It’s a Nice Day for a White Orchid Wedding

By Althea Wiles, Floral Designer

Orchids are not only beautiful…they are distinctive with a rich history. They exude timelessness, refinement, love and passion. Orchids are monosymmetric, which means that both halves of the flower look the same as to mirror each other, a symbol of unity. During the 1800s, orchids were very rare. They posed as a sign of luxury as well as good taste. Some Victorians would search and collect orchids, selling them for a pretty penny. It is said that when you receive an orchid as a gift, the rarer the orchid, the deeper the love and passion the other person felt for you. They are long-lasting and can also be used in so many unique ways throughout your wedding. Add those orchids to the guest list and put an elegant touch to your wedding.

From bouquets to centerpieces, white orchids have become a huge trend on the wedding scene. With their strong presence and distinctive shape, there are many ways you can incorporate white orchids into your wedding. Showcasing a great mix of symbolism and luxury, orchids are simply an ideal flower for anyone’s special day. Bringing together many white orchids and seeded eucalyptus could create big and beautiful bouquets and centerpieces. While some choose to keep it simple with single orchids paired with sage greens for a more dainty look. Mixing in traditional roses or peonies will add texture, color, and layers to your arrangements. Even if you are wanting to only have a few standout orchids in your wedding, there are many creative options.

1. Altar . Adding orchids to an altar space will add a beautiful representation of symbolism as well as a lovely view for your guests and pictures. Drape an entire wedding arch for a dreamy look or simply place around the sides or a corner to save on budget. Set on an altar table with sparkling candlelight for a romantic touch.

2. Bouquets . Adding an orchid to your bouquet is not only beautiful visually, but also figuratively. The symbolism of the white orchid is a lovely sentiment. Bouquets with orchids can be full cascading or small and refined. Their shape can created very sculpture-like bouquets when carefully placed.

3. Boutonnières . Orchid plants grow many single flowers that can bloom almost every month of the year. They make stately boutonnières. White orchids create a classic look, but the unique shape would make any blazer stand out.

4. Centerpieces . Mix along with any kind of wedding greenery to create a luxurious and alluring view. Many times, centerpieces are the staple of your decor. Having a large, luxe, and lavish orchid centerpiece is sure to make jaws drop. Or make it minimalist with a single orchid sprinkled throughout.

5. Chair Decor . Making sure to put an extra touch on even something as small as the chairs would show how greatly detailed the event was planned. It’s also a great filler if things are feeling a bit empty. This can double as a logistical piece of reserved seating, as well.

6. Corsages . White orchid corsages mixed with matching boutonnières puts an elegant touch to any wedding party. Corsages serve to highlight those attending the event that holds the honor of being close with the bride or groom. Typically mothers, grandmothers and female attendants will wear a corsage as a lovely accessory.

7. Flower Wall . Everyone loves to take pictures at weddings. Why not add some luxury to your photo booth area. A flower wall of white orchids creates a unique backdrop. Opting for orchids is a great way to break from the norm of often used roses or hydrangeas.

8. Hairpiece . Wearing a flower behind your left ear is a symbol of having a significant other. You could also wear an orchid crown to create an elegant, yet bohemian design. Use one in each of the bridesmaids’ hairstyles to create a cohesive look.

9. Cake Flowers . Adding a beautiful bloom to the top of your cake as a cake topper is a simple and exquisite touch. Floral cake toppers are not only romantic, but genuinely liven up your cake. You could create a classic and traditional single flower topper or an extravagant look by embellishing the entire cake with buds.

10. Petals . Instead of throwing rice or confetti to have your guests send you off, use soft and beautiful flower petals from white orchids. This is an eco-friendly, symbolic and unique send-off. Venues tend to prefer petals as they are biodegradable and easy clean up after the wedding.

Althea Wiles is the owner and creative director of Rose of Sharon Floral Design Studio in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She is also the founder and education director of J Althea Creative, a florist education consulting program. Althea earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Hendrix College then completed her Arkansas Master Florist Certification. Her design studio takes part in 75-100 weddings and events annually and has been recognized by national, Al, and regional publications. She continues to serve as a featured artist for the Art in Bloom gallery exhibit, chosen and hosted by the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Follow on Facebook @RoseofSharonEventFlorist @JAltheaCreative Follow on Instagram @RoseofSharonFloral @JAltheaCreative

Photos by Hudson Photography