In 2024, flowers are permeating every aspect of weddings, from cakes to favours and keepsakes. Here are the top 9 floral wedding trends that are set to define the season:
1. CALLA LILY BOUQUETS: TIMELESS ELEGANCE
Classic white Calla lilies, with their graceful curves and understated elegance, are making a significant comeback in bridal bouquets. Known for their association with purity, beauty, rebirth and union, these flowers have a rich history dating back to ancient Greek mythology. Because the flower’s shape is reminiscent of a chalice (a traditional goblet for drinking wine) they were often associated with celebrations. The calla lily's sleek, trumpet-like shape adds a touch of sophistication and an architectural element, and can easily be hand-tied with silk ribbon for a DIY bouquet. Or opt for a traditional trailing bouquet, positioning the lilies at various heights.
2. CAKE MEADOWS: FLORAL EXTRAVAGANCE
The trend of incorporating florals into wedding cakes has evolved into creating what can only be described as "cake meadows." Inspired by wildflower fields, these cakes are adorned with an abundance of blooms, creating a whimsical and romantic ambiance. Imagine cakes adorned with delicate daisies, vibrant peonies, and trailing ivy, cascading down tiers or encircling the cake in a beautiful botanical mise-en-scène. Cake meadows not only enhance the visual appeal of the dessert table but also serve as a stunning focal point that seamlessly integrates with the overall wedding theme.
3. CUPCAKE BOUQUETS: FLORAL WORKS OF ART
For a whimsical twist on traditional bouquets, cupcake bouquets are becoming a popular choice for bridal parties and receptions alike. These edible arrangements feature cupcakes decorated to resemble flower blossoms, nestled together to create a stunning bouquet effect. Each cupcake can be adorned with intricate buttercream or fondant flowers, mimicking real blooms like roses, tulips, or hydrangeas. Cupcake bouquets not only serve as delightful desserts but also double as charming table decorations or gifts for bridesmaids, adding a playful yet elegant touch to the festivities.
4. REPURPOSING FLOWERS AS WEDDING FAVOURS: SUSTAINABLE SENTIMENTS
In a nod towards sustainability, couples are increasingly opting to repurpose their floral arrangements as wedding favours. After the festivities, guests are invited to take home small bundles of blooms from centerpieces or ceremony decorations. This thoughtful gesture not only reduces waste but also allows guests to bring a piece of the celebration home with them. From miniature posies to single stems tied with a ribbon and a personalized tag, these repurposed floral favours add a touch of natural beauty to each guest's experience, extending the wedding's magic beyond the day itself.
5. PUNCHY SUNRISE FLORAL PALETTE
Traditional and romantic white, green and blush floral palettes will never go out of style, but brides are opting to make more of a statement with unexpected flower colours inspired by the sunrise: Pink, Yellow, Orange and Red. Heart-shaped red and pink Anthurium are gaining in popularity for their sleek, sturdy structure, and of course, the symbolism of their shape. The metaphor of the sunset signalling a brand new day seems fitting for the start of a couple’s life together at their wedding.
6. THE RETURN OF CORSAGES: NOSTALGIC ADORNMENTS
Corsages, once a staple accessory for weddings, are making a stylish comeback in 2024. These petite floral arrangements, typically worn on the wrist or pinned to a woman’s right shoulder with a pearl-topped pin, are a timeless way to honour loved ones and add a touch of floral elegance to wedding attire.
Historically, corsages have symbolized honour, love, and respect, and come from the French term, “bouquet de corsage,” meaning “bouquet for the bodice.” Traditionally worn by sisters, mothers and grandmothers of the couple, as well as special guests, corsages now come in contemporary designs featuring miniature roses, sturdy orchids, or delicate foliage. When crafted from fresh blooms, corsages add a sentimental flourish to wedding celebrations, connecting generations with the language of flowers.
7. FLORALSCAPES: MAXIMALISM IN FLOWERS
Floral arrangements are the best way to personalize your wedding venue. Oversized arrangements on pedestals become a focal point for the wedding ceremony and reception, and can even make their way onto the altar or chuppah. Both hanging arrangements and flowers on the floor fall under this trend that leans toward maximalism. Large blooms like hydrangeas and peonies work particularly well for this over-the-top look.
8. MISMATCHED CERAMIC VASES
We can finally bid farewell to the mason jar vase that dominated weddings for so many years! Collected ceramic vases, in various colours and even patterns, provide an eclectic and personal touch that is very much on trend. Or stick to a classic palette (such as white and blue) and mix heights and styles. Bonus: rather than a repeating tablescape, each guest gets their own unique point of view.
9. FRAMED BRIDAL BOUQUETS
With all the thought and symbolism that goes into the bridal bouquet, brides are opting to have them dried and preserved as works of art, to commemorate the special day and prolong the feeling of joy that flowers give. Learn more about drying flowers here.
10. EXOTIC FLORALS: WORLD TRAVEL THROUGH FLOWERS
Unexpected and bold, tropical flowers such as Birds of Paradise, Orchids, and Proteas add an exotic element to a wedding’s decor. Perfect for a well-travelled couple, they might represent a special trip together or even a nod to the honeymoon destination.