Flowers make any event more elegant and festive, and that’s particularly true for weddings. Whether your taste runs to just-picked sunflowers or elaborate bouquets of roses, the fresh and pretty petals remind the bride, groom and guests of the delicate and beautiful bond between the couple.
That’s the easy part. What’s often harder is choosing the right flowers when there are so many that tempt the senses. With many of you planning or helping to plan weddings, I checked in with Atlanta-based florist Amber Schoepp, who runs Flower Bar, http://www.flowerbar.org/, for advice on what to think about when meeting with a florist for your big day.
Photo courtesy of Atlanta-based florist Amber Schoepp of Flower Bar.
Color
It will be better on the budget if you stick to what's in season. White is always available and always beautiful for weddings, but if you want to add color, here are some suggestions for each season.
Spring: light pinks, purples, yellows, blues
Summer: dark pinks, dark purples, reds, peaches
Fall: oranges, greens, peaches, purples
Winter: reds, greens, yellows, browns
Roses vs. No Roses
Most brides want (or don't mind) roses within the mix. An all-rose bridal bouquet would cost probably half of what it would using most other flowers. The key is to use a good florist who will condition the rose over several days so that it is at a perfect full bloom. Rose buds are not as petally and romantic. One other tip about roses is to use a color palette. Combine dark and light oranges with peaches, or a combination of three of four shades of pink.
White flowers are always in season and always beautiful at weddings. Pale pink adds a subtle splash of color.
Table Centerpieces
One of the most important items on your list that will make or break your flower budget, will be your table centerpieces. Most Flower Bar table centerpieces range between $45-$85 per table for low arrangements, and $85-$125+ for tall centerpieces.
There are plenty of ways to substitute different containers or different flowers to get your look on a budget, just ask your florist for suggestions. Flower Bar also rents vases and containers to lower your cost. Also consider whether or not you want your guests to take home your arrangements.
Ceremony Arrangements
Most couples have two or more large ceremony arrangements for the exchanging of vows. Re-purpose those pieces as buffet centerpieces or entryway arrangements, or DJ decor at the reception. Flower Bar also rents urns and columns, or candelabras for your ceremony flowers. We'll move them to your reception if it is in a different location than the ceremony.
To contact Amber directly, call 404-641-0590 or email: flowerbar@gmail.com. And be sure to read her blog at: www.atlantaflowerbar.blogspot.com.
