7 Common Flower Selection Mistakes

Planning an event is fun and fulfiling, especially if it’s something as special as an engagement party, anniversary or wedding. And one of the exciting steps in event planning is choosing the right floral arrangement to complement the occasion.

But how do you know which flowers are appropriate for the occasion? Would you know the difference between calla lilies and lily of the valley or peonies and ranunculus? What do you do if the flowers you want aren’t in season?

With the help of a florist specialising in unique floral arrangements and flower delivery in Sydney, your ‘floral assignment’ could be much easier. They can also advise you on the top common flower selection mistakes people make when preparing for a special event, as follows:

1. Getting fixated on an idea or inspiration

If you’re the maid of honour or wedding planner tasked to make sure the Pinterest image or magazine page provided by the bride as floral inspiration is replicated for the event, you need to prepare to argue your case. If you can’t find the exact same venue, furnishings, and flowers to be used for the event, there’s no way you can reproduce the scene.

Besides, a concept or image is just that – an inspiration that’s supposed to spark ideas that are achievable and no less beautiful.

2. Insisting on not having any flowers at all

Flowers uplift the mood of people with colour therapy – something desirable for occasions. So, even if you’re not into flowers, consider having a few, at least to fill some gaps and soften the space.

If you suffer from allergies, there are allergy-friendly blooms you can choose from. These include hydrangeas, hostas, lilies, geraniums, cacti, roses, tulips, orchids, begonias, clematis, columbine, crocuses and daffodils. Most of these flowers have very low pollen count. Roses have large pollen particles that cannot be transported by air. Asiatic lilies have large stamens (to which the pollen is attached) that can be removed to ensure they don’t pose a threat to people with allergies.

3. Not considering different colour palettes and flower types

People usually associate certain flowers with specific colours, like red for roses and yellow for sunflowers. It’s actually fine to have very specific ideas, as this can make a florist’s job easier. However, if the flowers you want are unavailable or in low supply, you should be open to considering another colour palette or blooms that are just as gorgeous (if not more so).

4. Forgetting the seasonality of flowers

Although some flowers like roses, begonias, oleanders and plumerias bloom all year long, most flowers do not.

A lot of flowering plants produce blooms seasonally, and weather changes can also affect supply. So, before deciding on a particular type of flower, consult with your florist or do some research to check what would be in season during the event. If possible, provide one or two alternatives.

Below is a list of some seasonal blooms that you can use as a general guide:

Summer: Hydrangeas, alliums, begonias, daisies, geraniums, gerbera daisies, heirloom roses, lilies, sunflowers, zinnias

Fall: Crocuses, gladioli, lavender, chrysanthemums, asters

Winter: Daffodils, pansies, crocuses, English primrose

Spring: Spring crocuses, camellias, pansies, daffodils, irises, tulips, azaleas, lily of the valley, lilac, peonies

5. Wanting to fill the venue with flowers

Flowers are used to enliven spaces and enhance the mood of an event. However, deciding to put flowers in every conceivable space in your event would be overkill.

Make the blooms you choose extra special through strategic placement. Select floral statement pieces that complement with other decorative elements such as candles and fabric.

6. Setting unrealistic expectations

Many people want to have an IG-worthy event that features stunning blooms. However, you also need to be realistic, as the flowers you see in advertisement spreads and magazines might not be available nor suit your budget.

Again, flexibility is key. With the help of an expert florist, you can still have fabulous florals of a different form on your event.

7. Selecting flowers without considering the venue

If you have a colour scheme, theme or look in mind, make sure the venue you choose – including its colour palette, design and other elements such as lighting, linen, tables and chairs, etc. – is in harmony with it. Of course, your floral choices also need to agree with the general look of the venue.