How Many Flowers Does Your Wedding Really Need?
Breaking Down the Floral Essentials
Flowers are one of the essentials that make a wedding feel like a wedding. But when you're knee-deep in planning, it's easy to go from "I just want a bouquet" to "Do we need centerpieces and garlands and a flower chandelier?"
As wedding florists who have seen it all (and installed it all), we're here to help you figure out what's essential, what's extra, and how to prioritize floral design in a way that aligns with your budget, venue, and vision. Let's break it all down: no fluff, just real guidance (with a little flower flair, of course).
Personal Flowers: The Non-Negotiables
These are the flowers that are quite literally with you all day. They show up in nearly every photo, they walk down the aisle, and they're the ones you hold close, so we consider these your floral must-haves:
1. The Bouquet (or Bouquets)
Let’s talk about the bridal bouquet, the ultimate wedding gown accessory.
You wouldn’t wear a $5,000 designer dress and skip the shoes, right? So why settle for a bouquet that doesn’t do your gown justice?
Your bouquet is more than just pretty flowers, it’s the accessory that ties your entire bridal look together. From color palette to style to scale, the right bouquet doesn’t compete with your dress, it enhances it. Think of it as the floral finishing touch that makes your wedding day look truly unforgettable.
At Sweet Lilacs, we believe your bouquet should be as thoughtfully chosen as your gown. Because when everything flows together just right? Magic.
A bride's bouquet is typically the largest and most detailed personal piece.
You may also want bouquets for bridesmaids or attendants, which can echo your main design on a smaller scale.
2. Boutonnieres
And let’s not forget the groom.
The boutonniere may be small, but it plays a big role in the overall look. It should always complement the bride’s bouquet, think of it as a floral high-five that ties the couple’s styles together.
On a tight budget? Skip the extras if you need to, but don’t skip the groom’s boutonniere. Even a simple one makes a statement: I’m the one marrying the bride.
It’s a subtle detail, but trust us, it makes a world of difference in photos and in pulling the whole wedding day look together.
These are small floral pins typically worn by the groom, groomsmen, fathers, and other close family members.
3. Corsages & Flower Crowns
Corsages, flower crowns, and floral hair moments, oh my!
Some brides (and their besties) love the look of loose blooms tucked effortlessly into soft waves. Others want floral elements that echo their bouquet or the overall wedding design.
Whether it’s a whimsical flower crown, a delicate hairpiece, or a few perfectly-placed petals, these floral touches are personal, meaningful, and oh-so-photo-worthy. They bring softness, style, and a little bit of flower fairy magic to the celebration.
At Sweet Lilacs, we love helping you choose the floral details that feel just right for your day, whether you're going full boho queen or keeping it chic and simple
Often for mothers and grandmothers, corsages can be worn on the wrist, pinned, or carried as a petite bouquet.
Optional but meaningful: Flower girl petals, dog collars (yes, really), and hair flowers.
Prioritizing Tip: If you're eloping or having a micro-wedding, your personal flowers might be all you need to make the day feel special. You can also check out our Choosing The Right Florals For Your California Elopement guide.
Ceremony Flowers: Setting the Scene
This is where the magic begins. The ceremony space is where your guests gather, where you say your vows, and where all those teary-eyed photos happen.
1. Ceremony Backdrop
Ceremony florals are more than decoration, they’re your frame.
Think of the ceremony backdrop as the framework for the two of you as you say “I do.” It sets the stage, anchors the space, and makes every photo feel intentional and artfully composed.
If you're tying the knot in front of a stunning natural view, consider ground florals to gently accent the landscape without taking away from it. Prefer something a little more structured? Floral arches, pillars, or pedestal arrangements create a romantic frame that draws the eye exactly where it belongs, on you two.
At Sweet Lilacs, we design ceremony florals that enhance your surroundings and spotlight the moment you become a married couple. It's not just pretty, it’s purposeful.
Arches, ground arrangements, floral pillars, or installations are typically the focal point.
Think of this as the most photographed moment of the day, and it's worth the investment.
2. Aisle Decor
Let’s talk aisle style.
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to decorating the aisle, just thoughtful choices that reflect your vision and work double duty.
Some couples opt for large floral arrangements at the start of the aisle instead of bundles lining the path. These statement pieces make a gorgeous first impression and can easily be repurposed for the reception, think sweetheart table, stage, or bar backdrop.
Others go for florals lining the aisle on low-profile stands (like sleek acrylic risers). Not only does this create a romantic runway vibe, but these blooms can later be reused as centerpieces at your reception tables. Beautiful and budget-friendly? Yes, please.
At Sweet Lilacs, we’re big fans of designing florals that do more than look good, they work hard, too.
Options include small bundles on chairs, scattered petals, or larger floral groupings at the base of the aisle.
3. Welcome or Sign Flowers
Adding a floral touch to your welcome sign or seating chart ties your theme together right from the start.
Prioritizing Tip: If you're on a tight budget, skip the aisle decor and focus on a beautiful statement at the altar. That's where everyone's eyes (and cameras) are anyway.
Cocktail Hour Flowers: The Often-Forgotten Moment
This transitional time is often overlooked, but it's the first space your guests enjoy after the ceremony.
