Stay on trend with advice from local florists

Flowers can be found everywhere at summer weddings: woven into delicate crowns worn by bridesmaids, arranged neatly in vessels on reception tables and in the bouquet the bride tosses into a jumping crowd of grabbers.

“Early on, a lot of people used greenery at weddings, but they started using flowers for their fragrance,” said Theresa Sobnosky, owner of DW Florals, 12625 state Highway 6 in Hitchcock.

Sobnosky, who has been a florist for 34 years, loves roses and lilies, but she also keeps abreast of the trend report.

“A lot of people now are going with a softer, more rustic look, and they’re putting succulents in everything,” she said.

Color guru Pantone picked a verdant shade as the hue of the year for 2017. Perfect for weddings, greenery is symbolic of new beginnings.

Sobnosky, however, cautions brides who want to use freshly cut succulents in their bridal bouquets.

“Some people may not know that the pictures on Pinterest of bouquets with succulents, many of them are silk,” Sobnosky said. “Working with fresh succulents is difficult, because they fall apart and that’s the last thing you want on your wedding day.”

Before you visit with your florist, peruse Pinterest or keep a file of clippings on hand of arrangements you like.

“It’s a great way for us to understand the feel you’re going for,” said Connie Dryden, who owns Island Flowers, 2328 Market St., in Galveston.

Brides are loving soft, romantic florals that are all over Pinterest, Dryden said. But anyone looking for exact replicas of bouquets should trust the experts.

“Floral design is definitely an art,” she said. “The final product might not end up looking exactly like your inspiration picture. It will be better.”

What are some of your favorite floral trends for 2017?

Dryden: Ranunculus are the most asked for. Also, when they’re done right and it works with the bride’s gown and personality, floral crowns. When you use baby’s breath, it’s just ethereal looking.

What’s trending for bridal bouquets?

Kerry Chandler, designer at Downtown Blooms, 1127 Postoffice St. in Galveston: Brides today have been going for the garden look. Instead of the traditional pavé bouquets, they want a looser look, like you went out to your garden and picked them fresh yourself. We’ve been doing a lot of corals and peaches lately. Garden roses and peonies are both big sellers.

Favorite flowers to use at a coastal wedding?

Dryden: Orchids work really well and are hardier than they seem. Eucalyptus holds up so well to the elements and it looks like it belongs out there on the beach. Succulents are in that same silvery green color palette.

What is your number one piece of advice that you give brides and grooms about planning their wedding day?

Sobnosky: The main thing is that it needs to be their wedding — not their mother’s or grandmother’s or aunt’s. It needs to be for them. Don’t get talked out of something you really like, unless you can’t afford it.

How far in advance should you book?

Chandler: Two to three months at the very least. But, as early as possible if you’re wanting certain flowers that we would have to special order.

Any advice for brides on a budget?

Sobnosky: Always talk to a local florist to see what’s in season, and ask what you can use in place of those flowers that might be out of your budget. For example, certain times of the year, peonies are highly expensive. You could either use a single peony in your bouquet or use something like cabbage roses or ranunculus instead.