If you go through a florist and select even the most basic wedding package for your nuptial day decorations, you can expect to spend thousands of dollars. Depending on how many bouquets, centerpieces, and other arrangements you need for your wedding ceremony and reception, the flowers could be one of the largest expenses in your wedding budget.
Smaller Bouquets of Flowers in Season for Smaller Wedding Budgets
There are ways to cut back on those costs, such as having smaller bouquets and arrangements that use fewer flowers. But if you are like most women, you simply love the look of abundant flowers on every table at a wedding. One way to get an elegant floral look for less is to choose flowers with an expensive look but are pretty inexpensive. You can also grow your own fresh flowers right in your garden if you have a green thumb and live in a favorable climate.
Locally Grown Varieties from Farmer’s Markets
Find flowers at farmer’s markets that sell the locally grown varieties. If she is willing, suggest that your florist shop at a local farmer’s market to save on in-season, locally grown flowers. Rather than longing for dramatic tropical flowers that must be shipped over from Hawaii, choose flowers that are native to your own area. Flowers on the cheap can be found in the same bright colors as tropical blooms but cost less than half the price per stem. Your guests will never know you chose them because of budget constraints.
Substitute Less Expensive Wedding Flowers
Or, substitute the look you love with less expensive flowers. For example, if you want the look of roses for your bridal bouquet but not the high price tag, consider using carnations instead. Carnations are very inexpensive, but offer the same extensive color range as roses. Carnations have been genetically engineered to grow in a wide array of beautiful color combinations, and those bi-colored flowers can actually look very expensive. You can combine all of your wedding colors in one flower!
Another option is to use daisies. Daisies grow naturally and in abundance in fields across the country, and can be ordered in bulk through your florist or online through stores such as Costco. Costco members can get an assortment of 150 daisies in bright, fun colors for $129.00, less than one dollar per stem.
Save on your wedding by cutting back on the flower budget by being creative and smart in your floral selections. You can find many local, in-season varieties that are gorgeous, and your guests will never know the difference.
Article By Michelle O’Connor
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