Ceremony Flowers
July 5th, 2007 - Flowers and Décor.The Aisle, the Altar, and the Alternatives Fancying flowers for the ceremony? Think: location, location, location. We hate to put your personal style on the back burner for a moment, but the primary consideration here is the ceremony site. Many chapels and temples, for example, neither need nor allow extra adornment, while others are open to bouquets on every pew. Likewise, some secular sites are a blank canvas, while others need nothing more than a dramatic clutch of dahlias resting beside the guestbook. Once you establish your site options, you get to think about style (and wrangle with the budget). To break flower planning down to its key elements, let’s look at three categories: the aisle, the altar, and the alternatives. Many weddings feature a very simple aisle, with one or two floor arrangements at the opening or a light sprinkle of rose petals running the length. Others feature nosegays, swags of ivy, or delicate wreathes on pew ends. The choice is personal, but if keeping costs under control is important, remember that the bridal couple is the centerpiece–numerous accents may be unnecessary. The altar, or bimah in a synagogue, is where most people will be focusing during the major part of the ceremony. Arrangements should be large enough for all to see, but they can also be simple. Depending on your particular traditions, you may also feature blooms by the unity candle or Bible or, if the wedding is Jewish, in the traditional huppah canopy. Tying the knot in an unconventional setting? Try alternatives, like arches or trellises to add flowers to a beach or patio. Where trees are already part of the backdrop, a few key garlands and a scattering of tiny lights can have a magical effect. Potted plants and herb topiaries also make lovely accents. Whatever your arrangements, enlist flowers for double-duty where possible. Designate a friend to transport them to the reception site or move them to the gift table or buffet when the time comes. – Emily Bedard, Amazon.com Wedding Expert 
