A 2021 Guide to Wedding Flowers

A 2021 Guide to Wedding Flowers
Just call it the year of warmth, coziness, and comfort. While wedding ceremonies held in 2021 will undoubtedly contain their fair share of pomp and color, floral trends promise to run the gamut. In short, there’s room for a bit of everything across the spectrum. Diverse colors ranging from light to dark, from earthy to dramatic, and from subtle to bold all lend couples plenty of options where their décor is concerned.
The focus is on complexity. Color is nuanced. Its depth has the power to transform any ceremony. It plays a significant role in the outcome, lending character to photographs and videos and complementing everything from bridesmaid dresses to centerpieces perfectly. Selecting the right flowers, then, is a vital part of the planning process. In the new year, people are more focused than ever on getting this aspect of their nuptials just right.
United in Color
Everyone can agree that color’s role in wedding planning is significant. Implementing color allows for so many different creative strategies to unfold. No matter the theme of the ceremony, the right colors can make the vision a true reality. Some may prefer to incorporate lighter shades throughout, providing balance to an otherwise more dramatic scheme. Others may choose to go the opposite route by adding richer, more sophisticated hues to the space as a counter to the lighter surroundings. Then there are those who play with both bold and light tones in harmony.
with both bold and light tones in harmony. The beauty of color in 2021 is that there’s simply no limit to what’s possible. While previous years found couples committed to one or two specific colors, the new palette is decidedly more diverse. People recognize that there’s no reason to bind themselves to particular tones when there’s an entire spectrum of shades to include in their ceremonies. Mixed palettes are fun and adventurous — and they make it easier for couples to choose the rest of their accents, too. With a variety of colors available, it’s far simpler to match elements like dresses, table linens, and other pieces to floral décor.
Strength in Softness
Another area that captures attention in 2021 is the comfort zone. During this year of renewal and rejuvenation, particularly following a tumultuous year fraught with difficulties across the globe, more and more people seek sources of warmth and relaxation. Flowers that resonate with that mentality play a particularly important role in conveying a certain message during the nuptials.
If you’re interested in planning a ceremony that’s especially grounded and peaceful, think of flowers that ease the mind and reflect sentiments of serenity. The regal violet is symbolic of tranquility and devotion, making it a lovely choice for a romantic affair. White poppies are popularly used to represent peace, too. You might also consider incorporating different plants known for their subtle elegance. Showy golden pothos, snake plants, peace lilies, and bamboo palms all add distinctive accents to the proceedings.
Keeping It Neutral
In keeping with a growing desire for simplicity and understated style, more and more couples will opt for neutral color schemes for their 2021 nuptials. There’s a sense of innocence about white, and at its core, it represents peace and harmony — two basic tenets fundamental to any successful marriage. The shade is calming, uplifting, and radiant all at once. Moreover, it’s a balancing shade that plays well with other colors interspersed throughout the space.
Neutrality extends beyond the realms of white to include natural elements, like dried flowers and plants. The washed-out effect lends an ethereal sort of charm to more understated ceremonies, where light tones and earthy elements reign. Bunny tails and dried pampas grass lend ornamental touches to extravagant arrangements, bringing balance to more lavish bouquets and softening the tone of any look in an instant.
Unusual Floral Accents
The micro wedding is poised to be a popular option for couples tying the knot in 2021. These types of ceremonies feature no more than 20 guests. The intimacy of the moment calls for general simplicity, but also allows for touches of grandeur that won’t overwhelm. A statement backdrop is lavish and eye-catching, perfect for couples who want to add something truly magnificent to their festivities. Backdrops range from ornate floral walls ideal for photography sessions to elegant arches that frame the couple as they exchange their vows.
“Flower chandeliers” can also add particular visual intrigue to the ceremony. They stand in for traditional overhead lighting, lending the room an especially romantic aura. Coupled with twinkling light strands, they capture a light and airy quality that’s irresistible. A “chandelier” of red and white roses suspended above the couple as they say “I do” is another option that makes for some classic photographs. For a more ostentatious look that captures attention and draws eyes upward, consider a more substantial presentation featuring tulips, roses, peonies, and hydrangeas over the dance floor. Incorporating multiple blossoms in myriad colors is an easy way to add a little extra magic to a smaller wedding.
Sweet Little Accents
With a great focus on togetherness and intimacy comes an even greater desire to bond and connect with guests on a more personal level. The wedding is wrought with meaning, not just for the couple and their respective families, but for everyone in attendance. It’s an opportunity to share in a special moment, make memories, and celebrate a beautiful occasion in the company of loved ones. In that spirit, giving small floral tokens of affection and gratitude is a wonderful way for the couple to honor each of their guests.
Think dainty and elegant — pint-sized favors that are likely to be treasured for months and months to come. Miniature succulents are not just adorable gifts that guests will appreciate, but also attractive accents for each place setting. Look for eye-catching planters if you want to take it a step further; from whimsical animals to modern cubes, there are a wide range of styles that complement wedding décor and contribute to a seamless look.
The Glamorous Touch
For those with a more significant décor budget, there may be an interest in creating a more glamorous floral look encompassing vivid, bold, showy flowers that take center stage. Fortunately, some of the most popular wedding stems in the world are perfectly fitting additions to any ostentatious, red carpet-worthy arrangement. Peonies, orchids, red roses, tulips, ranunculus, and lily of the valley all add splendor to the ceremony.
The key here is to focus on a grander scale. Abundant blossoms lining the aisle and draping the tables have the potential to transform the wedding into a veritable garden. Elevate the glamour factor by incorporating exquisite details, like candles or shimmering accents, to create a more star-studded effect. For these more upscale, formal floral looks, it’s best to stick with traditional flowers to create a look that honors the beauty of old-school favorites.
Touches of Whimsy
Floral accents that hint at the past yet honor the modern world are equally befitting of contemporary weddings. The ceremonies of 2021 reflect the passage of time and the desire for togetherness above all else. In that spirit, there may be less of a focus on perfection and more on lightheartedness and whimsy. There’s an interest in style, naturally, but it takes a backseat to fearless frivolity. Floral arrangements expressing that spirit help convey the message beautifully.
To make such looks a reality, take into account two key features: color and texture. Pampas grass and eucalyptus bring a touch of down-to-earth appeal to any ceremony, whether or not it’s got a rustic theme. Wildflowers in bright and uplifting colors add to the look and convey some balance. This whimsical combination feels at once fresh, inviting, creative, and elegant. Common options to include in these mixes include sunflowers, poppies, delphinium, and zinnias.
Potted Plant Perfection
For those who prefer a more natural look that also honors an interest in creating a more eco-friendly presentation, a potted plant makes the perfect addition. While it can substitute for more lavish floral arrangements, it also serves as a complement to colorful blossoms. Plant-based layouts can transform the aisle and tables by adding rich hues and beautiful textures to each space.
Seek out plants that are especially worthy of a moment as important as this. Colorful cyclamen, African violets, and orchids make beautiful additions to any ceremony. Other sensational plants that are sure to make a splash on this special occasion include bold options like alocasia Polly, calathea medallion, and African milk trees. Small succulents can also be used in abundance to create a visually intriguing garden that captures attention at first glance.
From flowers to plants, the right accents have the power to invigorate any ceremony with an infusion of light and energy. These traits are characteristic of the most memorable and enjoyable weddings. Whether for an intimate affair with a handful of guests or a more lavish gathering with an extensive guest list, it’s key to focus on the spirit of the moment. Bright colors, rich textures, soft tones, and earthy elements all play significant roles in making any dream wedding a reality.