Choosing the perfect wedding flowers is an exciting part of planning your big day. Flowers bring beauty, fragrance, and personality to your wedding, helping to set the mood and enhance your overall theme. Whether you are dreaming of a soft, romantic look or a bold, modern statement, here’s a helpful guide– to make choosing your wedding flowers a breeze.
Consider Your Wedding Style & Theme
The first step in selecting your wedding flowers is thinking about the overall style of your day. Are you going for a classic, elegant vibe, a rustic and relaxed feel, or a vibrant and contemporary theme? Your flowers should complement your chosen aesthetic. Soft pastels like roses and peonies suit a romantic wedding, while bright, tropical blooms work beautifully for a summer beach ceremony.
Choose Seasonal & Local Flowers
One of the best ways to ensure fresh, affordable, and sustainable blooms is by choosing seasonal and locally grown flowers. Here in New Zealand, we have an incredible selection of stunning flowers available throughout the year.
Popular NZ Flowers by Season:
- Spring (September – November): Peonies, tulips, freesias, ranunculi’s, and cherry blossoms.
- Summer (December – February): Roses, dahlias, hydrangeas, lilies, and sunflowers.
- Autumn (March – May): Proteas, chrysanthemums, camellias, and zinnias.
- Winter (June – August): Hellebores, anemones, magnolias, and orchids.
By opting for seasonal wedding flowers, you’ll get the freshest blooms at the best prices while supporting local growers.
Incorporate Native New Zealand Flowers
For a uniquely Kiwi touch, consider incorporating native New Zealand flowers into your wedding. These stunning blooms not only celebrate Aotearoa’s natural beauty but also create a distinctive and memorable floral arrangement.
Popular NZ Native Flowers:
- Pōhutukawa – Vibrant red flowers, perfect for a summer wedding.
- Kōwhai – Bright yellow blossoms, symbolising happiness and new beginnings.
- Mānuka – Delicate white or pink flowers, great for rustic and natural bouquets.
- Harakeke (Flax flowers) – Adds height and texture to arrangements.
- Rengarenga Lily – Beautiful white flowers with an elegant touch.
These native options look stunning in bouquets, table arrangements, and even floral crowns.
Think About Colour & Texture
Your wedding flowers should complement your colour scheme and add depth and texture to your arrangements. Mix soft blooms like roses and lilies with textured elements like eucalyptus, ferns, or dried flowers for a modern and layered look. If you’re unsure about your colour palette, start with your bridesmaids’ dresses or wedding décor for inspiration. A mix of whites and greens is timeless, while pops of bold colour can create a more playful or dramatic effect.
Consider Your Budget
Flowers can be a significant part of your wedding budget, so it is essential to prioritise where you want to invest. Bouquets, buttonholes, and ceremony arrangements are usually the key focus, while smaller table centrepieces and accents can be kept simple to save costs. A great way to stretch your budget is by repurposing flowers from the ceremony to the reception – for example, using aisle flowers as table decorations.
Work with a Local Florist
A talented local florist can bring your floral vision to life while offering expert advice on seasonal availability and styling. Many NZ florists specialise in working with native blooms and sustainable practices, so don’t be afraid to ask about eco-friendly options, such as foam- free arrangements or locally sourced flowers. We recommend Alice at Wily Ivy Floral Boutique in Whangarei CBD or Clare from Flora and Foal. Flora and Foal grow their own flowers on their micro farm in Mata.
Final Thoughts
Choosing wedding flowers should be a fun and creative experience. By selecting blooms that reflect your style, using seasonal and native options, and working with a great florist, you’ll have stunning floral arrangements that enhance your special day.
Happy planning, and enjoy bringing your floral dreams to life!
