The wedding date, location, and dress are all decided on, so now it’s time to turn your attention to other matters, like flowers. Flowers can be used to set the tone for the entire day. And you don’t necessarily have to go traditional. Today, you can have just about whatever your heart desires. Scatter brightly colored petals amidst candles on the reception tables in place of formal centerpieces. Consider a single, perfect blossom instead of a traditional bridal bouquet, or add willow sticks and sprays of berries amongst your flowers. You might select a single variety of flower to showcase, or choose a variety of flowers in a single bold color. Whatever your vision, here are some tips for making your beautiful dreams a reality.

First things first – find your personal style. Even if you don’t have a botanist’s knowledge of flowers, having some idea of things you like and don’t like will help you when you go to visit the florist. Pick a color palette: determine whether you’ll be using a single color or several complementary ones. Think about the size and scope of the bouquets and floral decorations that you’ve envisioned. Decide whether you want a few high-impact blooms strategically placed, large bouquets and a few simple centerpieces, or enough flowers to make your own wedding “garden.” Consider whether you want to integrate other natural elements, such as foliage, berries, willow sticks, or even sea shells or jewels. Bring a swatch of fabric or a photo with you when you go to the florist, so she knows what you mean when you say “lime green.” Having trouble deciding where to start with floral style? Figure out what you want your bouquet to be like, and then coordinate the bridesmaids’ bouquets, the boutonnieres, centerpieces, etc.

When it comes to deciding on wedding flowers, think about your ceremony and reception site[s]. Consider how much space there is. If you are getting married in a small church or having a reception in a private home, you probably won’t have room for giant pillars with cascading flowers and ivy on them. Choose arrangements that are smaller in size, and instead use bright colors or a variety of interesting shapes and textures to make a bold statement. Your florist can be a source of help here; if he has ever done a wedding at the site[s] before, he may have knowledge about works well in the space. Location can actually be helpful when it comes to your floral budget: If you’re getting married in a park or garden setting, you may not need much more than the bouquets, corsages, and boutonnieres.

Two key things to consider in regards to budgeting for florals is how to make the most out of what you can afford, and when to substitute or supplement with something less expensive. Your florist should be able to help you here. Ask her how to create a breathtaking effect using fewer flowers – if the blossoms are big and bold enough, one or two can create an effect that is just as stunning as a bouquet of many flowers. Or ask about less expensive alternatives to the flowers you want; you may be able to find florals that resemble your dream flowers but are much more budget-friendly. How much of your floral budget should you spend on each element? Budgets for wedding flowers will vary, depending on things like the season in which you marry and how much you need to decorate the space where you’re celebrating. Here’s an estimate for an average wedding: 55 percent of the floral budget for reception arrangements; fourteen percent for the bridesmaids’ bouquets; twelve percent for ceremony decorations; seven percent for your bouquet; five percent each for the boutonnieres and the corsages; one percent for the flower girl’s flowers; and one percent for a tossing bouquet.

An important thing to consider when choosing flowers, particularly for bouquets, is how to make these babies last. Some flowers are stunning in color or shape, but take them out of the garden and they wilt or fall apart in a few minutes. You should also take into account how well the flowers you want will hold up in the heat, without water. If you’re marrying in the Bakersfield area anytime from May through September, you know the temperatures will be climbing up near 100. Choose hardy flowers such as sunflowers, dahlias, lilies, or hydrangeas.

Keep the season in which you’ll be getting married in mind when you plan your floral arrangements. Exotic orchids may not be as readily available if they’re not in season. If your florist can get you flowers that are out of season, you can expect to pay more than you would if they were in season (as much as 25%). Using local, in-season flowers will guarantee freshness and affordability. If you just have to have a flower that isn’t is season at the time of your wedding, choose a couple of seasonal blooms to supplement your bouquets and decorative arrangements.

This may be obvious, but when you create the bouquets, make sure they aren't too heavy or too hard to carry. Also, bear in mind your own size and that of your ‘maids, as well as the size of the dresses all of you will be wearing. A small, delicate bouquet will be lost in the ruffles of an elaborate ball gown. On the other hand, someone who’s petite will be overwhelmed by massive cascading sprays of flowers.

Nothing says “sweet memories” like the scent of your favorite flower, but consider the power of scent when you multiply it by 100. You, or some of your bridal party and guests, may be sensitive to strong scents or have allergies. You don’t want your wedding day to be like a Claritin commercial. If you choose flowers like freesias, lilies, lilacs, tuberoses, gardenias, or lilies of the valley, go lightly on these blooms. Supplement the bouquets and arrangements with milder-smelling or unscented flowers. That way, you and your guests won’t be overpowered.

So now you have a start on choosing the flowers for your special day. You’ll want to “comparison-shop” for florists and then choose one as soon as you can. That way, you can get your decorating scheme in good order. You'll want a designer who is easy to work with and knowledgeable. Most importantly, your florist should be willing and able to provide you with a variety of beautiful floral options that fit within your budget. Whatever catches your eye, get creative and come up with a unique floral statement all your own.