Fall Wedding Flowers

The fall wedding flowers you choose will help to create a beautiful wedding day that will live in the memories of everyone for many years to come. As with other times of the year, there is a huge variety of blooms, all of which will create a different mood and memory. There are also decisions to be made on where you will use flowers and what types of arrangements to use. It can all sound a little daunting. But it shouldn't be. A little knowledge can go a long way to taking the stress out of organizing your flowers.

Flowers not only provide color to your wedding, they can also help provide a continuous theme between the bridal party, the wedding location and the reception. With the use of different textures and scents, they can give your guests a magnificent sensory memory. Imagine someone being reminded of you walking down the aisle every time they they smell a certain scent.

Besides simply loving fall wedding flowers, one of the main reasons to choose flowers in season is the savings you will make. By selecting from what is naturally available you will avoid the additional costs of having flowers flown in or the premium charged when they are grown under special conditions to be available all year round. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that because you are choosing from fall wedding flowers that you are limited to a fall color palette. Oh no! You will be able to select from every color of the rainbow. Of course, there is absolutely nothing wrong with a fall palette. Taking your cue from nature, the colors are bold and deep and will perfectly complement many wedding themes.

The starting point for choosing wedding flowers should be your budget. There is no point going through the whole process and then finding that you'll be paying for your arrangements for the next 10 years. Part of this is figuring out how many arrangements you'll need.

Here are some of the flowers you may require:

The wedding party

• bride, matron of honor, bridesmaids, flower girls, groom, groomsmen, page boys, throw away bouquet

• mother and father of the bride, mother and father of the groom

The ceremony

• main arrangements

• pew decorations

• entrance

• arbor

The reception

• main arrangements

• bridal table

• guest tables

• cake

Color palettes

I have a starting list of fall wedding flowers here arranged by color, however if you're not comfortable choosing your own it is a good idea to speak with a good florist that specializes in weddings (I'll go into this a little later).

White

• Aster

• Shrub honeysuckle

• Chrysanthemum

Yellow

• Iris

• Winter Jasmine

• Mini calla

Pinks and Reds

• Aster

• Poinsettia

• Euphorbia

Blue and purple

• Iris (another favorite)

• Statice

• Hydrangea

Green

• Hydrangea

• Mini calla

• Chrysanthemum

• Viburnum

Greenery

• Mrs Robb’s Bonnet

• Mahonia

• Eucalyptus

Style

As you can see, all the color families are represented. After choosing a color theme that will complement the wedding party, it's time to consider what sort of "statement" you'd like your flowers to make. Are you after something bold and dramatic? Perhaps something simple or classic? Modern and structural? Callas for example are quite structural, but with very simple lines. White callas can make a very simple but bold statement, whereas deep orange/russet ones are quite dramatic. Gerberas are more casual and roses, depending on whether they're open or still in bud, can be ethereal or classic. Rather than a visual statement, some brides prefer a more personal statement, for example choosing the same flowers that their mother or grandmother carried. This is a very personal choice and there is no right or wrong way to go. Just remember that whatever decision you make, there will be fall flowers that fit the bill. The shape of your arrangements will also add to the statement you are making. This is often dictated by the flowers you choose.

Arrangements

When deciding on the arrangements for the ceremony, remember that one or two large arrangements will make more of an impact than several small ones. Try to place them where they will have the greatest impact, for example where the guests will be entering and near where the wedding party will be standing for the ceremony. Many brides also like to decorate the pews. Another option to save here is to only decorate the the front two or three pews. This is, after all, where all the attention will be directed most of the time. Don't forget to check if there are any restrictions on where you can place flowers.

Use similar considerations when decorating the reception venue - one or two large arrangements placed for maximum impact (perhaps even relocate your ceremonial arrangements). Table centerpieces provide an opportunity to be especially creative with vases and containers. Remember though, keep the arrangements low enough that guests can see and talk to one another across the table. Another option is to use tall slim centerpieces, with the bulk of the arrangement above the guests heads (when seated).

Choosing a Florist

Even if you are planning to do your own fall wedding flowers, it can be a still be a good idea to build a relationship with a reputable wedding florist. They should be up to date with the latest trends and new flower varieties, and can provide valuable advice. If you will be using a florist to provide all your wedding flower needs, it pays to be armed with as much information as possible. Firstly, you will be able to make more informed decisions and you will also more likely be able to communicate exactly what you want.

Word of mouth is often the best method to choose your florist. When you meet your potential florist, remember that first impressions are very telling. Does the store look clean and organized? Do you feel you'll be able to create a good working relationship? Ask to see samples or a portfolio of the florist's work. Sometimes you may even be able to take a quick look at a venue the florist has set up before a wedding starts. Take notice if the florist tends to work in a particular style, eg modern or traditional. Does this fit with your wedding vision?

Once you have decided on your florist, one of the most important things you should do is be very clear about your budget. You don't want any mix ups here. Also be very clear about what is and isn't included in the florist's charges. Are you able to rent vases or do you need to buy them? Is there an additional charge for delivery and setting up?

Now that all the boring money talk is out of the way, you can begin the fun part - discussing your perfect wedding day. Try to provide as much information as possible. This will assist the florist no end and make sure you are both on the same page. Communicate regularly with your florist and build a relationship with them and you will be rewarded with splendid flowers for your special day.

There are many things to consider when choosing your fall wedding flowers, but remember this should be a fun part of your wedding planning. Arm yourself with plenty of information, and remember whatever statement you would like to make, there are seasonal options that will do it for you. Oh, and best wishes for your special day.