Planning a wedding can be a unique yet similarly daunting experience for a couple, so I thought it would be cool to join a bride on her journey through the challenges and the triumphs! This month bride-to-be (and founder of new creative business S&R Events and Styling) Sharleen is giving us an easy to follow guide to picking the right florals for your big day! Enjoy xox

I love flowers. The power of a hand-plucked flower in brightening someone’s day – magic. But, wedding flowers, they are on a whole ‘nother level. Cascade, posy, pomander. Who knew there were so many different terms? Lucky for me, one of my bridesmaids is also the talented florist behind Rose Tinted Flowers. And, lucky for you, today we’re sharing some of our tips to get you thinking about one of the biggest focal points of your day.

Our tips for picking the right arrangements:

1. Research what you like

When getting my hair cut or coloured I come prepared with images to show my hairdresser. If I were to simply tell her I wanted to dye my hair ‘chocolate’ she might interpret this to mean a red-brown, a golden-brown or somewhere in between. The same goes with ‘rustic’, ‘classic’ or other common wedding terms so take the same approach. Images are far more telling than words. Do some research, collect images of what you like, and then arrange a consult with your florist. Remember to be specific when discussing these details with your florist – are you fan-girling over the type of flower, colour palette, shape or style?

2. Think about what will be in season

Your florist will be able to offer advice in terms of what will be in season at the time of your wedding, as well as offering advice in terms of flowers that will last the day (e.g. if in the heat, those that won’t wilt). If your preferred peonies are out of season, your florist can also help suggest a look-a-like, such as the garden rose.

3. Think about your venue and style

Opt for arrangements that compliment your style and setting. If you’re going for a classic look you may chose a more structured arrangement, whereas if you’re going for a rustic look you may opt for a wilder less formal arrangement. Alternatively, if you’re getting married in a botanical setting (a vineyard, garden or park) you might prefer to let your backdrop take centre stage and keep flowers to a minimum.

4. Think about your table setting

Whether you’re having round or long tables can influence the style and shape of your centrepiece. A garland, for example, will likely be better suited to a long table. Also think about your guests; you don’t want arrangements to be too high and obscure conversation or to get in the way of elbow space.

5. It’s not all about the bouquet

You can incorporate flowers in many different ways; from the obvious bridal bouquet to boutonnieres, welcome signs, altars, flower walls, table clusters and much more. This is only limited by your imagination so have fun and think big. Your florist will be more than happy to provide some inspiration and direction.

See also 8 tips to organise your wedding flowers and don’t plan your wedding without the little white book wedding planner.