Wedding Planning
Wedding flowers checklist and price guide — a florist on blooms and budgets for your big day
Use our handy wedding flowers checklist to decide what blooms and bouquets are right for your big day, and to understand how much budget to allocate to floral arrangements.
15 Min Read
Wedding flowers warrant careful consideration. Not only will they feature in a lot of your wedding photos, they can also set the tone of the ceremony — and by extension the whole wedding day. Whitney Bromberg Hawkings, wedding flower expert and founder of luxury florists FLOWERBX, says thoughtfully chosen flowers have the power to transform any setting. “They really help set the scene, and bring a sense of style and flair — whether it’s a grand celebration or a small town hall wedding ceremony.”
Our wedding flowers checklist will help you navigate the seemingly endless floral arrangement possibilities. Discover the three types of wedding flowers you need to think about, and get advice on how much wedding flowers cost so you can budget accordingly. Plus, find a handful of wedding registry ideas to help you preserve the joy of your wedding flowers long after the big day is over.
What flowers do you need for a wedding?
You don’t need flowers everywhere, but you do want them in the right places. That’s where a good wedding flower checklist comes in.
“Depending on the size and scale of your wedding, you can add an abundance of floral elements to every stage,” says Whitney, wedding flower expert and founder of FLOWERBX. “However, some core non-negotiables will make any wedding setting shine. Firstly, Wedding Party Flowers — these are a seasonal bridal bouquet, bridesmaids bouquets, buttonholes, and accessories for flower girls and page boys.”
Then there are two more types of wedding flowers to consider, she adds. “Think about something to dress your ceremony and reception venue spaces. Wedding Ceremony Flowers and Wedding Reception Flowers could be urn arrangements, meadow ends, floral arches, or something a little more understated.”
Some wedding flowers, like the bride’s bouquet and wedding party table flowers, are widely considered must-haves. Others, such as wedding cake flowers, flower crowns, or a flower archway, can be added to reflect your personal style and the feel of your celebration. Our wedding flowers checklist includes the traditional must-haves, as well as arrangements and ideas for couples who want to go bigger with their budget and blooms. Use the quick links below to skip the information about how much weddings cost and to jump straight to the wedding flowers checklists.
How much do wedding flowers cost?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to your wedding flower budget. “While the exact percentage depends on your style, venue, and overall vision, we typically see couples allocating around 15–20% of their total [wedding] spend to florals,” says Whitney. She explains this marks a shift from the past, when 10% was more common, but with couples increasingly opting for personalised arrangements and standout features like wedding arch flowers or bespoke wedding bouquet flowers, florals are taking centre stage in wedding themes in 2025.
Typical cost of wedding flowers
How much couples spend on florals is a personal decision, shaped by the overall style, venue, and scale of the celebration. Typically, wedding flower costs range from £1,000 to £15,000 or more, depending on how simple or elaborate the designs are, much like the variation you see when researching how much a wedding cake costs.
Whitney explains, “The size and scale of your wedding flower designs — along with the types of flowers you choose — play a major role in the overall cost." She notes, "Not all blooms are priced equally. Prices vary significantly depending on the type of blooms, their seasonality, and demand." Premium flowers, like ranunculus, English garden roses, peonies, and hydrangeas may cost more per stem, but often make a stronger visual impact than smaller, filler varieties. She adds that there are other costs to factor in beyond the flowers too, "Larger floral installations can require more time for planning, setup, and dismantling.”
When asked about wedding flower budget advice, she recommends you, “Focus first on the floral elements that matter most to you — whether that’s your wedding bouquet flowers, wedding table flowers, or wedding cake flowers — and then plan your budget around those.”
Still unsure about how much money to spend on wedding flowers? FLOWERBX put together some guidelines:
Wedding Flower Budget Breakdown
Flower budget range | Best for | What it typically covers |
£1,000–£2,000 | Smaller or simple weddings and intimate elopements | Personal bouquets, simple table arrangements, modest ceremony floral displays |
£5,000–£10,000 | Medium-scale floral coverage throughout the day | Urn displays, mantel decorations, floral meadows, and elements that add depth and texture |
£15,000 and above | Dramatic, statement-making floral designs | Large wedding arches, oversized urns, floor-standing installations, and other standout pieces |
Your comprehensive wedding flowers checklist
Before you book your wedding florist, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you’re looking for. Bring along any inspiration you’ve gathered and use this wedding flowers checklist to arrive fully prepared. Your florist can tailor everything to suit your wedding budget, season, and personal style.
