Occasions & Holidays | Ode á la Rose Thu, 19 Oct 2023 15:29:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/iso-oalr.png Occasions & Holidays | Ode á la Rose 32 32 The Best Flowers for Birthday https://www.odealarose.com/blog/best-flowers-for-birthday/ Mon, 04 Sep 2023 23:02:07 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=32006 Have you ever wondered why flowers are so often the gift of choice for birthdays?  Picture this: you’re walking into a room filled with the vibrant scent of fresh blossoms, their colors like confetti splashed against a backdrop of cheerful celebration -and you don’t need to clean them off the carpet after the party is…

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Have you ever wondered why flowers are so often the gift of choice for birthdays

Picture this: you’re walking into a room filled with the vibrant scent of fresh blossoms, their colors like confetti splashed against a backdrop of cheerful celebration -and you don’t need to clean them off the carpet after the party is over! Could there be a more perfect ambiance to celebrate another year of life?

Indeed, flowers have an uncanny power to transform an entire place and every event, serving as a feast for all of our human senses and sentiments. Take roses, for example. Can you pick something better to accompany your birthday gift for your beloved, sparking joy and romance at the same time?  

Choosing a gift, especially for someone’s birthday, is more than a simple act of giving. It’s a way of saying, “I see you, I appreciate you, and I’m celebrating your unique presence in this world.”

And in this endeavor, Ode à la Rose stands as a true ally.

Renowned for their Parisian-style bouquets, Ode à la Rose is a testament to the magic that can be woven when artistry meets nature. Each arrangement is thoughtfully designed to reflect the recipient’s taste and emotion. 

But what about the convenience of finding that perfect gift?

Whether you wish to shower a friend in LA with sunflowers as radiant as their smile, or soothe a relative in Washington DC with the purity of white lilies, Ode à la Rose ensures that your perfect floral expression is only a few clicks away, delivered fresh and vibrant to the doorstep.

And let us refresh your party with another thoughtful idea – cocktails! A birthday is not even close to a celebration without the proper cocktails, and flowers can add up to that perfect cocktail photo to look even better! There are many edible plants that can aromatize and level up your cocktail party experience – so why not give them a try?

Are Flowers a Good Birthday Gift?

There’s an unwritten charm that resides in the heart of flowers, an innate language that whispers to the soul in a way few gifts can. 

Flowers are not just gifts, they’re an expression of sentiment, a radiant testament to the myriad facets of the human experience. 

When presented as a birthday gift, they serve as the perfect vessel to encapsulate the celebratory spirit. They mirror life’s beautiful transience, reminding us to savor every moment, just as we appreciate the fleeting bloom of petals.

With every shade comes a distinct emotion – fiery reds symbolizing passion, delicate pinks embodying affection, royal purples hinting at the enigmatic, and yellows radiating with joy. Just as the individual has grown another year older, wiser, and more unique, so too has the bouquet been crafted, each stems personally chosen to mirror the birthday person’s evolution.

In an era marked by fleeting digital wishes and generic gift cards, the act of giving flowers stands as a testament to a more thoughtful approach. It is the bridge between nostalgia and novelty, combining old-world charm with contemporary sentiments. 

Their scent, color, and transient beauty make flowers not just a birthday gift, but a heartfelt gesture, an intimate expression of affection and celebration. 

Yes, indeed, flowers do make a perfectly suitable, innovative, and captivating birthday gift.

flowers for birthday

Why Do We Give Flowers on Birthdays?

Once upon a time, a gentle whisper of petals rustled through the wind, wafting a scent so sweet it caught the attention of a young man named Theophrastus.

Fascinated by the beguiling flora, he embarked on a journey that cemented him as the “father of botany”, a quest that delved into the secrets of plants. 

His works in the 3rd century BC gave us the earliest known system of plant classification, but also revealed the symbology attached to various flowers, which was later expanded in the Victorian era’s “language of flowers”. 

Now, picture yourself as the young Theophrastus, as we take a tour through the reasons why we gift flowers on birthdays.

  • Symbolism: Just as Theophrastus discovered, flowers carry a multitude of meanings. They are a visual and sensory experience, expressing emotions when words fall short. A rose might signify love, a daisy innocence, or an orchid strength. Choosing a flower based on its symbolism makes a birthday gift not just beautiful, but deeply personal.
  • Celebration of Life: A flower’s bloom is a testament to the miracle of life, which is why they’re always inlcluded in baby showers and the celebration of new life and welcoming a new baby to this world! Gifting flowers on birthdays mirrors this renewal, marking the passage of another successful year in one’s life journey.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Few can resist the charm of a tastefully arranged bouquet. The vibrant colors, delightful shapes, and intoxicating scents add beauty to any setting, and serve as a visual reminder of the birthday celebration and the person who gifted them.
  • Tradition: From ancient Rome’s Floralia, a festival to honor Flora, the goddess of flowers and spring, to today’s customs, flowers have long been associated with celebrations. Birthdays, marking personal ‘renewals’ and ‘springs’, have naturally become occasions for gifting flowers.
  • Emotional Wellbeing: Research suggests that flowers have an immediate impact on happiness and a long-term positive effect on moods. A study by Rutgers University found that recipients of flowers demonstrated true happiness upon receiving them, leading to enhanced connections between individuals. A birthday bouquet can therefore boost happiness, making the day more memorable.
  • Flowers’ Transience as a Reminder: Flowers, in their fleeting beauty, remind us to appreciate the present, a lesson particularly apt on birthdays. They encourage us to celebrate the now, the present moment,  while the bloom is at its fullest.
  • Versatility: Flowers are suitable for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or personal taste. From exotic orchids for the adventurous to classic roses for the romantics, there’s a flower to suit every individual.

While Theophrastus unlocked the symbolic world of flowers, it was an equally curious scientist in the 17th century who revealed another aspect of these captivating organisms – their intriguing relationship with time.

Carl Linnaeus, known as the “father of modern taxonomy”, constructed the first floral clock using certain species of flowers that open and close at specific times of the day, acting as nature’s timekeepers. Now, imagine if a birthday gift could not only symbolize heartfelt emotions, celebrate life, enhance well-being, and mark a time-honored tradition, but also tell the time of day!

This leads us to ponder, how would our birthday celebrations change if we brought back Linnaeus’s floral clocks into practice. Would the symbolism of our floral gifts deepen, connecting us even more intimately to the natural world around us and the passage of time we celebrate on birthdays? Most definitely, yes! 

Even more, if you consider the deep aspects of the person’s character you’re gifting flowers to – what are they like, if you think about them, which color comes in mind? Are they steady and persistent, or energetical, and even often unpredictable? 

A person’s character can tell a lot about the floral arrangement you should go for – like, for example, yellows and radiant orange designs are definitely meant for the moody spirits and the energetic friends in your life. 

birthday flowers

Do Flowers Count as Gifts?

You can ask that again! If you think that flowers will quickly whiter and the gift will be ungiven – you are far from wrong. Aside from the fact you can easily dry out almost every existing flower in nature, let me tell you something a bit more psychological. The endorphins and serotonin – the hormones of thrill, happiness, and wholesome, are NOT interconnected with material stuff, but with memories.

Even if you are not there – the sole act of sending someone flowers for their birthday online and delivering them through a third person is even more thoughtful than buying them expensive gifts!

Thus, not only do flowers count as one of the most thoughtful and gentle gifts ever – the sole act of giving flowers and the scenery around should be perfectly planned and set to leave an everlasting moment – a fragment of history to forever enchant your significant person by your action, not only your bouquet.

The Best Flowers for a Man’s Birthday

Think flowers are only for the ladies? 

Think again! 

Long gone are the days when floral gifts were reserved solely for women. Today, gifting flowers is a universal gesture of appreciation, one that transcends traditional gender roles. After all, who doesn’t appreciate the vibrant hues, intricate details, and intoxicating scent of a well-arranged bouquet?

Cool Tone Bouquets

Much like a well-tailored suit or a tastefully decorated room, certain color palettes just seem to resonate with men. Cool tones, ranging from deep blues to soft lilacs, are a top choice, infusing an arrangement with a sense of calm and sophistication. The perfect embodiment of this palette is the Adrienne bouquet from Ode à la Rose.

Just like the name ‘Adrienne’ that has both masculine and feminine versions, the Adrienne bouquet beautifully transcends gender stereotypes. It’s an arrangement that carries a certain air of mystery and royalty, much like its featured Ocean Song roses. Known for their soft lavender hue and intricately ruffled petals, these roses create an arresting visual that is as appropriate for celebrating a special occasion as it is for an unexpected ‘just because’ moment.

Flowers Included: Ocean Song Roses.

White Flowers

Moving on to another classic option, white flowers symbolize purity, innocence, and elegance. They effortlessly transcend gender norms and are a fitting choice for anyone who appreciates understated beauty. This is where the Grand Patience bouquet shines.

As the name suggests, the Grand Patience bouquet is a study of elegance and grace. It features a luxurious mix of seasonal flowers including garden roses, ranunculus, hydrangeas, and more, all in pristine white. 

The bouquet may vary slightly, depending on the availability of flowers, but rest assured, each arrangement will be equally beautiful and crafted with the utmost care.

Flowers: White Hydrangea, White Mondial Roses, White Ranunculus, White Spray Rose, Lisianthus, White Garden Roses.

Moreover, with Ode à la Rose, every bouquet comes with flower food to ensure your arrangement lasts longer. It’s a testament to the company’s commitment to not just delivering beautiful bouquets, but also ensuring that they continue to bring joy for as long as possible. 

best flowers for housewarming

Preserved Roses

If you’re looking for a floral gift that defies time, preserved roses are a splendid choice. They retain all the beauty and elegance of a fresh flower while lasting exponentially longer. It’s as if they’ve captured a perfect moment in time, and have the power to rekindle the emotions of that moment, every time one gazes upon them.

Embodying this timeless charm is the Solo Renee from Ode à la Rose. This exquisite single red rose, now preserved to perfection, sits elegantly inside a stunning glass square box, the mirror bottom and beveled edge detailing enhancing its captivating beauty. 

The Solo Renee is a living testament to a moment captured in full bloom, treated specially to last an entire year.

Imagine the joy on your loved one’s face as they unwrap this precious, lasting memory. Each time they look at the rose, they’ll be reminded of your thoughtfulness, your care, and the special occasion that brought this timeless piece into their life. The Solo Renee is not just a gift, it’s an experience of enduring love and affection.

The full year that it lasts not only allows the recipient to appreciate its beauty and sentiment for 365 days but also affords you ample time to contemplate what thoughtful gift you could present next year. The gift that keeps on giving, isn’t it?

roses for mans birthday

 

The Best Flowers for a Woman’s Birthday

Just like a well-penned poem or a timeless piece of jewelry, flowers have long been synonymous with expressions of affection, love, and admiration. For women, the allure of receiving flowers on their birthdays is enduring and universal. There’s something undeniably special about being presented with a bouquet of blooming beauties, each petal holding the promise of another wonderful year.

Pink Flowers

When it comes to femininity, charm, and sweetness, pink flowers reign supreme. Their soft hues carry messages of admiration, joy, and gratitude, perfect for celebrating a birthday. Consider the Anastasie bouquet from Ode à la Rose

This dreamlike collection brings together some of the best flower varieties that spring has to offer.

Rice flowers, roses, snapdragons, wax flowers, carnations, tulips, and more blend seamlessly to create a bouquet that personifies elegance and charm.

Flowers: Pink and White Mondial Roses, Carnations, Waxflower, Spray Roses, Snapdragons, Tulips, Rice Flower with Lemon Leaf.

The Grand Lucille

For those in search of a gift that extends beyond the traditional lifespan of fresh flowers, the design of the Grand Lucille offers a perfect solution. This classic preserved rose composition is as stunning as it is enduring.

Encased in a decorative white ceramic vase, the roses – once fresh and now preserved to last an entire year – create a design that is both modern and classic. Such a memorable gift is sure to leave an impression that lasts as long as the roses themselves.

Peonies

Peonies are cherished for their voluminous blooms and soft, romantic hues. They evoke images of warm, sunny days, making them a perfect birthday gift. 

Our Penelope bouquet perfectly captures this essence, with its blend of pale pink peonies and Free Spirit roses set against pops of hot pink and yellow. It’s like receiving a sweet summertime sunset in a bouquet.

Flowers: Pink Peonies, Free Spirit Roses, Hot Pink Spray Carnation, Pink Veronica, Craspedia, and Eucalyptus.

The Felice Bouquet

Last but not least, we present the Felice bouquet. Its name, ‘Felice,’ derives from the Italian for ‘happy’ or ‘joyful,’ and is often used in the birthday greeting, ‘Felice Compleanno,’ or ‘Happy Birthday.’ What could be more fitting for a birthday bouquet?

The Felice bouquet is a delightful mix of white and pink roses, pink alstroemeria and lisianthus, pink veronica, and baby blue eucalyptus. 

These flowers combine to create a blush arrangement that can transport anyone into a sweet, soft daydream, symbolizing another year filled with happiness and peace.

Flowers: White Mondial Roses, Pink Mondial Roses, Pink Alstroemeria, Pink Lisianthus, Veronica, Eucalyptus.

best flowers for housewarming

Why Choose Ode à la Rose for Your Birthday Floral Arrangement Gifts?

Selecting a birthday gift can often be a delicate process, and choosing flowers only amplifies this, given the myriad of options available. This is where Ode à la Rose steps in, offering a floral gifting experience that is truly unparalleled. But why exactly should you choose Ode à la Rose for your birthday floral arrangement gifts?

Firstly, Ode à la Rose is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to quality. Whether you’re ordering a simple bouquet or a grand floral arrangement, every flower is selected meticulously and handled with the utmost care to ensure it arrives at its destination in the best possible condition.

Secondly, Ode à la Rose boasts an expansive selection of both fresh and preserved flowers. From peonies to roses, in hues ranging from the most subtle pastels to the most vibrant of colors, there is an arrangement to suit every taste and occasion.

Next, Ode à la Rose’s artful approach to flower arrangement is deeply rooted in French floristry tradition, combined with an effortless touch of modernity. Each bouquet is thoughtfully crafted to resonate not just aesthetically, but emotionally as well.

Moreover, the company takes customer service to heart. Their flower delivery service spans multiple cities across the U.S., ensuring that your thoughtful gift can reach your loved ones no matter where they are. On top of this, the option for same-day delivery means you can count on Ode à la Rose to come through, even when you’re pressed for time.

Finally, Ode à la Rose has set itself apart with its innovative preserved flower offerings. These one-of-a-kind gifts encapsulate the beauty of flowers in full bloom for an entire year, serving as a constant reminder of a special birthday.

In conclusion, whether you’re looking to celebrate a man or woman’s birthday, Ode à la Rose offers a wealth of choices, each crafted with precision, love, and a dash of French elegance.

With an unwavering commitment to quality, a broad selection of offerings, and top-notch customer service, Ode à la Rose continues to redefine floral gifting, making it an ideal choice for your birthday floral arrangement gifts.

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The Best Flowers for Graduation https://www.odealarose.com/blog/best-flowers-for-graduation/ Mon, 04 Sep 2023 16:58:24 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=2200 If you're wondering if you should surprise your loved one with fresh, colorful flowers on graduation day, we say yes. Flowers add joy and life to any celebration, and are the perfect companion for a blossoming grad. In this post, we'll explore different types of graduation flowers to help you choose blooms that say it all.

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The moment has arrived. After years of dedication, hard work, and countless late-night study sessions, graduation day is finally here. And what better way to celebrate this landmark achievement than with the gift of flowers? 

Whether they are to be presented on the day or sent as a surprise to the recipient’s doorstep, a well-chosen bouquet can be the perfect congratulatory message.

Whether it’s a high school diploma, an undergraduate degree, or a Ph.D., each achievement merits recognition, and flowers provide an eloquent way to express admiration and pride.

At Ode à la Rose, we realize that each graduation ceremony is a significant milestone, worthy of memorable celebrations. With our same-day delivery service in major cities and USA states like Washington, Miami, or Los Angeles, and next-day nationwide delivery, distance and time won’t be barriers in sending your warm wishes.

Join us in this fascinating exploration of the best flowers for graduation, where each bouquet symbolizes your heartiest congratulations and deepest respect. 

Whether you’re near or far, your thoughtfulness and well-wishes can be beautifully expressed through the timeless language of flowers. At Ode à la Rose, we are ready to guide you in selecting the perfect bouquet to celebrate the remarkable achievement of graduation.

Flowers add joy and life

Are Flowers a Good Gift for Graduation Celebrations?

Contemplating the perfect graduation gift? Ever considered the language of flowers, which speaks words of kindness equally addressing both, men and women? How can something as delicate as a flower symbolize something as robust as an educational accomplishment?

