Things to Know about Wedding Flowers

When it comes to the aesthetic of a wedding, much of it can be defined by the use of flowers, and for many, flowers rank high on their list of wedding-related priorities.  Often, brides have their heart set on a certain flower type(s) to help achieve their wedding vision, but it is worthwhile to bear in mind certain realities when it comes to flowers, particularly here in Hawai'i.

Ceremony flowers by Flowers by Jane.  Photo by Dylan Dawson Photography.

Being an island state comes with many obvious advantages, and along with it, challenges as well; we do not have the luxury of flower markets similar to SF where cut flowers are abundant and readily available.  In fact, lots of popular wedding flowers, even some of the tropical ones are shipped in (including orchids!).   Many floral designers' policies or contracts will specifically note that they will do their best to meet flower requests, but will also reserve the right to substitute flowers if need be.

Here are some scenarios where flower substitutions may occur.

• damages occurring during shipping
• shipments held up in customs
• flowers out of season
• flowers were different (i.e. smaller than/varying in color) from what was ordered
• weather hardships prevent growers from fulfilling their orders
• most recently, we were even learned that some suppliers of red flowers were refraining from taking orders now in anticipation of Valentine's!

Bridal bouquet by Spinning WEB Florist.  Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography.

We, as wedding planners, want to see every couple's wedding wishes come true.  With regard to flowers, we encourage couples to gather inspiration images that help convey their desired style, and we work closely with reputable floral designers to help ensure this, too.  While there are indeed challenges with flowers, understanding this and working with a great designer will best put you on your way to being a happy bride or groom on your wedding day.

Bridal bouquet and boutonniere by Spinning WEB Florist.  Photo by Chrissy Lambert Photography.

Happy planning!

Mona

neu events

(formerly known as "Weddings by Grace and Mona")

Vegetable Bouquet

Photos by Kris Labang Photography

I had first heard of bouquets with vegetables in them, years ago, when I initially started planning weddings. Wendy Balidoy of Spinning WEB Florist, mentioned that she had previously made bouquets of vegetables or fruit for some of her prom clients. I knew that bouquets could be made of material other than flowers...I had just never seen one with my own eyes.

Then along come Rachel and Darren, the most fun-loving and self proclaimed "cheesey" couple around. Their wedding will always remain a fond one for me, with so many laugh-out-loud moments on their wedding day. Rachel and Darren put their florist, actually, My Florist (yes, that's their name, "My Florist") to the test by opting for a bouquet with vegetables.

The result was pure perfection - a combination of feminity, mixed with, well, cauliflower! As Rachel and Darren put it, all that was missing was the ranch dressing! And then of course, the good humoured, knee-slapping jokes ensued, "whoever said that brides don't get to eat on their wedding day?" or "it's a bouquet and a snack in one!" Perhaps this will inspire you, too, to consider a veggie bouquet for your special occasion. (Note, dressing not included.)