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Can I Get Navy Blue Orchids For A Wedding Bouquet?

Ask the Expert: Blue Orchid arrangements
My daughter is getting married May 7th, 2011. She wants to use Blue Orchids in her floral arrangements, her colors are Navy Blue, White and a touch of silver.(winter in May) What other flowers could you suggest for the bridal bouquet and brides maids bouquets? Thanks for your help! Shelly

Flower Shop Network Flower Expert Reply:

I personally don’t know of a naturally occurring blue orchid. The most commonly used ‘blue orchid’ is the blue Dendrobium, however it is actually a Purple Bombay Dendrobium dyed blue. This flower is more of a purplish-blue color rather than your desired navy. (See picture to the left.) I’ve also seen Misteen Dendrobium dyed blue. This flower is a white orchid with light-pink tipped petals; when dyed blue, it still has hints of purple.

Florists also have the option to use a special floral spray paint and can make your flowers the perfect color for you! This is definitely best left to the professionals as it is very hard to achieve a natural look.

Because blue orchids are dyed, achieving a navy blue orchid might be difficult. Another option would be to use white orchids and navy blue accent flowers.

Some great blue flowers include:

  • Hydrangea
  • Agapanthus
  • Cornflowers or Bachelor Buttons
  • Phlox
  • Delphinium
  • Forget-Me-Nots
  • Love-in-a-Mist (Nigella damascena)
  • Dyed Daisies
  • Dyed Roses
  • Dyed Carnations
  • Dyed Mums
  • Blue Flag Iris
  • Scabiosas
  • Bluebell (Scilla)
  • Grape Hyacinths

If you still aren’t able to find the navy you are looking for, you might consider using it in other ways, such as feathers, ribbon, wire or crystals. Get with your local florist about this and she will be able to design something fabulous!

For more great ideas, check out our sister site, Wedding And Party Network’s bridal bouquet gallery.

This post is brought to you by local Springfield IL florists.
Not in Springfield? Don’t worry, use Flower Shop Network’s directory of real local florists to find a florist near you!

Using Amaryllis In A Wedding Bouquet

Ask the Expert: what flower/s goes best with amaryllis?
i am getting married in February, i wanted a bouquete of amaryllis (white i think) and i would like to know what other flower or flowers would go well with them, thank you Dilaila

Flower Shop Network‘s Plant Expert Reply:

White amaryllis are certainly beautiful flowers.

Amaryllis Wedding Bouquet with Tulips Designed by Seattle Flowers


I have seen a wedding bouquet with white amaryllis and tulips which was designed by Seattle Flowers. This hand-tied bouquet used a beautiful satin ribbon embellished with pearls.

Keep in mind amaryllis stems are very thick and a hand-tied bouquet is most likely the only option.

Since the amaryllis will be the focal point of the bouquet, you  might use a light, airy foliage instead of flowers. This way the bridal bouquet will be luscious instead of over-whelming. If you including other flowers, make sure you choose flowers with the same texture like Roses, tulips or orchids.  Your wedding florist will be able to show you a variety of flowers that will work with the amaryllis. They will also be able to check the availability of amaryllis in February.

Typically amaryllis are only available during the Christmas season.  Your wedding florist will be able to check the availability of amaryllis in February.  If the amaryllis is unavailable, you might consider ‘Casa Blanca’ lilies. They will give you the same beautiful look.

If you are searching for wedding bouquets ideas, check out the bridal bouquets pictures on Wedding and Party Network.

This wedding flower question was brought to you by local Seattle Florists.

Flower Possibilities For A Fall Wedding

Ask the Expert: What kind of flowers are popular a fall wedding??

fall-bouquet-flowers-of-yorkI am starting to plan a wedding and I am getting married in Sept 2011 and I am wondering what kind of flowers are popular for a fall wedding and also what kind of flowers would you recommend for a wedding?? I would really like some advice and suggestions..
Thanks,
Sarah

Flower Expert Reply:

First off congratulations, Fall weddings are wonderful. But, don’t let the fact that you wedding is occurring in fall keep you from having the flowers you desire.

With the globalization of the flower industry, you are not bound by seasonal flowers. What is more important is choosing colors that represent fall – deep reds, harvest golds, burnt oranges and other symbolic fall colors.

However, if you want to keep with the autumn theme and use seasonal flowers, there are several options to choose from. You can see a complete list of flowers available in September here.