With the variety of flowers we have at our fingertips, a personalized bouquet can become an intimate expression of the graduate’s journey, resonating with their unique spirit and future aspirations. So, as you ponder this idea, remember, the beauty of a floral gift isn’t just about aesthetics – but you should also consider the personality of the one who is graduating.

At Ode à la Rose, we create more than just bouquets – we weave stories with our thoughtfully curated floral arrangements, which is why we’re at the top of the ladder.

So why not add that extra touch of sentiment to graduation day with a handpicked bouquet that silently echoes your pride and admiration and loudly expresses your congratulations?

When Should You Give Graduation Flowers?

Wondering when to present the beautiful bouquet to the recent graduate? Well, let’s dive into the timing of such a precious gift. 

Graduation is an event that comes in many shapes and sizes, from elementary and high school achievements, to college degrees, and even the prestigious completion of a master’s or doctoral program. Let’s explore when flowers make the perfect addition to these life-altering celebrations.

  • High School Graduation: This momentous occasion marks the transition from adolescence to adulthood. A vibrant bouquet from Ode à la Rose is a delightful way to celebrate their accomplishments and encourage them as they embark on their next journey.
  • College Graduation: As graduates are about to step into the professional world, a well-chosen bouquet can be a symbol of congratulations, providing an optimistic note for their future endeavors.
  • Master’s or Doctoral Graduation: This is an extraordinary academic achievement that deserves grand recognition. Whether it’s your child, close friend, or a colleague reaching this pinnacle, a splendid bouquet of flowers serves as the perfect accolade for their dedication and hard work.
  • Non-Academic Graduation: Celebrations aren’t limited to traditional education. Graduation from a cooking class, an art workshop, or a personal development course, all these personal milestones merit recognition, and a vibrant, meaningful bouquet can be the ideal way to convey your pride and admiration.

At Ode à la Rose, we believe in celebrating all accomplishments, big and small. Each arrangement we create serves as a testament to your heartfelt congratulations and unwavering support. So why wait? Make every graduation ceremony unforgettable with the timeless charm of flowers.

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Find The Right Symbolic Messages

Of course, the symbolism of flowers and their messages can greatly enhance your graduation gift. Let’s discuss a few key messages you might want to consider.

  • Accomplishment: Consider flowers that symbolize accomplishment and success. For example, orchids are often seen as symbols of beauty, strength, and love, but they also represent proud and glorious accomplishments, making them a fitting choice for graduation.
  • New beginnings: Daisies are associated with innocence and new beginnings. A bouquet of these can beautifully signify the start of a new journey that graduation represents, emphasizing the freshness and the anticipation that come with this significant life transition.
  • Wisdom: Consider flowers such as irises or lavender that symbolize wisdom. Both these flowers reflect the knowledge and wisdom the graduate has gained over their years of study.
  • Adventure: Gladiolus symbolizes the strength of character, faithfulness, sincerity, and integrity – traits that will surely help any graduate as they embark on their next adventure.
  • Congratulations: Roses, particularly yellow roses, symbolize friendship, joy, and, most importantly, congratulations, making them a classic choice for graduation bouquets.
  • Uniqueness: Just like every graduate is unique, so too is the Protea flower. This exotic flower symbolizes diversity and courage, making it a wonderful option to reflect the graduate’s unique journey and the courage they’ve shown in their academic pursuits.

Choosing the right flowers to send a symbolic message is an art. At Ode à la Rose, we help you craft a bouquet that conveys your deepest sentiments, celebrates the achievements of the graduate, and offers encouragement for their future journey.

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Select Beautiful Colors

Choosing the right color for a graduation flower arrangement brings an added layer of significance to your gift. 

With each color expressing a unique sentiment, your bouquet becomes more than just a collection of flowers – it transforms into a symbol of the graduate’s journey and your heartfelt congratulations. 

At Ode à la Rose, we offer a stunning range of color options to help you convey your sentiment in the most meaningful way.

  • Red Flowers: Red is a color of extremes, embodying emotions from intense love to fervent passion. It is also a color that symbolizes courage, respect, and admiration. As a fiery and energizing hue, red can reflect the hard work, bravery, and dedication that the graduate has demonstrated in their academic journey. A bouquet of red flowers can serve as a powerful testament to your deep admiration for their accomplishments, as well as your unwavering belief in their potential for future success.
  • White Flowers: Symbolizing purity, innocence, and new beginnings, white flowers carry a quiet elegance and a subtle message of hope. They offer a reminder of the clean slate that graduation provides, ushering in a new phase of growth and exploration. The color white can reflect the joy of fresh starts and new opportunities, making it an ideal choice for a graduation bouquet. It serves as a tribute to the closing of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another.
  • Orange Flowers: Bursting with life and vibrancy, orange embodies excitement, enthusiasm, and fascination. A bouquet of orange flowers can convey the thrill of the graduate’s achievements and the anticipation of the adventures that lie ahead. This bold, energetic color can capture the exhilaration of the graduation day, and its warm tones can serve as a beacon of positivity and encouragement as the graduate steps into a new phase of their life.
  • Pink Flowers: Pink flowers are a universal symbol of love, but they also denote youth, joy, grace, and elegance. Gifting a bouquet of pink flowers can encapsulate the pride you feel for the graduate’s accomplishments. It’s a gentle, joyful hue that can celebrate the journey thus far, while also offering a soft, encouraging whisper for the road ahead.
  • Purple Flowers: Purple, a color that traditionally represents royalty, stands for accomplishment, admiration, dignity, and wisdom. This deep, soulful color can perfectly capture the magnitude of the graduate’s achievement. A bouquet of purple flowers can serve as a remarkable token of recognition for the graduate’s academic journey. It symbolizes the wisdom gained, the challenges overcome, and the maturity that has been attained.

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Pick The Perfect Arrangement

Selecting the perfect flower arrangement for graduation hinges not just on aesthetics, but also on understanding the graduate themselves.

At Ode à la Rose, we offer a wide variety of stunning arrangements suitable for any time, place, and recipient. We’re here to help you navigate these considerations and pick a bouquet that is both beautiful and meaningful, honoring this significant milestone in the graduate’s life.

Let’s walk through several considerations that can help you tailor your gift to the occasion and the recipient:

  • Consider their personality: Like art, flower arrangements can reflect different styles and moods. Is the graduate more traditional or contemporary in their tastes? Do they enjoy a minimalist style or prefer an abundance of blooms? Aligning the style of the bouquet with their personality can make your gift even more meaningful.
  • Think about potential allergies: While flowers are a beautiful gift, they could inadvertently cause discomfort if the recipient has allergies. If you know the graduate is sensitive to pollen, consider low-allergen flowers like roses, hydrangeas, or lilies.
  • Consider your relationship with the graduate: Your relationship with the graduate can guide your choice of flowers. For instance, if you’re a close friend or lover, the bouquet can be more personal and symbolic. Red roses for love, pink roses for admiration, or yellow roses for friendship can all be suitable choices. If you’re an acquaintance or a distant friend, consider sticking to more universally loved flowers like sunflowers or daisies.
  • Think about the time and place of the graduation: The occasion’s setting can influence the style and color of the bouquet. For a daytime event, opt for modest centerpieces with a soft palette to complement the natural light. If the celebration is in the evening, more lavish arrangements with vibrant colors, like our Hazel,  can stand out beautifully under the artificial lights.

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Choose the Right Flowers for Graduation


Now that we covered all there is to know when it comes to making a choice for graduation flowers – it’s time for some more specific ideas for your actual graduation gift! The following ones are the most suitable choices from our grandiose Ode a la Rose palette, but you can check some more that feels like a more appropriate gift for the graduate.

Lillies

Lilies, with their elegant form and symbolic meanings, are an excellent choice for graduation celebrations. White lilies symbolize purity and dedication, peace lilies stand for tranquility after accomplishment, and calla lilies represent overcoming challenges — each a fitting tribute to a hard-working graduate.

Our Carmen bouquet captures these sentiments beautifully. This arrangement blends warm, vibrant Free Spirit roses with unique calla lilies, adding pops of color with Craspedia and veronica, softness with waxflower, and a touch of lush greenery. The resulting combination mirrors the joy and anticipation of the big day, offering heartfelt congratulations to the graduate. Choose the Carmen bouquet from Ode à la Rose for a vibrant and meaningful graduation gift.

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Whites and Greens: A Refreshing Duo

The combination of white and green in a bouquet can create a crisp, refreshing aesthetic that’s perfect for celebrating new beginnings like graduation. White flowers, symbolizing purity and success, complement the lush vitality of green foliage. One standout greenery to consider is eucalyptus. With its distinct scent and attractive silvery-green leaves, eucalyptus adds both visual interest and aromatic charm to a bouquet.

For a bouquet that beautifully incorporates these elements, consider our Julia arrangement.

This bouquet features white lisianthus, a flower native to the warmer southern states of America. Lisianthus symbolizes appreciation, gratitude, and charisma, making it a thoughtful choice to celebrate a graduate’s accomplishment and potential. 

The Julia bouquet from Ode à la Rose, with its delicate white lisianthus blossoms set against vibrant greenery, offers a refreshing and meaningful way to express your congratulations on this momentous occasion.

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The Aveline Bouquet: A Celebration of Warm Pastels

If you’re looking for a bouquet that radiates warmth and joy, the Aveline bouquet might be just the ticket. 

This arrangement is a vibrant mix of various roses, carnations, alstroemeria, and tulips — a delightful combination of pinks, peaches, and corals that’s reminiscent of a beautiful spring day, no matter the season.

Within the bouquet, you’ll find shimmer roses, coral roses, White Mondial roses, and pink Mondial roses, each contributing a distinct hue and texture. Carnations, spray roses, and tulips add to the visual variety, while alstroemeria and eucalyptus provide touches of charm and intrigue. This beautiful blend of flowers is clipped to 15”, arranged tightly, and tied with raffia, creating a visually pleasing bouquet that’s ready to gift.

To make the Aveline bouquet even more special, consider personalizing your gift with a beautiful vase that suits the graduate’s taste, or adding a cozy blanket for those celebratory late-night study sessions. A box of macarons could also make a sweet addition, offering a delicious treat to accompany the visual feast.

At Ode à la Rose, we also include care instructions and flower food with our arrangements to help the blooms last 5-7 days, ensuring that your gift of celebration continues to brighten the graduate’s day long after the ceremony.

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Preserved Roses: A Lasting Memento of Graduation

An innovative and strikingly elegant way to commemorate graduation is with preserved roses.

These meticulously crafted flowers provide a lasting memory of the monumental moment, creating an emblem of achievement that stands the test of time. Unlike traditional bouquets, preserved roses require no watering, no special care — their beauty is enduring, just like the graduate’s accomplishment.

Here at Ode à la Rose, we offer an array of options when it comes to preserved roses. You may opt for an entire bouquet, creating a stunning visual impact that captures the grandeur of the occasion. Each rose in the bouquet represents a step in the graduate’s journey, a memory to be cherished, preserved forever in its bloom.

Alternatively, we offer a single preserved rose, a symbol of unity and individual triumph, encased in a sophisticated glass and gold box. This unique piece is a testament to the graduate’s personal journey, a solitary bloom that embodies their distinct achievement.

Whether a full bouquet or a single rose, our preserved roses provide a tangible, enduring tribute to the graduate’s hard work and success, a gift that serves as a daily reminder of their accomplishment and the joy of their graduation day. 

This timeless gift from Ode à la Rose is not merely a flower, but a story, a memory, a triumph frozen in time.

Consider what to say

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Peonies: Simplicity Meets Sophistication

In the world of flowers, peonies hold a special place for their lush blooms and delicate fragrance. These flowers symbolize prosperity, good fortune, honor, and love, making them a superb choice for congratulating a graduate on their hard-earned success.

Our Sabrina bouquet is a perfect example of peonies’ simple sophistication. Consisting entirely of white peonies, this arrangement embraces the beauty of minimalism. The voluminous white blooms exude a serene elegance, making this bouquet an embodiment of pure sophistication.

The Sabrina bouquet offers flexibility in terms of size as well. You can choose from a range of 10 to 30 stems, making it visually diverse and adaptable to suit different occasions and budgets. 

Whether you opt for a smaller, intimate arrangement or a grand display of blossoms, the Sabrina bouquet is a spectacular way to convey your congratulations and best wishes to the graduating individual. 

At Ode à la Rose, we believe that the perfect bouquet is not just about the flowers, but the emotions they carry — and Sabrina carries a powerful message of respect, admiration, and anticipation for the graduate’s bright future.

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Orchids: An Enduring Symbol of Strength and Beauty

There’s something truly unique about orchids. These exotic blooms are renowned for their elegance and longevity, often symbolizing strength, love, and luxury — all of which resonate beautifully with the momentous occasion of graduation.

More than just a one-time gift, potted orchids can be a constant reminder of a significant achievement. Particularly for graduates with a green thumb, nurturing an orchid can become a fulfilling hobby that offers a beautiful visual treat. 

But don’t worry if your graduate isn’t a seasoned plant caretaker. Orchids are surprisingly low-maintenance; with proper sunlight and basic care, they can flourish and bring joy for years.

Our exquisite offering in this category is the double magenta Phalaenopsis, potted in a rectangular natural wood box and finished off with fresh moss. Each arrangement contains two double magenta Phalaenopsis orchid plants, boasting 8-10 flowers per stem — a burst of vibrant color that makes a statement. 

This design, radiating elegance, and charm, makes a perfect gift for a graduate or a standout centerpiece for a graduation party.

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Colorful Arrangements: Embodying the Joy of Graduation

When it comes to commemorating something as vibrant and dynamic as a graduation, there’s hardly a better option than a colorful floral arrangement. 

These stunning compilations of hues speak volumes, embodying the joy, the passion, and the diversity of the graduate’s journey, thus far and what lies ahead.

A splendid example of this vibrancy is our Izzy bouquet. Full of life and energy, Izzy is designed to make a statement that reverberates with the essence of the hard-earned graduation. The arrangement radiates with a rainbow spectrum, combining pinks, oranges, blues, and yellows into a spectacular tribute to the graduate’s achievement.

The bouquet includes variations of roses, carnations, tulips, delphinium, lisianthus, and ruscus — each flower playing its part in this colorful symphony. This exquisite arrangement, prepared with utmost care and skill, is styled in the romantic Parisian fashion and wrapped with raffia, ensuring the bouquet retains its charm from the moment it’s prepared till it reaches the graduate’s hands.

For a different take on the vibrant theme, we present our precious Lisette. This bouquet captivates with its gentle sunrise color palette, harmoniously mingled with lush greenery. The result is a breathtaking summer bouquet reminiscent of an island sunrise, delivering the spring vibes right into the home of the graduate.

The Lisette arrangement includes the delicate hues of quicksand roses, shimmer Roses, delphinium, carnations, Alstroemeria, tulips, and lush greenery. Crafted with love and creativity, each Lisette bouquet encapsulates the warm and bright promise of a new day, making it the perfect congratulatory gift for a new graduate.

We have many other vibrant bouquets that deliver the joy and excitement of the graduation moment, wrapped in the elegant style of Ode à la Rose. 

It’s not just a gift, but a colorful, fragrant celebration of the graduate’s success!

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Why Choose Ode a la Rose as Your Go-To Flower Stop-Shop?

Now that you’re well-equipped with knowledge on choosing the perfect graduation flowers, why wait? Order today from Ode à la Rose, where we guarantee the exceptional quality of our bespoke arrangements, suitable for numerous different occasions.

 No matter what level of graduation you’re celebrating, we’re here to assist you in picking the perfect floral gift.

We’ll meticulously craft your chosen bouquet and ensure its safe delivery by nestling your blooms in a stylish box complemented by graceful wrapping. Our flowers are delivered fresh, ensconced in water, so your recipient can unbox a vibrant, thriving bouquet.

Explore our collection of spectacular bouquets today, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding delivery.

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The Best Flowers for Retirement https://www.odealarose.com/blog/flowers-for-retirement/ Mon, 04 Sep 2023 16:34:37 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=31995 Are you on the hunt for a unique and thoughtful way to honor a colleague, friend, or family member who is transitioning into the golden years of retirement? Tell them they’re not old, but have successfully lived through the most stormy period of their lives – gift them a flower arrangement from Ode à la…

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Are you on the hunt for a unique and thoughtful way to honor a colleague, friend, or family member who is transitioning into the golden years of retirement? Tell them they’re not old, but have successfully lived through the most stormy period of their lives – gift them a flower arrangement from Ode à la Rose!

Our flowers aren’t just aesthetically pleasing; they also represent the celebration of a significant life milestone, symbolizing the vibrant journey that lies ahead.

