Okay so we love the wild and free bouquets of the past few years. They’re fresh, rich and opulent. They make a major statement, and they command attention. But they also give the bride much more to manage as she’s walking down the aisle toward the partner of her dreams. Which is why we want to hold up the smaller bouquet for your consideration. Long ago, little bouquets were the big deal, thanks to Queen Victoria, who made holding a small clutch of flowers popular for brides. Today, you can let go of the idea that your bridal flowers have to be as glorious as your dress; instead, let them help highlight it without eclipsing it. And give yourself a little less to worry about, too. Here are three approaches to small bouquets.
1. Modern Color
A pop of bright color against the serene white background of your dress looks youthful, contemporary and fun. This look works for both casual and formal weddings. Contrast with folds of green leaves or foliage for an earthier look. Just because it’s small doesn’t mean it can’t have a bit of the free-form feel of the big, opulent bouquets.
2. Feature Flower
Okay so you love the statement flower vibe of the bigger bouquets but want that to come in a smaller scale. No problem. Choose one glorious flower (peony, rose, magnolia) and clutch just a few of them. You’ll still get the loose, natural appeal of the larger groupings without the burden of carrying them. Keep it all in the same color family for a modern effect.
3. High-End Blooms
One of the biggest trends we’ve seen over the last few years in the biggest bouquets is that they make use of top shelf blooms. There are few filler flowers or foliage; everything counts and everything is quality. Same goes for more diminutive bouquets. Take a hand-wrapped clutch of luxurious petals down the aisle for maximum impact. In this case, contrasting colors really bring out texture and the sense that each bloom is more special than the next.