I’ve been trying to determine which flowers to choose for my wedding. So far I’m liking the peach and pink hues. Unfortunately, peonies are not available in August.
I’ve been scanning Trader Joe’s and Flower Moxie.
Anyone have any suggestions? I need the flowers to last for four days.
... Read moreI totally hear you on the August wedding flower hunt! It's a unique challenge when some of our dream blooms, like gorgeous peonies, are out of season. But don't despair – there are so many stunning, long-lasting options available in peach and pink hues that will look absolutely magical on your big day. Finding flowers that not only match your aesthetic but also hold up for four days is key, and I've picked up a few tips and tricks that might just save your wedding flower budget and sanity!
First off, let's talk about some fantastic in-season alternatives that thrive in August and often come in those romantic peach and pink shades. Roses are your absolute best friend here. From classic garden roses with their lush, multi-petal appearance to elegant standard roses, you can find them in almost every shade imaginable, including soft peaches, blush pinks, and vibrant corals. They're incredibly versatile, hold up well, and many varieties have a lovely fragrance. Plus, they're widely available, making them easier to source from places like Trader Joe's or wholesale distributors. Don't forget about spray roses too – their smaller, delicate blooms are perfect for adding texture and dimension to bouquets and centerpieces.
Another often-overlooked gem, especially for longevity and budget, is the carnation. I know, I know, they sometimes get a bad rap, but modern carnations are truly beautiful! They come in a breathtaking array of peach, blush, and dusty pinks, and they can last an incredibly long time, easily four days or more if cared for properly. They can be fluffed out to look surprisingly similar to peonies or used in mass to create a lush, full effect.
If you're looking for something with a bit more whimsy, dahlias are another August star. While some varieties can be a bit more delicate, many hold up beautifully, especially if sourced locally. Their intricate petals and wide range of colors, including stunning peach, coral, and fuchsia blends, make them a showstopper. Just be sure to ask your florist or supplier about their longevity expectations for specific dahlia varieties. Lisianthus is another elegant choice, offering delicate, rose-like blooms in soft pinks and creams that have excellent vase life. For a more rustic or garden-fresh look, zinnias are vibrant and cheerful, generally robust, and come in many warm tones.
Now, about making them last for four days – this is crucial!
Hydration is key: As soon as you get your flowers, give them a fresh cut on their stems (underwater if possible) and place them immediately into clean water with flower food.
Keep them cool: Flowers hate heat. Store them in the coolest part of your house, away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or ripening fruit (which releases ethylene gas that speeds up aging). A cool basement or an air-conditioned room is ideal.
Change water daily: Fresh water with flower food will make a huge difference. Remove any leaves below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth.
Mist them: A light misting with water can help keep petals fresh, especially if the air is dry.
Consider fillers and foliage: Sometimes, incorporating hardier greens like eucalyptus, ruscus, or even ferns, and more robust filler flowers like baby's breath or solidago, can help maintain the overall look even if a few blooms start to fade.
While Trader Joe's is fantastic for everyday flowers, for a wedding, especially DIY, exploring local flower farms or even a wholesale flower market could open up more options for specific varieties and bulk purchases. Many online floral suppliers also offer bulk wedding packages that are delivered right to your door.
Finding your perfect August wedding flowers might take a little extra research, but with so many beautiful, long-lasting peach and pink options like roses, carnations, and dahlias, you'll definitely create the wedding aesthetic you're dreaming of!
Honestly, carnations last the longest. I personally like them and they have a lovely soft fragrance.