Just as we catered for momentous events and housewarming occasions with our exquisite bouquets, we are there for birthdays, new beginnings, and even retirement-related needs. 

We provide same-day delivery in numerous major cities, and with our next-day nationwide delivery, it’s never been easier to show your appreciation and convey your well-wishes to the retiree, no matter where they are.

Our flowers are handpicked for their quality and are designed in a fashion that encapsulates the elegant Parisian flair. Each bouquet from Ode à la Rose is a testament to the passion and craftsmanship that goes into our work, ensuring that each arrangement carries a message of affection, admiration, and good fortune for the retirement years.

Do you want a casual attention-grabbing bouquet, or a grand gesture to show your respect to the elders? Whatever style you may choose, we always care for touching the heart and essence of that one person the bouquet is meant for.

Let’s delve further into what type of flowers you should choose, and deliver some special moment bouquets to your special retiree’s door!

Are Flowers an Appropriate Retirement Gift?

Are flowers an apt gift for retirement, you ask? A resounding ‘Yes!’ echoes from every corner of our world. 

Consider the parallel between a retiree and a flower: both reach their peak in time, bloom with grace, and carry a distinctive charm. Just as a flower holds within it the promise of a fresh dawn after a long night, retirement too signifies the start of a new phase after years of work.

Whether it’s a sprightly sunflower bouquet symbolizing adoration and longevity, or an elegant orchid arrangement embodying love, strength, and luxury, flowers subtly yet eloquently express your heartfelt sentiments. 

So, to answer your question – are flowers appropriate for retirement? They’re not just appropriate; they’re practically poetic! Plus – with Ode a la Rose you can elevate your gift and bring in a personal touch by adding a photo or some other personalized gift of choice from our broad offer.

The Best Time and Place to Send Retirement Flowers

When it comes to sending retirement flowers, timing, and setting are everything. They add a special layer of thoughtfulness that enhances the overall impact of your gift.

In terms of time, flowers can be sent at any moment to celebrate the retiree’s transition. 

If there’s a retirement party planned, presenting your gift there allows you to share in the joyous occasion and express your congratulations more openly. But, if a formal party is not on the agenda, consider sending them on the retiree’s last working day to mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of another – it’s the basic business flower etiquette!

Alternatively, you could surprise them on their first day of retirement, symbolizing a fresh start, inviting them over for a cup of coffee and a pleasant walk.

When it comes to the place, consider the retiree’s preferences. For a homebody, delivering flowers to their home can create a celebratory atmosphere, making their living space vibrant and full of life. 

For those who love the outdoors, consider surprising them at a favorite park or a picnic spot with a floral arrangement. Or, you could send it to their office on their last day, ensuring a memorable farewell.

Now, let’s touch upon ambiance. Flowers have a knack for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a setting. If you know the retiree’s favorite flowers or color scheme, customize the bouquet accordingly. This not only brightens up their surroundings but also adds a personal touch.

Finally, if the retiree is planning to travel post-retirement, consider the timing of your gift. You wouldn’t want the flowers wilting away while they are off enjoying their newfound freedom. In such cases, gifting them before they embark on their journey or after their return would be most suitable. Even better – gift them a preserved rose so they can cherish their retirement gift for years to come!

In essence, the best time and place to send retirement flowers is when and where they can best reflect the joy, appreciation, and celebration that the occasion demands. 

The goal is to make the retiree feel cherished, and with careful consideration of these elements, your floral gift can do just that.

What Flowers Symbolize Retirement

As we venture into the art of gifting flowers for retirement, it’s important to remember that not all flowers fit every occasion. Just like a book, each flower carries its unique story, symbolizing various emotions and sentiments. 

The choice of flower, its color, the size, and the style of the arrangement all play a significant role in conveying your message. But above all, tailoring your floral choice to the retiree’s personality is paramount.

When choosing flowers for retirement, we’re celebrating a major life transition, filled with a blend of sentiments – joy for past accomplishments, excitement for the future, and a sense of peace and contentment. 

Each flower chosen should reflect these emotions, along with aligning with the retiree’s preferences and personality. So, let’s delve into the world of blooms and unravel which flowers best symbolize retirement.

Calla Lilies

Sophisticated and elegant, calla lilies are a marvel in the floral world. 

Their long, graceful stems and trumpet-shaped blooms epitomize beauty and refinement. In the language of flowers, they speak of transformation and rebirth, aptly reflecting a retiree’s transition from a bustling professional life to a tranquil, relaxing phase. Not to mention the aromatherapy scent of lilies that expands around the entire room!

Available in an array of colors, each hue carries its unique symbolism. For instance, the pure white calla lilies evoke feelings of innocence and purity, while the pink ones express gratitude and admiration. As a retirement gift, these elegant blooms are more than just a treat to the eyes; they’re a testament to the retiree’s splendid journey.

THE BEST FLOWERS FOR WEDDINGS

 

Pastel Color Arrangements

Pastel color arrangements are like visual poetry – gentle, soothing, and brimming with subtle emotions. Their soft hues offer a sense of peace, making them a perfect representation of the serene transition into retirement. 

An amalgamation of roses, carnations, hydrangeas, or other blooms in these pastel shades can evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. These arrangements’ versatile colors blend seamlessly into any decor, making them a delightful addition to the retiree’s space. 

If you’re looking for a gift that carries the tranquility and leisurely pace of retirement, pastel color arrangements are a wonderful choice. Place an order with Ode a la Rose today, and let some of our most capable craftsmen of floral joy brighten the day of a retiree!

Tulips

Tulips, with their striking colors and distinctive shape, are a joyful sight to behold. 

Symbolizing perfect love and new beginnings, they’re like a cheerful nod to the bright and exciting journey that retirement promises. With tulips, the color of the bloom adds an additional layer of sentiment – yellow tulips stand for cheerful thoughts and sunshine, while purple ones represent abundance and royalty. 

A bouquet of radiant tulips is an offering of joy, brightness, and prosperity – an embodiment of the vibrant new chapter in the retiree’s life. Take, for example, our Gabrielle bouquet arrangement consisting of double magenta tulips decorated with lush eucalyptus. It speaks fond congratulations and deeply curated wisdom with each glance and petal!

Potted Flowers

Retirement often brings with it the luxury of time, and what better way to utilize it than nurturing a living, breathing piece of nature right at home? 

Potted flowers make an excellent retirement gift, inviting the retiree to engage in a calming, rewarding activity. They bring in a burst of color and vitality to the home, and caring for them can be a fulfilling hobby. Moreover, their ongoing bloom serves as a constant reminder of the sender’s thoughtful gesture.

Among potted flowers, orchids hold a special place. These exotic, elegant blooms are known for their long-lasting flowers and relatively easy care, making them ideal for retirees who now have more time to enjoy and care for their plants. 

The orchid’s mesmerizing beauty and allure symbolize love, strength, and luxury, making them a perfect retirement gift that echoes the retiree’s successful journey and the opulence of the life that awaits them post-retirement.

For those living in apartments and absolutely adore big tree-like plants, the Benjamin plant or Ficus varieties make an excellent choice. These plants adapt well to indoor environments and are easy to maintain. They bring a slice of nature indoors, purifying the air and adding a calming, green touch to the interior.

In essence, potted plants and flowers are gifts that keep on giving. They provide a source of daily joy and satisfaction for the retiree, and their care can become a rewarding routine in the leisurely pace of retired life.

Best Flowers for Teacher’s Day

Ferns

Ferns are another fantastic choice for a retirement gift. These lush, green plants symbolize sincerity, magic, and fascination. 

Their intricate fronds add a touch of elegance to any space, and their care routine invites a daily rhythm of care and attention – perfect for those newly expansive retirement days. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, ferns are known for their air-purifying properties, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

Palm Varieties

If the retiree is fortunate to have a backyard or a sizable outdoor space, gifting a variety of Palm plants can be an exceptional idea. Palms are symbolic of peace and victory and can transform any space into a tropical paradise. They are relatively easy to care for and can thrive with a bit of sunshine and regular watering.

Vibrant Color Bouquets

A vibrant color bouquet is like a riotous celebration in a vase. It’s an exuberant blend of colorful blooms such as roses, gerberas, lilies, and chrysanthemums, each carrying its unique symbolism and message. 

These bouquets are an apt representation of the kaleidoscope of experiences that make up a retiree’s journey and the myriad possibilities that await them. Is it a boat trip around the corner, or installing a casual relaxing patio with a pool in the backyard?

The bright hues bring a sense of joy and positivity, infusing the retiree’s space with life and energy. Each glance at the bouquet is a reminder of their vibrant past and an equally exciting future. Take, for example, our Aria bouquet.

The name ‘Aria’ comes from Italian, meaning ‘air’, but it’s most often associated with expressive melodies in operas – full of emotion and passion. Such is the essence of our Aria bouquet.

Enveloped in hues of red, burgundy, and vibrant magenta, this bouquet encapsulates both a sense of bold spirit and profound emotion. 

It features freedom roses, a symbol of celebration, alongside free spirit roses, which represent joy and fascination. The playful snapdragons add a touch of grace, while the alstroemeria symbolizes friendship and devotion, honoring the camaraderie the retiree has fostered over the years.

Adding to this rich tapestry are the calla lilies, their elegant form encapsulating beauty and transformation – a fitting nod to the retiree’s new journey. 

The bouquet also includes delicate anemones, their striking colors a beacon of anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead. Finally, the eucalyptus leaves, with their refreshing scent and calming aura, round out the bouquet, bringing a sense of peace and tranquility.

Now, Imagine capturing the golden radiance of a setting sun, the gentle blush of a sunrise, or the playful mirth of a summer afternoon in a bundle of flowers. That’s the Carmen bouquet for you – a lively ensemble that echoes warmth and vibrancy. 

This bouquet marries free spirit roses, symbolizing joy, with the grace and transformation represented by calla lilies. Craspedia, also known as billy balls, add a pop of fun and positivity, while the slender spikes of Veronica symbolize fidelity. 

The delicate waxflowers express lasting love and success, resonating deeply with the retiree’s accomplished journey. The greenery ties this colorful medley together, providing a fresh and tranquil backdrop. All in all, the Carmen bouquet is like a splash of sunshine, promising to light up the retiree’s life with its vibrant hues and varied symbolism.

Deep Violets

As the color of the seventh chakra, the crown chakra, it represents wisdom, spirituality, and the quest for truth. Its rich depth carries an air of refinement and honor, aligning perfectly with the esteem associated with a well-earned retirement. A bouquet dominated by this color, or cold tones, like the Aveline, not only exudes beauty but also echoes the retiree’s acquired wisdom and the respect they’ve earned over the years.

The Aveline bouquet is a stunning testament to texture, drama, and sweetness. It features the soft, soothing hues of ocean song roses, combined with the striking elegance of calla lilies and the exotic charm of anemones. Adding a unique touch are the thistle and delphinium, their cool tones reminiscent of a serene seascape. 

A sprig of refreshing eucalyptus rounds out this arrangement, offering balance and tranquility. This bouquet, with its blend of cool-toned blooms, is like a breath of fresh air, invigorating and calming all at once.

In the language of flowers, violets also symbolize love, affection, and admiration, making them an ideal retirement gift. Whether presented in a bouquet or a potted plant, deep violets offer a touch of elegance and tranquility, befitting the retiree’s new chapter.

Should You Choose Retirement Bouquets or Retirement Plants?

When selecting a retirement gift, one of the key considerations is whether to choose a flower arrangement or a potted plant. The best choice often comes down to the personality of the retiree, their living conditions, and their preferences.

The Personality of the Retiree:

If the retiree is someone who enjoys the constant change and variation in life, a flower arrangement could be a delightful gift. With their colorful blooms and enchanting fragrances, flowers serve as a cheerful reminder of the sender’s appreciation. They can be admired for their fleeting beauty and then replaced, providing a constant cycle of enjoyment.

On the other hand, a potted plant might be the perfect gift for a retiree who loves nurturing and has a nurturing personality. The daily routine of watering, trimming, and tending to a plant can be a fulfilling and therapeutic activity. Moreover, the growth of the plant over time can serve as a symbol of the retiree’s ongoing journey.

Living Conditions

Living conditions also play a crucial role in deciding between flowers and plants. If the retiree lives in an apartment, a potted indoor plant like an orchid or a fern might be a great option. They not only add a touch of greenery to the indoor space but also improve air quality.

For retirees with a large garden, outdoor plants such as palm varieties or other perennials that can add beauty to their outdoor space year after year would be a thoughtful gift. They can enjoy the gardening process, which is known to have numerous physical and mental health benefits.

If the retiree is someone who moves around a lot, say, between different vacation homes in their newfound freedom, a flower bouquet might be more suitable. It can be enjoyed for the time they’re in one place without the need for ongoing care.

Preferences

Lastly, consider the retiree’s preferences. Do they have a favorite flower or plant? Do they prefer bright, vibrant colors, or are they more drawn to soothing, pastel shades? Perhaps they love the elegance of a calla lily or the simplicity of a sunflower. Their preferences should be the key guiding factor in your decision.

In conclusion, whether you choose flowers or a plant as a retirement gift, it’s the thought, care, and personal touch that will make it truly special for the retiree.

To deliver your ideas into reality, choose Ode a la Rose and add a personal spice to your cherished gifts for any occasion – big or small!

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How to Preserve and Replant Wedding Bouquet Flowers https://www.odealarose.com/blog/how-to-preserve-wedding-flowers/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 13:10:09 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=31962 There are some memories you never want to forget, like your wedding. The way your partner looked at you as you walked down the aisle, the dreamy scenery of your wedding venue, and the sweet blessings from your friends and family are all precious moments. Your wedding bouquet was by your side through many of these…

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There are some memories you never want to forget, like your wedding. The way your partner looked at you as you walked down the aisle, the dreamy scenery of your wedding venue, and the sweet blessings from your friends and family are all precious moments. Your wedding bouquet was by your side through many of these moments. Keep your memories close by preserving your bridal bouquet using one or more of these eight methods:

Method 1 — Pressed

One of the most popular ways to preserve your wedding flowers is by pressing them. The pressing process is fairly straightforward and requires materials you likely already have.

Pressing your flowers flattens the three-dimensional blooms, allowing you to save and reuse your wedding bouquet in ways you couldn’t otherwise. The flowers take around one week to two weeks to flatten. As they flatten, the moisture escapes from the blooms and dries. By the end of this preservation method, you’ll have flattened, dried blooms to keep for five years to seven years.

How to Press Your Wedding Flowers

To press your wedding flowers, you will need:

  • Parchment paper
  • A large book
  • Something heavy, like another book or a brick
  • Your wedding bouquet
  • A pair of tweezers

In addition to these materials, you’ll want a safe place to store your flowers as they dry, and about one week to two weeks of time. Gather your materials and press your flowers with the following steps:

  1. Carefully take apart your wedding bouquet. Wedding bouquets are too thick to press whole, so it’s best to flatten each flower separately and arrange them after pressing.
  2. Cut the flower stems at an angle and remove any low leaves. If you want to press thicker blooms, like hydrangeas or dahlias, split them by cutting them in half down the middle using scissors. Cut them just short of the stem so the remaining half of the bloom stays intact.
  3. Open your large book to the middle pages.
  4. Place a piece of parchment paper on one of the open pages.
  5. Arrange your flowers on the parchment paper. Make sure no flowers are touching, or else their blooms will attach.
  6. Place another sheet of parchment paper over the blooms, sandwiching the flowers between the two parchment paper sheets.
  7. Carefully close your book.
  8. Place the book somewhere safe, like on a bookshelf.
  9. Put a heavy object on top of your book. This presses the pages together, putting more pressure on your blooms.
  10. Let your blooms press from one week to two weeks.
  11. After waiting, take off the heavy object and open your book.
  12. Carefully remove the top sheet of parchment paper.

Your blooms should look dried, flattened, and a bit smaller than they did when fresh. Use your tweezers to gently remove the pressed wedding flowers from the remaining parchment sheet. Put them to the side for future use, like for scrapbooking or fragrancing.

Method 2 — Microwave Pressed

If you don’t have time to press your flowers the traditional way, a quick alternative is using your microwave. The traditional pressing method is preferred because it keeps the bloom’s color and gives a better shape. But microwave pressing can give you pressed flowers in minutes.

Not all flowers should be microwave pressed. Certain blooms, like sunflowers, can’t withstand the heat well and tend to shrivel. Also, light-colored blooms can discolor, turning a taupe or burnt color. Buy flowers from your local grocery store or cut some from your yard to test before using your valuable wedding flowers.

