Flowers are the most traditional way of creating the decor for a wedding. From beautiful bouquets to floral arrangements that wow, flowers are naturally suited to bringing color and style to an event. Whether inspired by sustainability or recent increases in flower costs, many couples are beginning to explore alternatives to fresh blooms. Without a doubt – weddings without flowers can be just a chic of a celebration! No matter what your reasons may be, here are our top five recommendations for going flower-free successfully!
1. Wow Factor
Flowers are naturally impactful. From color to fragrance to shape, lush floral designs like arches and elevated designs create memorable moments – but they aren’t the only way. When planning weddings without flowers, make sure to design a “wow” moment to energize your space. Greenery can be used to create a dramatic entrance for a staircase, cover an arch, accent a reception tent or ballroom, provide a backdrop, or even “front” the band. Lighting is also a great option here.
2. Embrace Shape and Texture
Couples who forego flowers should be mindful of creating visual interest for their event. While flower petals naturally vary, from the tiniest waxflower to the biggest and boldest peonies, varying the shape and texture of greenery can create an appealing aesthetic. Smilax is a popular choice, but it’s not the only one! Tropicals like monstera, philodendron and palm have unique and eclectic shapes – and sometimes even variation to bring in color. Mixing different shades of green, from the deep green of magnolia to rich green camellia or ruscus to sage-toned eucalyptus adds dimension to a design. Want to diverge from plant matter? Think paper origami, feathers, crystals, even balloons!
3. Alternative Bouquets, Boutonnieres and Corsages
Flowers are not the only thing you can carry down the aisle, and you can even go beyond plants and greenery. While Audrey Hepburn may have carried flowers for in her role as bride in the movies, for her own wedding she carried a bible. For a couple with more eccentric tastes, consider books, parasols, lanterns, balloons, candles, jewelry, foliage, or paper blooms. The fashion forward wedding party can easily consider other options than boutonnieres and corsages. Women can wear a stylish broach in lieu of a corsage or an elegant bracelet. For men, we love the look of a pocket square. And, of course, military garb prohibits a boutonniere.
4. Play with Your Tablescape
Options are endless for ways to replace the traditional floral centerpiece. Candles and garland are a popular choices, but beyond that, consider fruits, vegetables, herbs and topiaries. Flowerless centerpieces are also a way to add a personal touch. Bringing in travel memorabilia, books, globes, or clocks add whimsy and interest to the table. You can even make a statement with an array of interesting vases, like an array of Chinoiserie vases.
5. Flower Girl Options
The cutest member of your wedding party may be called the “flower girl”, but that isn’t all she can throw! Confetti, dried lavender, popcorn or even sequins make for colorful alternatives to rose petals. Eliminate the mess entirely with ribbon wands, balloons, pinwheels and more.
Options about for weddings without flowers. With a little creativity, the event will be as unique and fashionable as with a bevy of blooms.
