This is a guest post by Rebecca Alston

Wedding decor can add up quickly, especially when fresh flowers are involved. Floral arrangements are a traditional staple in a wedding celebration, often accounting for 15% of the budget. While many couples can’t imagine a wedding without flowers, this budget category is often the first to go when cutting costs.

Here are some inspiring ways to source wedding flowers on a limited budget, so you can have the event of your dreams without breaking the bank.

Choose the Right Location

One of the most innovative ways to cut your flower budget is to choose wedding photography locations with floral backdrops. Some popular choices include:

• Public gardens
• Botanical gardens
• Greenhouses
• U-pick farms
• Wildflower fields
• Local yards

By choosing a place where flowers are a prominent part of the natural scenery, you won’t need a big budget for floral decor. Depending on the venue you choose—like a local farm or u-pick farm— you might also be able to negotiate a few bouquets at a discount.

Grow Your Own Flowers

If you or someone in your family has a green thumb, consider growing your own flowers. This task can be a challenge, especially if you’re getting married in the fall or winter. However, it is possible with careful planning and research.

Consider a trial run the year before your wedding to see how the DIY approach goes. This allows time for tweaking your plans or pivoting if things don’t go well.

Shop Seasonal Blooms

Shopping for in-season blooms can help you save hundreds on floral arrangements. Adjust your expectations and choose from flowers that are readily available when you’re getting married. 

Be mindful that the season can also work against you. For example, you’re likely to pay more for certain flowers near special holidays like Mother’s Day or Christmas.

Practice Minimalism

Minimalist and micro-bouquets have become popular in recent years. Many couples found their wedding plans continuously getting thwarted during the pandemic. As flowers are quick to wilt, many couples adjusted their budget and expectations, opting for small, minimalist arrangements instead.

Taking a minimalist approach also offers the opportunity to buy in bulk and save. A few blooms hanging from fishing wire and a single-bloom bouquet can be just as stunning as a maximalist floral backdrop. 

Go Green

If you like the idea of lush, oversized arrangements, consider adding more fillers and greenery. Many couples are using wild grasses and herbs to fill in bouquets for an earthy, organic look. This strategy is a great way to get the size you want on a limited budget.

Go Premade

Rather than opting for custom arrangements, choose from a florist’s set of premade or flexible arrangements. Many florists offer last-minute or premade arrangements based on what they have in stock. These are more affordable than ordering in special flowers for your custom arrangement. This option is ideal for those who want flowers but aren’t attached to a specific style.

Choose one Focal Point

If you’re working on a limited budget, consider designating one floral focal point. Rather than trying to allocate the budget over several decor pieces, choose one show stopper. This piece could be a flowery arch at the alter or the bridal bouquet— whatever you want.

With these practical tips, you can feature fresh flowers at your wedding without a big budget. Get creative and keep an open mind when planning your floral decor.