How to Press Your Flowers in the Microwave

To microwave press your wedding flowers, you will need:

  • A microwave with a defrost setting
  • Paper towels
  • A microwave-safe weight, like a plate
  • Your wedding bouquet

A microwave with a defrost setting is preferred because it will limit any possible heat damage. The traditional pressing method gradually dries the blooms, and the microwave speeds that drying process. However, you still want to replicate the gradual process as best as possible. You can microwave press your wedding flowers with these steps:

  1. Carefully take apart your wedding bouquet. Follow the first and second steps from the traditional pressing method to properly prepare your blooms.
  2. Place a paper towel on your counter.
  3. Arrange your blooms on the paper towel, making sure no blooms are touching.
  4. Place another paper towel on top of the blooms, sandwiching the flowers between both paper towels.
  5. Put the paper towels and blooms in the microwave. Make sure the paper towels fit within the microwave dish. If your microwave plate rotates, you want to prevent the paper towels from catching on the microwave’s walls.
  6. Place the microwave-safe weight on top of the paper towels and blooms.
  7. Start your microwave on a defrost setting. Heat the blooms in 30-second increments.
  8. Check your flowers between each increment. Every flower takes a different amount of time to dry and press. Touch the bloom with your finger. When your flower feels dry to the touch, place it to the side for future use.
  9. Repeat step seven until all blooms are pressed and dried.

Microwave pressed flowers don’t last as long as traditionally pressed flowers. They will likely last a few years, depending on how you use them.

Method 3 — Air-Dried

If you like the idea of dried wedding flowers but prefer a three-dimensional appearance, consider air-drying your wedding bouquet. This drying method allows you to preserve your bouquet’s whole appearance. Air-dried flowers last best when kept away from sunlight or moisture. With the proper care, your air-dried wedding bouquet can last a year or more.

How to Air-Dry Your Wedding Bouquet

To air-dry your wedding bouquet, you will need:

  • A clothes hanger
  • Rubber bands
  • String
  • Your wedding bouquet
  • A dry space away from sunlight, like a closet

Live plants require hours of direct sunlight. However, cut flowers lose their color vibrancy when exposed to too much sunlight. Blooms will naturally lose some of their vibrancy during the drying process, but sunlight exposure will strip away even more color. This is why it’s best to dry flowers in a sunlight-free room, such as a closet or dry basement.

Air-dry your wedding bouquet following these steps:

  1. Carefully take apart your bouquet. If you dry your bouquet as a whole, you risk your flowers pressing together, resulting in flatter blooms. Keep your wedding bouquet ribbon somewhere safe for future use.
  2. Secure a rubber band around the bottom of each stem.
  3. Use a piece of string to attach each stem to your clothes hanger. Hang each stems far enough apart so they maintain their shape.
  4. Hang the hanger in your closet — or other dark, dry room — for at least a week.

Hanging your flowers upside down prevents gravity from weighing the blooms down during the drying process. If you’ve ever kept flowers in a vase for too long, you may have seen this happen. After your flowers have dried, reassemble your bouquet. Your florists may also be willing to help you reassemble your bouquet. Use your ribbon to gently hold your dried wedding bouquet together, and place it in a vase.

Method 4 — Glycerin

Glycerin is a colorless liquid derived from plant oils, like soybean or coconut oil. People commonly use glycerin in crafts, and it is especially popular in the cosmetic industry. Glycerin acts like a sponge, maintaining its moisture by absorbing surrounding moisture. These properties make glycerin perfect for flower preservation because it soaks up the flower’s moisture but keeps it supple and durable.

If you squeeze a fresh bloom, you’ll hear the bloom crunch, but it will keep its shape for the most part. If you squeeze a glycerin-treated bloom, it will act similar to foam. The bloom won’t crack, it isn’t as likely to break, and you can easily reshape and fluff it. Use this wedding bouquet preservation technique if you want fresh-looking blooms that last six months to two years.

How to Preserve Wedding Flowers Using Glycerin

To preserve your wedding flowers using glycerin, you will need:

  • Glycerin
  • Water
  • Scissors
  • Mason jars or vases
  • Your wedding bouquet
  • A room away from sunlight, like a closet

You can likely find glycerin at your local craft store. Both tap water and distilled water work well for this process, and the amount needed will vary depending on how many flowers you are treating. The golden ratio is two parts water to one part glycerin.

Glycerin-treat your wedding flowers with these steps:

  1. Gently take apart your wedding bouquet. Group your flowers, and designate a mason jar or vase for each group.
  2. Heat up your water. The water should be hot, but not to the point of boiling. If your water is too hot, your flower will cook and discolor or welt.
  3. Add the glycerin to your mason jars or vases.
  4. While your water is heating, remove any bottom leaves from your flowers’ stems. Cut the bottom of each stem at an angle, then cut vertically upwards approximately 1 inch to 2 inches. This allows for better glycerin and water absorption.
  5. Once your water is properly heated, pour it into the mason jars or vases. You want about 3 inches of liquid following a 2-to-1 water-glycerin ratio.
  6. Mix the water and glycerin.
  7. Put your flowers into the mason jars or vases. The flowers should be evenly divided and spaced so they can maintain their shape.
  8. Place your flower-filled mason jars or vases in a dimly lit room, away from direct sunlight. Doing so prevents bloom discoloration or fading.
  9. Let the plants absorb the glycerin mixture for two weeks to six weeks.
  10. After waiting, remove your flowers and hang them upside down to dry for one day to two days.

As your flowers absorb the glycerin, it replaces any existing moisture. Because of glycerin’s moisturizing properties, the flower maintains its supple appearance. Your flowers will technically be dried but will keep a fresh appearance compared to other drying methods.

Method 5 — Wax

A popular short-term flower preservation method is wax. Dipping your flowers in wax allows them to maintain their moisture without any intense drying techniques. The wax gives your flowers a shiny appearance and lasts for about a month. For the best results, allow your flowers to soak in a glycerin mixture for about a week. Follow the same glycerin-treated steps outlined in the previous method.

How to Preserve Your Wedding Bouquet With Wax

To preserve your wedding flowers using wax, you will need:

  • A drying rack
  • Soy wax
  • A vase large enough that you can dip your flower without disrupting any blooms and deep enough to cover the stem’s length
  • A wax-heating method, such as a microwave or stovetop
  • Your wedding bouquet

You can find soy wax at your local craft store. Soy wax works best because it gives your flowers a shiny, flexible appearance. To melt your soy wax easily, buy it flaked. Flaked wax can melt in the microwave in a few minutes, while whole wax requires melting via stovetop, which takes much longer.

Achieving a perfectly waxed flower takes practice. Before using your wedding bouquet flowers, consider practicing with grocery store flowers. Perfectly dip your wedding flowers with the following steps:

  1. Take apart your wedding bouquet. Each flower requires individual dipping for the best results.
  2. Melt your soy wax. The temperature of your wax plays an important role in a perfectly dipped flower. Your blooms will cook if the wax is too hot, and chunks of wax will form on the blooms if the wax isn’t hot enough. Test the temperature of your wax using a spare flower.
  3. Pour your soy wax into your vase.
  4. Choose your flower. Take off any leaves and petals you don’t want to preserve because you can’t remove any blooms post-dipping.
  5. Hold your flower by the stem so the bloom is facing down. Carefully dip and submerge the bloom into the wax.
  6. Keep the bloom submerged for a few seconds. Gently twist the stem to make sure the wax is evenly coating the bloom. Let any bubbles escape before removing the bloom.
  7. Remove the flower from the wax and let any extra wax drip off. If there is too much extra wax, it will form too thick of a layer and turn white.
  8. Place your flower on a drying rack and allow the wax to harden.
  9. Repeat steps four through seven for each flower.
  10. Once the wax on the blooms has dried, dip the remaining stems into the wax. Cover the entire flower with wax to prevent air from slowly killing the blooms.

After the remaining wax dries, your wax-preserved flowers are ready for use.

Method 6 — Silica Gel

Silica gel isn’t actually a gel. Rather, it’s a sand-like substance that absorbs 30% to 40% of its weight in water. Food companies commonly use silica gel in their packaging to trap moisture and preserve their food products. It can also help you save your wedding flowers.

How to Preserve Your Wedding Bouquet in Silica Gel

To preserve your wedding bouquet using silica gel, you will need:

  • A few pounds of silica gel
  • A sealable container
  • Your wedding bouquet

You want a container large enough to place all your flowers in it. The container should also have a sealable lid to keep any external moisture from affecting the drying process. Keep in mind that the larger your container, the more silica gel you will need.

Dry your wedding flowers using silica gel with these steps:

  1. Take apart your wedding bouquet. This process works best with upward-facing blooms, so you may have to cut off the stems depending on your container.
  2. Pour a few inches of silica gel into your empty container.
  3. Place your blooms on top of the base layer of silica gel, spreading them evenly around the container.
  4. Gradually pour more silica gel into the container. Avoid pouring directly on top of the blooms, or else it will weigh them down and make them dry flat. For larger flowers, use your hand to gently cover the bloom.
  5. Continue pouring until the flowers are fully submerged in the silica gel.
  6. Seal the lid on your container.
  7. Allow the flowers to sit in the silica gel for three days to six days. The larger the bloom, the more drying time required.

After your flowers have finished drying, remove the container’s lid and carefully remove the flowers from the silica sand. The flowers should feel dry to the touch and still have their three-dimensional, full appearance.

Method 7 — Epoxy Resin

Epoxy resin is a casting technique that is growing in popularity. Epoxy resin encloses your live wedding flower in a clear mold. Your finished wedding flower craft depends on your mold. For example, you can make an epoxy resin coaster using a thin rectangular mold or a paperweight using a circular mold. The mold’s shape also determines which of your wedding flowers you can use. Typically, each mold holds a single flower and doesn’t include the flower’s stem.

How to Preserve Your Wedding Bouquet in Epoxy Resin

To preserve your wedding flowers in epoxy resin, you will need:

  • A respirator
  • Gloves
  • Slow-setting epoxy resin
  • Epoxy hardener
  • A mold
  • Scissors
  • Your wedding flowers

By itself, epoxy resin acts and looks like a liquid gel. To harden the gel, you have to activate a chemical reaction using an epoxy hardener. Slow-setting epoxy resin is preferred when working with fresh flowers because the stronger chemical reaction involved in fast-setting epoxy resin may burn the blooms.

Use epoxy resin to preserve your wedding flowers with these steps:

  1. Mix equal parts epoxy resin and epoxy hardener.
  2. Pour a base layer into your mold.
  3. Let the base layer harden following the epoxy resin’s instructions. Once the base layer hardens, you’ll be able to place the flower on top of it, giving the flower a floating appearance.
  4. While the first layer is hardening, choose the flower you want to use. Cut the stem off the flower just under the receptacle.
  5. Place the flower in the middle on top of the first layer.
  6. Pour another layer of the epoxy resin. Epoxy resin can only harden in small layers, so try pouring in small, even amounts.
  7. Once the layer is dry, repeat step six until the flower is completely covered.

When using epoxy resin, it’s important to wear protective gloves and a respirator to avoid irritating your skin or other complications.

Method 8 — Replant or Repot Your Wedding Flowers

If you have a green thumb, you may be successful at replanting or repotting your wedding flowers. Not all flowers can be replanted. Before considering this flower preservation method, take a look at your flowers to see if any of them have nodes.

Nodes are located on the stem, usually as a swollen area under a leaf. Nodes are the action point where roots grow — the key to propagation. Some florists purposefully cut off nodes for aesthetic purposes, which is why not every flower in your bouquet can be replanted. The best flowers to replant from your wedding bouquet are those with many nodes, like succulents and lavender.

If replanted successfully, your bouquet flower can regenerate and produce blooms for months or years.

How to Replant or Repot Your Wedding Bouquet

To replant your wedding flowers, you will need:

  • Wedding flowers with nodes
  • Rooting growth hormone
  • Scissors
  • A pot
  • Soilless gardening mix
  • A large plastic bag

Replant and preserve your wedding bouquet flowers with the following steps:

  1. Identify your flower’s nodes.
  2. Cut your flower’s stem right below the node. If your flower has multiple nodes, keep around three to four additional nodes on the stem.
  3. Trim the remaining leaves from the stem.
  4. Dip the cut end of the stem into the rooting growth hormone.
  5. Fill a pot with several inches of a soilless gardening mix. Soilless gardening mix has superior air and drainage qualities, which are necessary for propagation.
  6. Use your finger to poke a hole in the gardening mix. Pushing your stem straight into the soil will disrupt the growth hormone.
  7. Carefully plant your flower into the gardening mix.
  8. With your stem planted, place the entire pot into a plastic bag. Propagation requires plenty of moisture, and the plastic bag creates a miniature greenhouse effect.
  9. Wait for the roots to develop. It may take days or months, depending on the plant. During this time, water the plant when you notice the top layer of the gardening mixture is dry.

Check for roots by gently pulling the stem upwards. If the stem comes out of the soil with ease, continue waiting for the roots to grow. If you see roots shifting or beginning to lift from the gardening mix, the flower is ready to be replanted. Replant your flower into a pot with moist potting soil to continue growing.

Get the Best Results Using High-End Flowers From Ode à la Rose

A decade ago, co-founders Louis and Oliver explored the florists in New York City in search of the highest quality flowers to no avail. In France, florists value flowers’ symbolism — beautiful petals, colors, and stems that accurately reflects your love and appreciation. Since they couldn’t find the perfect New York City florist, they became it.

When you order your wedding flowers from Ode à la Rose, you receive flowers that will last you long past your wedding day. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you preserve your wedding memories for years to come.

 

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How to Donate Wedding Flowers https://www.odealarose.com/blog/how-to-donate-wedding-flowers/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:25:37 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=31954 A lot of people can’t imagine throwing away their beautiful flower arrangements. That’s why many newlyweds donate their wedding flowers to local organizations or charities, or they simply give them to friends and family as a thank you. Are you looking for ways to give away your wedding flowers? If so, consider these charitable ideas.…

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A lot of people can’t imagine throwing away their beautiful flower arrangements. That’s why many newlyweds donate their wedding flowers to local organizations or charities, or they simply give them to friends and family as a thank you.

Are you looking for ways to give away your wedding flowers? If so, consider these charitable ideas.

What Can You Donate From Your Wedding?

So much time is spent planning a wedding, but what do you do with your wedding decor, dresses, and food afterward? Many newlyweds choose to donate their:

  • Wedding dresses: You only wear your wedding dress once. Why not pass it along to another bride? Wedding dresses aren’t easy on the wallet, and some brides can’t afford to pay full-price for their dream dress. Find a charity, like Brides Across America, to donate your dress to. Remember that bridesmaids can donate their dresses, too!
  • Decorations: If you don’t have space in your home for 20 candleholders or miles of fairy lights, donate them to The Salvation Army or another local charity. You could also post them online for a low price and donate the monetary profits to your favorite charitable organization.
  • Extra wedding favors: Do you have any leftover wedding favors or welcome gifts? Then, consider donating them to your local charity, too.
  • Unwanted gifts: Although the gesture was sweet, some gifts aren’t practical to keep. Instead of letting the gift collect dust in your storage closet, consider donating unwanted gifts to your local charity or selling them at a low price to your community.
  • Food: Donating cooked food comes with more obstacles than other donation types. But, your local food bank will gladly accept leftover packaged foods or candies.
  • Flowers: High-quality, fresh flowers will last long after your wedding day. There are many charities and organizations that can pass your flowers along for someone else to enjoy.

Right after your wedding day, you and your fiancé will likely have one thing in mind — your honeymoon. Make donation arrangements during the planning stages of your wedding, and leave your wedding planner or a trusted friend or family member in charge of flower donations.

Why Donate Your Wedding Flowers?

Flowers play a big role in your wedding, and they can also play an equally big role in someone else’s life. According to the Society of American Florists, flowers have the following benefits:

  • Make people happy: Have you ever given someone flowers? Flowers are cheerful and colorful, and they make people happy.
  • Leave a long-lasting effect: A person’s happiness lingers long after they first receive flowers. Receiving flowers can help people feel less depressed and anxious, resulting in higher life satisfaction and enjoyment.
  • Strengthen connections: If you donate your flowers to friends and family, the act of kindness can help to strengthen your relationship. Or, if you donate to a local organization, you can make new friends!

If you donate your wedding flowers to a donation program, research their donation policies. Most programs operate on a volunteer basis, so they’ll need at least a week of advanced notice to ensure they have enough volunteers to welcome your donation.

4 Ways to Give Away Your Wedding Flowers

Make a game plan for your wedding flower donations before your big day. You can get creative and reuse your wedding flowers in DIY crafts. Or, you can choose the charitable route and give away your wedding flowers to charity. Here’s how:

1. Find a Wedding Flower Donation Program

Many organizations welcome flower donations. Wedding flower donation programs reuse wedding flowers to make arrangements for people in need.

