SETTING THE SCENE
Decadent decor
There are endless decor and flower ideas and the best place to start with your planning is with your budget. On average, about 10% of your total budget should be allocated to decorating your venue and the flowers for the ceremony, reception and bridal party. Obviously the larger and more elaborate the arrangements, the more expensive they will be. Even if using a lot of foliage, the time taken for the floral artist to do the arrangements must not be overlooked. A lot of heart and soul goes into creating your arrangements, so respect that and take their advice. Many venues have so much character, they do not need to be filled with arrangements and so when selecting flowers, make sure they suit the style of your venue and the location. You will be able to get almost any flowers at any time of year but selecting blooms that are in season and grown locally will reduce costs. Rather than having lots of small arrangements, it might be more effective to ask your florist to create a few ‘wow’ arrangements as focal points, or consider having your florist arrange groups of single stem flowers at varied lengths in thin bud vases for a simple, yet elegant effect.
Sean Baker
If you are bringing in your own flowers, make sure you get them a day or two before and select blooms that will open in time. Although this may save money, consider the fact that you will need vases, cold storage, and transport to the venue, and ensure you schedule enough time to arrange and set them up. It’s not a good idea to have DIY tasks that you are responsible for on the day, so make sure you delegate tasks if you are not using a professional. There are no rules, so if you are not a fan of flowers, you can create beautiful centrepieces combining elements that go with your theme. Here are some ideas to help you get creative: • Potted herbs or interesting plants your guests may take home afterwards or you can plant in your garden • Candles in vases, votives or wooden candlesticks great for atmosphere but check with venue if allowed • Pebbles, moss or bark • Feathers and Origami • Desert roses or other succulents in tins or mixed vases • Vintage books tied with ribbon and lace
Kym Burmester
The options are endless, so have some fun. Just ensure you do all the preparation well before and get others involved – they will love to help.
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