The flowers needed for a wedding fall into three key categories: personal or wedding party flowers, ceremony flowers, and reception flowers. Here’s a quick checklist to get you started before we dive into each section in more detail.
Wedding Party Flowers
- Bride's bouquet
- Flowers for hair
- Bridal toss bouquet
- Bridesmaid bouquets
- Flower girl bouquet or petals
- Page boy buttonhole or petals
- Groomsmen buttonholes
- Ring bearer flowers
- Mother of the Bride / Groom corsages
- Father of the Bride / Groom buttonholes
- Grandparents corsage / buttonholes
Wedding Ceremony Flowers
- Entrance flowers
- Altar and registrar table flowers
- Pew chair decorations
- Aisle décor
- Candles to match your flowers
- Dried petal confetti for your guests
Wedding Reception Flowers
- Entryway arrangements
- Flower wall or arch
- Table centrepieces
- Bar décor
- Head table decorations
- Card table/guest book decorations
- Wedding cake flowers
We'll breakdown these three categories in more detail now. Remember, this is just a general guide. You don't have to include everything we've added on your personal checklist.
Wedding party flowers
Whitney suggests starting with your wedding party flowers before moving on to the ceremony and reception flowers. “Firstly, consider personal flowers — from a seasonal wedding bridal bouquet to bridesmaid bouquets, buttonholes, and accessories for flower girls and page boys.” She adds that there are 10 types of wedding party flowers, but you should prioritise your bridal bouquet and bridesmaid bouquets first. Include others, like corsages and buttonholes, in your wedding flower list if they suit the style and mood of your celebration.
Your wedding party flowers should feel like an extension of your overall look. “Be sure your personal and wedding party flowers complement your outfit choices, and work just as well with the groomsmen’s suits as they do with the bridesmaids’ dresses,” Whitney advises. She also notes that longevity and a photo-worthy finish are key considerations when choosing flowers for the wedding day.
Equally important are the logistics of your wedding party flowers. “Get your timeline in order — from who is collecting or receiving your flowers, to where they’ll be and when.” Taking care of these details in advance as part of your wedding planning checklist will help keep everything running smoothly and stress-free on the day.
10 types of wedding party flowers
1. Bride's bouquet
The star of the show, your wedding bouquet, will appear in nearly every photo, from walking down the aisle to your first dance. Choose a bridal bouquet that reflects your personal style and complements your dress silhouette, fabric, and overall aesthetic. Seasonal blooms like garden roses, peonies, or orchids are popular choices — and Whitney advises keeping scale in mind: “Size matters – make sure all elements are designed to scale. Overly large bouquets can hide the beauty of a bridal outfit, while those that are too small may not create the desired impact.”
(photo credit: Lisa Jane Photography)
2. Wedding flowers for hair
Whether it’s a full flower crown wedding look, delicate flower headbands, or a single fresh flower tucked into a bun, wedding flowers for hair add a soft, romantic finish. They're a beautiful option not just for brides, but also for bridesmaids and flower girls. Match them to your wedding bouquet flowers, or go for a more whimsical, natural feel — either way, they’ll elevate your style and add delicate detail to your portraits.
(photo credit: real couple Pip & Michael)
3. Bridal toss bouquet
A bridal toss bouquet is a lighter, secondary version of your main bouquet, designed specifically for the wedding bouquet toss tradition. It allows you to take part in the moment without throwing your keepsake. This wedding flower bouquet can reflect your main arrangement in colour or theme, but typically uses fewer stems or lighter blooms for easier tossing. Your wedding florist can help create something cheerful and budget-friendly to match the celebratory mood.