Not every state has a donation program, but you can always contact your local florist to find out what is available in your area. Here are some of the wedding flower donation programs available throughout a number of states in the U.S.

Hope Blooms

Hope Blooms is a nonprofit organization located in North Dakota. They welcome gently used flower arrangements, and they’ll rearrange them into table centerpieces for those in need. Hope Blooms donates flower arrangements to:

  • Patients in hospice care
  • Seniors in assisted living facilities
  • Homebound seniors
  • Struggling mothers

Repurposed arrangements benefit struggling community members by shining a light of hope into their lives. Hope Blooms embraces this concept with a mission to spread hope, happiness, and emotional healing throughout their community.

If you’re local to the Fargo, North Dakota, area, notify Hope Blooms of your donation one week in advance. That way, they can gather enough volunteers to welcome your flowers. Hope Blooms accepts flower supplies, too, so consider donating vases and other decorative pieces as well.

Random Acts of Flowers

Random Acts of Flowers has a slightly larger reach, with three locations:

  • Knoxville, TN
  • Tampa Bay, FL
  • Indianapolis, IN

Their mission is similar to Hope Blooms — to deliver arrangements to community members in need with hopes of boosting their spirits.

In 2007, the founder of Random Acts of Flowers survived a near-death accident resulting in a long stay in the hospital. His loved ones supported him during his stay, stopping by for meaningful conversation and delivering lively flowers to brighten his hospital room. But, as he looked at the rooms around him, he noticed not everybody was equally blessed with the same treatment.

Random Acts of Flowers accepts flower donations. Volunteers deliver these arrangements to people in need, with a focus on those in hospice care. As volunteers deliver flowers, they also engage the recipient in conversation. For many people, these random acts of kindness can be the turning part in their treatment.

If you’re local to any of the three areas, contact the location and make arrangements for your donation.

Flower Angels USA

Flower Angels USA is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization that upcycles used arrangements to support community members. Like other flower donation organizations, Flower Angels USA strives to deliver happiness to people in need.

The organization started when founder Suzanne Carter visited her mother at a nursing home. She noticed that many of the residents didn’t receive flowers or visitors, and she wanted to change that. Flower Angels USA started soon after.

If you’re local to Cape Cod, contact Flower Angels USA and schedule a donation date. Volunteers will walk you through the donation process and answer any questions you might have along the way.

Bouquets of Kindness

Bouquets of Kindness is a volunteer-based organization that collects and repurposes flowers for older adults.

Over 20% of Florida’s population is over the age of 65. The volunteers at Bouquets of Kindness aim to brighten retirees’ days in the Jacksonville area — and they don’t just deliver flowers. Volunteers with the organization encourage older adults to choose and craft their own arrangements, including the types of ribbons, vases, and other accessories.

Older adults, especially those living in a senior community, may feel dependent on others. Crafting their own arrangements restores older adults’ sense of independence, decreasing feelings of depression.

If you’re in the Jacksonville, Florida, area, you can prepare to donate your wedding flowers by filling out their online contact form approximately one month in advance.

Petals for Hope

Petals for Hope offers flower donation services in most U.S. states. With your donated wedding flowers, volunteers at Petals for Hope create rearranged arrangements and bouquets. They deliver them to community members in-need, like:

  • At-risk youth
  • Sex trafficking victims
  • Homeless children
  • Older adults in nursing homes
  • Patients in hospitals

Petals for Hope also hosts a number of events, such as:

  • Flower arranging workshops: Volunteers set up flower arranging events in children’s hospitals, nursing homes, women’s shelters, and more. They bring donated wedding flowers and materials and teach community members how to craft their own bouquet or arrangement.
  • Seasonal initiatives: Using donated flowers and other contributions, Petals for Hope hosts costume drives, stocking stuffing, and other events to give back to community members in need.

If you’re interested in donating your wedding flowers to Petals for Hope, visit their online contact form. Contact them about a month in advance, and their volunteers will walk you through the donation process.

2. Gift a Local Organization

Take inspiration from these nonprofit organizations and gift your flowers to local community members and businesses. Look for local organizations like:

  • Senior living facilities: Older adults are prone to social isolation. Although residents spend quality time with their peers and nurses, a simple gesture of a flower donation can revive their spirits and help them feel appreciated.
  • Women’s shelters: Some women have lived difficult lives. Support these women by donating your wedding flower arrangements, letting them know they’re not alone, and their bravery and strength are recognized community-wide.
  • Children’s hospitals: Unfortunately, some children aren’t living a typical childhood. If you can’t offer monetary donations, donate your flower arrangements to bring a little joy into children’s hospital rooms.
  • Veteran service organizations: Thank veterans for their service by donating your flower arrangements. This small gesture has a big meaning, making veterans feel recognized and appreciated.

Talk with the organizations before giving away your wedding flowers. Ask what type of flower arrangements they welcome and schedule a day where the organization is ready to accept your gift.

3. Reuse Your Flowers in a Second Event

Do you know of an event happening soon? If so, ask the host or hosting organization if they welcome flower donations. Or, if you plan on hosting an event not long after your wedding, you could even reuse your flowers then.

Some events that may benefit from reused wedding flower arrangements include:

  • Charitable events: Charity events rely heavily on building relationships with donators. Charitable events allow organizations to raise awareness and funds for their cause. Beautiful flower arrangements are sure to impress guests and leave a favorable impression. By donating your wedding flowers to a charitable event, you’re saving the charity money and helping them generate long-term profit.
  • Housewarming parties: For some newlyweds, their wedding day is paired with move-in day. If you’re celebrating a new house, consider hosting a housewarming party once you’ve settled in — and use your flowers as part of the decor.
  • Dinner parties: Are you hosting a small dinner party before leaving for your honeymoon? Or, do you know someone who loves hosting dinner parties? Then, consider donating your wedding flowers for an added elegant flair.
  • Crafting events: Make reusing your wedding flowers into group fun by hosting a crafting event. There’s no shortage of floral wedding crafts. Gather some friends and use your wedding flowers in table arrangements, wreaths, resin projects, and so much more.

Any event can benefit from flower arrangements. If you don’t plan on hosting an event soon, ask your friends if they have an event coming up or know of something that can benefit from flowers.

4. Give Away Wedding Flowers to Family and Guests

Invite guests to leave with a table arrangement along with their prepared wedding favor. Who wouldn’t love having a lavish flower arrangement on their kitchen counter or dining room table?

Also, you can make regifting flower arrangements into a wedding activity. Set up an area in your wedding venue with a few tables, water buckets, and miscellaneous flower arrangement materials. Then, toward the end of your wedding, allow guests to dismantle each arrangement and make one of their own. Or, if guests don’t want to craft arrangements, allow them to keep premade arrangements.

Plan this crafting table with your florist or wedding planner. Your guests will cherish their customized flower arrangement, and you’ll have one less arrangement to take care of after your wedding.

Use High-Quality Wedding Flowers From Ode à La Rose for Your Donation

At Ode à la Rose, we deliver high-quality arrangements and a one-of-a-kind experience. We’re thankful to play a part in your wedding, and we want to help you keep the love alive long after your big day.

Our flowers are carefully and sustainably grown and come from the freshest sources, so you know your flower arrangements will look beautiful for your wedding and beyond. If you would like to donate or repurpose your flowers after your big day, let us know. We’ll work with you to craft the perfect arrangements. Contact our event team online today to learn more about our flowers and services.

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How to Incorporate Flowers Throughout Your Wedding https://www.odealarose.com/blog/incorporate-wedding-flowers/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 11:53:26 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=31938 Flowers are a traditional element in many weddings. You’ll see luscious floral decorations incorporated into the most minor details at a wedding. The bride and her bridesmaids will carry bouquets, and the groom and his groomsmen will wear boutonnieres. The flower girl will toss petals down the aisle, and flowers and floral arrangements will be…

The post How to Incorporate Flowers Throughout Your Wedding appeared first on .

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Flowers are a traditional element in many weddings. You’ll see luscious floral decorations incorporated into the most minor details at a wedding. The bride and her bridesmaids will carry bouquets, and the groom and his groomsmen will wear boutonnieres. The flower girl will toss petals down the aisle, and flowers and floral arrangements will be scattered throughout the venue and ceremony space.

It’s your special day, and you can get creative and use floral decorations in any aspect of the wedding that you want. You can choose to take a more untraditional route and incorporate some unique floral pieces, or you can stick with common wedding flower arrangements to brighten up your wedding day.

As you make your way down your wedding planning checklist and find your next task is wedding flowers, consider what kind of flowers you want and where you should place them on your big day. If you need some ideas for both traditional and unexpected ways to use flowers at your wedding, this guide can help you out.

How to Incorporate Flowers in Wedding Décor

Picking out flowers for your wedding is one of the fun tasks you get to complete. You and your florist discuss what kind of flowers you want in your arrangements and the color scheme.

Once you have all the details of the flowers decided, you can start thinking about where you will put flower arrangements throughout your wedding venue and ceremony space. Whether you’re considering incorporating the basic arrangements or going all out for the wedding, it’s helpful to make a wedding flower checklist that you and your florist can go over. Using a checklist will help ensure you don’t miss any important floral decorations you want for your wedding day.

While you’re making your list, keep your wedding budget in mind. Avoid going over budget with your wedding flowers so you have enough for other wedding expenses.

What flowers do you need for a wedding? To make your decorating decisions easier, consider these wedding flower ideas for your floral décor.

In the Small Details

It’s easy to remember the typical floral arrangements for your wedding day, but the small details are what make your day special and stand out to your guests. Your wedding accent flowers will shine in these small pieces:

  • Wedding flowers for hair: Using a floral headpiece is a gorgeous accessory that can transform your bridal attire. Brides can choose from several floral hairpiece options that will match their style and gown. One option you have is a flower crown. Flower crowns are a favorite for many boho-style brides who want a soft hairpiece for their special day. Your flower crown can be a simple design of greenery or an extravagant arrangement of your wedding flowers. Another option is a clip-in or pin-in floral accessory for your hair. These can be small additions to your up-do or a larger piece to style in your half-up half-down look. Floral hairpieces are even cute for your bridesmaids and your flower girl to wear along with you.
  • Before the day starts: Wake up on your wedding day to a gorgeous bouquet of your wedding flowers. The day your wedding finally arrives can be a surreal feeling, and it should be one of the most special days you’ll ever experience. Order an extra bouquet of your wedding flowers to pick up the day before your wedding. Arrange them in a cute vase and place them on your bedside table. You’ll wake up on your wedding day to a beautiful view of flowers.
  • Getting ready: The morning of your wedding day consists of hanging out with your bridesmaids and getting ready for the ceremony. You’ll be getting your hair and makeup done, eating food, drinking some champagne and chatting with your friends about the wedding day. Decorate your getting ready room or bridal suite with wedding florals. You can add small arrangments in vases throughout the room, small pieces on catering trays, flowers on dress hangers, and even edible petals in your champagne glasses.
  • Gifts: Surprise your wedding party, parents, grandparents, or other VIP guests with a lovely flower arrangement. Using flower bouquets as a special guest gift is a lovely gesture to your loved ones.
  • Wedding favors: If you’re giving your guests wedding favor gifts, you can incorporate some of your wedding flowers in the gift. Tie ribbon around a tiny bottle of wine and add a small flower for decoration or secure a flower on other wedding favor gifts for something special to your guests.
  • Welcome and entry signs: Many decide to decorate the entryway to their venue with welcome signs, photos of the couple, and a sign detailing the order of events for the evening. You can add small floral garland or arrangements to the top of your signs, photos, and easels that you have in the entryway of the venue.
  • Welcome and guestbook table: Another entryway must-have is a welcome table or guestbook table. This table will have your guestbook, photos, wedding favors, and a place for guests to leave their cards and gifts. You can add floral arrangements or floral garland to your welcome table.
  • Details photo: Your wedding photographer will likely take photos of small details, like invitations, rings, watches, perfume, and your flowers. Tell the photographer what flowers you want to be featured in these photos to ensure you have the pictures you want.
  • After the wedding: What’s a more romantic way to end your wedding day than some petals scattered throughout your hotel room? Order an extra small bag of flower petals and have someone go to the hotel room the day of the wedding to scatter the petals around the bed. The petals will be the perfect addition to your lovely evening.

Wedding Ceremony Flowers

During your ceremony, the big moment when you’ll say your “I do’s” will be one you’ll remember forever. See how to incorporate flowers at the ceremony:

  • Bouquets: One of the most special pieces of floral designs you’ll have for your wedding is your bridal bouquet. The first time your partner sees you down the aisle, you’ll be holding this beautiful arrangement. Your bridesmaids will also have bouquets, but they’ll be a smaller version of your bridal bouquet.
  • Boutonnieres: The groom, his groomsmen, the ring bearer, the father of the bride, the father of the groom, and grandfathers will wear a boutonniere on the wedding day. These floral arrangements will complement your bouquet and your bridesmaids’ bouquets.
  • Corsages: Corsages are typically given to the mother of the bride, mother of the groom, and grandmothers on your wedding day. You can go the untraditional route by having your bridesmaids wear corsages instead of holding bouquets during the ceremony. Corsages are a great alternative to bouquets because they stay on your wrist, and your wedding party won’t have to worry about setting down their bouquet somewhere and misplacing it.
  • Flower girl petals: The bride is the last person in line during the ceremony precession. The person that typically enters before them is the flower girl. You can give the flower girl some flower petals to toss down the aisle in preparation for your entrance or give her a small bouquet to hold.
  • Wedding aisle flowers: Your ceremony aisle will be photographed a lot during your nuptials. Adding flowers throughout the aisle can help transform your ceremony space into your dream wedding. Some ways to incorporate flowers into your aisle are to line the aisle with a floral garland, set arrangements at every aisle entrance, hang floral arrangements on the backs of the aisle seats, or line both sides with petals.
  • Arbor or backdrop arrangements: All eyes will be on you and your partner during the ceremony, and you can make sure the background behind you is beautiful with some wedding flowers. Add flowers to the arbor or create a backdrop with your wedding flowers or greenery. You’ll look back at your wedding photos and swoon over how happy you and your spouse are and how amazing your wedding flowers look in the background.
  • Ceremony aisle entryway: Add some color to your ceremony entryway by adding some floral arrangements. You can include large potted plants or small vases on cocktail tables.
  • Ceremonial flowers: You and your partner might be performing a ceremonial ritual that includes flowers. Different heritages and cultures perform special ceremonies during weddings that can be a part of your floral checklist.
  • Floating flowers: If your ceremony is by a fountain or small pond, consider adding some floating flower arrangements to really go all out with your decorations. You can also place floating flowers in a vase around your ceremony.
  • Chandelier: If you’re having an indoor ceremony and the room has a beautiful chandelier, why not make it even better with some wedding flowers? Ask your florist to add flowers around the chandelier in your ceremony space to add a unique touch to your wedding day.

Wedding Reception Flowers

Now it’s time for the room where the celebration happens: your wedding reception! You’ll be eating dinner with your wedding guests, toasting champagne, enjoying cake, and dancing the night away. Learn how to incorporate flowers at the reception for an unforgettable evening.

  • Centerpieces in vases: Table centerpieces are common wedding flower arrangements. The options are endless when it comes to your centerpieces. You can add large bouquets or incorporate simple greenery along with some other decorations.
  • Floral garland: Another way to bring flowers to your reception tables is to use garland. Floral garland looks amazing on rectangle tables, along with some candles and other decorations.
  • Hanging flowers: Fill your reception space with more flowers by hanging small arrangements from the ceiling. You can find many cute examples of this idea online, and it will be a lovely addition to your ceremony space.
  • Fireplace mantel: You can include many decorations on a fireplace mantel if your venue includes one. Use a strand of garland or small vases of bouquets.
  • Cocktail tables: Cocktail tables are helpful to have around the dance floor or outside, near the bar or by the hors d’oeuvres table. You can add a simple wedding flower bouquet to the tables or sprinkle some flower petals for a nice touch.
  • Sweetheart table flowers: A sweetheart table is a small table reserved for the newlyweds during dinner. You can add a more special floral centerpiece to your table because it’s your special day.
  • Bar arrangements: You can dress up the bar at your wedding with some flower arrangements as well as incorporating edible flowers into some of your cocktails or champagne for an elegant touch.
  • Floral marquee letters: Take some big cardboard or wooden letters that spell our Mr. and Mrs. or your new last name and fill them with some flowers. You can place these anywhere in your venue, like the fireplace mantel, the bar, the welcome table or on your sweetheart table.
  • Seating chart: Some people decide to add a seating chart outside of their reception space. Decorate this sign like your welcome sign and add flowers to your seating chart sign.
  • Wedding cake: One of the sweetest parts of the night, other than saying your “I do’s,” is eating wedding cake. Ask your florist to include some stemless flowers and greenery for your cake decorator to include on your wedding cake.
  • Place settings: If you decide to add place settings for your guests, like charger plates, menus, and silverware, include a flower or two for decoration.
  • Toss bouquet: Your real bouquet can be squished or damaged if you use it during the bouquet toss. Instead, ask for a special toss bouquet from your florist. This toss bouquet is sometimes included when you purchase a bridal bouquet.
  • Petal exit: Are you looking for a grand exit as newlyweds? Supply flower petals to all of your guests and have them toss them in the air as you exit the venue! This makes for some awesome photos and is a great way to end the night.

