How to Choose Flowers for Wedding Floral Arrangements

From the dress to the vows to the reception site, you want every detail of your wedding to exude perfection, beauty and elegance. The flower arrangements, floral centerpieces and corsages are no exception. Before making your choice, consider factors to ensure you'll get the look, longevity and price you desire.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider colors that will coordinate with the central hues of the bridesmaids' gowns, mothers' dresses, reception site decor and other decorations. Try tone-on-tone, monochromatic arrangements to add color without overpowering. For a formal approach that also simplifies selection, stick with all white or ivory-colored flowers.

2. Select flower varieties that suit the tone of your wedding. While roses offer a formal and traditional feel, for example, daisies appear more casual and carefree.

3. Consult a local florist to determine which blooms will be in season. If you have your heart set on a specific type of flower, you'll probably be able to get it despite the time of year, but seasonal flowers may cost less and last longer.

4. Find blooms that will stand up throughout the lengthy event. Delicate varieties or flowers picked from your garden, for example, may begin to wilt before you've said your vows.

Tips & Warnings

• If the flower selection is completely stressing you out, hire a florist to make the decisions for you. Be sure to ask for references, photos of past work and the assurance that they'll stick to your budget before signing a contract.
• When selecting the flower to serve as the groom's and groomsmen's boutonnières, choose one of the varieties used in the bridal bouquet for a coordinated look.