Wedding Bouquets- Shapes & Types

Since June is wedding month continuing blogs this month with wedding flowers. We do not often think about the bride’s bouquet and how it came to be in the style and shape it is. This week’s article I hope to enlighten you as to the history and info of the shape and style we have come to love.

Biedermeier

Biedermeier bouquets originated in Europe during the late 1800s. These large, round bouquets consist of flowers with stems that have all been cut to equal length. The hallmark of these bouquets is the pattern that the flowers make. When creating a Biedermeier bouquet, the florist arranges them in concentric circles. Often, flowers of different colors or styles are used to make a subtle “striped” effect.

Nosegay

Although small, Nosegay bouquets are still incredibly popular. These bouquets consist of a few tightly packed flowers that are bound together by a decorative wrap or ribbon. Chic and elegant in design, these minimalistic arrangements often allow one statement flower to take center stage.

Posy

Posy bouquets are one of the most popular choices when it comes to modern wedding bouquets. These small, round bouquets consist of an array of seasonal flowers with stems of all the same length. Their stems are tightly bound together so that they are easy to carry in the hand while walking down the aisle. Often, a ribbon is wrapped around the stems to make it more decorative. Typically, these smaller posy bouquets are carried by bridesmaids or other female members of the wedding party.

Round

A round bouquet is a larger and more statement-making version of a posy bouquet that is carried by the bride. As the name suggests, these bouquets consist of flowers that have been bound together at the stems so that their blooms create a cylindrical shape. Very few greenery stems are used in these bouquets so the focus remains on the beautiful flowers.

Cascade

True to their name, cascade bouquets are oversized bouquets that are meant to hang down over the front of the hands in a waterfall effect. Often, these bouquets are made of long greenery stems and feature a few carefully placed flowers near the hand. Organic in their beauty, these are ideal for bohemian brides who want a stylish and statement-making bridal bouquet.

Single Stem

Single stem bouquets are a sleek and sophisticated option. These minimalistic bouquets consist of one single stem that is usually adorned with a decorative ribbon. Although more common for bridesmaids than brides, their uniqueness makes them just as visually impactful as a traditional posy bouquet.

Composite

Composite bouquets are a relatively new trend in wedding flowers. These bouquets are comprised of either one large bloom or a variety of flowers that have been arranged in a way that makes the bouquet look like one single bloom. While uncommon, these bouquets are truly breathtaking when done correctly.

Hand Tied

Hand tied bouquets have a purposely rustic look, making them perfect for laidback outdoor weddings. The flowers within this bouquet all feature stems of differing lengths, which creates a more casual appearance. These stems are then clustered together and tied with a decorative ribbon so they are easy to carry in the hand. Essentially, cluster bouquets look like the bride randomly picked wild flowers and carried them down the aisle.

Crescent

Crescent bouquets are elegant, somewhat elaborate arrangements that pair flowers and greenery together. Rather than forming a traditional “round” shape at the top, the blooms sit in the middle while the greenery extends outward on each side to create a gently sloped arrangement.

Single Stem

Single stem bouquets are a sleek and sophisticated option. These minimalistic bouquets consist of one single stem that is usually adorned with a decorative ribbon. Although more common for bridesmaids than brides, their uniqueness makes them just as visually impactful as a traditional posy bouquet.

Pomander

Pomander bouquets are a round sphere of flowers. They are carried around the wrist by a decorative ribbon loop. Incredibly charming, they essentially resemble Edwardian Kissing Knots. Although traditionally carried by flower girls, these unique bouquets are becoming more and more popular for members of the bridal party.

Pageant / Presentation

Pageant or Presentation bouquets are a unique take on wedding flowers. This oversized assortment of flowers and greenery isn’t meant to be carried in the hand. Rather, it is carried down the aisle in the crook of the arm, much like how flowers are carried in beauty pageants. These bouquets also have a rustic, laidback feel about them and are perfect for bohemian or outdoor weddings.