Choosing your wedding flowers //

Choosing your wedding flowers //

Choosing your wedding Flowers…. It’s a minefield right? Where do you begin?!  There are so many beautiful options ….. Being a wedding photographer all over Kent and the South East, I get to see so many beautiful designs and get chatting to some very talented florists. . So I thought I’d share a few tips and ideas on choosing your wedding flowers that may help along with a few pictures (probably far too many, but I just couldn’t choose)  of some of the gorgeous flowers I have photographed in the past.  Scroll to the end to find out alternatives to fresh flowers too….

Marleybrook house wedding photosAbove Flowers by Mrs Bouquet – https://www.mrs-bouquet.co.uk/

BUDGET

  • This is probably the most important point as it determines the type of flowers that you can choose. Decide where you want flowers?
  • Would you like flowers as your center pieces. Do you want flowers at your church? Or your ceremony? Think about button holes, bridesmaids bouquets? What will the flower girls hold? Are you going to give bouquet gifts for mother of the bride/groom?
  • Don’t be afraid to discuss figures with your florist. Be up front, let them know how much you would like to spend and stick to it as much as possible.
  • Don’t be afraid of expensive flowers, Peonies or Hydrangeas can be a bit pricier but are larger and cover more space. More for your money
  • If you are having floral table centres, how about having these as “thank you” gifts for friends and family

Above Pretty Red and Pink Roses by Moody Blooms – https://moody-blooms.co.uk/

Bouquet by DISTINCTLY FLORAL https://www.facebook.com/distinctlyfloral/  

YOUR COLOUR SCHEME & STYLE

  • So there are a million types of flowers and you have no idea of their names. Just familiarize yourself with a few popular wedding flowers; roses, peonies, hydrangeas, lilies, and ranunculuses, gerbera to name a few, and then you can chat with your florist to help you build on that.
  • If you can’t decide on a colour; find your bridesmaid dresses first and co-ordinate to these.
  • You don’t have to be all one colour – contrasting colours can look beautiful. Or hues of all one colour such as peaches with corals. Or lilacs with blues.
  • Or why not just green and white – classic and timeless.
  • Add some sparkle or bling to your bouquet. A diamond on each rose? A sentimental brooch on the stem?Wedding Photographer The Orangery MaidstoneAbove Hydrengeas and Eucalyptus by FLORAL EXPLOSION – https://www.floral-explosion.co.uk/

Rowhill Grange spa kentPeony and Rose Bouquet by Chic Weddings – http://www.chicweds.co.uk/

  • Start with your bouquet  as this is your centre piece, and will be in most of your wedding photographs – you can then co-ordinate the rest of your flowers with this. Think about the size of your bouquet.  The flowers have to be in proportion to the bride’s height and size and also to the style of the dress. The more intricate the dress – the simpler the bouquet should be.
  • Make a Pinterest board of some ideas that you like and take them with you when you meet with your florist.
  • Try to match your flowers with your venue – for example robust Gerberas or Cala Lilies for a modern, city wedding or pretty delicate Roses and gypsophelia for a vintage rustic wedding.
  • Think about your venue’s over all colour. If the ceremony room or reception room have strong bold colours (ie the carpets and curtains); a simple pastel theme may be a little lost.
  • If in doubt ask your florist. They love to put their creativity to the test and know all there is to know about flowers.

Above Autumnual bouquet by FLORAL HUES –  https://www.floralhues.co.uk/Gypsophelia Hearts By Mrs Bouquet – https://www.mrs-bouquet.co.uk/ 

FLOWERS WITH MEANING

So you really can’t decide on which flowers to choose. Lots of flowers have superstitions and meanings, so you could use this as a starting point.

ROSES – Probably the most used of all flowers at weddings and the meaning is Love. However different colours symbolise different things;

Red – A red rose represents longing, desire and love
White – A white rose shows purity, chastity and innocence.
Yellow – A yellow rose symbolises friendship and caring.
Pink – Pink roses represent emotions, joy and gratitude.
Orange – An orange rose symbolises passion and energy.

CALA LILLY – If you choose white Calla Lilies for your bridal bouquet then this will symbolise purity and innocence.

FREESIA -Much like the Daisy, Freesias represent innocence, they also represent thoughtfulness.

PEONY – The peony represents happy life, happy marriage, good health and prosperity, all perfect ways to start a marriage!

TULIPS Tulips signify the declaration of love – what flower could be more perfect when you are saying your wedding vows.Red Bouquet by Paula Frickey https://www.facebook.com/PaulaFlorist/

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR FLORIST

  • Have they worked at your venue before?  If they haven’t don’t panic – it may be an idea that you have a wander around the venue together.

  • Can you see examples of her work? Its not always possible but some florists can provide a mock up of your bouquet. If not ask to see some example of their recent work.

  • Who will be delivering my flowers on the day?  Decide where you would like them delivered. Will the button holes need to be at a separate address?

  • When will the final balance be due?

