Guest Blogger Audrey of Studio Stems graciously shares a personal account and tips to make sure your wedding flowers deliver all you want…and nothing you don’t.  Enjoy her first-hand account and images of her lovely work.

“Here at Studio Stems, we are careful to ensure that bridal & bridal party bouquets are hydrated adequately well in advance and then dried before delivery to avoid a disastrous drip.

A few years back, I made a delivery to a local reception venue. The wedding coordinator, who claimed to be experienced, was astonished that the bride’s bouquet, as well as her attendant’s bouquets, were not in water. Unimpressed by my professionalism, she ran to the kitchen, filled her own vases with water, quickly changed my vases for hers, and drenched those bouquets in fresh water.

…  Sadly I watched this coordinator hand the bride her wet bouquet just as she was getting ready to walk down the aisle. I doubt I even need to finish this story. It’s predictably clear that her bouquet dripped water on her dress, instantly. And even after it dried a little, as the bride handled the bouquet with a tight grip, the bouquet continued to drip and leave water spots on her absolutely stunning gown.

A good florist will make sure your bridal party flowers are indeed wearable & hold-able, with the least amount of risk for water spots or stains. When and how they dry your floral creations may have to do with what flower choices have been made, how they are wrapped, whether hand tied or holder arranged. Nonetheless, don’t take your bouquet out of a fresh vase of water just as you’re getting ready to take pictures or walk down that aisle.

As brides often re-vase their bouquet between the timing of their special day, be sure that you also have a resource for drying it off when you pick it back up.

Another important component is to make sure you heed the advice of your floral designer. Some flower choices can leave a residue, pollen, stain, paint, or dye on your hands or dress and you will want to be aware of the risks you’re taking. Should you decide to take them, follow your florist’s direction carefully to avoid a dress disaster.

Be careful with your bouquet. Flowers and fresh components can be fragile and, when not treated so, smashing can occur that will create nashing. Berries are notorious for their staining capabilities, and even a rose petal manipulated enough can stain fabric.”

All images and floral work available/courtesy StudisStems.com.

Thanks Audrey for the sage advice and a preview of the trends and amazing arrangements on which you’re working.