(photo credit: Adobe Stock)
4. Bridesmaid bouquets
Bridesmaid bouquets should complement — not compete with — the bride’s bouquet. Whitney recommends choosing flowers that match the dresses and the broader wedding florals. Think of them as the supporting cast to your bridal floral moment. Bridesmaid bouquets often echo the bride’s in palette or flower type, but are scaled down in size or complexity. Whether you choose closely matching bouquets or a relaxed, mix-and-match style, they’ll shine in group photos and complete your wedding flowers and bouquets look.
(photo credit: Rachel & Tonie Photography)
5. Groomsmen buttonholes
Small but full of charm, groomsmen's buttonholes (also known as boutonnières) are an elegant addition to any suit or tuxedo. They’re often made from a single standout bloom or a small cluster to echo the wedding flower arrangement. Whitney recommends selecting hardy flowers: “If you’re opting for buttonholes and corsages, choose blooms like orchids that can endure the elements. They’ll be out of water from morning delivery, so longevity is a must.”
(Photo credit: Simon Biffen Photography)
6. Flower girl and page boy arrangements or petals
Sweet and playful, flower girl bouquets or petal baskets are a charming addition to any wedding ceremony. Page boys can also carry a bouquet or wear a buttonhole. Whitney recommends choosing a miniature version of the bride’s bouquet or something simple like a single bloom or ribbon-tied posy. Children sprinkling petals down the aisle also creates a whimsical moment, perfect for candid shots. Plus, many little ones love having an important wedding job to do!
(photo credit: Lisa Jane Photography)
7. Ring bearer flowers
A miniature boutonnière for the ring bearer or a floral sash on the ring pillow adds a sweet, thoughtful touch — and if you're having a dog friendly wedding with a cute furry friend stepping in as ring bearer, a tiny floral collar can be just as charming. Either way, keep it light, soft, and comfortable so it doesn’t distract from their all-important walk down the aisle.
(Photo credit: Adobe Stock)
8. Mother of the Bride/Groom corsages
Worn on the wrist or pinned to clothing, corsages are a traditional nod to the real VIPs of the day. Your wedding florist can recommend wedding flowers to complement the wedding party flowers that also match the mother of the bride's or groom's outfit and preferences — think timeless blooms like orchids, lisianthus, or spray roses. Corsages are a small gesture that mean a lot to many.
(photo credit: Adobe Stock)
9. Father of the Bride/Groom buttonholes
Fathers’ buttonholes often match the groom’s but can also be personalised with different flowers or foliage. Whether bold or classic, this small wedding floral detail acknowledges their special role. Plus, coordinating with ties or pocket squares brings the look together beautifully in group shots.
(photo credit: real couple Kate & Stephen)
10. Grandparents’ corsage or buttonholes
While not an absolute must, including grandparents in your wedding flower plan is a lovely way to honour their presence on the day. Opt for lightweight, comfortable options such as corsages with soft ribbon ties or buttonholes with magnets instead of pins. Choosing soft, fragrant wedding flowers — like your grandmother’s favourite bloom — helps them feel truly seen and celebrated.
(photo credit: JB Photography)
Wedding ceremony flowers
Your wedding ceremony is the heart of the day — intimate, meaningful, and the moment you truly say “I do.” Flowers play a vital role in creating that magical atmosphere. When it comes to choosing flower arrangements for the ceremony, there are five main types, and Whitney suggests, “Focus on flowers that’ll act as a backdrop in photos — from altar arrangements to aisle meadows, entrance florals, and flower archways for weddings.” Her top tip is to be strategic with your wedding flower styling — many elements can be repurposed for your reception space too.
To make the most of your wedding ceremony flowers, Whitney shares a few key tips:
- Know your wedding venue’s set-up schedule — floral installations, no matter their size, can require hours of careful work. Make sure your florist can access your venue on time, and check for any early-start fees.
- Maximise your blooms — discuss with your florist how to repurpose arrangements throughout the day.
- Consider the weather — if you’re lucky enough to get hitched outdoors, keep temperature and location conditions in mind. Some floral elements may perform better indoors, so trust your florist’s expertise.
