings, ask for referrals from friends or the manager at your reception site. Start shopping for a florist several months before the wedding date (sooner if you have a popular month here in Minnesota!). There are florists and there are floral designers - if your wedding site has some aesthetic challenges, you'll want to call upon someone who calls him or herself a designer.

It's a good idea to talk to several florists or designers in order to find someone whose style matches yours.

Your contract with the florist should stipulate the delivery time and date, the total price and the cancellation policy. Can the florist guarantee freshness or that the product will be available? If product is unavailable, is there an acceptable substitution? You may be required to put down a deposit. The article mentions to not pay the entire bill until the flowers are delivered, but most florists will decline that. Typically, payments are made a week or two ahead of time.

Bridal Bouquets:

There are several styles of bouquets, most common is a handtied bouquet (sometimes called a nosegay). Cascading bouquets are also starting to make a comeback in Europe. They are definitely not the same as your mother's bouquet from the 1970s! They are turning into almost sculptural, glorious & stylish bouquets that have movement and sophistication to them. Crescent or arm bouquets are ones that nestles onto the brides arm (like a pageant bouquet). Toss bouquets are also great to have in case you plan on preserving your bridal bouquet.

Brides Attendants:

Your maid of honor might have a bouquet that is slightly larger or a little different in color.

Corsages & Boutonnieres:

This is where I receive the most questions! Who gets what and where you "draw the line" as I call it is always difficult! Here is what the article has to say: Grandmothers & Mothers corsages should be chosen with their dresses in mind. Boutonnieres for the groom's attendants, the ring bearer, ushers, fathers & grandfathers will likely consist of a single blossom. They should all be the same, while the grooms' boutonniere might be a little different or more elaborate. I always suggest the groom match a flower from the bride's bouquet and the groomsmen get something similar and complimentary to the bridesmaids. This way it looks great in the photographs and everything blends great!

Ceremony & Reception:

Flowers at the ceremony are used to draw attention to the altar, whether it is an arch, chuppah, outdoors, indoors, etc. The aisle can be decorated with flowers and ribbons, wreaths, topiaries or hanging pomanders. Wreaths and pomanders can be used as centerpieces for the reception, so always consider versatility in your floral arrangements. Table decorations should compliment linens and create an intimate and warm feeling at the table. Table decorations can be low or tall depending on the look you'd like to achieve at the reception hall.