Decoding Wedding Floral Terminology: A Glossary for Engaged Couples

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, filled with countless decisions – from venues and dresses to cakes and, of course, flowers! As your wedding and events floral designer here in Wisconsin, I love guiding couples through the creative process. However, I often find that some of the specific terms we use in the floral world can feel a bit like a foreign language!

Don't worry, you're not alone! To help you feel more confident and informed when discussing your dream wedding flowers, I've put together a handy glossary of common floral terminology. Understanding these terms will make our conversations smoother and ensure we're perfectly aligned on your vision.

 

For the Couple & Wedding Party:

1. Bridal Bouquet:

• What it is: The main floral arrangement carried by the bride. It's often the largest and most intricate bouquet of the day.
• Why it matters: It's a key accessory for the bride, designed to complement her dress and overall wedding style.

2. Bridesmaid Bouquet:

• What it is: Smaller versions of the bridal bouquet, carried by the bridesmaids. They usually coordinate with the bridal bouquet and the bridesmaids' dresses.
• Why it matters: Creates a cohesive look for the bridal party and enhances their attire.

3. Boutonnière (pronounced: boo-ton-YAIR):

• What it is: A single bloom or a small cluster of flowers worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo, typically by the groom, groomsmen, fathers, and sometimes grandfathers.
• Why it matters: A classic, elegant touch that identifies key male members of the wedding party and coordinates their look with the bridal florals. It's that perfect finishing touch!

4. Corsage (pronounced: kor-SAHZH):

• What it is: A small floral arrangement worn by female members of the wedding party (like mothers and grandmothers) or special guests. It can be pinned to clothing or worn on the wrist.
• Why it matters: A beautiful way to honor significant women in your lives and tie their attire into the wedding's floral aesthetic.

5. Flower Crown / Floral Crown:

• What it is: A circlet of flowers and foliage worn on the head, often by the bride (especially for bohemian or outdoor weddings), bridesmaids, or flower girls.
• Why it matters: Adds a whimsical, natural, and romantic touch, especially popular for garden or rustic themes.

6. Petals:

• What it is: Individual flower petals, usually scattered by flower girls down the aisle, or used for decoration.
• Why it matters: Creates a soft, romantic path and can be tossed for celebratory photos.

 

For Bouquet Styles:

7. Round Bouquet:

• What it is: A classic, symmetrical bouquet with a dome or rounded shape. Can be tightly packed or slightly looser.
• Why it matters: Timeless and versatile, it works with almost any dress and wedding style.

8. Hand-Tied Bouquet:

• What it is: A popular, natural-looking bouquet with stems visibly gathered and tied, giving it a more organic and garden-fresh feel.
• Why it matters: Modern and chic, it's perfect for brides wanting an effortless, just-gathered look.

9. Cascade Bouquet:

• What it is: A dramatic, flowing bouquet where flowers and foliage "cascade" downwards, creating a waterfall effect.
• Why it matters: Creates a breathtaking, regal, and luxurious statement, often chosen for formal or glamorous weddings.

10. Wild/Organic Bouquet:

• What it is: A free-flowing, asymmetrical bouquet that emphasizes natural movement and varying textures, often incorporating lots of greenery.
• Why it matters: Perfect for rustic, bohemian, or garden-inspired weddings, celebrating the natural beauty of each bloom.

 

For Ceremony & Reception Decor:

11. Altar / Arch Arrangement:

• What it is: Large floral arrangements designed to adorn the ceremony altar, arch, chuppah, or other focal points where the couple exchanges vows.
• Why it matters: Frames the couple beautifully during the most important part of the day and creates a stunning backdrop for photos.

12. Aisle Markers:

• What it is: Small floral arrangements, often tied to chairs or shepherd hooks, lining the wedding aisle.
• Why it matters: Guides the eye, adds color and texture to the pathway, and enhances the overall ceremony decor.

13. Centerpiece:

• What it is: The floral arrangement placed in the center of guest tables at the reception.
• Why it matters: A crucial element of reception decor, setting the tone for the dining experience and contributing to the overall ambiance. Can be low and lush or tall and dramatic.

14. Garland:

• What it is: A long strand of flowers, foliage, or both, typically draped along tables (like sweetheart tables or long guest tables), staircases, mantels, or arches.
• Why it matters: Creates a lush, continuous, and highly impactful visual element, especially on long tables.

15. Sweetheart Table:

• What it is: A small, intimate table reserved exclusively for the bride and groom during the reception.
• Why it matters: Allows the couple a moment to themselves amidst the celebration and serves as a beautiful focal point for photos and the room. Often adorned with a special centerpiece or garland.

16. Installation:

• What it is: A larger, often custom-built floral structure or display that is more elaborate than a traditional arrangement, such as a floral ceiling treatment, a large suspended piece, or a flower wall.
• Why it matters: Creates an incredible "wow" factor and a truly immersive, unforgettable experience for guests.

Feeling a little more fluent in flower talk? I hope this glossary empowers you to articulate your vision with confidence! My goal is always to bring your unique style to life through beautiful blooms, and a shared understanding of these terms is the first step.

Ready to start designing your dream wedding flowers? Let's connect!