5 types of wedding ceremony flowers
1. Wedding arch flowers
A floral wedding archway at your entrance creates a memorable first impression. Plus, these wedding arches with flowers not only set the scene but also look stunning in those iconic ‘just married’ photos. If you’re adding this to your wedding flower checklist, go for lush greenery, seasonal blooms, or dried flower accents to create a whimsical, boho vibe.
(photo credit: Kent Wedding Photographer)
2. Altar flowers
Altar flowers, or registrar table flowers (if you’re planning a registry office wedding), are the wedding ceremony’s focal points. According to Whitney, to shine beautifully in photos, the wedding flower arrangement at the altar should complement your bridal bouquet and enhance the atmosphere.
(photo credit: real couple Eliza & Mike)
3. Pew chair & aisle floral décor
Adding simple floral details to your wedding aisle can make a big impact — think soft petals scattered along the path, delicate arrangements on stands, or small clusters of flowers tied to pews or chairs. These romantic touches bring texture and movement to your aisle, perfectly framing your wedding bouquet flowers as you walk down.
(photo credit: real couple Vanessa & Emmanuel)
4. Ceremonial flowers & floral installations
Ceremonial flowers infuse your wedding with tradition and symbolism. Whether it’s a marigold-covered mandap for a Hindu ceremony, a rose-adorned chuppah in a Jewish wedding, or a modern flower archway for a wedding bursting with greenery, these installations create a striking focal point for your vows. The best part? Many pieces can be moved to your wedding reception to frame the dance floor, cake table, or head table, doubling their impact.
(photo credit: By Chelsey Photos)
5. Dried flower confetti for your guests
Made from petals like rose, lavender, or other seasonal blooms, this confetti is biodegradable and safe for the environment, making it a lovely, eco-friendly alternative to traditional options. Guests also love tossing dried flower confetti during your ceremony exit — it creates beautiful photo moments without the mess. Whether you're planning a rustic wedding with a dried flowers wedding bouquet, or a fresh flower theme, dried flower confetti ties your entire floral vision together, adding a sweet, romantic touch to your wedding ceremony send-off. Do check with your venue before ordering though, as not all venues permit the use of confetti.
Wedding reception flowers
Rings are exchanged, paperwork signed — and now it’s time to celebrate! Wedding reception flowers can totally transform your reception space, especially during your wedding breakfast. There are seven types of floral arrangements for reception spaces, many you'll be familar with (like table centerpieces). But Whitney highlights, other places deserve some floral love too. Think hanging installations, bar arrangements, cake flowers, and bold entrance displays. They're all perfect for setting the mood for your first dance and the fun that follows.
Whitney's tips for wedding reception table flowers
- Design for your tables’ size and shape — if you’ve got round tables, opt for full, abundant centrepieces that look beautiful from every angle. For long tables, consider modern, structural bud vases arranged at varying heights.
- Don’t forget your guests — choose floral displays that won’t obstruct conversation or get in the way during dinner. Whitney says, “Anything too tall or wide is a no-go.”
- Consider lighting, texture, and tone — your dinner setting can be the most atmospheric part of the day if you get the details right, think about candlelight and linens and drapery, as well as the floral containers.
1. Entryway arrangements
Welcome guests with flower arrangements that perfectly match your ceremony flower theme. Adding entryway floral arrangements creates a warm, inviting path that leads guests into the celebration, setting the tone from the very first step.
2. Flower wall
Flower walls are super popular for selfies and photo backdrops. Many couples choose to reuse their wedding floral archway from the ceremony to keep things consistent and save a bit on costs.
(photo credit: Adobe Stock)
3. Floral bar décor
Don’t forget the wedding bar! Adding flowers and greenery here keeps your wedding flowers and bouquets flowing throughout the venue and creates a welcoming vibe for guests.
(photo credit: Adobe Stock)
4. Head table decorations
Make your head table stand out with cascading greenery, bold wedding flower arrangements, or striking blooms. Floral head table decorations highlight the stars of the day and will help create a beautiful focal point for your wedding breakfast.
5. Wedding table flowers & centrepieces
From large centrepieces to delicate bud vases, wedding table flowers carry your floral story through to the reception. You might love bold seasonal blooms, prefer soft white flowers, or be drawn to delicate dried arrangements — whatever your style, coordinating your table flowers with your bouquet or ceremony florals always creates a polished, cohesive look.
