FLOWERS 51 Claire from Aurora Nyx Floral Design (www.auroranyxfloraldesign. co.uk) says, “My studio is based in Gloucestershire and I’m lucky to have Salt Box Flowers and The Flower Hub at Pauntley within a 20-minute radius, so I try to use their flowers and foliage as much as I can.” Meanwhile, Megan from Megan Lily Floral Design (www.meganlilyfloraldesign.co.uk) explains, “Not only are local blooms of better quality, they also haven’t been imported or grown using additional heat and light, making them a more sustainable choice.” ‘TIS THE SEASON Michelle from Posey Rose (www.poseyrose.co.uk) says, “Of course, flowers have a seasonality and not everything is available all year round. With this in mind, we advise you start planning your wedding flowers in the same season and month you’re getting married; so a year in advance. This gives you the opportunity to see what’s available and get a feel for the flowers and colours you’re drawn to.” Claire continues, “If you love a certain flower, for example peonies, you’ll need to plan your wedding for the few weeks in May/June that they’re available.” CREATED WITH KINDNESS “If sustainability is important to you, you’ll need to find a florist who shares this ethos and whose business practices reflect that,” says Gemma. “Floral foam is something a lot of us no longer use due to its significant impact on the environment so you can ask your florist how they might build your designs and whether that’s using reusable or sustainable mechanics.” Claire agrees: “Ensuring arrangements are created using chicken wire, floral frogs (kenzans), water tubes and floral buckets rather than using floral foam, is key.” GORGEOUS GIFTING “I construct my table designs so they can be lifted out of the bowl or vase and given away as gifts to guests at the end of the wedding,” Claire says, “but don’t give away a florist’s bowls! They’re on a hire only basis. When I return to take down a wedding the next day, I’ll turn any large arrangements into bouquets, which again can be given to guests. Any leftover florals are composted or the Confetti Club will take certain flowers and repurpose them into bio-degradable confetti.” Emma from Flowers by The Dungaree Gardener (www.facebook. com/TheDungareeGardener) says, “Donating flowers to care homes or hospitals can spread some extra joy, or you can compost them to reduce waste. If you’re feeling creative, you could even mix in some potted plants or herbs, these can double as decor and be replanted after the big day for a lovely keepsake. With a few thoughtful choices, you can have stunning, sustainable flowers without compromising on style.” MULTI-PURPOSE Michelle says, “We like to support our couples with sustainability by encouraging them to think and plan through where items can be moved to and repurposed. For example, aisle meadows make a great backdrop for a cake and table urns can make beautiful aisle markers. This is a great way not only to manage sustainability but also budget!” Aurora Nyx Floral Design © https://martadweddings.com Flowers by The Dungaree Gardener © www.murrayclarke.co.uk Femme Petale © www.samsparksweddings.co.uk Milston Flower Barn © https://joannabrooksphotography.co.uk Loubee Floral Design © https://christinasarah.com Seed & Stem © www.pearbearphotography.com
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