As you walk down the aisle on the most special day of your life, all eyes are on you. Every little detail matters, including your wedding bouquet. How you choose and hold your wedding bouquet can enhance your overall look, reflect your style, and add a symbolic and elegant touch to your wedding photos.
In this post, I’ll share some of my all-time favorite wedding bouquets (including my own!) and some expert hacks for mastering the perfect pose and photos with your florals. From understanding different wedding bouquet shapes and sizes to learning various holding techniques, I’ll guide you through bouquet etiquette 101. Get ready to make a statement with this showstopper detail and capture breathtaking photos that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!
Wedding bouquets in 2024
The wedding bouquet holds significant symbolism in weddings. It represents fertility, prosperity, and the bride’s personal style. The tradition of carrying a bouquet dates back to ancient times, when brides carried herbs and flowers to ward off evil spirits. Personally, I’m relieved that this tradition eventually morphed into a beautiful floral accessory that adds a touch of natural beauty to your overall wedding aesthetic.
Choosing the perfect wedding bouquet
When it comes to choosing the right bouquet for your wedding, consider the overall theme and color palette of your wedding, your personal style, and the season. There are several types of bouquets to choose from, each with its own specific vibe.
- Consider your dress: First, think about the style and design of your wedding dress when choosing the size and shape of your bouquet. You want your bouquet to complement your dress, not compete with it.
- Choose the right flowers: Select flowers that match your color palette, season, and the overall theme of your wedding. The right flowers will enhance the beauty of your bouquet and create a cohesive look.
- Add personal touches: Consider adding sentimental elements to your bouquet, such as a locket with a photo of a loved one or a ribbon with your initials. These personal touches will make your bouquet even more special.
- Consult with your florist: Your florist is an expert when it comes to creating beautiful bouquets. Discuss your vision and ideas with them, and they will be able to guide you in choosing the perfect bouquet and florals for your wedding.
Kate at Forte Florals literally nailed my whole vision for our soft fall wedding color palette. I gave her a brain dump of my Pinterest board, and she brought my mauvey, whimsy, rosy dreams to life.
Different types of wedding bouquet shapes
Round bouquets: Sometimes called posy bouquets, these are small, compact bouquets typically made up of one type of flower. They are perfect for brides and bridesmaids who prefer a classic and timeless look.
Cascade bouquets: These bouquets feature an asymmetrical waterfall-like arrangement, with flowers spilling downwards. They add a touch of drama and romance to your overall look.
Hand-tied bouquets: As the name suggests, these bouquets are hand-tied with a ribbon or fabric. They have a more natural and rustic feel, making them perfect for simple outdoor or boho-themed weddings.
Nosegay bouquets: Similar to round bouquets, nosegay bouquets are small and compact and made up of tightly arranged flowers.
Pageant bouquet: Also known as an arm bouquet, this type of bouquet is held in the crook of the arm, creating a sophisticated and regal look. It’s often seen in formal and glamorous weddings.
Photo and florals by Kelly Perry
Composite bouquet: This unique bouquet, also known as glamelia, combines hundreds of individual petals to create a single, large flower. It’s much more uncommon and works well for brides who want to make a bold statement.
Photo source Harsanik
The art of holding the bouquet
Once you’ve chosen the perfect bouquet for your wedding, it’s time to master the art of holding it. Posing your wedding bouquet can make a significant difference in how it looks in photos and how it complements your overall appearance. It’s about striking the right balance and creating a visual harmony between you and your flowers.
Tips for mastering the perfect pose with your bouquet
- Find the right hand position: Hold your bouquet slightly below your waist, allowing it to be the focal point without overpowering your dress. Avoid gripping it too tightly; instead, let your hands gently cradle the stems.
- Maintain good posture: Stand tall and straight with your shoulders back and relaxed. This will not only make you look more confident but also create a natural flow between you and your bouquet.
- Angle the bouquet: Experiment with different angles to find the one that flatters you the most. Angling the bouquet slightly towards the camera can create a more dynamic and eye-catching composition. I always share this tip with bridesmaids before ceremony or group photos!
- Balance: Find the right balance between the size of your bouquet and your body. If you have a petite frame, opt for a smaller bouquet that won’t overwhelm you. If you’re tall or curvy, a larger bouquet will make a bolder statement.
“I must have flowers, always, and always.”
Claude Monet
Incorporating the bouquet into your wedding photos
Your wedding bouquet only lasts as long as your wedding day (and sometimes less), so make sure to incorporate it into as many different detail shots as you can. Here are a few ideas:
- Close-up shots: Capture the intricate details of your bouquet by taking close-up shots. Focus on how the textures, colors, and shapes of the flowers compliment your dress, rings, shoes, and other details.
- Walking shots: Have your photographer capture candid moments of you walking with your bouquet. This will add a sense of movement and create a more natural and relaxed vibe.
- Environmental shots: Posing your wedding bouquet using the natural surroundings as a backdrop will make it pop. Whether it’s a field of wildflowers or a stunning architectural structure, let the beauty of your bouquet shine against the backdrop.
By posing your wedding bouquet intentionally and incorporating your florals into your photos, you will create a cohesive and visually stunning album that tells the story of your special day.
What to do with your wedding bouquet after the wedding
Let’s be honest, flowers cost a $#!+ ton. I highly recommend preserving them after your wedding day as a lasting keepsake! Here are a few bouquet preservation and keepsake ideas:
- Pressed flowers: Press fresh or dried flowers from your bouquet to create a beautiful piece of framed artwork, a shadowbox, or a personalized wedding album page.
- Flower preservation: Consult a professional flower preservationist who can preserve your bouquet using various techniques, such as freeze-drying or resin casting. I used Flowers Of The Press to preserve my flowers, and the results were incredible!
- Create jewelry: Repurpose some of the flowers from your bouquet into a unique piece of jewelry that you can cherish for years to come (and even pass down to your kids one day!)
Different types of wedding bouquets
Mastering the art of posing your wedding bouquet is an essential part of creating a stunning bridal look and capturing breathtaking photos. By understanding the different bouquet shapes and sizes and exploring different posing ideas, you can find the perfect style that reflects your personality and the overall theme of your wedding. Whether you choose a traditional pose or opt for a modern twist, your bouquet will add an elegant touch and create a visual harmony between you and your flowers.