(photo credit: Aberrazioni Cromatiche)
6. Wedding cake flowers
Your cake deserves a floral moment too! Fresh or dried wedding cake flowers add a natural, elegant touch that ties your dessert into the wedding day’s theme. Whether you opt for a floral cake topper or cascading blooms down the tiers, make sure they’re food-safe and complement your bridal bouquet or floral décor for that picture-perfect finish.
(photo credit: JB Photography)
7. Card table & guest book decorations
While guests mingle, sign your guest book, or drop off cards, don’t miss the chance to make these spaces feel special. A small floral moment, such as a petite arrangement or a few carefully placed blooms around your signage, can make these often-overlooked areas feel just as intentional as the rest of your wedding décor. Little details like this can truly bring your whole day together.
6 other things to know about wedding flowers
Liza Baucher is the The Wedding Shop's Showroom Manager. Her top tip for couples is to think about what you will do with your flowers after the wedding. "If you intend to preserve or dry your flowers after your Big Day, plan for this with your wedding gift list. Add some gorgeous vases (or frames if you're going to have them pressed) to display these momentos. Incorporating them into your home decor will remind you of your special day every time you pass them."
Liza also observes that wedding floristry is a topic that many couples want advice on. "We've found that while most couples have a clear vision for their ceremony and venue, they tend to do more research around things like wedding flowers." With this in mind, we've answered some of the most common wedding flower questions below.
1. How to choose wedding flowers
When it comes to choosing wedding flowers, two things really take centre stage: seasonality and your colour palette. Whitney from FLOWERBX explains, “The best wedding flowers are the ones naturally in full bloom — when you work with the seasons, you get the freshest, most beautiful blooms that are also more budget-friendly.” Choosing seasonal flowers for your wedding flower decor means you’ll enjoy a wider selection, higher quality, and a more cost-effective wedding floral arrangement overall.
Once you know what’s blooming during your wedding month, Whitney recommends letting your venue décor, bridesmaids' dresses, and overall wedding mood guide your colour choices. “For example, winter weddings might lean toward romantic tones like burgundy, deep reds, and soft blush, while summer opens up endless possibilities — from vibrant brights to delicate pastels and elegant ivories,” she explains.
Whitney adds, “By focusing on what’s fresh and seasonal and blending it with your personal style, you create a cohesive look across your wedding flowers and bouquets — whether that’s your wedding bouquet flowers, wedding arch flowers, or even your wedding cake flowers.”
2. When to Order Wedding Flowers
When it comes to ordering wedding flowers, timing can make all the difference. “Securing the right florist early in your wedding planning journey can lift a huge weight off your shoulders,” says Whitney. “We usually recommend choosing your floral designer around nine months before the wedding, but ideally as soon as you’ve booked your venue.” Whitney tells us that ordering your flowers early not only guarantees the availability of your favourite blooms and bouquet styles, but also gives your florist ample time to craft your ideal wedding flower design, perfectly matched to your style and the season. Plus, with demand influencing the average cost of wedding flowers, booking ahead helps you manage your budget effectively. So, whether you’re envisioning striking wedding arch flowers or a charming dried flowers wedding bouquet, Whitney stresses that “The sooner a florist is involved, the more seamless and elegant your floral story will be from ceremony to reception.”
3. Should your venue influence your wedding flowers?
Your wedding venue choice can have a big impact on both the scale and style of your wedding flowers. Whitney explains, “Heritage buildings, grand ballrooms, and historic venues often call for opulent or large-scale wedding floral arrangements that match their grandeur. Meanwhile, country manors and garden settings are perfect for romantic, ethereal blooms that echo the natural surroundings.” After you choose the perfect wedding venue, Whitney's advice is to work with your site's vibe, not against it. This approach ensures your wedding flowers and bouquets complement the space beautifully, whether you’re planning lush wedding arch flowers for a dramatic backdrop or delicate fresh flower wedding bouquets that suit a more intimate setting.
