We wed because we feel, we love, and are driven by deep affections to unionise with our significant other in a celebration that brings family and friends together. Each and every element of a wedding has the ability to encompass this emotion, from the wedding vows, the music, the dress, right down to the stationery and bomboniere choices.

A flower has the power to reveal an array of emotions, a perfect feature to take advantage of if you’re in the midst of planning a wedding. Your flower choices give you the chance to exclaim ‘this is who we are!’ so it’s important to do your research. You’ll want to look down at your bouquet as you walk the aisle, or gaze upon your centrepieces, and feel a sense of connection, a sense of ‘you-ness’, when you do. Read ahead to gain an insight from established floral designers on how you can achieve an unforgettable, bespoke wedding bouquet.

Allegorical Arrangements

Flowers have held symbolic meaning throughout all of history, not just exclusively to weddings but in various ceremonies, texts, works of art and literature across the world. It’s thus no surprise that incorporating flowers into weddings has been a longstanding tradition, one that dates back to ancient times where brides would carry bundles of wheat to symbolise their fertility.

Since then, bundles have turned to bouquets and the meanings have evolved, moving beyond those more archaic values of childbearing and focusing on the couple and their love. But the importance of including nuance in your blooms lives on if you let it. Wallington and Mansfield understand that this isn’t always relevant for modern couples now. “We still like to uphold some traditions and flowers do add grace and beauty to both the ceremony and the reception… flowers are to us a huge component of a wedding.”

Personal Perennials

They don’t call it ‘your special day’ for no reason. This is the time to celebrate you and your partner, both as individuals and as a couple. Increasingly, people are opting for a more personalised approach rather than keeping to strict traditions, and floral arrangements are no exception. To find out which flowers have particular connotations, and which are best for you, explore the web or consult with a professional florist. “During the Victorian times ‘The Language of Flowers’ was developed and different blooms conveyed different meanings. For example, Lily of the Valley symbolises happiness and roses are a symbol of love and romance,” the floral designers explain.

However, there is no harm in listening to your heart either. “Couples can choose particular flowers that may represent something special in their relationship. They [might] want to incorporate the first flowers that they gave each other or add in any flowers that bring special memories from their childhood.” You could also include a few that match the flowers from your parents’ wedding, or a passed relative’s favourite flower to keep them close and fill their empty place. Just as importantly, communicate with your florist and let them know the flowers you’re definitely not a fan of, so your bouquet is full of only the blooms you love.

As is with everything, there are trends to guide us and give inspiration. “The most popular colour schemes would be the use of blush and nude and cappuccino and of course the white colour scheme is still popular,” Mansfield and Wallington note. Following these trends won’t doom you to a generic wedding. If you want to stay on-trend but stray a little to your own individual tastes, consider going with a flower that has personal significance but in a current colour.