Summer Wedding Flowers: How to Keep Your Blooms Beautiful All Day
There’s something undeniably magical about summer weddings – the golden light, the warm breeze, the long evenings. And of course, one of the most beautiful parts of the season? The flowers.
Whether you're dreaming of a soft romantic bouquet filled with peonies and garden roses, or a bold pop of colour with dahlias, cosmos or sweet peas, summer gives us a dreamy variety of blooms to work with. But as beautiful as they are, flowers can struggle in the heat – and no one wants a wilted bouquet before they even make it down the aisle.
Here are a few of my go-to tips for keeping your wedding flowers looking their absolute best on the big day:
Keep Bouquets in Water as Long as Possible
Your bouquet should stay in water right up until the moment you’re walking out the door. Whether you’re getting ready at home, a hotel or a venue, pop your bouquet in a vase and let it soak until you absolutely need it for photos or the ceremony. Your florist will usually deliver it in water – don’t be tempted to take it out too early!
Choose Seasonal, Heat-Resilient Blooms
Local, seasonal flowers not only tend to be more sustainable and cost-effective – they also cope better with the temperatures. Some summer favourites that are sturdy and stylish include:
Garden roses
Dahlias
Alstroemeria
Zinnias
Sunflowers
Carnations
Eucalyptus and ruscus (for greenery that stays fresh!)
Delicate blooms like hydrangeas and sweet peas can wilt quickly in direct sun, so either use them sparingly or keep them in water as much as possible.
Don’t Forget Buttonholes and Corsages
Buttonholes (or boutonnieres) can take a beating in the summer heat – especially if they’re on for hours. Speak to your florist about heat-friendly options or have a spare set on hand for your groom and groomsmen, especially before photos.
Store Extras for Photos
If you’ve got an especially delicate bouquet or want to preserve it for portraits, consider having a second, sturdier version made for display and photos later in the day. Some couples choose a smaller “tossing bouquet” or even a silk replica for confetti shots and dancing.
Be Sun-Savvy with Your Ceremony
If you're having an outdoor ceremony, try to position your florals in shaded spots or arrange for them to be brought out shortly before the ceremony begins. It keeps them looking fresh, and helps prevent any drooping before you say "I do."
Final Thoughts
Flowers are one of the most emotional parts of a wedding day – they can evoke memories, represent loved ones, and bring your vision to life. With a little forward planning and the right florist by your side, your summer blooms will stay gorgeous all day long.
Need a hand bringing your floral vision to life – or just want someone to take care of all the planning details so you can relax and enjoy your day? I’d love to help! Get in touch for a no-pressure chat about your wedding.