Ask the Expert: Kathy Ireland Designs on Wedding Flowers
Chef Andre and the team at KathyIreland Designs are here with wedding flower expert advice. They’ve made it easy for you to find beautiful top quality fresh cut wedding flowers. Visit KathyIreland.com for more food, entertainment and culture advice.
What is considered a masculine flower?
There are several manly flowers; a single mini calla lily, in a dark hue, bird of paradise, and succulents any of which would make a manly statement. You can even use fresh herbs like rosemary or lavender.
Should the groom’s boutonniere be different from the best man’s and the other male attendances?
With a small wedding party the grooms and best man boutonniere should be the same. With a larger party, the male attendance’s boutonnieres can be different from the grooms. Find only the best for your wedding day here!
On what side should the boutonniere be worn?
On the grooms left side. Be careful if using Alstroemeria as a boutonniere, as its sap can be harmful if it enters the human bloodstream.
How can we cut the cost of the floral arrangements and over-all flower cost?
Order direct …and choose flowers that will be in season locally at the time of your wedding. Flower packages from KathyIreland Designs by FabulousFlorals offer great choices, and fast delivery at money saving prices. Also for the rehearsal dinner think candles, lots of them, buy in bulk. They can be used for the dinner, wedding, reception and later… we can help you out there as well, with our partners at KathyIreland Home by Hanna’s Candles
For an outside wedding what flowers would last the longest or are better suited?
One of the best things about an outdoor wedding is the beauty of nature itself; this already lessens your need to decorate. So keep it simple. Roses are an all season flowers; orchids also stand up well in the heat – as do sunflowers, birds-of-paradise, tiger lilies, dahlias and zinnias. Try to use flowers that are less fragrant and consider putting out citronella candles so that your guests won’t spend the whole ceremony swatting at the air.
Is it better to hire a flower designer or do it ourselves?
Depending on the size and theme of your wedding. Like with most things do your homework, really know what you want. For a small wedding, make a party out of it and do it yourselves. For a larger wedding, consider hiring a designer, less stress on you and on the day of the event.
I have allergies, what would be a flower that I could wear?
Orchids are a great way to go. There are also number of flowers that are pollen-free. Ask about formal doubled flowers (flowers with a very high number of petals per flower), most are pollen-free.
Would it be appropriate to wear the bride’s favorite flower as a boutonniere?
Yes just as long as it is not distracting from your bride or her bouquet, i.e.…a huge sunflower.
Come on now, as the groom, do I really have a say in any of this?
Of course you do, it’s your day too. Besides more than likely you’re footing the bill for some if not all, so yes you should be a little more involved than just the wedding night.
