More and more, brides are opting to carry bouquets made from silk flowers. The quality and realistic look of silk flowers has grown dramatically the past few years and they make great mementoes. This allows you to get your bouquet ahead of time (maybe for pre-wedding pictures) and you never have to worry about bouquets wilting or falling apart. Whether you choose fresh or silk flowers, your bridal bouquet is an accessory and should compliment the dress. Neither the bouquet nor the dress should over shadow the other. Generally, elaborate flowing dresses are complimented by large flowing bouquets, and more tailored dresses need a bouquet that is long and slender. Also, consider your body type when choosing a bouquet. A very large bouquet can be overpowering against a petite bride. The traditional round nosegay is always a safe choice for most people. Click here to view accessories packages.
With exception of the long stem bouquets, you should hold your bouquet by placing your elbows at your hipbones and grasping the stems or handle with both hands in front of your belly button.
Arm bouquets --- A group of long stem flowers and are carried in the
fold of a slightly bent arm. Arm
bouquets accent the dress
by creating vertical eye movement.
Biedermeir --- A tightly arranged nosegay consisting of circles of various, or
differently colored flowers. Each ring would be made with just
one flower variety or color.
Brandy Snifter --- A decorated glass with votive candle.
Cascade --- Bouquets that start full at the top, narrows below the focal point and
cascades downward. Ivy or other trailing vines and stems help define the
shape. Pearls, crystals and ribbons may be added for a touch of elegance.
Classic --- A dense group of flowers constructed in a bouquet holder in a round
or slightly oval shape.
Clutch or Hand Tied --- A dense group of flowers and greenery taped together at the stems
and decorated with ribbons. The taped stems serve as the bouquet
handle.
Contemporary --- Different variations of the crescent and cascade bouquets
constructed on a bouquet holder.
Crescent and Half Crescent ---The crescent is a half circle with a central flower wired by the stems to a trail of blossoms such as orchids, that emanate from both
sides. The half crescent has trailing stems on
only one side. This style tends to work well
with fuller figures.
Diagonal Bouquets --- These are constructed on a bouquet holder at a 45 degree
angle. This oval shaped bouquet cascades off the end and
points downward with a little trailing greenery and
ribbons.
Nosegay --- Small round bouquet of densely packed round flowers and greenery
usually 16" to 18" in diameter.
Presentation --- A more elaborate form of arm bouquet. Also known as the
pageant bouquet, it's made from long stem flowers that are
cradled in the bride's arms.
Posy --- Petite round bouquets similar to nosegays, but smaller, with ribbons
integrated into them..
Pomander --- A bloom covered ball with an attached ribbon for carrying.
Tossing Bouquet --- Bouquet used for the bouquet toss.
Tussy Mussy --- A Victorian era term to describe a posy carried in a small
metallic hand-held vase.
Victorian Lace Fan --- Lace fan with flowers and ribbons.
