📸: @seasmtnsco
As the snow begins to clear, we look forward to spring showers and flowers and begin think about wedding florals: what’s trending? What’s classic? We spoke with local florists for their tips and tricks on bargaining for the best bouquet.
Mimi Arnold, The Farmer Florist, Block Island | @thefarmerflorist_bi
What’s blooming?
I have a small flower farm on Block Island which allows me to explore availability when it comes to florals. Varieties of anemones, ranunculus, poppies and spring bulbs. Tulips and daffodils…this is my favorite time of the year to arrange them, everything’s so fresh. In the early summer, I work with peonies and foxglove. In the peak of summer, there are varieties of dahlias (every color, shape and size) and can include them in any arrangement to please any bride. Lisianthus is an August rose with beautiful color and textures. Asters do well in the heat.
What type of weddings do you work with?
I really focus on intimate and mindful celebrations, sometimes the challenge of a larger event. I’m a smaller production, so I have to be aware of capacity and focus on smaller events. My cap is about 200 guests and most weddings I arrange for fall between 100 and 150 guests. Elopements are my favorite.
Talk about some color palettes for spring.
While we do pay attention to trends, I customize florals to the couple. In the last five years, we’ve seen heavy greenery, lots of textures and white accents. Last year, there were accents of dusty pinks. This year, I’m seeing accents of muted blues. It fluctuates each year. My favorite aesthetic is bold and colorful florals—they’re playful and fun to play with.
What’s a unique bridal service you offer?
I host flower crown workshops! It’s a great activity for bridesmaids, bachelorettes and more.
How far out are you booking?
With the ripple effect of catch-up due to the pandemic, I’m booking up quickly. I’ve had some weddings pre-booked back in 2020 and 2021 and reserved a good portion of the dates for rescheduled weddings. I do my best to keep things somewhat open and fluid.
Brittany Brown, Brittany’s Floral Designs, Oakland (Burrillville) | @brittanys_floral_design
What are the color palettes for spring?
Some popular springtime color schemes are pastels, of course: whites, creams, sage green, pistachio green, light pinks, medium pinks, peach tones, blush, light blue, and butter yellow. A lot of brides mix and match these color schemes for spring.
What’s the average size of a bridal bouquet?
It normally falls within ten to twenty inches in diameter, depending on how we design the bridal bouquet. If the client wants a tight, formed bouquet versus a whimsical, just picked style which makes for a more wild and free design. The average size of a bridesmaid’s bouquet normally falls within six to ten inches in diameter depending on the style and look the bride is going for her bridal party.
What are the most popular flowers for bridal bouquets in the spring?
Hydrangeas, peonies, anemones, ranunculus, lilies, tulips, roses, babies breath, snapdragons, stock, garden roses, and lisianthus.
As far as 2022 trends, the trend seems to be whimsical, naturally designed, just picked bouquets. Spring is the one month that is always falling into the pastel color palette, and tons of brides just go for all whites and creams with greenery. That trend is huge, super romantic and lush.
When is a good time to book?
It is flexible depending on how large the wedding is and if they are going to order fresh, silk or real touch flowers I offer. But the industry standard is one-plus year out these days, especially since COVID has really messed with florists’ 2020 and 2021 schedules by tons of rescheduled dates.
Courtney Auvil, Soul Flora Design | @soulflora_flowers
What types of flowers do you offer in the spring?
My favorite is sweet pea. It’s a popular choice with a range of colors: whites, purples and pinks. Ranunculus is another popular option. I partner with three to four local farms regularly and source through the flower market to bring other local growers to the florist.
Size-wise: is bigger always better?
Most clients go for a refined garden aesthetic. It’s more freeform than strictly bound. For brides, bouquets are the size of a dinner or charger plate. For bridesmaids, the diameter of a salad or dessert plate is best. Brides either go for statement or sleek and minimal.
How do typical color palettes compare to 2022 trends?
Over the next year or so, I’m seeing people embrace more color and exploring more warm corals, peaches and pinks. More muted, less saturated dusty pinks, tans, taupes…just more subdued colors. I ask brides about their dresses and ask for photos. I love to make sure the florals will be in line with the style, color tone and feel of the dress, whether it be sleek, clean or whimsical.
Any expert tips?
It’s so important for your vision to align with the professional you choose. While we can all accomplish a certain style, it’s really the best fit when the clients and florist are a really good match. Look through their websites and Instagram to make sure what they’re putting out inspires you. When couples get inspiration from local blogs, magazines and resources, it’s helpful to see what’s going on in this area.
