Your Guide to Engagement Flowers: Unleash the Power of Nature!

This guide to engagement flowers will help the bride and the groom, their family and friends (parents, bridesmaids and groomsmen), and wedding planners or even florists looking for inspiration. It includes all you need to know to make your engagement party beautiful and memorable.

How to Choose Engagement Flowers

Choosing the right engagement flowers can help set the tone for the celebration and create a memorable experience for guests. Here are some factors to consider when selecting engagement flowers:

Budget
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing engagement flowers is the budget. Flowers can vary widely in cost depending on the season, type, and availability. Some flowers, such as roses or peonies, may be more expensive than others, so it’s essential to consider the cost when making decisions.

Seasonality
Another key consideration when choosing engagement flowers is seasonality. Flowers in season will generally be more readily available and less expensive. Some popular spring flowers include tulips, daffodils, and lilacs, while summer flowers may include sunflowers, zinnias, and dahlias. Fall flowers often include chrysanthemums, asters, and marigolds, while winter flowers may include amaryllis, poinsettias, and evergreens.

Personal preferences
Ultimately, the flowers chosen for the engagement party should reflect the couple’s personal preferences. Some couples may prefer traditional flowers, such as roses or lilies, while others may want to incorporate unique and exotic blooms like orchids or proteas.

Here are some tips for selecting the perfect flowers to match the engagement party theme and colour scheme:

Consider the venue
Take the location and style of the venue into account when selecting engagement flowers. If the party is being held in a rustic barn, wildflowers or sunflowers would be a great choice. If the venue is more formal, elegant blooms such as roses or peonies may be more appropriate.

Look to the season
Choose flowers that are in season to ensure that they are readily available and affordable. Seasonal blooms will also look more natural and fresh, adding to the overall beauty of the engagement party decor.

Consider the colour scheme
Take the colour scheme of the engagement party into account when selecting flowers. If the party features a neutral colour palette, bold and bright blooms can add a pop of colour and interest. If the party has a specific colour theme, choose flowers in complementary hues to tie everything together.

Think about the style
Consider the overall tone of the engagement party when selecting flowers. For example, if the party has a vintage or retro vibe, consider using classic blooms such as peonies or hydrangeas. If the party has a more modern feel, sleek and contemporary blooms such as calla lilies or orchids may be more appropriate.

Types of engagement flower arrangements

Several types of engagement flower arrangements can add beauty and elegance to the celebration. Here are some popular engagement flower arrangements:

Centerpieces
Centerpieces are a classic engagement flower arrangement that can create a stunning focal point for the party. They can be created in various styles and sizes, from tall and dramatic to low and lush.

Bouquets
Bouquets are another popular engagement flower arrangement typically carried by the bride and her bridesmaids. They can be created in various shapes and sizes, from traditional round bouquets to cascading arrangements.

Boutonnieres
Boutonnieres are small flower arrangements worn by the groom and his groomsmen. They are typically made from a single bloom or a few small flowers and are worn on the lapel of the suit or tuxedo.

Corsages
A corsage refers to a petite arrangement of flowers that can be fastened onto a woman’s clothing lapel using a pin or tied around her wrist.

When creating engagement flower arrangements, it’s important to consider factors such as color coordination, height variation, and texture. Flowers can be combined with foliage, branches, or other non-floral elements to add interest and depth to the arrangements.

The Symbolism of Flowers

Flowers have long been used to convey messages and emotions, and understanding the symbolism of different types of flowers can be helpful when choosing engagement flowers. Here are some popular flowers and their meanings:

Roses
Different colours of roses can have different meanings, with red roses representing love, white roses representing purity, and pink roses representing admiration and gratitude.

Lilies
Lilies are elegant and refined flowers often associated with sophistication and beauty. They are available in various colours, including white, pink, and yellow. Remember that lilies have a strong scent and may not be appropriate if you or your bridesmaids have allergies.

Peonies
Peonies symbolize romance, prosperity, good fortune, and happy marriage. They are often used in engagement arrangements to express love and commitment.

Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas symbolize gratitude, heartfelt emotions, and honesty. They are often used in engagement arrangements to express appreciation and sincerity.

Succulents
Succulents symbolize resilience, longevity, and endurance. They are often used in engagement arrangements to represent the strength and stability of a committed relationship.

If you’re on a more exotic note, try incorporating these flowers into your engagement arrangements.

Orchids
Orchids are exotic and unusual flowers often used to create unique and memorable engagement flower arrangements. They are associated with love, beauty, and strength.

Protea
Protea symbolizes courage, transformation, and diversity. They are often used in engagement arrangements to represent the willingness to embrace change and overcome challenges in a relationship.

Bird of Paradise
Bird of paradise symbolizes freedom, joy, and paradise. They are often used in engagement arrangements to represent the excitement and happiness of embarking on a new journey together.

Anthurium
Anthurium symbolizes hospitality, abundance, and happiness. They are often used in engagement arrangements to express the warm and welcoming spirit of the couple.

Ginger
Ginger symbolizes strength, passion, and confidence. They are often used in engagement arrangements to represent the couple’s bold and adventurous spirit, as well as their commitment to each other.