1. Small Arrangements
Cocktail hour is for clinking glasses, not cluttered tables.
This is typically the photographer’s golden hour and a time when all hands (and florals!) are on deck for portraits, so repurposing larger arrangements isn’t always an option here.
Instead, we recommend keeping things simple and intentional with petite floral accents, think small bud vases or minimalist arrangements. These sweet little touches add polish without competing for space on drink tables and bar tops, where cocktails and conversations take center stage.
At Sweet Lilacs, we know how to make even the tiniest vase feel special because thoughtful details matter, no matter how small.
A few bud vases or simple posies on cocktail tables go a long way.
Add a bloom or two near the bar, signage, or guest book.
Reception Flowers: The Statement Pieces
This is where your floral vision can truly bloom, but it's also where budgets can balloon if you're not careful. Here's how to break it down:
1. Centerpieces
Centerpieces set the mood, but don’t forget the lighting to help set the mood!
Florals may take center stage on your reception tables, but the real magic happens when you layer in lighting. Candles add romance, glow, and that soft ambiance everyone loves. From classic candelabras to clusters of votives, we offer a variety of candle options to match your vibe.
Looking for something a little different? Small table lamps add a cozy, vintage touch, and simple market lights overhead can transform your entire reception space into something straight out of a dream.
At Sweet Lilacs, we believe centerpieces are more than just flowers—they’re atmosphere. And with the right lighting? Pure magic.
Round tables typically need one arrangement per table.
Long tables can have a mix of low arrangements, bud vases, or garlands.
Mixing and matching centerpiece styles is a beautiful way to add variety and visual interest. Think 2–3 different designs throughout the room—like a mix of tall arrangements, low floral compotes, and clusters of candles. The result? A dynamic, layered look that feels intentional and effortlessly elegant.
2. Head Table or Sweetheart Table
The sweetheart table is your post-ceremony spotlight, let's make it shine.
This isn’t just where you’ll sit, it’s where all eyes (and cameras) will be. From toasts and speeches to candid moments and stolen glances, the sweetheart table is a focal point of the reception.
That’s why the backdrop here matters just as much as the one at your ceremony. Whether you repurpose florals from earlier in the day or design something entirely new, this space deserves thoughtful attention. After all, you’ll likely spend more time here than at the altar.
At Sweet Lilacs, we help make sure wherever you sit, it’s not only beautiful, it’s photo-ready perfection!
Add a special arrangement that frames you and your partner. Florals here often get a lot of camera time.
3. Additional Decor
Think cake flowers, bar arrangements, signage, hanging installations, or floral chandeliers.
These are stunning, but they're add-ons, but not essentials.
Pro Tip: Always include one or two standout moments.
Yes, your bouquet will be unforgettable, but guests will also remember that showstopping floral installation or the way the room glowed with candlelight and color. It’s those statement pieces that set the tone and leave a lasting impression.
At Sweet Lilacs, we don’t just arrange flowers, we create an atmosphere. As seasoned wedding florists, we know how to design impactful focal points that bring your entire vision to life. Whether it’s a floral chandelier, a dramatic ceremony arch, or a dreamy reception backdrop, we’re here to make sure your day looks, and feels extraordinary.
Repurposing Florals: The Secret Budget Saver
Want more flowers without spending more? Repurpose! Here's how:
Move ceremony arrangements to the reception (altar pieces can frame a bar, DJ booth, or photo op).
Use bridesmaid bouquets as centerpieces or shelf decor.
Transfer aisle flowers to the escort card or cake table.
Pro Tip: Let your florist know in advance if you plan to repurpose your flowers. We'll build mechanics that allow for easy moving without damaging the designs.
Pro Tip: Yes, we repurpose florals, but let’s keep it real.
We’re all about getting the most out of your blooms, and yes, our team can absolutely handle repurposing ceremony florals for your reception. It’s a smart, budget-friendly move that adds value to your floral investment.
That said, flowers are delicate, and after a few hours in the sun or wind, they may not look exactly as fresh as they did when first placed. We’ll do our best to refresh and restyle them beautifully, but a little wear and tear is totally normal.
At Sweet Lilacs, we’re pros at making the most of your flowers, with both creativity and care!
Bonus Extras (Only If It Fits the Budget & Vision)
These aren't must-haves, but they do add chef's kiss energy to your day:
Hanging installations over the dance floor or dining tables
Flower-adorned photo booths or backdrops
Floral meadows at the base of your ceremony aisle
Guest favors with mini posies or dried flowers
They're beautiful, they're bold, and if you've got the budget, we'll happily design them.
Choose What Matters Most
You don't need all the flowers. You just need the right flowers. The ones that highlight your favorite spaces add joy to your photos and evoke a sense of emotion when you walk into the room.
If you're not sure where to start, we always recommend focusing on personal flowers and your ceremony first. Then, layer in reception and cocktail florals if your budget allows. And remember with thoughtful design (and a little florist magic), even a few arrangements can have a big impact.
Have questions about what florals make the most sense for your venue or budget? We'd love to help.
Photography| Joleen Willis
Venue| Mount Brow Vineyard