My personal (and often the most popular) choice for fall wedding flowers are:

autumn-bouquet-gitche-yah-yahAnthurium
Gerberas (particularly the wonderful orange and red shades available in the fall)
Calla Lily
Sunflowers
Hydrangeas
Slipper Orchids
Gloriosa Lily
Chrysanthemums
Protea
Roses

Any flower or foliage that represents the fall harvest is a candidate for an autumn wedding bouquet.

Don’t be afraid to beat to your own drummer.  Your wedding bouquet is an extension of your personality.

unusual-fall-bouquet-the-enchanted-floristI have seen fall brides use flowers not typically associated with autumn in their bouquets. Remember a sense of fall can be achieved through texture and color. So discuss what unusual flowers are an option or will compliment the traditional fall flowers you choose.

I recommend finding a few pictures of flowers that represent fall to you and pictures of bouquet styles you like.

Take the pictures to your local wedding florist and discuss how to incorporate the flowers you want with the bouquet style you want. This way you can achieve the ultimate fall bouquet for your wedding.

Hydrangea Wedding Bouquet Design Tips

Ask the Expert: Best way to ensure hydrangeas in a wedding bouquet
I have a bride that wants to use hydrangeas in her bouquet and her bridesmaids.  I am really afraid of using fresh blooms as I know they wilt quickly.  Her wedding is in March. Can you tell me the secret to ensuring that the bouquets will hold up and not wilt.  Thank you so much.

Plant Expert Reply:
The first step to ensuring the hydrangeas don’t wilt is the care you give them when they hit your door. Proper hydration is the key. In Hydrating A Hydrangea Bouquet For A Wedding, the steps for hydrating hydrangeas are outlined.

The steps are as follows
1. Submerge heads for 2 to 4 minutes under tepid water. (You can submerge the heads for up to twenty minutes for significant hydration).
2. Gently shake the bloom heads dry.
3. Recut the stems (preferably under water and at an angle).
4. Place in water.

These steps will ensure that the hydrangeas have been hydrated properly. Now you will need to keep them hydrated and how your store them is the key. Keep the hydrangeas in a high humid environment with very little air velocity. In other words, don’t put them near the cooler fan or door and keep the air around them moist (misting if necessary). Temperature is also a factor; 35 to 38 degrees is optimum. Don’t store near fruit, vegetables or other ethylene gas producers. It is best to create the bouquets the morning of the wedding. However, this isn’t always possible. When you create the hydrangea bouquets leave the stems long enough that the bouquets can be placed in water without getting the ribbon wet (if a hand tied bouquet). Leave the bouquets in water until an hour before the wedding. This process should keep the hydrangeas well hydrated for the wedding and alleviate any wilting issues.

Some designers use hydrangeas in floral foam when creating wedding flower arrangements or bouquets. Advanced preparation is still the key in this technique. You will want to cut the stems so that they look like an arrow rather than just a one sided angle cut. Some people recommend using a floral preservative or powdered alum when preparing the hydrangeas, other see no need.  You might want to experiment with a couple of stems before the wedding to see which works best for you.

Good luck and keep me posted.

Boy, Do I Have An Anniversary Gift Idea For You!

Flowers are pretty standard as far as anniversary gifts go, but this year why not bump it up a notch? Instead of picking out a standard bouquet for your anniversary, flowers that were in her wedding bouquet add a wonderful dimension of sincerity and romance. Now while it’s not a good idea to deconstruct or  necessarily reconstruct her original wedding bouquet, ask your local florist to use the type of flowers that were in her bouquet in an anniversary arrangement.

Score major points with this idea.

Can’t remember what flowers were in her bouquet? If you’re like most guys, you probably don’t remember what was in her bouquet and had probably all but forgotten that she carried one. No worries. I’ve got you covered.

She could probably tell you but asking her defeats the purpose of being a sneaky romantic. Instead, peer through the wedding photos for a picture of her with the wedding bouquet. Your florist can use this to determine which flowers played the largest part in the ensemble. Make sure it’s a clear picture though.  Plus, be even sneakier by getting the photo during a “baby, take a look at what I just found” evening. You’ll score even more points with her for wanting to relive the day by going through the photo album together! Go you!

Happy anniversary! Don’t forget to stop back by and let us know how it turned out!

Elements of Design: Floral Bouquet Centerpieces

Whether a budget-oriented bride or not, being able to use wedding decorations in many areas is always a big perk. Many florists are starting to use bouquets (bridesmaids or bridal) as centerpieces on the main table at the wedding. This is a way to keep the bridesmaids bouquets and wedding bouquets fresh before and after the ceremony. Plus, the bridesmaids are able to just snatch the bouquets out of the water and take them home as a wedding favor!

