Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but one of the most important elements is the flowers. From bouquets to centerpieces, having a checklist for wedding flowers will help ensure you don’t forget any details. A comprehensive wedding flower checklist should include everything from bridal party flora to ceremony decorations and reception centerpieces. With this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make sure your special day is perfect!
Wedding Flower Checklist Part I: Personal Flowers
Personal wedding flowers are a special feature of every wedding day and can help complete the overall look and feel of the event. They include items such as boutonnieres for the groomsmen, floral crowns for the bride’s maids, corsages for parents and grandparents, and flower petal baskets for flower girls. Personal flowers will be remembered in photos and videos, so it is important to select ones that are appropriate for each individual in the bridal party.
Bride’s Bouquet
The most essential wedding flower checklist item is the Bride’s bouquet. Forever a lasting symbol of the special moment when she walks down the aisle on her wedding day, the bridal bouquet sets the tone for the rest of the day. Arguably the most photographed floral arrangement, the Bride’s bouquet accompanies the Bride in most wedding photos. The bride’s bouquet should represent her personality, style, and preferences, making it a truly special keepsake that can be cherished for many years to come.
Bridal Hair
Though optional, a few added blooms in the Bride’s hair can accentuate an already beautiful hairstyle. Flowers can range from small bud accents to larger blooms that provide an eye-catching focal point. For a classic look, consider wearing a single delicate flower tucked behind the ear or side of the head. Alternatively, for an exotic twist, adorn your tresses with an array of colorful fresh blooms for a bold statement. Whatever style you choose, flowers are sure to add elegance and beauty to your wedding day look!
Bridesmaids
Bridesmaids’ bouquets are an important part of the bridesmaid’s look and are a focal point in bridal party preparation and ceremony photos. They can also add a special touch to the photos that commemorate the wedding day. Bridesmaids’ bouquets should coordinate with the bride’s bouquet, as well as suit each bridesmaid’s individual style. Sometimes the bridal party will also opt for flowers in their hair to coordinate with the bride if that is part of the overall look. If this is of interest, keep it to a couple of loose blooms in each person’s hair.
Groom & Groomsmen
At a wedding, the groom and his groomsmen typically wear boutonnières. Boutonnières can be a single bloom and greens or more elaborate. They are pinned onto the lapel of their suit or tuxedo. Depending on the type of flowers used in the boutonnière, it can add a subtle hint of color and style to the groomsmen’s wardrobe. They also make for a meaningful keepsake that they can treasure long after the wedding day is over. Traditionally, the groom’s boutonnière might be larger or have more focal flowers that match the Bride’s bouquet. If you need some inspiration, head over here for some of our favorites.
Flower Girls
Flower girls can be an adorable touch to any wedding, especially when they come down the aisle with a basket of petals. Their role can also include carrying an arrangement of flowers for the bride, adding extra beauty and romance to the ceremony. If the ceremony venue does not allow for petals, flower girls can also have a small bouquet from the happy couple instead.
Family
Your wedding flower checklist should also include pieces for the couple’s family. Flowers can be a special way to honor family members at a wedding. Mothers of the bride and groom can receive corsages worn on their wrists or pinned to their dresses, while fathers may get boutonnieres. Depending on your budget, siblings, grandparents, and other family members can also be presented with flowers as a sign of appreciation for attending the wedding.
Pets
If your furry child is part of the wedding celebration, a few flowers added to their collar or leash are in order! Though not required, florals for your pet are a great way to make a memorable moment a little sweeter as they prance down the aisle.
Wedding Flower Checklist Part 2: Ceremony
Entryway or Welcome Table Arrangements
Adding a welcome table at the entrance to your wedding venue is a great way to set the tone for the day and make guests feel special. Consider making a beautiful floral arrangement for it, either in an elegant vase or as a garland of seasonal flowers. Having flower petals and greenery scattered around the table will give it an inviting and luxurious look, ensuring that your guests get to enjoy the beauty of nature from the moment they arrive.
Altar/Arch/Chuppah/Mandap
The wedding altar is the focal point of the ceremony, so adding beautiful flowers will set the scene and make this special moment even more memorable. Flowers can be used in many different ways to decorate the altar, whether it’s a garland swag draped over the front or a single large arrangement that stands out. Fresh blooms will bring life and color to your special day, creating a romantic atmosphere as you exchange your vows.
Aisle Flowers
Another item on your wedding flower checklist, aisle arrangements for your wedding ceremony help create a romantic atmosphere as you make your way down the aisle. Consider a blanket of petals for you each to walk on, urns on pedestals at either side of the aisle, or even garlands on the back row of chairs. Whatever floral design you choose, incorporating flowers in your aisle decor will make sure that your guests are immersed in beauty and romance as you wed.