  • How will you return any rented items, such as vases etc. Make sure you have agreed on how many rented items you have and how you go about returning them.ALTERNATIVES TO FRESH FLOWERS

  • Silk flowers are very realistic these days. They are robust and won’t wilt in the heat. Although there is not a great deal of difference in the price to fresh flowers – you will have your bouquet forever. Examples of silk bouquet below.

  • For those who like a bit of bling – how about a bouquet made of jewellery. You could include some pieces of jewellery with sentimental value.  See examples belowChoosing your wedding flowersAbove Silk bouquet – by Paula Fricky – https://www.facebook.com/PaulaFlorist/Silk and Jeweled Bouquet by Danny Watchorn, Kent – https://danny-watchorn.squarespace.com/

I hope this helps a little towards choosing your wedding flowers. I LOVE to talk all things weddings, so if you have any questions about tips or ideas for your wedding day…Id love to chat. Click here to send me a message.

Brandshatch Place Wedding Photographer // Ben and Jade

Brandshatch Place Wedding Photographer // Ben and Jade

Brandshatch Place Wedding Photos // Ben and Jade 

I was thrilled when Ben and Jade asked me to be their Brandshatch Place Wedding photographer for their big day. The couple have been together since they were teenagers and where great fun to photograph. Their happiness as a couple just shines through.  We had had a practice run before the big day at their engagement shoot at Botany Bay, so they felt more at ease in front of the camera. These shoots are included in a few of my all day packages. 

The morning started at Jades’ parents house where it was as frenzy or all things girly…hair , make up and flowers. Jades simple satindress was by Jesus Peiro and had a gorgeous detachable bow on the back. Her whole outfit was so elegant with a dainty pair of gloves finishing of the look. 

Ben was getting ready at the couple’s house and my second photographer, Kirsty was there to take photos. It was all very relaxed and Kirsty was able to capture photos of the boys all opening their gifts from the happy couple. Kirsty and the guys left for the chruch where they were able to capture some great shots of the grooms party as well as the guest arriving.

The wedding was held at St Mary The Virgin Church, Kent . This is where Jade’s parents were married, so it meant a lot to them. The service was full of emotion and having my second photographer on the balcony above, we were able to capture a couple of angles of the ceremony. Formalities over we all headed outside or the formal photographs and confetti shots. 

The reception was a few minutes up the road the at the stylish  Brandshatch Place Hotel. 

Here is a selection of photos from the wedding day.

If you are thinking about booking me as your  Brandshatch place wedding Photographer, I’d love to have a chat. Get in touch.

Hair by Katie at True Hair & Beauty

Make up Artist: Cara 

Dress: Hitched Bridal, Chislehurst by designer Jesus Peiro

Gloves: Cornelia James

Hair Vine: Ivory & Co

Suits: John Lewis Partnership

Church: St Mary the Virgin, Chalk, Kent

Reception Venue: Brands Hatch Place, Kent

Bridesmaid dresses: Sorella Vita

Car: Glynne at Aarion Wedding Cars

Cake: Pink Face cakes

Jesus Peiro wedding dress Kent weddings Brandshatch place wedding photographer        

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Brandshatch place wedding photographerBrandshatch place wedding photographer Brandshatch place wedding photographer Brandshatch place wedding photographer  #brandshatchplacewedding #brandshatchwedding

Lympne Castle Wedding Photographer // Mike and Louise

Lympne Castle Wedding Photographer // Mike and Louise

So you’re looking for a Lympne Castle Wedding Photographer

Having photographed their gorgeous daughter, I was thrilled when Mike and Louise chose me as their Lympne Castle Wedding Photographer. Lympne is a stunning 12th Century castle set in amazing grounds with beautiful views over the Kent countryside.

The morning was spent in the Pinkie Hill cottage, part of the accommodation at Lympne Castle, where it was big enough for all the bridal party to get their hair done by Kirsty Smith and make up by Lucy Jayne.

I absolutely loved the colour theme of this wedding and the florist, Jo at Moody Blooms put together such a pretty mix of red and pinks and it all matched so well with the red bridesmaid dresses from Pretty.

The ceremony took place in the pretty West Wing of the castle with its view over the Kent Countryside and then afternoon tea was served in the Great Hall. 

There was an exciting surprise to Mike and Louise’s Big day….The couple were to announce, at the speeches that they were expecting their 2nd child..I get so emotional at weddings at the best of times, but this pushed me over the edge!  Louise’s dress was from Bellamore Bridal where the staff were so clever and altering her dress to perfectly fit her little baby bump.

After the formalities where finished we decide to go for a stroll around the castle to get some great wedding photos in the grounds. The perfect opportunity to spend a few minutes together away from the craziness of the day.

Here is a selection of my Lymnpe Castle Wedding photos. Click here to get in touch to find about my availability for your big day.

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St Julians Club Wedding Photographer

St Julians Club Wedding Photographer

St Julians Club Wedding Photographer// Wisteria in full bloom. 