Using unique vases and containers takes this technique to the next level. Showcase the floral bouquets just a little better with a beautiful vase. Creative containers simultaneously keep the flowers fresh and bring to life all of the effort put into creating the beautiful bouquets.

This idea also works for parties such as bachelorette parties. These bouquets liven up the party decorations and also make great party favors! It’s a win-win for hostesses and guests.

This design technique has become a very popular trend in wedding flowers and is seeing an increase at parties. Florists are happy to showcase their prized creations for a little longer. Brides and hostesses are glad to save a few bucks but still have an elegant, beautiful wedding or party. If you’re looking for a quick centerpiece idea, try this trendy new design technique!

Bouquet Centerpieces from The Flower Patch

Bouquet Centerpieces from The Flower Patch in Gypsum, CO

Short Vase Bouquet Centerpieces from The Flower Patch

Short Vase Bouquet Centerpieces from The Flower Patch in Gypsum, CO

Home Grown Hydrangeas For Wedding Bouquets

Ask the Expert: What is the best Blue Hydrangea for bouquets?

Could you give me info about what type of blue hydrangea works best for a hand tied wedding bouquet and tips for timing & using the fresh cut blooms from my yard..thanks! Jen

What Flowers Are In This Bridal Bouquet?

Ask the Expert: What type of flowers are these?

Could you please tell me what type of flowers you think these are?
Bridal Bouquet With Stephanotis, Delphinium, Eucalyptus

Hydrating A Hydrangea Bouquet For A Wedding

Ask the Expert: How do I hydrate a hydrangea bouquet for a wedding

Should I just leave them in the water before the wedding starts? We are combining 2-3 stems for a bouquet and wrapping them with a ribbon. I’m worried about the hydration.

Lara,

When you get the hydrangea be sure to submerge the heads under water for up to 4 minutes this encourages hydration. Then gently shake dry, at this pint you can re-cut the [Read more…]

Fall In Love With Fall Wedding Flowers

Fall wedding flowers burst upon the scene in a kaleidoscope of colors. Paint an idyllic wedding picture on this fall’s canvas when using a rich palette of the season’s colors.

Featured Fall Wedding BouquetsWhether the celebration takes place during the sun dappled day, or in the crisp autumn air of evening, the fall wedding introduces a season of excitement. September, October, and November bestow bright flowers and abundant foliage – just the right ingredients for a fabulous fall ceremony.

Deciding on the type of fall floral arrangements will often determine the style of wedding. Consulting a professional florist can be of invaluable help when considering the theme and cost of the wedding. Don’t hesitate to convey what you envision for your wedding along with a review of your budget.

When meeting with your florist, it’s wise to discuss the size and location of your wedding and reception. And, don’t forget to include the number of attendants and guests. It helps if you provide your favorite wedding photographs, color preferences, and fabric samples when talking about your ceremony. A professional florist can assist in creating a plan that helps you to make informed decisions, which can save time and reduce stress.

A CORNUCOPIA OF COLORS

The fall season lends its self to vibrant colors. When selecting fall wedding flowers consider the colors of: Yellow, Gold, Bronze, Orange, Red, Dark Pink, Burgundy, Rust, Brown, Purple, Egg Plant, Green and Tan. Although the types of wedding flowers are usually chosen by the bride, the color palette of the flowers are often determined by the color of the bridesmaids’ dresses.

A professional florist can explain your floral options. Discussions will include the difference between selecting flowers that are in season, as opposed to choosing flowers that are out of season. Out of season flowers increase prices significantly.

With nature’s brilliant colors, here are just a few of the fall wedding flowers that are in season:

