Floral Trends by Carmen Dunnet

— Wedding Tips —

Floral Trends

BY CARMEN DUNNET

Floral trends change every year, but usually only in one or two of these aspects: Colour. Design. Shape. Flowers. Greenery. But for the first time in my 15 years experience it seems like just about everything is changing all at once. Sometimes such big changes can be daunting, but don’t worry- we are here to break it down for you!

Colours and Elements

We are starting to see florals designed in a more colour block style: various shades and tones of one or two colours, creating a cohesive feel to the arrangements. Couples are more concerned about creating a “feel” to the day than matching the bridesmaids’ dress colour swatch. While there are still pops of bright colours, the trends lean more towards soft, earthy shades (pinks to browns, pastels, and whites to terracotta, etc.).

Popular flowers remain similar: Roses, Peonies, etc., with the addition of blooms that have stems with movement: lisianthus, ranunculus, and fritillaria. Another popular addition is the use of dried flower or grasses to add more texture.

The biggest change in the elements of floral design is the use of greenery (or lack there of). While greenery once served as the base for bouquets and centrepieces, it now is used only as an accent, and is carefully chosen for its colour or texture.

Bouquets

The overall size of bouquets are decreasing as we are seeing less bride’s opt for the large boho bouquets filled with wild greens, and instead moving towards smaller bouquets that are flower centric. Although smaller, and less wild then the boho bouquets, these organic posies are filled with movement and texture. They are the perfect accent to your dress, without feeling as though you are hiding behind them. (Added bonus: they aren’t as heavy!)

Centrepieces

MARICLE KANG PHOTOS FLORAL WORK BY THE GREEN PETAL

lined tables that have been so popular the past few years. Couples are returning to a more traditional centrepiece- but with a twist. The organic feeling arrangements with dramatic lines are like art pieces on each table, all while allowing for easy conversation over their low height.

The couples that prefer a more minimalistic approach are clustering simple bud vases filled with delicate blooms down the centre of the table, on a neutral coloured, flowing linen or cheese cloth runner.

Centrepiece vessels are undergoing a shift as well. In the past years metallics have ruled (don’t worry, brassy gold is still going

Matte white or black, terracotta, and assorted ceramics allow the flowers to take centre stage.

Ceremony

The traditional arch dripping with greenery and flowers is still a popular choice, but new shapes are also making an entrance! Hexagon, circle, and triangle archways are stunning when decorated with florals to create a focal piece for ceremonies and can be reused behind the head table.

Arches will always have a place in the trends, but because we are surrounded by some amazing views of the Rocky Mountains, ground installations are a popular choice here. A semi-circle around the couple, or aisles lined with flowers, makes you feel as

though you are getting married in a field of flowers, while not blocking out the beautiful mountains.

Floral Installations

While bouquets have been decreasing in size, installations for ceremonies and receptions

have become bigger and more popular. Thanks to Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s jaw dropping wedding entrance arch, couples are eager to have their own floral showstopper on their big day.

Suspended from the ceiling, climbing a wall or pole, or appearing to grow from the ground, Floral Installations are a great way to bring some natural beauty to your big day as well as give your guests a visual treat they won’t soon forget!

As with all trends, it is important to be selective. The goal is to create a day that showcases you as a couple, so select the trends that represent you the best!

Carmen Dunnet is the owner of Green Petal, a sophisticated flower shop that also provides gifts, decor for your home and more.

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