Choosing a Bride's Bouquet, getting it right

The Bride's Bouquet

Over the centuries certain flowers have acquired meanings. Some brides take account of the meanings of flowers when deciding which blooms to include in their bouquet. A list of flowers with their meanings is given below:

Colours for a bridal bouquet

In the past the bride's bouquet was composed of white flowers to symbolise purity. Although some brides still choose to have a white bouquet, many choose colours which complement the bride and bridesmaids' dresses as well as the general colour scheme of the wedding.
 
When choosing flowers it is worth taking a sample of fabric from the bride's dress to the florist. This can be a great help when matching colours. This applies even if the bride has a white wedding dress and wants a white bouquet because whites can vary in their shade and intensity.

Shapes of bridal bouquets

There are several classic shapes of bouquet and good florists have a selection of photographs to demonstrate them. The florist should also be able to advise on which flowers match the chosen shape bearing in mind the colour scheme and seasonal availability.
 
The most popular designs include the "trailing waterfall bouquet" shape and the round "posy" of tightly arranged flowers.
The "trailing waterfall" shape draws the eye from top to bottom and can therefore have a slimming effect. However, it can overshadow a petite bride if its too big. The cascading shape of bouquet best complements a full length skirt. It can result in an unbalanced look with shorter skirt lengths.
 
The posy style of bouquet draws attention to the middle of the body. It may not be suitable for brides not wishing to draw attention to their hips and also for very tall brides.
The bouquet is held just below waist level. If this is likely to obscure a feature of the dress, which the bride particularly wishes to be seen, then she can choose a bouquet which lies across the arm.
 
As a general rule large bouquets suit formal, long dresses while smaller bouquets or even a single bloom are more in proportion with a knee-length dress.
The bouquet ribbons are tied at the ends into knots to symbolise unity.

Preserving the Brides Bouquet

There are several ways of preserving the bouquet as a souvenir.
 
A Fresh bouquet can be dried and kept whole or dismantled and a collage made from the dried, pressed flowers.
 
A Silk Bouquet can be dismantled and the flowers used in another arrangement. Very popular is having them arranged as a "Collage Picture", usually around a photograph of the Bride and Groom - ideal keepsake or a present for Parents and/or Grandparents.

Alternatives to Floral Bouquets

Instead of a bouquet the Bride, or Bridesmaids may choose to carry……

• bible  
• prayer book 
• parasol  
• fan 
• dorothy bag 
• basket 
• hoop  
• soft toy 

Headresses, Veils and Fascinators, oh my!

Some brides choose to wear floral headdresses. A well chosen headdress can create a spectacular effect.
 
Particularly popular, these days, are Feather Fascinators or Tiaras
 
Fresh Flowers by their nature are delicate and care must be taken not to disturb them through the day as this can spoil their effect. Additionally, they may wilt, particularly if it likely to be a hot day. One definite solution to this problem is to choose a headdress of flowers made of silk. These will look good all day and can be kept as a memento of the day.
 
The bridesmaids may also wear floral headdresses or incorporate flowers into their hair style.