St Julians is a unique private club in Sevenoaks. It boasts the only Victorian Conservatory in Kent and is Grade 2 listed and is just beautiful. During the Spring months the interior of the conservatory comes  to life when the stunning lilac Wisteria is in bloom, which makes for the perfect wedding venue. Along with its extensive grounds, a children’s adventure area and even a swimming pool, this made the perfect location for a bridal photo shoot with a very talented bunch of wedding vendors.  Keep an eye out for this shoot in the Spring Edition of Your Kent Wedding magazine.Venue

St Julians Club, Sevenoaks, Kent

The stunning flowers  which included all of my favorites; Hyacinths, anemones and Eucalyptus  Distnicly floral

Dresses and unique two pieces dress styled by The One Bridal, Sevenoaks by designer Elbeth Gillis Coutoure

Hair braiding and perfect Hollywood waves by the talented Terri at Kent Bridal Hair

The pretty natural make up looks by  – Nicola at Kent Bridal Make up 

Pretty Hair pieces by Maison Archive, London

Beautiful gold and white tassled stationery by Heather at  Heather Corthine

Photography by me….of course…..Get in touch to if would like to consider me as your St Julians Club Wedding photographer.

To see some more of my wedding work take a look at my wedding gallery.

St Julians Wedding Sevenoaks Kent.

 

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The Old Kent Barn Wedding Photographer // Sam and Carley

The Old Kent Barn Wedding Photographer // Sam and Carley

The Old Kent Barn Wedding Photographer // Sam and Carley

Sam and Carley’s The Old Kent Barn Wedding was a day to remember.  A real family affair with over 100 guests. It included a bouncy castle (provided by Megabounce)  and plenty of lawn games. Carley and Sam really had thought of everything.

The morning was spent with the girls- there was a fair few of them and it was a really nice vibe whilst they all had their hair and make up done in the room provided for the bridal prep.

When the groom arrived, my 2nd photographer Stephanie met up with him too take a few photos of him and his entourage. Opening his gifts from Carley and just greeting the guests arriving.

The ceremony, in the beautiful white Gazebo was perfect with the groom Sam, shedding a few tears when he saw his little ones walking down the aisle let alone when he caught sight of Carley and her dad.  It was very emotional. If you are looking for The Old Kent Barn Wedding photographer, I would love to chat about your big day. Get in touch here and tell me all about your plans. 

Dress: Confetti and Lace Bridal, Essex

Hair by Olivia at Olivias hair

Outside ceremony flowers Anenome Blue Florist

 

The Old Kent Barn Wedding

The Old Kent Barn Wedding The Old Kent Barn Wedding The Old Kent Barn Wedding

The Old Kent Barn Wedding The Old Kent Barn Wedding The Old Kent Barn Wedding The Old Kent Barn Kent The Old Kent Barn Wedding Photos The Old Kent Barn Wedding Photos     

Danson House Wedding Photographer // A selection of photos

Danson House Wedding Photographer // A selection of photos

Danson House Wedding Photographer

I have been asked to be a Danson House Wedding photographer quite a few times over the years. The beautiful venue in Bexleyheath has become the official registry office for Bexley Borough.  Its a beautiful Georgian Grade I listed building with  various different ceremony rooms. All looking out over the beautiful grounds of Danson Park, its lake and the 200 year old Oak tree. The perfect wedding venue.

If you are looking for your Danson House Wedding photographer please get in touch about my bespoke Bexley Registry Office/Danson House Package.

Here is a small selection of some of the weddings that I have photographed at Danson House. 

Every room in the house is unique and beautiful.

The Library – also known as the music room, over looks the lawns.  It also has a fantastic old and original organ that was kept at Hall Place, Bexley until the Council invested in restoring it.

The Dining Room – Light and airy, with those romantic paintings and gold finishings. Very romantic.

The Salon – With its gorgeous vivid wallpaper. Tiny flecks of silk and flakes of paint discovered on the walls by the English Heritage experts enabled them to recreate the Georgian wall paper that was once there. This is one of my favorite rooms

Get in touch to find out about Danson House Packages. Up  to 2.5 hours coverage at Danson House and the grounds £500.

Sir John Boyds Room – A cosy room located on the top floor, with stunning views over Danson Park

Even the beautiful spiral staircase in the middle of the house is perfect for photographs.

As for photographs on your wedding day, the 200 acres of grounds give you plenty of options. Although its worth noting that you need an extra permit from the Civic offices if you want to have your photographs in the park itself or the ornamental gardens opposite. Although the lawn and grounds to the side of the house and the stairs are equally pretty.

Danson House Bexleyheath

Bexley Registry Office

Danson House Wedding Photographer

Danson House Wedding Photographer

Danson House Wedding Photographer

Bexley Registry Office

Bexley Registry Office Danson House Wedding PhotographerDanson House Wedding Photographer

Bexley Registry Office

Danson House Wedding Photographer

Bexley Registry Office

Bexley Registry Office Danson House

Bexley Registry Office