Wedding Flower Checklist Part 3: Cocktails
Cocktail Table Arrangements
Adding floral arrangements to your cocktail hour is a great way to bring your wedding design together, and offer your guests a beautiful backdrop as they mingle and celebrate. Consider having tall centerpieces that bring height and drama to the space, or have small bouquets of blooms in short vases on each table.
Bar Arrangements
While having fresh flowers on the bar at your wedding is unnecessary, it can be a great way to bring a splash of color and beauty to the area. Consider incorporating smaller arrangements that can fit into various nooks around the bar or vibrant bouquets on the countertop. You could also choose to go for something slightly more modern and use small potted succulents for a unique look. Whatever you choose, adding flowers to your reception space can enhance the overall atmosphere of your wedding celebration.
Wedding Flower Checklist Part 4: Reception
Escort Card Table/ Seating Chart
From floral arrangements to creative escort card ideas, there are many ways to make your escort table or seating chart stand out. Whether you choose a centerpiece of bright blooms or opt for something more subtle like single-stem flowers, the possibilities are endless. With the right combination of colors, textures, and shapes, you can create an unforgettable escort table that will wow your guests.
A flowers checklist for a wedding wouldn’t be complete without arrangements at the dinner tables. Wedding centerpieces are an essential part of any reception, as they set the tone for that part of the event. They create a focal point and provide a sense of style and sophistication that guests will remember for years to come. Not only do centerpieces add beauty to the space, but they also serve as conversation starters, giving guests something to talk about during dinner. With so many different options available, from classic floral arrangements to fun balloons and lights, you can customize your wedding centerpiece to bring your own unique vision to life.
Centerpieces
Newlyweds’ Chair Decorations
If you’re all about the details, then this wedding flower checklist item is for you. Wedding chair decor is an easy way to add a personal touch to your special day. From colorful ribbons and garlands to fabric draping and floral arrangements, there are endless possibilities for turning your wedding chairs into a beautiful display. Chair decor also serves as a great way to incorporate your wedding’s color palette or theme into the overall look. To get some ideas flowing, head over to this post for inspiration. With the right combination of decorations, you can create unique and memorable wedding chairs that will wow your guests.
Wedding Cake Flowers
Add some extra beauty to your wedding cake with unique floral toppers. From romantic roses and lilies to creative succulents and herbs, the perfect flower can enhance the look of any cake. You can choose blooms in matching colors or opt for something unexpected to give guests something special to remember. Adding edible flowers or petals as decorations is another way to add elegance and texture, while still keeping the focus on your delicious confection.
Food Station Arrangements
Whether you’re setting up hors d’oeuvres or a buffet, these delicate details can take an ordinary table and transform it into something memorable. You can choose blooms that match your wedding theme or keep it simple with a few loose blooms strategically placed. Whatever you decide, these decorations will add a special touch to the tables and create a picture-perfect backdrop for your guests’ culinary experiences.
Restrooms
Including flower arrangements in your wedding’s restrooms is a great way to add an extra touch of luxury and make your guests feel special. Whether you choose classic floral centerpieces or more creative designs, these decorative touches will give the bathrooms an elegant, spa-like feeling and help keep the overall look of your wedding uniform. Don’t be afraid to experiment—an unexpected pop of color could be just what your restroom needs.
Lounge Area
Adding wedding flowers to your lounge area is a great way to elevate the atmosphere and make it feel more intimate. Lounge areas can handle both, ranging from no vases to elaborate installations. Re-using decor from the ceremony can also be helpful to complete your reception look.
Photo Backdrop / Photo Booth Display
Wedding photo booths are a great way to have fun with your guests and capture memories of your special day. For décor, floral arrangements are perfect for adding elegance or an extra pop of color. If you choose an open photo booth style, consider doing a floral installation instead of using one of the provided backdrops from the photo booth company. This wedding flower checklist item is sure to be a fun surprise for your guests at the reception.
Getaway Car Arrangements
The getaway car is one of the most exciting parts of a wedding day. Whether you opt for a luxurious limousine or vintage sports car, your wedding getaway vehicle will create a memorable entrance and exit for you and your partner. Make sure to decorate it with ribbons, balloons, and other festive decorations to add an extra special touch.
Conclusion: Your Wedding Flower Checklist
Planning a wedding is no easy feat, especially when it comes to flowers. But with these must-haves on your flower checklist, you can now tackle this part of your wedding planning with confidence. Whether you opt for all the items in our list or edit the choices to fit your own style, you’ll be sure to have the perfect elements in place for a picturesque backdrop of natural beauty and aroma. Looking for more advice about your wedding flower checklist? Check out our contact page- we’d love to hear from you! In the meantime, check out our article about the right questions to ask your wedding florist.