Fun Accents

Now, if you’re looking for some extra-special floral ideas, check out some of these designs that will shine at your wedding:

  • Pet-friendly flowers: If you’re including your furry friend in your ceremony, give them their own floral arrangement. Your pup can wear a pet-friendly wreath or garland strand to look as lovely as ever on your wedding day.
  • Ladies’ room: Add a special vase of flowers to the ladies’ room for a sweet touch that your guests will appreciate.
  • Getaway car: Add a wreath of flowers to your getaway car for a cute way to tell everyone you’re just married!

Let the Wedding Flower Design Experts at Ode a La Rose Design Your Wedding Flowers

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life, and you should be happy and excited during the planning process. If you want a florist that will provide quality flowers and beautiful arrangements for your wedding, talk to the experts at Ode a La Rose. We’ll be happy to provide your special day with gorgeous wedding flowers. Check out our gallery of wedding photos for some floral inspiration for your big day.

 

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How to Pick the Right Groomsmen Boutonniere https://www.odealarose.com/blog/how-to-pick-boutonniere/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 11:34:55 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=31925 Flowers add natural beauty to weddings, and a tasteful flower boutonniere is an excellent way to spruce up formal attire and tie together the overall theme of your wedding. A wedding boutonniere expertly crafted from a selection of fresh flowers can be a striking accessory to distinguish the groom from the groomsmen. Ode à la…

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Flowers add natural beauty to weddings, and a tasteful flower boutonniere is an excellent way to spruce up formal attire and tie together the overall theme of your wedding. A wedding boutonniere expertly crafted from a selection of fresh flowers can be a striking accessory to distinguish the groom from the groomsmen.

Ode à la Rose has all of the boutonniere basics to help you choose the best boutonniere style for your wedding.

What Is a Boutonniere?

A boutonniere is a single flower or cluster of small flowers reserved for formal occasions such as weddings. The word “boutonniere” derives from the French word for “buttonhole,” as men typically wear it through a small buttonhole on the left lapel of their suit or tuxedo jacket. A thread on the rear of the lapel slightly below the buttonhole keeps the flower upright by holding the flower stem flat against the lapel. Some men opt to use floral tape to secure the stem of their boutonniere.

As men wear the boutonniere right above their hearts, it has become a romantic symbol of the groom’s ties to his bride. Although small, boutonnieres can make a big statement.

Who Wears the Boutonniere?

Traditionally, important men at the wedding, like the groom, will wear a boutonniere fastened to the left lapel of their suit. However, many other men can also wear a boutonniere to show their support for the groom as an honored member of the wedding party:

  • Groom: While a boutonniere usually includes at least one focal flower like a carnation or rose, a groom’s boutonniere can feature a more elaborate arrangement. Two or more large flowers will help him stand out from the crowd. A groom may also choose to add a creative twist to his boutonniere to show off his personality and interests through various accessories like golf tees, guitar picks, feathers, and more.
  • Groomsmen/bridesmen and best man: The groomsmen and best man should sport boutonnieres that follow the wedding’s color scheme as well as their specific attire. A best man may also wear a boutonniere slightly different from those of the other groomsmen to distinguish his honored role. If your wedding includes bridesmen, they can also wear boutonnieres with slightly different colors of flowers to contrast with the groomsmen’s boutonnieres.
  • Fathers/stepfathers: Fathers and stepfathers of the couple-to-be should also wear boutonnieres. When it comes time for pictures, make sure your wedding photographer and videographer capture the sentimental moment when you fasten the boutonnieres onto their lapels.
  • Grandfathers: As with parents, offering the grandfathers of those to be married boutonnieres is a meaningful demonstration of how grateful you are for their presence. Making the time to offer your boutonniere to your grandparent in person is another way to make them feel appreciated and to celebrate how fortunate you are to have them there on your special day.
  • Ring bearer: When you plan out your list of guests to receive boutonnieres, remember to include the youngest member of the wedding party on the big day! The ring bearer’s boutonniere can be a smaller and more proportionate version of the groomsmen’s boutonnieres.
  • Ushers: Your ushers may be separate from the rest of your wedding party, but they still have an essential role during the service. Boutonnieres will help you identify your ushers as point people to respond to guests’ questions and requests. It is also common for the ushers’ boutonnieres to vary slightly from those of your groomsmen.
  • Officiant: You may also choose to have your male officiant wear a boutonniere. If your officiant wears secular attire, he may attach a boutonniere to his own suit lapel, but some religious officials wearing traditional dress may appreciate you asking his preference.
  • Other male family members: Lastly, other male members of the family or anyone else you feel deserves the extra touch may sport a boutonniere. This can often include ceremony readers or other immediate family members not included in the wedding party.

While it is most popular for men to wear a boutonniere at a wedding, important women in the family, such as mothers and grandmothers, may pin a boutonniere to their attire to show support for the couple on their special day.

Eye-Catching Boutonniere Ideas

Wearing a boutonniere on your wedding day effortlessly adds a layer of personality, interest, and color to your attire. Of course, the most important aspect of a beautiful boutonniere is your choice of the focal flower. These large flowers will be the center of attention for your arrangement, and it is essential to select these flowers with care. From bold flowers that add a brilliant pop of color to creamy, calming neutrals and whites, you can find the perfect option to celebrate your wedding’s unique style.

Here are some of the best boutonniere examples of fresh, real flowers to elevate your look on your special day.

Carnation

Carnations are a trendy choice when it comes to wedding boutonnieres. White and red carnations are especially popular due to their simple but elegant visual appeal, but carnations also come in a plethora of colors. In general, carnations are also an incredibly versatile flower as they blend easily with filler flowers.

Carnations’ gorgeous ruffled petals also serve as solid standalone focal points on a boutonniere. When you want a beautiful, functional, and practical flower for your boutonniere, carnations are an excellent option. Carnations also symbolize fascination, love, and distinction, making them an ideal choice for wedding floral arrangements.

Dahlia

Dahlias are sophisticated flowers that represent lasting bonds and steadfast, endless commitment. While this may be enough to convince you that dahlias make for the perfect boutonniere, these flowers also come in a diverse range of sizes and a broad selection of bright and vibrant colors. You can choose among warm violet, orange, and red tones or dreamy pink, peach, and yellow-colored flowers.

As dahlias are in season during late summer in most regions, they are an excellent choice for summer and fall weddings. Dahlias’ flowering pompoms and large blooms also make for unique boutonniere arrangements that are certain to capture everyone’s eye.

Gardenia

Two symbolic meanings associated with gardenias are untainted love and joy. With an air of grace and fragrant scent, gardenias can deliver a powerful impact as a wedding boutonniere. Gardenias are also one of the best year-round flowers as they originate from the South. As they are also sturdy, gardenias are a great choice for a long-lasting and enduring boutonniere focal flower.

Gardenia flowers create an effortlessly romantic and sophisticated wedding look. Their large, fanned-out, creamy-white petals and shiny, dark green leaves can serve as rich statement pieces to complement your wedding’s floral arrangements, attire, and theme.

Hyacinth

Hyacinths are a classic flower that symbolizes constancy, commitment, and sincerity, making them an excellent choice for a wedding boutonniere. With their tubular, strap-like petals arranged in an elegant bell shape, hyacinths achieve an exotic look almost as captivating as their light and airy fragrance.

Hyacinths come in a rainbow of colors, and some popular choices for hyacinth boutonnieres include deep purple, lavender, blue, white, and rose pink. Hyacinths are also a popular long-lasting option for spring wedding boutonnieres that deliver a classy and sweet message to your wedding party and guests.

Orchid

Orchids are one of the most popular and commonly used wedding flowers. Their delicate structure and exotic beauty signify love and charm while making the orchid itself mesmerizing to look at. Orchids also come in a bountiful array of color variations which make it easy to match your orchid boutonniere to the surrounding elements of your wedding.

If you prefer a light-hued boutonniere, white orchids are an ideal choice, while brighter pink and purple orchids make a bold statement even with just a small amount of greenery and filler foliage. Yellow orchids also create a fascinating boutonniere with an air of rarity.

Peony

Herbaceous peonies grow in abundance and offer a beautiful, lush texture that has earned them a favorited status for wedding bouquets and boutonnieres. While people adore their soft, lush, and fluffy petals, people also believe that peonies bring good fortune to newlyweds and symbolize love and hope for the future.

While muted pinks and whites are some of the more popular choices for peony boutonnieres, you might also find that yellow-centered peonies have the desired look you wish to tie your big day together. As peonies have a fairly short growing season, they tend to be a more high-end focal flower.

Ranunculus

Ranunculus buds are the perfect selection for a sophisticated boutonniere. Their thin, lustrous petals that resemble crepe paper symbolize charm and possess an undeniable understated beauty. Ranunculus flowers’ small blooms and unique texture make them an interesting choice as standalone focal flowers or as part of a layered boutonniere.

Another advantage of ranunculus is that they are always in style and are especially versatile. From pink and coral to purple and burgundy, ranunculus buds come in a wide range of hues to match any look and style of your wedding.

Rose

Weddings celebrate love and romance, and many people recognize roses as one of the most romantic flowers. As a boutonniere flower, roses speak volumes about passionate affection and adoration and are an especially popular choice due to their natural evocation of grace and heartfelt emotions.

While a deep red rose is a classic way to express passion, a white rose connotes eternal love, and a yellow rose can symbolize new beginnings. Whether you choose traditional colors or opt for soft-toned plum, cranberry, and dusty purple roses for a wintry twist, roses’ gorgeous ruffles add an element of drama to impress on your wedding day.

Tulip

As with the classically romantic rose, tulips carry a significant amount of symbolic meanings of affection. Boutonnieres that feature tulips convey perfect love and happiness, which are beautiful symbols to display at your wedding. Loved for their timelessness, tulips exude a natural elegance through their sleek form and sloping petals.

Since tulips are spring flowers, they are also ideal when searching for softer, pastel shades for your spring wedding boutonniere and favor a wide range of availability. You can find tulips in numerous bright colors such as magenta, purple, pink, red, orange, and yellow, which will easily draw the eye on your special day.

Tips for Choosing the Right Boutonniere for Your Special Day

When it comes to picking the right wedding boutonniere, there is a lot to consider. From color and style to price, you’ll want to make sure you pick a boutonniere arrangement that is certain to impress. Here are our top tips on how to choose a boutonniere that will suit your budget, your wedding’s theme, and your unique style.

1. Keep the Cost in Mind

While the cost of a boutonniere is significantly less than the cost of a wedding centerpiece or bouquet, you should still consider it in terms of your overall budget. Couples typically spend up to 8%-10% of their total wedding budget on flowers.

Once you know how many wedding boutonnieres you will need to order, you can discern which types of flowers will best suit your price range and whether you can include more high-end blossoms. Orchids and peonies are excellent options for a smaller number of boutonnieres, while carnations and roses are ideal for when you plan to include many more members of your wedding party.

2. Match the Boutonniere to the Bridal Bouquet

A popular choice for wedding boutonnieres is to match the boutonniere’s design to the bridal and wedding bouquets. You may choose to include the exact type of flower from the bride’s bouquet or a selection of flowers that complement the shape, color, or floral choices of the bridesmaids’ dresses.

Many wedding florists recommend choosing sturdier flowers for both the bouquet and boutonnieres that are long-lasting and can maintain their shape for more than a couple of hours.

3. Make Sure the Colors and Style Align With Your Theme

One crucial step to choosing the best boutonniere is to find an arrangement that fits with the rest of your wedding’s theme and flowers. By matching your boutonniere’s color scheme and similar tones to the decor of your venue and the wedding party’s outfits, you can create a cohesive and compelling finishing touch to your overall theming.

It can also be useful to consider the range of sizes of various flowers. While a large rose may stand on its own, rosebuds or miniature roses will do well grouped with other flowers to create a more distinguishable and intricate design.

4. Consider Unique Boutonniere Accents

Apart from the necessary floral component, your boutonniere can incorporate other stylish accents. For a brilliant finishing touch to your boutonniere, you can choose from a range of individualized touches, including:

  • Silver or golden pins
  • Rustic wheat or olive sprigs
  • Miniature tropical flowers or succulents
  • Bird feathers, such as guinea or peacock
  • Filler foliage such as baby’s breath, rosemary, dried grass, or geranium leaves

You may also consider including other flowers that stand out from your main focal flowers. Depending on your wedding theme and personal preferences, you can also choose various materials to tie your boutonniere together, literally:

  • Satin ribbon
  • Natural, bleached burlap
  • Copper wire
  • Delicate twine
  • Frayed linen
  • Silk thread

You can also put together a seasonally inspired boutonniere based on what flowers are in season at the time of your wedding. For a winter boutonniere, including cedar, baby pinecones, and pine needles with pale blue or deep purple flowers is an excellent way to tie together a winter wedding.

Trust Ode à la Rose With Your Wedding Boutonnieres

Choosing the right boutonniere can elevate your wedding’s theme and create a beautiful focal point during your ceremony, and a skilled wedding florist can make all the difference in creating the ideal arrangement for your wedding. When you want the perfect wedding boutonniere, trust Ode à la Rose to deliver a chic and modern arrangement.

As a French company, we create elegant and personalized bouquets loyal to our Parisian roots. Our highly skilled floral designers use only the freshest flowers sourced from the best farms around the world in our unique in-house arrangements.

Looking for something super easy to complete your wedding floral vision? Our wedding collection service offers beautiful floral options for every season and color palette, complete with options for bridal bouquets, bridesmaids bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpiece arrangements. Need a little something extra? Visit our wedding and events division to discuss more customized options to complete your vision for your big day.

 

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Resilient Flower Types For Weddings https://www.odealarose.com/blog/longest-lasting-wedding-flowers/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 11:01:31 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=31916 When envisioning the perfect bridal bouquets and wedding flowers for your big day, you probably picture vibrant blossoms that look and feel lush. Between the weather, delivery and the arrangement process, wedding flowers run the risk of becoming wilted and drab. By choosing the right types of flowers that are both durable and long-lasting, you…

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When envisioning the perfect bridal bouquets and wedding flowers for your big day, you probably picture vibrant blossoms that look and feel lush. Between the weather, delivery and the arrangement process, wedding flowers run the risk of becoming wilted and drab. By choosing the right types of flowers that are both durable and long-lasting, you can avoid a wedding day disaster as well as an abundance of dead flowers afterward.

The 15 Longest Lasting Wedding Flowers

Everyone wants resilient wedding flowers that remain fresh and look beautiful throughout their entire celebration. We have compiled a list of the hardiest blooms that will look amazing long after your I dos.

1. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are one of the most resilient flowers. When cut just before they fully bloom, these perennial mums can stay fresh for up to 14 to 21 days. Their strong, dense petals make for beautiful pops of color in any floral arrangement. Chrysanthemums have a wide range of hues and shades to choose from, including:

  • Red
  • Orange
  • Yellow
  • Lavender
  • Purple
  • White

They bloom as early as the end of July and as late as October, making these great fall wedding flowers that will outlast the celebration. Plus, the color variations of these mums are fantastic for late summer or early fall nuptials.

2. Alstroemerias

Once cut, alstroemerias can last up to two full weeks. Also referred to as a Peruvian lily, these native South American perennials can withstand heat and sunshine. As long as you pluck their petals as they begin fading, alstroemerias can look stunning for longer. These beauties come in a plethora of rich colors as well, including:

  • Magenta
  • Red
  • Yellow
  • White
  • Blush
  • Apricot

Alstroemerias have an especially lengthy bloom time, making them extra accessible for weddings over nearly two full seasons. These plants bloom starting in the early summer and finishing well into the fall time.

3. Dahlias

Dahlias are extremely hardy flowers native to Central America and Mexico. These colorful perennials can stay lush for just under a week after being cut. They begin blooming at the beginning of summer and continue through the fall and come in the following color variations:

  • Peach
  • White
  • Pink
  • Orange
  • Lavender
  • Red
  • Yellow
  • Bi-color

The head size of a dahlia flower can reach up to 15-inches in width. Once cut, dahlias do not continue to blossom, so you should snip them only as or just after they have fully grown.

