Flowers
IT is very easy for brides to put decisions about flowers to the
back of their minds. But most brides don't realise that flowers
are one of the most important considerations of their wedding day,
because in the church they introduce the wedding day colour theme
and create a festive atmosphere for the ceremony. The church is
also where your guests first congregate and where first impressions
are created.
The colour of your ceremony flowers is very important, as dark
flowers and dark bridesmaids dresses can considerably darken an
old church and make it appear gloomy, whereas bright, colourful
flowers can lighten the same church. Ensure you give your flowers
ample consideration and discuss your ceremony flower requirements
with your florist.
Most churches supply their own altar flowers although they are
often not compatible with your flower or colour theme, so consider
providing your own. It is standard practice to place a floral arrangement
on either side of the altar or communion rail, a large arrangement
on the floor in front of the altar table and one in front of the
lectern or pulpit. Also consider greeting your guests with a large
urn or flower arrangement at the entrance of the church.
Floral decorations that adorn the end of each pew are a lovely
tradition. Depending on the size of the church and the number of
guests, it is standard practice to decorate enough pew ends to seat
all guests, or at least every second pew. Consider placing a small
spray of flowers that match the bride's bouquet on each pew end
or tie a single white rose stem with elaborate foliage in a swathe
of tulle or ribbon.
Most florists will create the floral arrangements and place them
at the church either the night before or on the morning of the wedding.
Alternatively the floral arrangements can be delivered to your home
and a friend or relative can place them at the ceremony.
Most churches have their own flower policy. Some churches provide
their own floral decorations and ask you to pay a fee for the use
of them on your wedding day. Other churches allow you to supply
your own flowers and may even assist you by providing contact details
of other couples marrying on the same day so you can share flower
costs. If possible, talk to your church minister and find out what
the church policy is before your appointment with your florist.
Once you have picked the church flowers you need to decide what
flowers you and the bridesmaids will be carrying. Hand tied posies
and bouquets of flowers are the most popular but many brides also
choose just to hold one striking stem or opt for a daring option
with ornamental grasses and even cabbages!
Traditional carnations and roses are being replaced with poppies,
orchids, forget-me-nots, sweetpeas and lilies. Trailing showers
can then be added with carefully placed beargrass.
Stunningly simple creations can also be made by using just one
type of flower - try a red rose pomander, a posy of white anemones
or a simple tulip bouquet (which is both cost effective and striking).
For little bridesmaids choose something that is light and easy to
carry, or even substitute a bouquet with a sweet teddy bear or dinky
beaded handbag.
Buttonholes can also be worn by guests, although this is no longer
a must. Usually the colours and type of flowers used match those
carried by the bride, with the groom wearing a large and bolder
version.
On the day ensure your flowers stay looking fresh by keeping them
in a cool place so they don't wilt before the ceremony. Ideally
the bouquet will have been handtied or wired that morning and should
last the day fresh as a daisy without needing more water.
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