Wedding Bouquets

Here's a guide to help you choose the perfect bouquet  for your wedding. There are many criteria that the flowers should meet and of course, they need to match the bride's wedding gown,  as well as the bridesmaids dresses  and the flowers  used for decorating the ceremony,  like centerpieces,  altar arrangements,  pew markers,  and garlands.  Finally, they must coordinate with the corsages  and boutonnieres  worn by the bridal party.

All of the flowers in a wedding should blend together in harmony. Check out some bridal magazines  for more tips and ideas.

Nosegays  are usually round and bushy and can be of many different sizes. Greens and berries are usually intertwined, as well. This type of bouquet is great for everyone, just make sure to choose the size and color accordingly.	These bouquets  are long stemmed flowers meant to be cradled in the arms like a pageant winner would. A downside is that these can be awkward to hold. These are great for taller girls, but for ladies on the short side, these are way too much.	Long and flowing cascade bouquets  feature flowers of different lengths hanging from the bouquets to create the illusion of a waterfall-like cascade. This bouquet will actually slim you down, since its streamlined appearance creates a long and leaner shape.

These are usually made of only flowers and few greens, composed to make a perfect ball shape. A smaller round bouquet  flatter everyone, and is especially great for smaller girls since it won't overpower them. Anyone carrying this bouquet with round hips will just make then look rounder.	Hanging balls are filled with flowers to create a ball effect. Since a pomander  is meant to hang at the wrist, its not a great idea for the bride who traditionally carries her bouquet. The small size makes this a great choice for younger flower girls.	A hand-tied  bouquet is less formal and more asymmetrical. The loose bundle of hand tied flowers is beautiful without being stuffy. These are perfect for an earthy outdoor wedding. Would complement a taller woman better since these are generally on the longer side.

Bouquet Tips

• Never get a bouquet that is too flashy and outshines the bride.
• The bridal party bouquets should be similar to the bride's while still complementing the color of their dresses.
• If you don't want to spend the money on pricey fresh flowers, silk flowers are a great alternative.
• Another cost-cutting strategy: have the bridesmaids carry a single flower instead of an entire bouquet.
• Hair pieces and wreaths can also be a nice matching touch.

Match The Style To Your Personality

Classic
A classic white bouquet is gorgeous and understated. The perfect compliment to a nice set of pearls.	Pale orange or pink calla lilies  adds just the right splash of color for a traditionally beautiful look.

Romantic
Pinks with contrasting whites and greens are perfect colors for the romantic type of bride.	Perfect peonies  or hydrangeas  tightly packed together will look amazing against a white dress.

Casual and Natural
A bright sunny bouquet of sunflowers,  daffodils,  or daisies  is earthy, casual, and fun. Consider adding some wheat or berries for an even more ethereal touch.	Tulips  are simple, yet sure to make a splash. A loosely bundled bunch of lilacs  gives the same laid-back effect.

Unique
Orchids  are exotic and beautiful flowers that can give your bouquet a different spin. Also, try mixing two species together that you wouldn't normally think of, like roses  and calla lilies  or cosmos  and sweet peas.	A bouquet of uniquely shaped dahlias  will be sure to surprise anyone. Bright colors make the ultimate statement.

Related Links

Wedding Flowers
How to Hire a Florist
Ceremony Decorations 
Reception Decorations