Incorporating Non-Floral Elements

Here are some ideas for incorporating non-floral elements into engagement party decor:

Foliage and greenery
Foliage and greenery can add texture and interest to engagement flower arrangements. Leaves, branches, and ferns can all be used to create unique and eye-catching displays.

Branches and twigs
Branches and twigs can add height and dimension to engagement arrangements. They can be painted, glittered, or wrapped with lights to create a dramatic effect.

Fruits and vegetables 
Fruits and vegetables like lemons, limes, or artichokes can add colour and texture to engagement arrangements. They can be used in centrepiece displays or as a unique accent in boutonnieres and corsages.

Ribbons and fabrics 
Ribbons and fabrics can add softness and texture to engagement arrangements. They can be used to wrap bouquets, tie around vases, or hang from ceilings to create a romantic and whimsical effect.

Candles and lights 
Candles and lights can add warmth and ambiance to engagement arrangements. They can be used in centrepiece displays or to create a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

Feathers
Feathers are a great way to add a touch of whimsy and texture to engagement party décor. They can be used in centrepieces, bouquets, or even as part of the groom’s boutonniere.

Flower Delivery and Setup

Once the engagement flowers have been chosen and the arrangements have been created, it’s important to consider flower delivery and setup. Here are some tips for ensuring that the flowers are delivered and arranged properly:

Delivery
Make sure that the flowers are delivered on time and to the correct location. Confirm the delivery address with the recipient in advance and provide any necessary instructions for accessing the venue.

Setup
When setting up the flowers, follow any specific instructions provided by the florist or the couple. This may include arranging the flowers in a certain way or using specific vases or containers.

Placement
Consider the placement of the flowers carefully, taking into account factors such as lighting, traffic flow, and the overall design of the venue. Avoid placing flowers in areas likely to be bumped or knocked over.

Take-Down
Once the engagement party is over, it’s important to take down the flowers promptly to avoid damage or wilting. Make sure to dispose of any wilted or dead flowers, and clean any vases or containers used for the arrangements.

Communication
Throughout the process, it’s important to communicate clearly with the couple and any other vendors involved in the event. Make sure to confirm details in advance and keep everyone updated on any changes or issues that arise.

Backup Plan
Always has a backup plan in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as bad weather or transportation issues. This may include having backup flowers on hand or arranging for an alternative delivery or setup location.

Engagement Flower Etiquette

Finally, there are some important engagement flower etiquette rules to keep in mind when planning and hosting an engagement party. Here are some guidelines:

Sending Flowers
If you cannot attend an engagement party, consider sending a bouquet of flowers as a gift. Make sure to include a personal note and have the flowers delivered on the day of the party.

Gifting Flowers to the Couple
If you’re attending an engagement party and want to bring flowers as a gift, consider giving a bouquet that the couple can enjoy together after the party. Avoid bringing flowers that are too large or cumbersome, as they can be difficult to transport.

Offering to Help with Flowers
If you’re close to the couple and want to help with the flower arrangements, make sure to offer your assistance in advance. Don’t assume that the couple will need help, but let them know that you’re available if needed.

Displaying the Flowers
When displaying flowers at an engagement party, place them in a location that won’t obstruct the view or take up too much space. Consider using a combination of tall and short arrangements to add interest and depth to the display.

Thanking the Florist
If you’ve hired a florist to create the engagement flower arrangements, thank them for their hard work and expertise. A simple note or gift can go a long way in showing your appreciation.

Cleaning up After the Party
If you’ve used flowers as part of the engagement party decorations, make sure to clean them up after the party. This includes disposing of any wilted or dead flowers, as well as cleaning any vases or containers used for the arrangements.

Send thank-you notes
After the engagement party, it’s important to send thank-you notes to the guests who attended. If guests bring flowers or gifts, thank them specifically for those items.

Consider allergies
When choosing engagement flowers, it’s important to consider the possibility of allergies among guests. Avoid using heavily scented flowers, such as lilies or hyacinths, and consider providing allergy medication or an alternative seating area for guests who may be affected.

Respect cultural traditions
If the engaged couple or any of their guests come from a specific cultural or religious background, it’s important to respect those traditions when choosing engagement flowers. Some cultures may have specific flower taboos or requirements, so it’s important to do your research beforehand.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your engagement party is a beautiful and memorable for everyone involved.

Make sure you check our article about party etiquette in general.

11 Ideas for Engagement Flowers

These arrangements can also be used to create floral centrepieces or given as beautiful hostess gifts too.

1. White poinsettias mixed with red roses or tulips
2. Red roses mixed with white lilies and holly
3. Red and white roses accented with fragrant evergreens and eucalyptus.
4. Calla lilies with clusters of purple/blue berries
5. Gardenias, holly berries and ivy
6. Hydrangeas and pomegranate with trailing ribbons
7. Blue hydrangeas, baby’s breath and silvery eucalyptus
8. Gardenias, red berries, white rose buds with green ivy
9. White roses, white hydrangeas, white sweet peas, white ribbon and tulle
10. Red rose buds, pinecones with pine leaves and red ribbon
11. Red poinsettias mixed with white tulips or roses

Frequently asked questions