Your Wedding Flower Checklist
The Big Guide to Who Needs Flowers at a Wedding
Before diving into the world of wedding flowers and speaking with a florist, there are some essential things to have in order.
- First and foremost, gather inspiration! Look for photos of stunning wedding arrangements and captivating color schemes from bridal magazines, favorite wedding websites, and Pinterest. And remember to explore the photo gallery on this site for some breathtaking ideas.
- Next, know which flowers you may want. Determine who in your wedding celebration might wear or carry flowers. Also, explore where you wish to have flowers in your ceremony and reception. Our article below, Who Gets Flowers at a Wedding, is a great place to start.
- Then, to help you stay organized and ensure you cover all the details, download our Wedding Flower Checklist and bring it with you when you talk to your wedding florist.
So, gather your ideas and let the checklist guide you toward creating a dreamy floral ensemble for your unforgettable day.
Don’t miss our free Wedding Flower Checklist
Our comprehensive checklist will help you plan and organize all the flowers you need on your big day.
It’s the perfect tool for both traditional and modern weddings.
Who Gets Flowers at a Wedding
The first thing most people think of when you say “wedding flowers” is the bride’s bouquet. Ceremony flowers can be as simple as that, but most people want flowers for all wedding party members. Plus, they want decorations for the wedding venue and reception location.
When planning your wedding floral, think about these groups:
From there, explore your options in each group. Make a list of who in your celebration should have flowers. Also, think about where you would like floral arrangements or accents in your ceremony and reception decor.
A Note on Modern Weddings
In modern weddings, traditional roles are shifting. Couples have more freedom to choose what works for them regarding wedding party members. For example, a bride might prefer her best male friend to stand up on her side of the aisle. She can ask him to be an attendant instead of having traditional bridesmaids or groomsmen.
Additionally, couples can choose to have a Maid of Honor instead of a Best Man or a flower boy instead of a flower girl. Ultimately, it’s up to the couple on how they want to structure their wedding and what special roles they would like their loved ones to fill.
Personal Flowers
Personal wedding flowers are arrangements carried or worn by members of the wedding party and honored guests. They are the perfect way to make the people who participate in your wedding feel special.
Bride’s or Celebrant’s Bouquet
Of the personal set, the bridal bouquet or wedding bouquet is arguably the most important floral arrangement of the wedding. It reflects the bride’s style and complements her wedding gown. Bridal flowers often feature classic blooms like roses, lilies, and orchids. But modern trends have given rise to a wide array of options. Think wildflowers, succulents, and unique greenery for a more contemporary twist.
Wedding Attendants, including the Maid or Matron of Honor
Bridesmaids bouquets are arrangements carried by the bride’s closest friends and family. They add elegance to the bridal party’s attire and symbolize their important roles in supporting the bride.
TIP: Don’t forget the Bouquet Toss
The tossing bouquet is a more petite wedding bouquet that the bride throws to a group of single (usually female) guests during the reception.
In many wedding traditions, it is thought that the person who catches the bouquet will be the next to get married. This ritual adds a fun and playful element to the marriage celebration.
Hair Flowers and Wreaths
Hair flowers or wreaths are a beautiful way to adorn the bride’s hair or that of her bridesmaids. These floral accessories can be delicate: a flower crown, a floral comb, or even individual blooms.
Bouquets or Corsages?
In addition to the bride and her attendants, other members of the wedding might carry a bouquet or a mini bouquet. However, corsages are a popular alternative.
Let’s take a look at who might need a bouquet or a corsage.
Mothers of the Celebrants – During the ceremony, the mothers of the couple getting married often carry small “mother’s bouquets.” These wedding flowers match the style and color of the bride’s bouquet.
Step-Mothers of the Celebrants – If step-mothers are involved in the ceremony, they can be honored with bouquets. They can be similar in style to the bridal bouquet or have slight variations.
Grandmothers of the Celebrants – Grandmothers play a significant role in many weddings. Honoring them with bouquets is a lovely gesture. These arrangements can be smaller and more delicate, incorporating their favorite colors.
Godmothers and Other Honored Females – If there are godmothers or other honored females at the wedding, present them with flowers. It’s a heartfelt way to show appreciation for their presence.
Remember, these extra bouquets or corsages are not mandatory. Yet they can be a thoughtful way to recognize and include important figures and family members.
Boutonnieres
In a wedding party, several members may wear boutonnieres – a small floral arrangement generally consisting of a single flower or a small cluster of blooms.
Groom or Celebrant – The groom usually wears a boutonniere that matches or complements the bride’s bouquet. It serves as a visual connection between the groom and the floral theme of the wedding.
Best Man or Person – The best man, who holds a significant role in supporting the groom, also wears a boutonniere. It coordinates with the groom’s and groomsmen’s flowers and distinguishes him as a key member of the event
Groomsmen or Attendants – Groomsmen and other attendants usually wear matching boutonnieres. They reflect the theme and help create a cohesive look.
Fathers of Celebrants – The fathers of the couple getting married traditionally wear boutonnieres.
Step-Fathers of Celebrants – If step-fathers are present, they may also be honored with flowers.
Grandfathers – Grandfathers of the celebrants can also wear boutonnieres to symbolize their role in the wedding.
Godfathers – If godfathers are involved in the couple’s lives, they can be recognized with flowers.
