Maximizing Your Wedding Flowers: Repurposing Blooms from Ceremony to Reception

As your wedding and events floral designer here in Wisconsin, I know that wedding florals are a significant investment, and they should be! They transform your venue, set the mood, and serve as the backdrop for all your most cherished photos.

But what happens to those gorgeous arrangements after the ceremony ends?

I am a big believer in sustainability and maximizing value. A beautiful floral arrangement should be enjoyed for as long as possible! Repurposing your ceremony flowers for your reception is one of the smartest decisions you can make, both for your budget and the environment.

Here are some of my favorite, most effective ways to move and repurpose your beautiful blooms from your "I do's" to your party.

From Altar Arch to Head Table Focus

The altar or arch arrangement is typically the largest and most dramatic piece of the entire wedding. It’s designed to beautifully frame you during your vows—but its job doesn't have to end there!

• The Repurpose: Have your coordinator or a designated helper carefully move the entire structure, or large individual components, to your reception space.
• The New Life:
  • Place the large pieces behind the sweetheart table or head table to create a stunning, cohesive backdrop.
  • If you had smaller, vertical pieces on pedestals at the altar, move them to frame the cake table or the DJ/band stage.

From Aisle Markers to Guest Centerpieces

The smaller arrangements that line your aisle are perfectly sized for the reception tables!

• The Repurpose:
  • If your aisle markers were secured to chairs or pews, simply untie them and place them directly onto cocktail tables or smaller guest tables.
  • If they were in small bud vases on the ground or on low stands, they are ready to go as is!
• The New Life: Use these smaller clusters of florals and greenery to fill out tables in spaces that might otherwise go undecorated, such as the bar area, gift table, or in guest restrooms. They instantly unify the decor.

From Welcome Sign to Gift Table Accent

Did you have a small floral garland or cluster adorning your welcome sign at the ceremony entrance?

• The Repurpose: Carefully detach the cluster or garland from the sign.
• The New Life: Use this piece to accent the guest book table or the gift table at your reception. It's a gorgeous and functional way to draw attention to areas where guests need to check in or leave items.

From Unity Table to Buffet Runner

If you had a unity ceremony table or a memorial table with a beautiful, elongated arrangement:

• The Repurpose: Move the entire long centerpiece structure.
• The New Life: Use it as a stunning floral runner along a buffet line or bar counter. This elevates the look of the food and beverage stations, ensuring every part of your reception feels special.

Tips for a Seamless Transition

To ensure your florals make the move successfully, here are a few key tips:

1. Talk to Your Florist (That's Me!): I design with repurposing in mind! I can use mechanics (like secure containers and easy-to-move bases) that make the transition simple.
2. Assign the Task: This is not a job for the bride, groom, or parents! Designate a trusted person (a wedding coordinator is best, but a detail-oriented friend or family member will do) to manage the logistics of the move immediately after the ceremony.
3. Keep Them Hydrated: Ensure any arrangements being moved stay in water or are kept cool and out of direct sunlight during the transition to maintain their fresh look. By strategically planning to reuse your blooms, you not only get the most value out of your floral budget, but you also ensure your entire wedding, from the most emotional ceremony moments to the liveliest dance floor, is surrounded by beautiful, cohesive design.

Ready to discuss how we can maximize your floral investment? Let's chat about your sustainable and stunning wedding!