Are you planning your wedding and feeling stuck on which bridal bouquet to carry on your big day? Don’t stress - this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, with expert advice from an experienced Melbourne wedding florist.
Why the Bridal Bouquet Matters
Did you know your bridal bouquet is the single most important flower arrangement on your wedding day? You might be able to skip venue flowers, church flowers, or ceremony arrangements, but the bouquet is non-negotiable. It’s a central fixture in your ceremony, one you should love just as much as your gown.
The Tradition Behind Carrying a Bouquet
The bridal bouquet tradition dates back to the Roman Empire, where flowers symbolised new beginnings, fidelity, and fertility. Brides would carry fragrant blooms to ward off evil spirits, bad luck, and illness. Today, walking down the aisle without a bouquet would feel incomplete, plus, it gives your hands something to hold during those nervous steps.
How to Choose Your Perfect Bridal Bouquet
Finding the right bridal bouquet can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing family opinions. But remember always remember that your wedding day should reflect you.
Here are some key steps to help:
1. Decide on Favourite Flowers or Colours
If you adore whites and greens, lean into those timeless neutrals. If you love vibrant colours, don’t hold back. Flowers are a simple yet elegant way to add colour without overwhelming your entire wedding look. Aim for two or three colours with textured foliage to avoid looking too busy.
2. Identify Flowers You Don’t Like
Be clear about what doesn’t appeal to you. For example, if you dislike natives or suffer from allergies, write this down and tell your florist. This ensures your Melbourne wedding florist designs a bouquet you’ll truly love and won’t react to on the day.
3. Explore Bouquet Styles and Shapes
Popular styles right now include:
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Long-stemmed reflexed roses in abundance
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Cascading stems of phalaenopsis orchids
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Classic domes of seasonal white and green flowers
Keeping it simple with one flower in mass is timeless and elegant.
Matching Your Bouquet to Your Gown
Your bridal bouquet should complement your gown in style, shape, and colour. Always consider the designer and fabric when making your choice. Talk with your florist as they’ll offer expert advice to ensure your bouquet enhances, not clashes with, your gown.
Seasonal Blooms for Your Wedding
Image: Sayher Heffernan
Seasonality plays a huge role in wedding flowers. For example, peonies in November bring lush texture and romance, while autumn tones can create warmth. Choosing flowers in season ensures better quality, availability, and cost-effectiveness.
If you dream of a particular bloom, check when it’s available and plan accordingly, or be open to a beautiful plan B.
Using Pinterest & Inspiration Boards Wisely
Pinterest and Instagram are fantastic tools for gathering inspiration, but keep it simple. Limit your mood board to six images with a consistent style and palette. Too many references can cause confusion and overwhelm.
Choosing the Right Melbourne Wedding Florist
1. Trust Your Instincts
If you’re drawn to the work of a particular florist, reach out to them. Every florist has their own style and quality standard. Choosing one whose portfolio resonates with you increases the likelihood you’ll love your bouquet.
2. Shortlist Carefully
Meet with only two or three florists. More than that becomes time-consuming. Create a shortlist, request quotes, and if budgets don’t align, talk with them. Most experienced florists will work with you to adjust the design to suit.
3. Professional Courtesy
If a florist sends you a quote, always respond. Whether you proceed or not, reply with professionalism, as it sets the tone for a respectful working relationship.
Why Experience Matters
Image: Enchanted Wedding Photography
Your wedding day deserves the expertise of a florist who understands weddings, not just flowers. A professional Melbourne wedding florist with decades of experience knows how to design with precision, handle logistics, and avoid disasters.
Avoid entrusting flowers to inexperienced florists or stylists, as this can compromise the look and feel of your entire day.
Final Thoughts: Make It Your Day
Above all, remember that this is your wedding and is YOUR day. While family and friends may share opinions, your bridal bouquet should reflect your style, your story, and your love.
If you’d like expert guidance, we’d love to help. Reach out anytime via our Wedding Flowers Consultations Page to book a complimentary phone consultation.
Kate x