4. Gypsophilas

Gypsophila, better known as baby’s breath, is often used as filler for other arrangements. It can be a beautiful addition to nearly any other flower. The small blooms are very hardy and have a rough texture. Once cut, their versatile, tiny petals can endure anywhere from seven to 10 days before drying out. Baby’s breath begins blooming in late Spring and continues until the fall time, making them some of the best flowers for summer weddings.

Gypsophila naturally comes in variations of white and can sometimes appear yellow or pink in color. At Ode à la Rose, we offer a fluffy, pink gypsophila arrangement named Gladys that is both unique and chic. We cut the stems to 15 inches and arranged these fresh flower bouquets in tight bundles that look and feel lush.

5. Carnations

Carnations are extremely resilient wedding flowers. With routine watering, these perennials can last for up to three whole weeks after being cut. Though these are pinkish-purple naturally, they can come in an array of colors. Through selective breeding, carnations can bloom in the following colors:

  • White
  • Orange
  • Yellow
  • Red
  • Green

Carnations typically bloom in late spring. In some areas, their growing season does not end until well into the summertime. They thrive best in 50-65 degree temperatures, making them ideal for late spring or early summer weddings. Pairing carnations with alstroemeria creates a very long-lasting, dreamy arrangement. We call this pairing the Nicolette at Ode à la Rose.

6. Sunflowers

Sunflowers can last up to 6 to 12 days after being cut. They have hardy, strong stems that make for resilient bouquet flowers. Bright orange and yellow petals contrast with the dark, rough center. Sunflowers bloom during the summer and last until fall brings colder temperatures, making them some of the best flowers for summer weddings.

An early fall or late summer wedding calls for bridal bouquets that make a statement and sunflowers are amazing for long-lasting wedding bouquet flowers. They pair beautifully with jewel tones and greenery. At Ode à la Rose, we offer the Summer Sunflower Bouquet, where sunflowers are joined by calla lilies, protea, snapdragons, and dog Circus roses.

7. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus can last around three weeks after being freshly cut. This minty scented plant adds a muted, earthy touch of greenery to any bouquet or flower arrangement. Eucalyptus is an evergreen plant, so you can incorporate it into your wedding no matter what time of year it is. Because it is native to Australia and surrounding islands, eucalyptus can endure hot, humid weather during outdoor summer weddings.

There are more than 500 species of eucalyptus. Some have bunches of seeds, others are bluer in color. With such a wide variety, you can select the best variation to match your wedding.

8. Peonies

Peonies can stay vibrant for up to five to 10 days after being cut. The flower’s soft, feminine shape has a romantic feel. Peonies begin blooming in spring, typically starting in April and ending in very early summer. These perennials flourish in cooler climates and are very resilient to the winter cold. Peonies come in white and mostly warm-toned colors such as:

  • Pink
  • Red
  • Orange
  • Yellow

Perfect for a spring wedding, peonies pair beautifully with roses, carnations and greenery. Their ruffled petals are the perfect bloom to welcome the incoming warm weather while holding onto the sweetness of spring. Though these pretty flowers are long-lasting, they do not combat summer heat well and are better for a springtime ceremony.

9. Ranunculus

Ranunculus makes for some of the finest, long-lasting wedding flowers out there. If you cut them at the proper time, just before the ranunculus is fully open, they can last up to 10 to 12 days. The lengthy, strong stems associated with ranunculus make these blooms especially great for a bridal bouquet. Ranunculus begins to bloom in late winter and early spring and continues blooming for about six to seven weeks in the right conditions.

Ranunculuses come in a range of warm colors, including:

  • Pink
  • Cream or white
  • Light yellow
  • Apricot
  • Orange
  • Red
  • Burgundy

Ideal for a spring wedding, ranunculus pairs splendidly with greenery or looks beautiful in an arrangement on its own. At Ode à la Rose, our Claire bouquet is a collection of lush, pink ranunculus that is both interesting and chic.

10. Lavender

Freshly cut lavender can last up to 10 days after being cut, making it a durable choice for weddings. Lavender has a lengthy blooming season as well. Some plants bloom as early as spring while others blossom through mid to late summer. Its hardy stems make for wonderful wedding flowers as you can easily use them in bouquets, decorations and arrangements.

The color range of lavender is astounding, with light lilac hues to deep blue-toned purples. Being heat resistant, lavender makes for a lovely summer wedding flower as it can withstand high temperatures and maintain its sweet, willowy look through the most humid of days.

11. Zinnias

Zinnias are extremely long-lasting as they can stay vibrate in a vase for up to 7-12 days. These perennials are stunning, round blooms with an abundance of dainty petals that come in a range of colors including:

  • White
  • Yellow
  • Pink
  • Orange
  • Red
  • Lavender
  • Green
  • Bi-color

The bold tones of zinnias pair beautifully with other rich-colored flowers such as dahlias or marigolds. Because zinnias are easy to grow and ultra-durable, they bloom from mid-summer until the cold of fall. These bold florals are wonderful to add to arrangements for nuptials with summer or fall color schemes.

12. Freesias

With the right maintenance, cut freesias can last up to three full weeks, making them one of the longest-lasting flowers on our list. These sweet-smelling plants come in a variation of colors, such as:

  • White
  • Red
  • Yellow
  • Pink
  • Purple
  • Cream
  • Orange

Freesias are some of the best flowers for winter weddings as they are cold-hardy and begin their blooming season in late winter and early spring. Native to South Africa, these tender perennials typically sprout during the chilly, rainy season and flower closer to the warmer, early months of springtime.

Freesias pair wonderfully with pillowy flowers such as roses or peonies. You can easily use freesias for bouquets, boutonnieres, or decorations because of their long stems.

13. Succulents

While succulents are not traditional wedding flowers, they have gained tremendous momentum and popularity in recent years. They are also one of the most durable options for weddings in any season throughout the year. Because they originate in desert climates, succulents retain water and require little maintenance. When the wedding is over, the succulents can be re-planted and thrive for years to come.

Mixing succulents in with other blossoms such as roses, lavender or eucalyptus makes for a rustic, yet stylish wedding choice. Succulents can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. This offers beautiful textures and shades to any arrangement.

14. King Protea

Protea is one of the most striking wedding flowers out there. There are 43 different species of proteas, but most couples opt for protea cynaroides, better known as king protea, for their big day. After being cut, this protea flower type can last up to 16 days! These unique plants bloom from June to October and are native to South Africa. They are both heat and cold weather-resistant, making them a hardy wedding pick no matter what season.

King protea is perfect for making a statement as the head can reach up to 10 inches in width and make for hardy wedding bouquet flowers. Most bouquets with this bloom focus on one large protea flower in the center and surround it with greenery. King protea has a thick stem and deep green leaves with a creamy colored base and varying shades of pink petals, a perfect mix of femininity and boldness.

15. Roses + Preserved Roses

It comes as no surprise roses are among the most common wedding flowers. With proper care, they can last for up to 7-10 days after being freshly cut. Their strongly structured stems make them great for any decoration, bouquet, or boutonniere. They bloom from late spring until early fall in most cases. Finding the perfect long-lasting roses for your wedding is simple as there are a variety of colors including:

  • Bright red
  • Dark red
  • Yellow
  • Orange
  • White
  • Lavender
  • Blush
  • Bright pink

We have a variety of stunning roses to choose from at Ode à la Rose ranging from monochromatic bouquets to multi-colored arrangements. For a traditional, romantic wedding, our Grand Amour, a collection of vibrate, long-stemmed red roses is a perfect decorative piece. For a lighter, flirtier wedding theme, the Odette will make the stunning statement with a bundle of premium Mondial pink roses.

Preserved roses are an excellent option if you want to create arrangements that last up to an entire year or want something different than fresh flowers. Explore our collection of preserved roses at Ode à la Rose.

What to Consider When Choosing Your Flowers

In addition to cost, there are several factors to consider when choosing the right flowers for your upcoming nuptials. Before setting your sights on any floral arrangements for the big day, reflect on the following factors:

  • Time of year: Consider what season your wedding is in and what flowers naturally grow then. This will cut down on costs and your blossoms will inevitably look nicer. Picking seasonal flowers can potentially make your blooms last longer as well. If you are having a summer wedding, note that certain flowers are more resilient in the heat and sunshine than others.
  • Your theme: Whether you are looking to have a glamourous event or a rustic gathering for your wedding, there are flowers to match the occasion. Consider the theme of your wedding and seek out floral arrangements and decorations that complement the colors scheme you have chosen. Your flower selection should make sense with your taste and the formality of your big day.
  • Flower care: How long your wedding flowers will last after the ceremony depend almost entirely on how you care for them. After researching the best ways to extend the life of your chosen flowers, you should prepare the vases of water that you’ll put your bouquets in. Caring for your flowers is a more sustainable solution than tossing them out after the I dos. You can dry out many flowers as well and then beautifully display them for weeks or even months.

Find Your Perfect Wedding Flowers at Ode à la Rose

Get the most out of your wedding flowers by choosing hardy options that will stay vibrant throughout your ceremony and beyond. If you are getting married and looking for long-lasting flowers, look no further. At Ode à la Rose, we sustainably source our flowers and craft high-end arrangements that are one of a kind. Our wedding clients can count on us for beautiful bridal bouquets, ceremony and reception decorations, centerpieces, garlands, hanging flowers and more.

Contact us by calling 646.370.1832 or visit our events site to learn more about our luxury wedding florist services today.

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2023 Summer Wedding Trends https://www.odealarose.com/blog/summer-wedding-trends/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:50:36 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=31907 Each season provides a unique, elegant touch to weddings, from colorful autumn backdrops to lavish blooms in springtime. Summer 2023 is quickly approaching, and if you’re planning to get married during this season, there are endless opportunities to create an unforgettable celebration. No matter the location, style, or size of your wedding, you and your…

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Each season provides a unique, elegant touch to weddings, from colorful autumn backdrops to lavish blooms in springtime. Summer 2023 is quickly approaching, and if you’re planning to get married during this season, there are endless opportunities to create an unforgettable celebration. No matter the location, style, or size of your wedding, you and your partner can use current trends to help you plan specific details.

From choosing your wedding colors to picking the perfect flowers, there are many things to consider when planning your dream summer wedding. If you aren’t quite sure where to begin, we’ve crafted this list of 2022 summer wedding ideas to help inspire your wedding plans.

18 Summer Wedding Trends

Are you searching for the perfect hairstyle, color scheme, venue, food, or other important elements for your big day? Create an unforgettable celebration with some of the newest wedding trends this summer! Browse this list to see if any of them pique your interest.

1. Earth Tones

To add a unique twist on the typical boho-neutral theme, many couples are choosing darker accent tones for more richness and depth to their color palettes this season. Whether you’re planning a bohemian-style wedding or you’re looking to create a retro vibe, earthy hues are a stunning choice for summer. Try incorporating this desert-esque color palette into your theme with sophisticated tones such as:

  • Burnt orange
  • Blush
  • Rust
  • Terracotta
  • Muted green
  • Khaki

2. Soft Blues

As a color that exudes a delicate and romantic vibe, it’s no wonder lighter shades of blue are becoming popular choices for summer weddings. Darker blue hues like sapphire and navy will likely be less present this year as light blue takes the cake as one of 2023’s most popular wedding colors. Gather inspiration from the ocean, flowers, or the sky to create an elegant soft blue color palette for your wedding.

3. Popular Wedding Styles

When planning your wedding, you may have a desired style or concept in mind. Or, you may be familiar with the common wedding styles, such as glam, bohemian, classic, rustic, and modern.

Many couples like to take inspiration from some of the biggest wedding trends to help determine the ideal atmosphere for their big day. Here are some popular wedding themes for 2023 to help you gather some ideas:

  • Romantic: While weddings are already about romance and love, consider adding a romantic theme to your summer wedding with lace details, Cinderella-esque wedding gowns, lots of tulle, and soft and sweet decorations.
  • Classic: A classic wedding theme entails timeless and traditional elements — think a grand wedding cake, delicate white florals, and a church or garden ceremony.
  • Rustic: Reflect your appreciation for nature and the outdoors by hosting a rustic-style wedding ceremony. This theme typically involves a barn or forest setting, earthy color schemes, and organic flower arrangements.
  • Boho: Like rustic weddings, a bohemian theme encapsulates a natural, outdoor feel. It tends to use more artistic and hippie-inspired details, such as flower crowns, lots of plants, and breezy lace dresses.
  • Modern: This contemporary wedding theme takes inspiration from classic, trendy, and subtle wedding elements all at the same time. Think monochromatic color palettes, unique venues such as museums and lofts, and neutral decor.
  • Seasonal: A seasonal ceremony provides many creative wedding opportunities. For a summer wedding theme, consider bright and lively color schemes, an outdoor venue, and some seasonal wedding favors like mini jars of honey.
  • Minimalist: If you’re a “less is more” type of person, a budget-friendly minimalist wedding style may be just what you desire for your special day. Quality yet scaled-back details such as muted and neutral color palettes, simple decorations, and intimate ceremonies perfectly describe this wedding trend.

4. Bright Colors

Bright, vibrant tones have always been a popular option for couples planning a tropical or destination wedding. Couples having their ceremonies in other locations are starting to capture this theme, as well, especially for spring and summer weddings.

There’s no better way to express a cheerful summer vibe than with bright and bold pinks, greens, cheerful yellows, and oranges. Consider adding a colorful touch to your bridesmaids’ dresses, bridal bouquets, centerpieces, and other decorations. And with tropical blooms in full swing this season, you can easily create a striking and unforgettable color scheme.

5. Welcome Parties

Typically less formal than a rehearsal dinner, a welcome party is a pre-wedding event that’s generally open to all guests. This casual social gathering is an opportunity to welcome your guests to the wedding and give them a taste of what they can expect.

While rehearsal dinners are usually small, intimate gatherings of close relatives and the bridal party, a welcome party is a larger, more upbeat gathering. Whether it’s enjoying cocktails at your favorite bar or hosting a backyard barbecue, there is a range of casual settings to consider for a welcome party. If desired, your welcome party can still include toasts and sharing stories about the couple, as most rehearsal dinners do.

6. Light and Breezy Outfits

Whether it’s the bridesmaids’ dresses, the wedding gown, or the suits, opting for light and flowy fabrics is a great way to keep the whole party cool in hot summer temperatures. Think chiffon, organza, charmeuse, and similar lightweight materials.

These fabrics also allow for easier movement, making them ideal for hitting the dance floor at your reception! If your location gets exceptionally hot during this season — and your wedding is outdoors — this is a crucial summer trend to consider.

7. Candles

As mentioned, vibrant hues are a popular wedding trend this summer, and here’s another great way to incorporate this fun and lively color palette. Contrary to popular belief, candles aren’t only a wintertime wedding decoration. They’re also a great way to incorporate some vivid summertime tones into your table centerpieces. Decorate the middle of your reception tables with colorful candles — either standalone or floating in water — to add a vibrant splash of color to your summer wedding.

8. Summer Cocktails

Nothing says summer quite like fresh, sweet berries and citrus fruits. Ring in summer by incorporating some fruity seasonal mixed drinks into your reception or cocktail hour. Of course, you can swap the alcohol for sparkling water or seltzers so everyone can enjoy a refreshing beverage.

Below are some signature wedding cocktails for 2023:

  • Watermelon refreshers
  • Champagne and fruit
  • Blueberry mojitos
  • Margaritas
  • Pineapple rum tea punch
  • Lavender-infused champagne
  • Grapefruit mimosas

Add an extra special touch to your summer cocktails with some personalized glasses, whether it’s etching your names onto the glasses or attaching some “just married” tags. These can also serve as charming wedding favors for your guests to take home!

9. Evergreen Fog Color Palette

Create a rustic forest ambiance by integrating a stellar evergreen fog color scheme into your wedding. If you desire a natural and elegant wedding color palette, this green-gray mid-tone truly reflects the beauty of nature. In fact, national paint manufacturer Sherwin Williams recently named evergreen fog as its 2023 color of the year.

If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony with a wood-secluded venue, this may be just the concept you’re looking for. Consider pairing this shade with some elegant neutrals like beige or cream for a truly striking color palette.

10. Sustainability

In an effort to protect and preserve the environment, sustainable weddings are on the rise. Whether it’s hiring a plastic-free caterer, choosing vendors with greener production, sourcing foods from local farms, or replanting and donating wedding flowers after the big day, there are many ways to incorporate sustainability into your wedding. These ideas promote an eco-friendly celebration, and they can also make for a more affordable wedding while supporting your local community.