4. Can you DIY wedding flowers?
Absolutely! If you’re someone who loves a bit of DIY, you might actually have fun trying your hand as your own wedding florist. There are loads of flower arranging courses out there that not only teach you a great skill for life, but also let you create wedding flowers that are really personal and unique to you.
That said, Whitney points out, “Securing the right floral designers can make or break how you feel about the day. Top florists book up quickly, and being in experienced hands will take a weight off your mind – and help you avoid last-minute stress.” Sure, DIY flowers can be rewarding, but having a pro on board means your wedding flower arrangements — from your bridal bouquet to those stunning wedding arch flowers — will be expertly crafted. Plus, you get to relax and enjoy your big day without any floral worries.
5. Can you grow your own wedding flowers?
Yes! Using flowers from your own or a family garden can be a charming and eco-conscious way to personalise your wedding flowers. For couples keen on reducing waste or planning a more budget-friendly celebration, foraging homegrown blooms or incorporating seasonal British flowers can be a meaningful (and fun!) part of your wedding planning process.
“Homegrown flowers bring a beautiful, personal element to your big day,” says Whitney Bromberg Hawkings, wedding flower expert and founder of FLOWERBX. “But factors like timing, quantity, quality, and proper conditioning can be challenging, especially when working on a larger scale.”
If you love the idea of sustainable, locally sourced wedding florals but want peace of mind, Whitney recommends working with a professional florist: “Partnering with an expert team lets you focus on what matters most — like incorporating British-grown stems — while ensuring your arrangements are of the highest quality, beautifully conditioned, and responsibly sourced.”
6. What to do with your flowers after the wedding
Drying or pressing your flower bouquet is a simple yet meaningful way to preserve those gorgeous wedding blooms and hold onto the memories a little longer. But what truly brings them to life is how you choose to display them. A stylish vase doesn’t just hold flowers — it holds memories. Whether it’s on your dining table, entryway, or bedside, a beautiful vase adds a polished, personal touch to any room.
A vase is also one of those traditional wedding gifts that checks both boxes: practical and deeply meaningful. Our Gift Guru, Andrea Panayiotou, shares, “If you’re saving your wedding bouquet, adding a beautiful vase to your list gives you the perfect way to display it and keep the memory alive. Each year, you can fill your vase with fresh flowers — maybe even the same kind from your wedding. It’s a lovely way to relive the day and celebrate your love story.” As she puts it, “Something you’ll use and treasure for years.”
If you’re looking for something timeless, our Gift Guru, Georgia Criticos, recommends adding LSA International designs to your list: “They're a great brand for vases, offering loads of different types for different flower types and styles.” For couples wanting more unique wedding gifts, Andrea recommends the Gluggle Jug — technically a water jug, but it looks so beautiful with flowers in, making it a versatile and charming choice. And for something that really stands out, the Late Afternoon vases make a bold statement piece.
While you’re getting inspired to preserve your wedding flowers, consider adding a seasonal flower subscription from Bloom & Wild to your wedding gift list. It’s one of those wedding registry ideas that keeps on giving — delivering a regular burst of joy straight to your door, long after your special day.
Best vases for wedding flowers
We hope you enjoyed our wedding flowers checklist, and that it's helped you with your wedmin. For more help planning your wedding day, explore our other guides:
Thinking about creating your own wedding gift registry? At The Wedding Shop, we believe the items on your gift list should be loved and enjoyed by you for a lifetime. Browse our wedding gift ideas to create a list that reflects your unique style and personality. Alternatively, book a complimentary appointment at the Showroom to get expert advice on the best wedding gifts for you from our Gift Gurus.
Create a ListSpecial thank you to FLOWERBX for their expert advice. FLOWERBX is a luxury floral brand renowned for its fresh, seasonal blooms and chic, modern designs. They specialise in elegant arrangements perfect for weddings and special events, with a strong focus on quality and sustainability. Explore their stunning flower designs and subscription options at flowerbx.com, or follow them on Instagram @theflowerbx.
The Wedding Shop partners with FLOWERBX to give all registered couples an exclusive discount on their wedding flowers. Create your wedding gift list with The Wedding Shop today and unlock these savings in your Perks dashboard.
All photos are courtesy of FLOWERBX, unless otherwise credited.