FLOWERS
  by Flowers and Angels
   
  Once you have chosen a theme for your wedding, all the other arrangements
  will fall into place with much more ease.
   
  With flowers, anything is possible. Use your imagination – think carefully
  about the mood or atmosphere you want to create and allow your
  personality, hobbies and personal taste to guide your choice.
   
  Maintain the same theme throughout the wedding – this can save you a lot
  of money. Make sure that the theme you choose appeals to all the senses
  and will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
   
  Choosing your favourite flower as the focal point is a good place to start your
  planning.
   
  PERSONAL BOUQUETS
  The bride’s bouquet
  The bride’s bouquet should be extra special and not just something that was
  thrown together in a rush. Your secondary flowers and greens must harmonise
  with your focal flower and should emphasise it or contrast with it to achieve a
  more dramatic effect.
   
  There are many, many flowers to choose from, so it is important to plan the
  bouquet’s style. Check that the flowers do not wilt easily and are hardy,
  because they will be handled a lot and need to look fresh throughout the
  ceremony, photographs and reception.
   
  Trail: a loose, draped arrangement that can be narrow or wide, but must
  hang down evenly from top to bottom.
   
  Teardrop: a posy effect at the top that tapers towards the bottom in the
  shape of an inverted teardrop.
   
  Posy: a structured bunch of flowers in which flowers are grouped in a
  specific order.
   
  Sheaf: a bunch of flowers that are tied together; it rests on the bride’s
  forearm and droops down over her arm.
   
  Hand-tied bouquet: flowers that are tied together without wiring the stems
  and the stems of which are visible.
   
  The retinue’s bouquets
  The retinue’s bouquets must match that of the bride in terms of the style and
  colour to ensure a strong visual impact. These bouquets must also be pretty,
  but should not compete with the bride’s bouquet.
  The following practical aspects should be taken into account in choosing
  bouquets:
   
 
   
   
   
   
  Because the bridesmaid usually has to help the bride with her veil or help
  the flower girls, a small wrist corsage would be a better choice, so that she
  will have her hands free.
  Little pages and flower girls can carry a soft toy with a little posy pinned to it.
  Such a toy keeps the children busy and makes them feel more secure.
  A basket with pretty flowers that can be put down is also a good choice.
   
  Corsages and buttonholes
  Corsages, buttonholes and colourful flowers in the hair are an important part
  of the bridal tradition, and although many brides believe that they can cut
  costs on these items, it is worthwhile not to skimp on these items.
   
  Buttonholes for the groom, best man, fathers, grandfathers and godfathers
  are traditionally used to identify the bridal party. There are no fixed rules for
  buttonholes, but the flower that is chosen must match the bouquets carried
  by the bridal retinue – roses are by far the most popular choice. A buttonhole
  is always worn on the left lapel.
   
  The mothers, grandmothers and godmothers traditionally wear corsages. It is
  very important not to exclude or forget anyone (such as a stepmother) – make
  sure that everyone is treated in exactly the same way. Corsages are worn on
  the right shoulder (not too low down) and should preferably be wired and
  finished with a ribbon so that the flowers will not wilt. We found that orchids
  are the most popular, because of their exotic appeal and weight.
   
  Flowers in the hair
  The flowers in her hair should complement the bride’s appearance, so the
  bride should discuss this with her hairdresser so that the hairdresser knows
  what type of flower(s) the bride plans to use and can plan accordingly.
   
  Floral arrangements for the chapel and reception
  There is so much you can do to promote the right ambiance at the reception
  – from the smallest detail to something more spectacular. Beware of small
  fiddly things that disappear into the background; nobody sees them and they
  cost a fortune. Rather use one huge arrangement at the entrance to welcome
  your guests and create a festive atmosphere.
   
  Table arrangements are among the most important decorations at a
  reception. Make sure that they match the theme and general mood, and that
  they do not obstruct the line of vision between you and the guests.
   
  Remember, the more information you give your coordinator or florist, the
  more certain you can be that you will get what you want.
   
  Your florist must also know what your budget is – a good florist knows how to
  plan to meet your needs without exceeding the budget.