BUDDING NEWS FOR BRIDES 2005 WEDDING FLOWER FASHION AND FUNDAMENTALS

Author and Floral Expert Rebecca Cole
Discusses the Year's I-Do's

Brides need not worry about matchmaking when it comes to wedding flowers. From the bridal bouquets to the boutonnieres, wedding flower trends in 2005 include diversity of choice, boldness of color and distinctiveness of design, according to a leading expert.

Floral and interior designer Rebecca Cole is author of Flower Power, co-host of Discovery Channel's Surprise by Design and a regular contributor to the Today show. She describes the year's top trends.

“Wedding flowers follow fashion trends,” Cole said, “and today, individuality, rather than convention is in style. No longer do the bridesmaids' bouquets need to match the bridal bouquet, the boutonnieres and centerpieces.” In some cases, each bridesmaid may have a different bouquet, according to Cole.

Colorful blooms, in contrast to traditional white, also are en vogue, with lavenders and plums beautifying bridal parties in 2005. Bold and powerful arrangements dominate over the traditionally romantic. “Modern, Zen and even monochromatic designs featuring only one flower or color will in many cases replace traditional delicate mixes of flowers headed down the aisle,” Cole said.

When it comes to dramatic and distinctive design, hand-tied French twist bouquets incorporating bold ribbons and pearls will make a striking statement. Cascading bouquets, a current popular selection for brides, will continue to add drama. And, table décor will become even more of a central focus.

“The containers that hold the flowers and what surrounds them, the candles, are attracting significant attention from brides,” Cole said. “Even for smaller, more intimate weddings, flowers can make a big design statement, on any budget.”

Think Outside the Bunch

Beyond the most established uses for wedding flowers – room and table décor and corsages – flowers of all varieties are being used to enhance the special day in many non-traditional ways. For example:

• Welcome gifts for out-of-town guests and members of the bridal parties,
• Thank you gifts for those people who make the bride and groom's day special,
• Rehearsal dinner and wedding brunch décor,
• Decorations for the wedding transportation,
• Floating arrangements for ponds or pools, and
• Accessories for the bride's hair, in some cases replacing the more traditional veil.