Photo: Yasu + Junko
Wedding flowers can get costly. Among all of the places you can freshen up with fauna—the ceremony altar, bridal and bridesmaid bouquets, table centerpieces, and heck, even a petal-strewn aisle—your wedding blooms can easily break the bank. Here, tips for where to save on your big day buds (and still have the beautiful day of your dreams!).
1. Splurge on the ceremony and forget flowers for the less-important areas
At the ceremony, all eyes will be on the altar, so focus your budget there. (Ask in advance if you can repurpose any large arrangements at the reception. Some houses of worship won't let you remove them once they're there, but try to negotiate.) Forgo a petal-strewn aisle and petal toss, and adorn only seating that will appear in photos.
2. Don't have a huge bridal party.
Shrink your wedding party; more attendants equals more blooms. Can't bear to eliminate any BFFs? Cut down on your flower costs by giving bridesmaids cool clutches, wrist corsages, or hair corsages (they're all the rage in NYC) in lieu of their own bouquets. Have groomsmen wear special pocket squares (groomsmen's gifts!) instead of boutonnieres.
3. DIY your floral arrangements (and enlist the help of family and friends!).
Instead of hiring a florist, have friends help you put together your own arrangements. Think of it as a fun pre-wedding bonding activity! Grocery stores, farmer's markets, and even Home Depot offer picks for much less than a florist would charge. Or, order fresh flowers in bulk online.
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