Handy Tip: Boutonnieres are traditionally worn on the left lapel of the suit jacket, just above the heart. Consider ordering a few extra pieces to ensure your boutonnieres look their best on the day. Having extras will allow for any last-minute changes and additions to the wedding party — like when that special family member from out-of-town shows up unexpectedly!
Other People Who May Wear a Corsage or Boutonniere
Other individuals involved in a wedding may also wear corsages or boutonnieres. Let’s explore who they are:
Flower child and Ring bearer – The flower child and the ring bearer can wear small corsages or boutonnieres. These floral touches add charm to the wedding procession.
Ushers – Ushers, responsible for escorting guests to their seats, can also wear boutonnieres.
Reader or Soloist – Readers or solo musicians who have roles in the wedding can be honored with corsages or boutonnieres.
Candle Lighter – In some wedding ceremonies, individuals light candles as a symbolic ritual. These people can wear flowers to honor their involvement.
Guestbook Attendant – The guestbook attendant can also wear a corsage or boutonniere. The attendant manages the wedding guestbook and ensures guests sign it. Flowers are a small gesture of appreciation and help them feel included in the wedding.
Including corsages or boutonnieres for these people makes them feel more connected to the wedding and adds a polished look to the event.
Wedding Ceremony Flowers
From the moment your guests arrive to the exchange of vows, wedding flowers helps create a captivating atmosphere for the wedding ceremony.
Entryway – Adorning the entrance with flower arrangements sets a welcoming tone and creates a memorable first impression.
Arches – The arch serves as a breathtaking focal point during your ceremony. Picture cascading blooms or lush greenery artfully woven into the arch, creating a picturesque backdrop for your vows.
Chuppah (or Huppah) – For those celebrating a Jewish wedding, the chuppah represents the shelter and protection you provide for one another. Enhance this sacred space with an array of flowers, fabric drapes, or meaningful symbols.
Flower Wall – Imagine a backdrop covered in cascading blooms, creating a whimsical and romantic setting for your ceremony. This enchanting feature adds elegance and serves as a stunning backdrop for photos.
Altar – The altar is where you exchange your vows and promises. Adorn this sacred space in a way that reflects your style and vision. The altar should reflect your unique love story, whether you prefer large floral arrangements or delicate blooms.
Pews – Don’t forget about where your guests will sit! Enhance the aisle with floral accents, adding a touch of elegance and charm. These floral touches will create an intimate and inviting atmosphere, whether small posies, delicate garlands, or bows.
Other Places – Throughout your ceremony space, sprinkle floral touches in unexpected places. From charming arrangements on windowsills to delicate petals strewn along the aisle, these small details add romance and whimsy to every corner.
Reception Flowers
From centerpieces that make your heart skip a beat to charming floral accents, these are the reception flowers you might choose for your wedding celebration.
Entryway – As your guests enter the reception, why not welcome them with a captivating floral display? Adorn the entryway with stunning arrangements, vases, or a floral arch. These eye-catching accents will set the tone, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Celebrants’ Chairs or Sweetheart Table – Make your seats of honor even more special by adorning the celebrants’ chairs with floral highlights. These touches will set the celebratory tone and make your seats stand out.
Guestbook Table – The guestbook table is where your loved ones leave their good wishes and words of love. Enhance this meaningful area with a charming arrangement or a delicate garland. Floral touches, like bud vases, can add beauty and create a focal point that draws your guests’ attention to this cherished tradition.
Gift Table – The gift table is where guests shower you with love and blessings. Decorate this table with a beautiful centerpiece or a cluster of smaller arrangements.
Centerpieces – Centerpieces are the stars of your reception tables. They captivate your guests’ attention throughout the evening.
Buffet Table – The buffet table is a culinary masterpiece. Floral decor can add a touch of freshness and beauty to this space and create a unified visual experience.
Cake Table – The cake table is a focal point, and flowers perfectly complement the sweet masterpiece. Adorn the table with delicate blooms, greenery, or a floral cascade. These floral accents will create an enchanting backdrop for your wedding cake.
Restrooms – Don’t overlook the bathrooms when it comes to decorations! Small floral arrangements or petals scattered on the countertops can create a luxurious ambiance in these often-overlooked spaces.
Other – Feel free to sprinkle floral features in unexpected places throughout your reception venue. From charming bud vase arrangements on cocktail tables to delicate blooms adorning the bar area, these floral details create a touch of romance and whimsy.
Reception flowers can transform your venue into a magical wonderland and create an immersive experience for you and your guests. So, let your imagination blossom.
Other Flowers to Consider
In addition to the ideas above, there are several other ways to incorporate flowers into a wedding. Let’s explore some of these options:
Petals – Petals are a classic wedding element. They can be scattered down the aisle by a flower child, creating a vibrant and fragrant pathway for the bride’s entrance. You can also use flower petals on tables, along with the aisle, or as part of the reception decor. They add a soft and romantic atmosphere to the entire venue.
Even more – There are various creative ways to incorporate flowers throughout the wedding. For example, they can decorate the wedding cake, create floral backdrops for photo booths, or even adorn the getaway car.
Elite Wedding & Events by Albuquerque Florist is Here to Help
We hope this comprehensive guide to who needs flowers at a wedding has provided you with valuable insights. And while the list of wedding flower options can be overwhelming, fear not! The floral pros at Elite Wedding & Events by Albuquerque Florist are here to guide you. Trust in their expertise to ensure your wedding blooms with perfection and beauty.