Question 1

What floral centrepieces would best suit a  rustic-themed wedding?

Accepted Answer

Why not use wood slices stacked on top of each other to give the tables a rustic feel? These can then be decorated with woodland-themed flowers and foliage such as anemones, foxgloves, Solomon's seal, narcissi, ferns and ivy. Depending on the time of year, you could even use plants and flowering blubs tucked into the display. Moss can be utilised to hide pots and soil, and by incorporating pine cones, bark pieces, decorative twigs or lichen you can create a lovely textured scene that really looks the part. Small log slices can be used on guest tables with bigger versions stacked up around the venue framing the doors or placed in a bare corner.

Question 2

Faux or fresh flowers, which should I opt for and why?

Accepted Answer

Considering the beauty and opulence flowers add to your wedding day, they're a huge element of the planning process. So, along with colour and design, it's not surprising you've found yourself asking about the benefits of fresh versus faux. There's no denying that fresh blooms are beautiful. Their myriad forms, colours and scent cannot be truly replicated by their artificial counterparts. However, there are a few points to consider before you make the final decision. - Cost. Fresh flowers are becoming more expensive due to global supply issues and uncertain weather patterns. If you'd like the wow factor, but lack the budget, faux centrepieces can be hired at a fraction of the cost. - Seasonality. Many favourite wedding varieties such as peonies have a very limited season. By opting for faux flowers you can choose the ones you love whatever the time of year. - Allergies. If you or your partner suffer from hay fever, faux is the way to go. - Quality and freshness. Good quality faux blooms can look and feel very natural as quality has improved greatly over the years. In fact, it's unlikely your guests will be able to tell the difference. However, their fresh equivalents can wilt in the heat and are susceptible to bruising. - Weight. Artificial flowers are much lighter than fresh and don't require a water source making them ideal for garlands, arches and hanging installations. - Keepsakes. Your faux bridal bouquet can be treasured forever. Finally... why not mix and match? My recommendation would be to have a fresh flower bouquet with faux table centres and décor – the best of both worlds.

Question 3

I had my heart set on having peonies in my bouquet, but at the time we're getting married they won't be in season. What can you suggest as alternatives that will have a similar look and impact?

Accepted Answer

As soon as peonies go out of season the input of beautiful garden roses is absolutely perfect. There are so many different varieties and the wonderful Alexandra Farms offers a wide selection of colour palettes and shapes, with many of the roses beautifully scented too. In fact, there's such a wide range that roses can be used according to any season. Quite a few varieties do have a similar look to peonies and they last for a long time since they arrive in a tight bud before opening fully to show you how gorgeous they are just in time for your big day with glorious layers of colours, textures and scents unlike any other. Also boasting a similar cup shape to peonies, along with an irresistible fragrance, they make a showstopping focal point in your bouquet. With ample charm, these roses can also transform a space and create the most enchanting ambience, weaving their magic throughout your special day.

Question 4

How can we reflect the wonderful feel of springtime in our wedding flowers?

Accepted Answer

You can evoke the carefree airy feeling of the season in your wedding flowers whatever your chosen style. It's more of a mood than a theme. Spring blooms are a magical mix of delicate textures, sublime colours and symbolism. For example, tulips represent perfect love. In addition to beauty, spring flowers have an abundance of scent, which you'll forever remember. Think about choosing flower varieties that are available only during the spring. There are more than you think with plenty of unusual options too such as fritillaria, muscari and jasmine. Make the most of the seasonality as this is when they'll be in prime condition, better value for money and more sustainable. For the pure essence of spring, choose vibrant colours such as crisp white, sunny yellow, zingy lime green and sky blue. Alternatively, embrace delicate pastel shades of palest pink, lilac and peach for a gentle romantic feel. Think light textured foliage, delicate branches of blossom, mimosa and trailing jasmine. There's a spring answer to any style. A wrap of pure white tulips for a classic look, to a riot of colour and texture using lilac, ranunculus, clematis and anemone for a boho feel. Why not incorporate planted spring bulbs into your table centres, tucked into wooden crates or vintage glassware? Guests can take these home at the end of the eventing to plant in their own gardens and remember your day.

Question 5

We're dreaming of a fabulous winter wedding. What can you suggest for our flowers?

Accepted Answer

For me, winter weddings come at such an enchanting time of year. The season conjures up images of warmth, with jewel-toned hues, rich textures and luxurious fabrics. Rich, opulent, deep red roses and amaryllis flowers really evoke images of winter for me. I'd team these with icy colours and frosted foliage. Eucalyptus, succulents, hypernicum berries and ranunculi are beautiful at this time of year too. Textures can be brought into play through your tablescapes. Think feasting tables laden with flowers mixed with furs, velvets and luxurious fabrics. Pheasant feathers bring a touch of the countryside rustic look to the heart of Kent. Add a touch of copper, red and green for a real wintry-warm vibe. Candles add a touch of warmth and light when it's cold outside, and dark afternoons at venues with a roaring log fire mean you can cosy up with those closest to you.  I love incorporating seasonality into wedding themes, by looking at the natural beauty surrounding us. Think pinecones and moss to add a natural element to your day, bringing the outside in.

Question 6

I love the look of flower crowns, but I'm worried it may be too much against my heavily embellished dress. Do you have any idea how I could wear one without overdoing it?

Accepted Answer

Many brides are exchanging a traditional veil or jewelled headpiece for a flower crown, as a finishing touch to their wedding look. One of the greatest things about these is just how versatile they can be. Your florist should be able to create a crown to complement your dress. So, I'd suggest finding a style that's quintessentially you. Consider using beautifully elegant foliage with a few simple white flowers - this would look stunning with your embellished gown. The charm of flower crowns could also follow through to your bridal party, even to the smallest of flowergirls. Dried and preserved greens are also a lovely addition, and are totally on trend. But remember, whatever flowers you use they need to be sturdy and less thirsty varieties.

Question 7

How can we be more eco-conscious when it comes to our wedding flowers?

Accepted Answer

When planning your wedding florals you'll be thinking of that wow factor to achieve a stunning impact to be remembered. Now, more than ever, you can work with your florist to ensure ecological impact is considered and reduced. Your florist can source from local growers to ensure the freshest seasonal flowers. Also, think about how you can reuse blooms from ceremony to reception. This not only stretches your budget, but is a clever way to repurpose your arrangements. For example, chair ends can be hung in small reusable glass vases, then placed on reception tables, or within greenery garlands. Ceremony table décor can be designed to double up for the top table design. It's also a nice idea to gift all of your floral centrepieces and garlands to your guests and the end of the day. They go on to decorate homes and be enjoyed for weeks to follow. So, when planning your special day, everything can be done with eco-conscious thinking and can be enjoyed way beyond.

Question 8

We're going for a relaxed bohemian theme for our wedding, but we don't know where to start with our flowers – what would you suggest?

Accepted Answer

I'd recommend something really natural, rustic and textured, keeping it very free flowing and open to suit your surroundings. However, something a little different and unusual will work beautifully for the bohemian style too. Keep the colour palette simple to avoid clashes, but opt for an eye-catching design. Adding in extra touches such as pheasant feathers, gives an edge to any floral feature, making it completely bespoke to you. This stunning motif can be replicated in a variety of ways with different colours to achieve the exact look you're after.

FAQs and expert advice about flowers & bouquets

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