From Subtle Elegance to Bold Statements
Wedding bouquets carry their own quiet symbolism of beauty and bright beginnings. They’re not just pretty props for photos—though they’re certainly that—but also little storytelling bundles that come together to capture the essence of the day. Whether your wedding theme is modern, bohemian, or vintage, flowers tell the tale with their texture, scent, and color. Every flower brings its own mood, its own history, and meaning. Some are obvious choices, some less so, but each one can add a layer of importance to the day. Here are twenty flowers worth considering for your special day.
1. Roses
These are considered a classic for good reason. Roses come in endless shades—red for passion, white for purity, or blush for something in between. With blooms available in tiny buds or sprawling garden varieties, you can evoke whatever mood you want. Pairing soft pink roses with eucalyptus gives a modern edge, while cream roses with baby’s breath lean vintage.
2. Peonies
Peonies are big, ruffled, and dramatic seasonal flowers. With thousands of stunning varieties to choose from, you can certainly mix and match. A bouquet of pale pink peonies practically glows in photographs, and the only downside to including them in the bridal bouquet is they may very well steal the limelight from the bride.
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3. Calla Lilies
These flowers are elegant and sculptural. A single calla lily can look just as striking as a whole bundle. They come in white, purple, orange, and even deep, almost-black shades. This is a perfect choice for brides who like clean lines and a modern motif.
4. Gardenias
Their fragrance is unforgettable—sweet, heady, a little intoxicating. But fair warning: gardenias are delicate and bruise easily, so they often need to be wired into bouquets with extra care. The reward? A scent that perfumes the air and trails after you down the aisle.
5. Ranunculus
Ranunculus are smaller than peonies but give the same lush effect with their layer upon layer of papery petals. They come in bright coral, buttery yellow, and creamy white—all hues ideal for adding a snap of subtle color without overwhelming the décor.
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6. Orchids
Orchids feel exotic, almost alien. Cascading white orchids give classical vibes, while purple dendrobiums are more striking with their bright ornamentation. In tropical weddings, they’re often everywhere, but even in urban ceremonies, they bring a striking elegance that feels luxurious.
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7. Anemones
These flowers have gorgeous white petals with a dark, almost inky center and pair beautifully with mixed greenery and loose arrangements. Anemones have that striking contrast that photographs beautifully and are at home in both modern venues as well as informal backyard weddings.
8. Hydrangeas
Their clusters of tiny blossoms form one big, cloud-like bloom. Hydrangeas fill space beautifully, making bouquets look lush without requiring dozens of stems. Their color changes depending on the acidity of the soil, and these blooms are available in classic tones of soft blue, lavender, and even pale green.
9. Sweet Peas
A unique addition to any bouquet, the delicate fluttery petals of sweet peas bring a fragrance that’s almost candy-like. Although incredibly delicate and short-lived, they bring an airy, romantic quality to bouquets with their spring garden undertone.
10. Tulips
A symbol of love and renewal, a bouquet of crisp white tulips feels tastefully simple, while fringed or parrot varieties add unexpected texture and frivolity. A bouquet of tulips is the living embodiment of spring, giving arrangements a graceful impression of new beginnings.
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11. Stephanotis
Their tiny star-shaped blossoms are waxy and pure white. A traditional addition to bridal bouquets, they’re often wired carefully onto stems. Their name literally means “crown flower,” making them feel especially fitting for a wedding.
12. Dahlias
With their bold, geometric blooms and intricate petals, dahlias add an element of intrigue to a bouquet. Available in fiery reds, sunny oranges, and soft pastels, you’re likely to find a color that matches your décor. They add weight and drama to bouquets and are perfect for late-summer or autumn weddings.
13. Jasmine
This climbing vine is not just for balconies. Jasmine blossoms can be tucked into bouquets for both beauty and their unforgettable fragrance. A whiff of jasmine always seems to bring on a wave of nostalgia, like a warm evening from a near-forgotten memory.
14. Lilacs
Lilacs come in shades of purple and white, and their tiny, recognizable clusters of blossoms are potently sweet and fresh with the promise of summer. They can look rustic or elegant, depending on how they’re arranged.
15. Carnations
People often dismiss this underrated flower as filler, but modern varieties come in dusty mauves, deep burgundies, and even variegated shades. They’re hardy, affordable, and look surprisingly luxurious when massed together.
16. Magnolia Blossoms
Their large, waxy petals feel stately in a southern sort of way. Magnolias symbolize dignity and beauty, and a single bloom can anchor a bouquet. The glossy leaves also add depth and contrast.
17. Lavender
This fragrant flower is both calming and rustic. A bouquet dotted with lavender sprigs gives a loose, countryside feel, but can also hold its own in a more formal display. As a bonus, the fragrance is also quite soothing, so it may very well assist with your nerves on your big day.
18. Chrysanthemums
Known for symbolizing longevity and happiness in Japan, chrysanthemums are certainly on theme as far as weddings go. They come in spider, pompon, and daisy-like forms. In a bouquet, they add both texture and cultural weight.
19. Baby’s Breath
Baby’s breath is a common addition to wedding bouquets, although rarely as a standalone unless in huge, airy bunches. Yet, when used creatively, baby’s breath looks like delicate clouds, softening bolder flowers with their tiny blossoms.
Fiona Murray-deGraaff on Unsplash
20. Protea
A bold, unconventional choice, protea look almost alien with their spiky and dramatic petals. They’re perfect for brides who want something striking and outside the norm.