  • ROSES (Rosa) – Many people tend to think of roses as either traditional red or delicate pink. However, the colors of roses range from gold to chocolate. Brides may want to consider the radiant rose colors that include golden apricot, tomato-red, deep yellow, red-orange, tangerine, dark burgundy, coral-orange, burnt- orange, or chocolate brown. These striking shades make beautiful wedding bouquets, floral decorations, and arrangements.
  • DAISIES (Gerbera) – There are a number of varieties from a single petal to a double petal. The bright colors and varying sizes of this flower make for beautiful bouquets and eye-catching arrangements.
  • SLIPPER ORCHIDS (Paphiopedilum spp.) – This fall flower’s colors of brownish red, green and yellow can set the seasonal tone.
  • CALLA LILY (Zantedeschia) – The “green goddess” has deep green leaves and generous blooms. This is a sophisticated flower that often stands on its own. Not only do calla lilies come in the traditional white, but they also come in the rich and beautiful shades of cream, yellow, burgundy, and bronze.
  • GLORIOSA LILIES (Gloriosa rothschildeana) – A glorious bloom that makes a bold statement. The strikingly curved petals in lustrous red will certainly turn heads.
  • ORIENTAL LILIES (Lilium Oriental) – Versatility is the key. Colors include white, cream, yellow and burgundy. One of the most famous hybrids is Stargazer, which has a white background with reddish/pink markings and dotted throat.
  • HYDRANGEAS (Hydrangea quercifolia) – The late blooming Oak Leaf Hydrangea gets its name from the shape of its large leaves. These beautiful leaves often turn colors of brilliant yellow, orange, red, and burgundy.
  • SUNFLOWERS (Helianthus annuus) – When you think of autumn, picture the Sunrise Sunflower. The medium short deep double yellow petals and dark center make an excellent choice for use as cut flowers that have a long vase and arrangement life.
  • CHRYSANTHEMUMS (Chrysanthemum indicum, Chrysanthemum x morifolium) – The word chrysanthemum is taken from the Greek, chysos (gold) and anthos (flower). This fall flower is generally found in the following forms: button, daisy, decorative and spider (or quill). The size, color, height and time of bloom make it one of the most popular fall flowers for bouquets and arrangements.
  • BABY’S BREATH ( Gypsophila paniculata) – This is the delicate name for the “work horse” of arrangements. Colors range from white to pink to blushed purple. Baby’s breath can be coupled with flowers and greenery to create fullness and depth or stand-alone in an interesting container, or elegant vase.

THE ORNAMENTS OF AUTUMN

Fall wedding decorations can be more than colorful cut flowers. A medley of textures such as beautiful berries, fall foliage, and autumn accessories create the look of a bountiful harvest.
Consider the use of berries when decorating tables, window ledges, archways or columns.

Autumn Berries

  • Rusty Rose Hips
  • Red Nandina
  • Red or Black Aronia Berries
  • Flaming Pyracantha
  • Orange Pepper Berry
  • Orange Cotoneaster
  • Rustic Bittersweet Vine
  • Burnt Sienna Hypericum Berry
  • Pink Pepper Berry
  • Blue Privet Berry
  • Fall Blueberries
  • Green or Red Viburnum Berry
  • Cranberries

Cuttings from fall foliage make stunning centerpieces and arrangements.

Autumn Foliages

  • Red Oak Leaf Hydrangeas
  • Red Dogwood Branches
  • Red Huckleberry
  • “Redbore” Kale
  • Liquid Amber Branches
  • Yellow Maple
  • Vine Maple Branches
  • Eggplant Smoke Bush
  • Green Cherry Laurel
  • “Illumination” Periwinkle
  • “Bright Lights” Swiss Chard
  • “Ogon” Japanese Sweet Flag
  • “Yellow Ripple” English Ivy
  • Black-Eyed Susan Vines
  • Grapevines

Don’t forget autumn accessories add interest.

Autumn Wedding Decorations

  • Apples, Pears, Persimmons, Pomegranates and Artichokes
  • Grains, Nuts, Melons, and Gourds
  • Dried Garland or Flowers
  • Spanish Moss
  • Ribbons that reinforce the color scheme
  • Raffia
  • Woven Baskets
  • Colorful Pottery

FALL WEDDING DECORATING TIPS

Continue an autumn atmosphere your guests will remember by considering the following areas for decoration. These locations may be enhanced by the use of flowers, berries, foliage and accessories.

THE WEDDING CEREMONY: The altar, columns, candelabra, backdrop for the ceremony, archways, podium, for Jewish weddings the chuppah, the aisle, end of pews, communion rails, vestibule, guest book table, doors leading to the sanctuary, and stair rails outside the entrance.

THE RECEPTION: The entry area, place card table, buffet table centerpieces, table arrangements, head table design, free standing decorations, candles, stage decor, wedding cake and cake table and restrooms.

The wide variety of fall wedding flowers and large array of berries, foliage and accessories make autumn a wonderful time of year for your special celebration. Whether your theme is large and elegant, or intimate and casual – let a professional florist customize an unforgettable fall wedding for you!

Photo by C & C Sensations, a local florist in Waynesboro VA.

 

Find a local florist to help create your fall wedding flowers.
Planning a wedding? Check out Wedding and Party Network for all of your wedding needs.