The last two weeks of flower facts focused on bouquets. This week I want to talk about what's going on with the flowers around the rest of your wedding and introduce you to some floral arrangements outside the bouquet.
Boutonniere:
A single bloom or bud (or several small buds) attached to the left lapel of the jacket. Boutonnieres can be worn by grooms, attendants, ushers, and the bride and groom's fathers.
Candelabra:
A floral centerpiece created at the base, neck, or top of a multi-armed candelabra. Such a centerpiece is usually touched with flowing greens or ribbons, depending on the wedding's style. Beading hanging off the candleabra is really popular as well.
Corsage:
A single bloom (or small cluster of blooms) arranged against a lace or tulle doily and/or accented with ribbon. Corsages come in pin-on, wrist, and hand-held styles and are typically worn by mothers and grandmothers. Orchids and gardenias are popular choices, but there are so many options now that are so much fun!
Dais:
The centerpiece at the head table (where bride and groom are seated), which drapes to the front of the table for visual effect. I guess people still do this, but I haven’t seen it in a while. It sort of reminds me of casket flowers.
Garland:
Elaborately woven rope or strand arrangement, typically used to adorn pews and doorways. A garland can also be paraded down the aisle by two or three little ones.
Chuppah:
A wedding canopy decorated with flowers that is an integral part of the traditional Jewish ceremony.
Ikebana:
Japanese-style flower arrangements that are aesthetically in unison with space, size, earth, and air.
Topiary:
Flowers or foliage trimmed into geometric shapes, often resembling miniature trees or animals.
Trellis:
A woven wooden frame used as a screen or support for climbing plants and flowers.
Wreath:
A ring of flowers or other decorative materials that can function as centerpiece, headpiece, or door hanger.
So many uses for flowers, it's hard to know where to begin. Make sure you have a florist you trust, but it's good to go in armed with some of your own knowledge.
Did you use flowers in a unique way at your wedding? Would love to hear some of your amazing floral features!
Stay savvy!
Shannon