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The Floral Arrangement
Flowers have been associated with weddings since
the beginning of time- for their lively,
colorful beauty, their fragrance (thought in
earlier times to have the ability to ward off
evil, or at the very least, evil smells), or as
a symbol of purity and fertility. Not only are
flowers fraught with all this symbolic history,
but they are the perfect, breathtakingly
romantic backdrop to your nuptial celebration.
Whether you select flowers for their personal
significance, fragrance, color, or theme, they
will provide the perfect touch to your big day.
In fact, the majority of your decorating budget
will most likely go toward floral arrangements.
It's possible that you already know the exact
type of flowers you want at your wedding. Or
perhaps you want to consider all the options
available to you- and there are many. Either
way, here are a few things to keep in mind as
you choose your flowers.
Some flowers tire more easily than others.
Consult with your florist and try to avoid those
that are the quickest to wilt, especially in
warm temperatures or direct sun. If you're
absolutely set on these types of fragile flowers
for your wedding, use them in small doses where
their beauty will not fade. For the balance,
select blooms with staying power, those that
will outlast the final couple on the dance floor
and keep looking good the following morning,
especially if you're planning a morning-after
brunch or a weekend wedding.
Pick a color, any color. One that coordinates,
contrasts, or blends, whichever you choose. Pale
pastels, brilliant jewel tones, rich, deep-hued
colors, or the clean pureness of white.
Coordinate with your wedding colors and theme
for a breathtaking effect. And don't forget
greenery, which gives a rich, lush feel without
breaking your budget.
One of flower's greatest assets can also be
somewhat of a liability if not thoroughly
thought out. Wildly fragrant blossoms such as
gardenia, jasmine, or freesia, which are
absolutely lovely for bouquets, are probably not
the best choice for centerpieces at the dining
tables. Their scents can overwhelm if they're
not used judiciously. Also, keep in mind that
some strong scented flowers can stir up
allergies or other reactions in your guests. In
those cases, the softer, more delicately scented
varieties will be a better choice.
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It's best to go with flowers that are in the
season, for freshness, logistics, and cost
savings. If you're dead set on peonies for your
wedding, plan your celebration during the six to
eight week a year that peonies are available.
Make sure to check the availability of other
flowers that may have limited availability.
While it's true that in this day and age you can
probably get anything you want, It's equally
true that it will cost you.
While the traditional wedding flower classics
are beautiful, consider incorporating another
element into the arrangements to give your own
individual stamp. It can be as whimsical as a
scattering of feathers, or strategically placed
crystals, or as elegant as a unique satin ribbon
embroidered with gold threads and pearls.
Whatever flower you select, consider taking it
just a step further to make them uniquely your
own.
Here's a list of some popular wedding flowers
and their meanings: -
Apple blossoms - good fortune
Bluebells - constancy
Blue Violets - faithfulness
Carnations - distinctions
Forget-me-nots - true love
Gardenias - joy
Lilies - purity and innocence
Lilies of the valley - happiness
Orange blossoms - purity and fertility
Orchids - beauty
Roses - love
Stephanotis - marital harmony
Tulips - love and passion
White daisies - innocence |
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