Similar to planning tabletop décor, brides rarely consider options outside the box when planning for their bouquets. Trust us, florists cringe when they hear the word "peonies" without any other inspiration added. We challenged our go-to's for flowers, Putnam & Putnam, for four different bouquet ideas to suit different styles. To showcase just how important size, shape and scale are to creating unique clutches of blooms, we also asked them to work in the same color palette for each of their four options.
When considering your wedding day flowers, opt for those that are in season. Don't insist on a type of flower without any context of how hard it will be to source, or if it comes in your color palette's hues. And, when deciding what route to take for your bridal bouquet, consider the style of your gown and ceremony site–rather than consulting your taste or the opinions of those around you in a vacuum.
When considering your gown, an oversize bouquet can up the ante on a simple look, while an over-the-top gown requires something a bit more subtle. If the idea of a bouquet isn't totally your thing, opt for something small; the smallest clutch of blooms, in industry speak, is called a nosegay. Nosegays can be designed like a larger bouquet with multiple blossoms, or can simply be a clutch of one type of flower–take your pick.
Other options include the most classic of them all, a medium-sized bouquet, which feels traditional in both size and structure. We suggest opting for arrangements that are a bit less contained and bulbous; flowers are natural, after all, and arranging them in a more organic, wild manner can give your look a bit more life and vibrance.
Some gowns require bouquets that are a bit longer and linear in shape, almost like half-wreaths that can rest in the crook of your arm rather than being held from the stems. Sound unconventional? It is, but it's by far the best bouquet for ensuring your dress is shown off.
If you're looking to make a statement–go bold. Choose an abundant, overflowing and voluminous bouquet that guests are sure to be inspired by and obsessed with. Keep in mind should you choose the most dramatic option of the group: these bouquets aren't weightless. Consider giving your maid of honor a chair to place your oversize bouquet on, rather than forcing her to hold it all ceremony-long.
Created by Carrie Goldberg in collaboration with Putnam & Putnam; Director of Photography Josh K. Brede; Director Anna Jimenez; Tabletop courtesy of Zola; Model Nicole Keimig for Marilyn; Hair by Matt Fugate; Makeup by Katie Jane Hughes; Chairs courtesy of Patina Rentals.
Carrie Goldberg is meltsflow.com’s Weddings & Travel Director. She oversees the site’s BAZAAR Bride channel, travel & dining content, and styles fashion and bridal editorials for BAZAAR.com. When she’s not traveling, she spends her free time in her hometown–New York City–where there is no shortage of new places to shop, eat, drink, see and explore.
