DIY Wedding Flowers: A Friendly Guide to Beautiful Blooms on a Budget
Hey!
So, you're thinking about DIY-ing your wedding flowers? That’s awesome! Not only can it save you a ton of money, but it also adds a personal touch to your special day. Plus, it’s a fun project that can be incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the world of DIY wedding flowers together, and I’ll share some tips on where to shop, how many flowers to order, and what resources to use to make your floral dreams come true.
1. Start with a Vision and a Plan
First things first, you need a clear vision. Think about the colors, types of flowers, and overall style you want. Are you going for a rustic, wildflower look, or do you prefer something more classic and elegant? Having a vision board or Pinterest board can really help solidify your ideas.
2. Where to Shop for Flowers
When it comes to buying flowers, there are several great options:
Wholesale Flower Markets: Check if there’s a flower market in your area. These markets offer a wide variety of fresh flowers at wholesale prices. They’re usually open to the public a few days a week.
Online Wholesalers: Websites like FiftyFlowers, Blooms By The Box, and Flower Moxie offer a huge selection of flowers shipped directly to your door. They often have great deals and provide lots of info on flower care.
Local Farms: Supporting local farms is fantastic. Many farms offer “you-pick” options, which can be a fun outing with your bridal party. Plus, the flowers are as fresh as they get!
Supermarkets and Big-Box Stores: Don’t underestimate places like Costco, Trader Joe’s, and even your local grocery store. They often have beautiful, affordable flowers that can work perfectly for your arrangements.
3. How Many Flowers to Order
Figuring out how many flowers to order can be a bit daunting, but here’s a rough guide to get you started:
Bridal Bouquet: 20-30 stems
Bridesmaid Bouquets: 10-15 stems each
Boutonnieres: 1-2 stems each
Corsages: 2-3 stems each
Centerpieces: 10-15 stems each
Aisle Decorations: 5-10 stems per arrangement
Altar/Arch Arrangements: 50-100 stems depending on the size
Always order a bit more than you think you’ll need to account for any damaged blooms or last-minute changes. It’s better to have a few extra flowers than not enough!
4. Essential Supplies
Here’s a list of supplies you’ll need:
Floral tape and wire
Flower shears or sharp scissors
Vases and containers
Floral foam or tape (for securing arrangements)
Buckets (for hydrating flowers)
Ribbon or twine (for finishing touches)
5. Timing is Everything
Timing is crucial when working with fresh flowers. You’ll want to get your flowers 2-3 days before the wedding. This gives you time to condition them (cutting the stems at an angle and letting them hydrate in water) and arrange them without feeling rushed.
6. Utilize Online Resources and Tutorials
There are tons of fantastic online resources to help you along the way:
YouTube: Channels like Flower Moxie and FiftyFlowers have great tutorials on making bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces.
Pinterest: A treasure trove of inspiration and step-by-step guides.
DIY Blogs: Websites like The Knot, WeddingWire, and A Practical Wedding often have detailed DIY flower tutorials.
7. Practice Makes Perfect
Don’t wait until the last minute to start practicing. Get some flowers a few weeks before your wedding and try out different arrangements. This will help you get comfortable with the process and figure out what works best for you.
8. Ask for Help
Don’t hesitate to enlist your bridal party, family, and friends to help with the flower arranging. Make it a fun pre-wedding activity! Just be sure to keep the work environment relaxed and enjoyable—maybe throw in some snacks and music.
9. Stay Calm and Enjoy the Process
Remember, this is supposed to be fun! Don’t stress too much about perfection. Flowers are naturally beautiful, and a little imperfection can actually add to their charm. Stay calm, enjoy the process, and take pride in the beautiful creations you’re making for your special day.
I hope these tips help you feel confident and excited about DIY-ing your wedding flowers. You’re going to do an amazing job, and your personal touch will make your wedding day even more special. Happy arranging!
