Unlocking floral magic
Expert advice for perfect wedding flowers
Hello, wedding enthusiasts! I'm Lou O'Brien, Sunshine Coast wedding photographer. I'm thrilled to be a guest blogger for House of Flowers Sunshine Coast, sharing my insider tips on navigating the world of wedding blooms. As a wedding photographer I’m here to share my wisdom & point of view on choosing the right flowers to making the most of your floral budget, from the 100’s of weddings I’ve worked on. Let's dive in!
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
1. Consultation Is Key
When meeting with your florist, don't hold back! Ask about their experience with weddings, their design style, and share your vision openly. Be sure to discuss your wedding theme, colour palette, and any specific flowers you adore or dislike. A collaborative approach ensures your floral arrangements perfectly complement your day.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
2. Opt for Versatility
Maximize your floral budget by selecting versatile blooms that can transition seamlessly from ceremony to reception. Consider repurposing ceremony arrangements as table centerpieces or adorning your cake table. This not only adds continuity to your décor but also minimizes waste and maximizes your investment.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
3. Seasonal Sensibility
Embrace the beauty of seasonal blooms! Consult with your florist to determine which flowers are in season during your wedding date. Seasonal blooms are not only fresher and more affordable but also reflect the natural charm of your chosen season, enhancing the overall ambiance of your celebration.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
4. Boutonniere Backup
Gentlemen, listen up! Ensure your boutonniere stays picture-perfect throughout the day by requesting extra pins from your florist. These tiny lifesavers can be a game-changer if your boutonniere needs a quick fix after some enthusiastic dancing or heartfelt hugs.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
5. Floral Harmony
Create visual harmony by incorporating cohesive floral elements throughout your wedding. From bouquets to boutonnieres, corsages to centerpieces, & even flowers on your cake, strive for a unified aesthetic that ties your floral arrangements together seamlessly. Consistency in colour, style, and flower selection elevates the overall look of your wedding.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
6. Prioritise Personalisation
Infuse your wedding with personal touches by incorporating meaningful elements into your floral design. Whether it's incorporating heirloom brooches into your bouquet, showcasing blooms native to your hometown, or honouring loved ones with symbolic flowers, personalised details add depth and significance to your floral arrangements.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
7. Bouquet Spotlight
You've invested time and money in finding the perfect bouquets, so let them shine! During the ceremony, hold onto your bouquets until the vows. Some celebrants may suggest whisking them away, but keeping them with you adds an elegant touch and looks stunning in your wedding photos.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
8. Hold Low, Showcase Dress
Brides and bridesmaids, remember to hold your bouquets low, resting your forearm on your hip bones. This posture not only showcases your beautiful dresses but also ensures your bouquets remain a complementary accent to your ensemble, rather than overpowering it.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
9. Bouquet Orientation
Ask your florist which way is the front of your bouquet. Every bouquet has a side that looks best, so make sure it's always facing toward the camera for those picture-perfect moments. When your bouquet becomes too heavy, gently lay it down on the backside to prevent wilting or damage to the flowers.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
10. Flower Petal Toss Magic
Don't forget the enchantment of a flower petal toss! This timeless tradition adds an extra dash of magic to your wedding day and looks absolutely stunning in photographs. Coordinate with your florist to select petals that complement your colour scheme and venue aesthetic. Whether it's a romantic exit from your ceremony or a joyful celebration after saying "I do," the fluttering petals create a whimsical ambiance and make for truly unforgettable photos. So, embrace the beauty and joy of a flower petal toss—it's the perfect finishing touch to your wedding day fairy tale!
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
With these expert tips in your arsenal, you're well-equipped to navigate the world of wedding flowers with confidence and flair. Communication, creativity, and collaboration are key to achieving floral perfection on your big day.
I adore flowers and firmly believe they bring colour and personality to every wedding. As your photographer, I take great joy in capturing the delicate details and vibrant hues of your floral arrangements, ensuring they shine just as brightly in your photos as they do on your special day.
Photo by Images by Lou O’Brien
Here's to a blooming beautiful wedding!
Lou O'Brien - Sunshine Coast Wedding Photographer
Instagram @imagesbylou