If this is a priority for you and your partner, below are some popular sustainable wedding trends for 2023:

  • Lab-grown diamonds for wedding rings
  • Biodegradable wedding confetti
  • Sustainable decorations such as dried flowers
  • Sustainable wedding dresses from eco-friendly designers
  • Eco-friendly wedding invitations

11. Humidity-Resistant Hairstyles

While summer weddings are beautiful and elegant, their main downside is increased heat and humidity levels. This can make finding the right hairstyle a challenge, especially for outdoor ceremonies.

Thankfully, humidity-resistant hairstyles are becoming a popular wedding trend in 2023. To protect their hair from frizz and humidity, many brides and bridesmaids are opting for elegant updos as an alternative to long curls and waves. Here are some trending humidity-proof updos to consider this summer:

  • Side crown braid
  • Crossover wave updo with flowers
  • Beach wave ponytail
  • Braided knot twist
  • Fishtail ponytail

12. Textured Wedding Cakes

The textured wedding cake trend is growing in popularity this year, and rightfully so — it incorporates a simple yet elegant design while providing a range of patterns and embossments to choose from. Textured wedding cakes are especially popular choices for glam, boho, and chic weddings. They can also include any other customized features you may desire, like flowers, colors, and toppers.

The ideal texture allows your cake to be as laid back or as elegant as you please. Check out some examples of wedding cake textures below:

  • Lace
  • Dots
  • Diamond or grid patterns
  • Overlapping circles
  • Diagonal stripes
  • Embossed floral
  • Swirls
  • Roses
  • Ridges

13. String Light Canopies

Dine al fresco under the stars at your wedding reception with a dreamy string light canopy. Perfect for a warm summer night, this romantic and elegant decoration can set the ideal tone for your celebration, creating a picture-perfect memory of your special day. Hang some twinkling string lights above each table for a gorgeous scene you won’t forget.

14. Frozen Treats

Besides fruity cocktails and wedding cake, frozen desserts are another sweet addition to your summer wedding. Cool your guests off with some chilly treats such as popsicles, ice cream, frozen yogurt, or fruit sorbet. Consider setting up a frozen dessert bar complete with your favorite flavors and toppings! You can either provide this in addition to or as an alternative to your wedding cake, depending on what your dessert budget allows for.

15. Parasols and Fans

If your ceremony or reception will be outdoors — and provides minimal shelter from the sun — you’ll want to provide your guests with ample shade and protection from the intense summer heat. For this reason, distributing parasols to guests has quickly become a popular wedding practice this year.

Your guests are sure to look sophisticated with a classy parasol in hand, so it’s a great idea to have someone distribute these at the entrance or have guests pick them up on their way in. Alternatively — or in addition — you can set up a fan station and have guests grab these upon entrance.

Try to opt for fans or parasols that highlight your desired color scheme. For rustic and earthy tones, consider warm browns or muted greens. Want to incorporate bright, vibrant tones into your wedding? Try handing out some pink, yellow, or blue parasols or fans to your guests. Not to mention these can serve as excellent wedding favors.

16. Garden Venues

Whether you have a green thumb or simply enjoy soaking in the beauty of nature, this is an exquisite wedding location. With lush greenery, warm temperatures, and vibrant blooms, what could be better than a garden ceremony? This setting provides a colorful and romantic backdrop for a dream fairytale wedding, making this type of venue a beloved trend for summer.

17. Sparklers

Another popular summer wedding trend, sparklers are the perfect closing to your wedding night, creating some stellar wedding exit photos for you and your partner. For a fun and unique guest experience, have everyone take part in this activity! Sparklers can serve other purposes, as well, from temporary table centerpieces to wedding cake toppers. Light up the festivities with sparklers for a memory you’ll cherish forever.

18. Seasonal Blooms

Seasonal blooms are a trend that never goes out of style. Summer wedding flowers are gorgeous and elegant, and they can also be a more cost-effective option for your wedding — it’s typically much easier for florists to source seasonal flowers than blooms that are out of season. If you’re seeking seasonal blooms for summer, below are some beautiful varieties to consider.

First, here are some popular June blooms:

  • Bellflowers
  • Bergamot
  • Foxtail lilies
  • Hydrangeas
  • Poppies
  • Roses
  • Wild blue indigo
  • Yarrow

Next, here are some common varieties for July:

  • Dahlias
  • Daisies
  • Daylilies
  • Queen Anne’s Lace

Finally, consider these flowers for August:

  • Blazing stars
  • Daylilies
  • Tube clematis

Order Wedding Flowers at Ode à la Rose

After scanning this list of 2023 trends for summer weddings, we hope you’ve gathered some inspiration for your special day. No wedding is complete without the perfect flowers to accent your theme, and we have a gorgeous selection of arrangements to choose from at Ode à la Rose.

Whether you’re looking for lush, bohemian blooms, curated centerpieces, bridal bouquets, or simple yet classic wedding flowers, we’ll help you find the perfect arrangements for your big day. Browse our wedding collection and inquire about our wedding services!

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2023 Fall Wedding Trends https://www.odealarose.com/blog/fall-wedding-trends/ Fri, 21 Jul 2023 20:44:50 +0000 https://www.odealarose.com/blog/?p=31898 With crisp, pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, fall weddings are nothing short of a dream. Just like winter, spring, and summer ceremonies, tying the knot during autumn provides an array of opportunities to capture the beauty of the season. From choosing the right wedding flowers to planning a delicious menu, there are several things to consider for…

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With crisp, pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, fall weddings are nothing short of a dream. Just like winter, spring, and summer ceremonies, tying the knot during autumn provides an array of opportunities to capture the beauty of the season.

From choosing the right wedding flowers to planning a delicious menu, there are several things to consider for your big day. Researching current wedding trends is a great way to gather some ideas for your special celebration — and we happen to have an assortment of them right here! Read on to explore some of the biggest wedding trends for fall 2023.

12 Amazing Fall Wedding Ideas

Whether you’re looking for fall wedding flower ideas, gorgeous color palettes, or creative wedding favors, we’ve got it all right here. Browse the wedding trends ideas below to create a celebration that features the best of everything autumn has to offer.

1. Seasonal Food Displays

With various seasonal ingredients to choose from, it’s no wonder couples are finding ways to get creative with their wedding foods. Many work with their caterers to create autumn-inspired menus — think roasted squash, build-your-own charcuterie boards, root vegetables, and freshly baked pies.

Instead of passed hors d’oeuvres, rustic grazing tables of cheeses, meats, fruits, and nuts are another way to incorporate a charming seasonal touch. Dessert stations with fall favorites — like mini apple pies, cinnamon rolls, and pumpkin macarons — are also on the rise. Autumn is the prime time to take advantage of seasonal ingredients, so consider integrating them into your wedding for an unforgettable feast!

2. Welcome Cocktails

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to wait until cocktail hour to serve drinks. Some couples switch up the timeline by serving “meet and greet” cocktails before the wedding ceremony and reception.

Welcome cocktails are a great way to greet your loved ones, create a more fun and relaxed guest experience, and thank them for attending your big celebration. Bonus points if you serve fall-inspired cocktails like spiked apple cider, pumpkin pie martinis, or bourbon-based drinks!

3. Dried Flowers

Subtle yet elegant, dried flowers and pampas grass are other trends this fall, both for indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Whether you’re planning a rustic, boho, glam, modern, or minimalist wedding, their earthy and organic nature can suit many themes and styles. With their beautiful texture and color, there are various ways to incorporate dried and bleached flowers into your decorations.

Dried flowers are a stunning choice for table centerpieces — you can take advantage of their unique shapes and textures to create asymmetrical designs. You can also consider hanging floral arrangements over entrances or tables. Furthermore, dried flowers make timeless bridal and bridesmaid bouquets.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to dried blooms, so it’s no surprise they’re one of the most popular fall wedding flower trends! Try to choose hues and textures that match your theme and wedding color palette.

4. Fall Wedding Favors

Providing favors for guests to take home after the wedding is a long-standing tradition. However, seasonal and themed wedding favors have been on the rise more recently. Here are some fall-inspired wedding favors to get your guests in the autumn spirit:

  • Mini jars of jam or maple syrup: Treat your guests to a sweet spread by handing out mini jars of jelly or maple syrup. Personalize the labels with your names, then tie the jars with some ribbon or twine for a rustic autumn touch.
  • Bite-sized pies: If you aren’t serving pie at the dessert table, consider passing out mini pies as your wedding favors instead! Whether pumpkin, apple, peach, or cherry, delicious bite-sized pies are sure to satisfy your guests’ cravings for an autumn dessert.
  • Scented fall candles: Beautiful, practical, and fragrant, you can’t go wrong with scented candles as fall wedding favors. Choose autumn-themed scents like pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, or mulled cider. They’ll smell incredible and remind your guests of the blissful memories from your wedding day.
  • Caramel apples: Distributing caramel apples as wedding favors is another delicious way to maintain the autumnal theme of your wedding.
  • DIY s’mores kits: S’mores are another staple treat for fall. What better gift for guests than some adorable DIY s’mores kits? If you want to get even more creative, host a campfire at your reception and make s’mores with your loved ones!

5. Greenery

Plants and greenery aren’t only associated with summer and spring — they’ve also found their way into autumn weddings. The color green radiates health, life, renewal, and the simplicity of nature, adding a relaxed and graceful touch to any color palette. Consider evergreen accents and greenery-based floral arrangements if you aspire to have a rustic or forest-themed wedding.

Aside from plants and flowers, green has made its debut in other wedding details as well. Emerald engagement rings, sage green bridesmaid dresses, and various shades of green for linen, invitations, and attire are showing up everywhere.

6. Trending Venues

If you haven’t already chosen a location for your ceremony or reception, you can use trending wedding venues to gather some inspiration. Here are some popular wedding locations for fall 2023:

  • Barns, farms, and ranches: Dreaming of a rustic wedding theme? There’s no better place to tie the knot than a barn or farm venue. Many couples choose these types of locations for their relaxed vibe, gorgeous scenery for outdoor ceremonies and photo backdrops, and rustic feel.
  • Historic homes and buildings: Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciative of beautiful architecture, a historic home or building makes a timeless venue for your big day. Featuring picturesque indoor and outdoor event spaces, most historic buildings can accommodate both intimate ceremonies and larger parties. Remember that some historic homes have rules and guidelines to maintain the space’s integrity — like noise restrictions and bans on open flames — so be sure to read over any contracts carefully.
  • Vineyards and wineries: Seeing as fall is a prime season for grape harvesting, wine tasting, and winery hopping, why not fully embrace it with a beautiful vineyard wedding? Most wineries and vineyards are nestled in the countryside, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, which will undoubtedly make for some incredible wedding photos.
  • Ski and mountain resorts: While winter is considered their busy season, ski and mountain resorts can be just as magnificent during fall. Imagine being surrounded by rolling hills covered in brilliant red, orange, and yellow foliage as you say, “I do.” You can’t beat that!

7. Wood Accents

Wood is a fundamental decorative accent for an autumn wedding table display, especially if you’re going for a rustic style. Wooden lanterns, backdrops, welcome signs, table numbers, and photo boards are just a few examples of wooden accents to make your fall décor stand out.

Distressed wood tables can set the tone for a rustic reception, whether you’re working with a barn or a more industrial space such as a warehouse. Wood accents are a striking complement to fall tones like deep oranges, rusts, and reds. However, they can also offset more neutral shades like white, green, beige, gray, and black.

If your wedding décor could use some sprucing up, wooden accents might just be the missing element you need for your big day!

8. Farm-Grown Flowers

In addition to dried and bleached florals, farm-grown flowers are another popular autumn flower trend. Dressing your head table to match the season’s changing foliage is a beautiful way to make your wedding reception venue more inviting. Floral arrangements of farm-fresh tulips, orchids, peonies, roses, ranunculus, dahlias, or sweet peas make incredible centerpieces for wooden farm tables.

9. Autumn-Inspired Color Palettes

What’s an autumn wedding without fall wedding colors? Here are some trending combinations for fall 2023 that may help inspire your color palette:

  • Wine reds: You don’t have to wait for the holiday season to break out the deep reds — they’re a classic for fall as well! A dark wine red looks superb when paired with gold or ivory, but you can try mixing it with other tones as well to see what meshes best.
  • Pumpkin and sage: What could be a better fall wedding color than pumpkin orange? Whether you use it as a base color for your bridesmaids’ dresses or a subtle decorative accent, pumpkin makes a wonderful addition to your color scheme. Pumpkin and sage green are the quintessential autumn color pairing. You can also use actual pumpkins as décor for the perfect pop of orange!
  • Deep purples and lavender: Various shades of purple create a lovely color palette. Your bridesmaids are sure to look great whether they wear a light or dark shade. Deep violet is especially elegant when paired with a light lilac purple or lavender. Not to mention purple makes for some gorgeous floral arrangements as well.
  • Navy and gold: Navy is already a flattering and elegant hue, but pairing it with gold accents makes for an exceptionally chic and formal affair. From farmhouse rustic to glam wedding styles, this classic color combo can accommodate various themes. If gold isn’t for you, navy also looks great with silver, gray, white, or beige accents.
  • Cranberry and peach: Not only do they make you crave fruit, but cranberry and peach are a gorgeous color combo for fall. Dark cranberry and light peach complement each other beautifully and make for charming floral displays, decorations, and attire. You can even use the actual fruits as accents or centerpieces to get even more creative!
  • Dark green and pale pink: Autumn makes it easy to embrace the greenery around you, especially if you’re planning an outdoor wedding. Dark emerald or forest green looks especially great when paired with pale pink accents. Alternatively, you can use pale pink or blush as your primary color, adding dark green accents or natural foliage.

10. Fall-Themed Wedding Cakes

If you’d rather opt for a classic wedding cake than a fall-themed dessert table, there are various ways to create an autumn-inspired wedding cake as well. Seasonal wedding cakes are an ongoing trend, and a fall wedding cake is a fun way to ring in the season while sticking to tradition.

Whether you desire a cake that’s formal and extravagant or casual and laid back, you can easily incorporate seasonal elements for a lovely autumnal display. Embrace fall shades and wedding cake flavors like pumpkin spice, cream cheese, and red velvet.

To set a more intimate mood for a small ceremony, consider a fall bundt cake. If you’re looking to capture a warm and rustic wedding vibe, you can’t go wrong with fall-inspired cake toppers like sliced apples, maple icing glaze, or salted caramel drizzles. Meanwhile, a naked chocolate cake embellished with seasonal fruits — like pears, figs, and berries — is a great choice if you’re going for a somber fall mood.

Textured cakes are another growing wedding trend, suitable for glam, boho, rustic, and every wedding style in between. The possibilities are endless when it comes to designing a picturesque fall wedding cake, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box!

11. Seasonal Blooms

Just like with winter, spring, and summer, choosing seasonal flowers is a continuing trend for fall weddings. If you’re wondering what blooms are in season during autumn, we’ve listed some of them below!

Consider these varieties if you’re planning to get married in September:

  • Aster
  • Black-eyed Susan
  • Chrysanthemum
  • Pansy
  • Petunia
  • Purple coneflower
  • Viola

Next, here are some lovely blooms for an October wedding:

  • Aster
  • Autumn crocus
  • Coneflower
  • English lavender
  • Hibiscus
  • Japanese honeysuckle
  • Rose
  • Sunflower
  • Willow-leaved sunflower

Finally, consider the flower varieties below when tying the knot in November:

  • Coronilla
  • Geranium
  • Pansy

12. Themed Rehearsal Dinners

If you’re looking for a fun and creative way to kick off your wedding weekend, try incorporating a theme into your rehearsal dinner. While you don’t have to devote as much time and effort to your rehearsal dinner as your actual wedding, you can still sprinkle in some fall-inspired elements if you’re looking to stay on theme with the season.

As mentioned earlier, there’s no better way to highlight a fall wedding than with some seasonal cuisines. You can welcome guests to your rehearsal dinner with fresh apple cider, followed by warm comfort entrées like pot roast, butternut squash soup, or roasted root vegetables for a seated dinner.

If a casual buffet is more your cup of tea, a relaxed backyard barbecue is another option. Pulled pork and brisket sliders, grilled seasonal fruit, and truffle mac and cheese are all crowd-pleasers. Feel free to add some fall-inspired décor if you feel so inclined — candles, plaid tablecloths, wildflower or seasonal bloom centerpieces, mini pumpkins, or gourds all make charming autumn accents.

Planning a Fall Wedding? Talk to Ode á la Rose About Your Flower Dreams!

At Ode à la Rose, we want to help turn your dream fall wedding into a reality. Let us help you find fresh, beautiful blooms to accent your big day! Browse our wedding and events collection for flowers to match your preferred style, theme, or color palette. Whether you’re searching for the perfect bridal bouquets, table centerpieces, or boutonnieres, our team can help you find just what you’re looking for.

We would love to work with you to plan stunning flower arrangements for your autumn wedding. Reach out to us for wedding flower services today!

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