As we embarked on our honeymoon adventure through South Africa’s scenic highways, Jack and I were struck by the abundance of wild King Protea blooming alongside the road. ‘These are the ultimate trendy wedding flowers,’ I exclaimed to Jack, still in awe of their majestic beauty. The rise of creative florists has led to an explosion of unique, never-before-seen blooms taking center stage at weddings and editorials alike. Tropical getaways feature statement Monstera leaves, while vintage-inspired brides carry dried heirloom bouquets. And, of course, bold King Proteas continue to make a dramatic impact in high-end celebrations. We’re thrilled by the emergence of these new florals beyond the classic rose (although we do appreciate a timeless bouquet) and eager to uncover the most sought-after blooms for forward-thinking couples.
Anthurium
The vibrant, heart-shaped blooms by Bloominous are making a bold statement. As a nod to traditional tropical stems, these unique flowers bring a playful touch to bohemian arrangements, infusing them with whimsy and an abundance of character. According to EuriWong, Lead Designer at Bloominous, this striking stem is the perfect addition to any bouquet seeking to add a dash of drama and personality.
Pink Anthurium
Imagine Barbie’s dream house, where elegance and whimsy converge. In this fantasy realm, the pink anthurium takes center stage as the flower of choice for her prized vases. Its glossy petals and leaf-like blooms in a radiant shade of pink, dubbed ‘flamingo lily,’ evoke a sense of luxury. The bloom’s unique shape – a heart-true to its romantic connotations – makes it a captivating addition to any wedding bouquet, including Barbie’s own.
Pincushion Protea
The king protea has long been a coveted choice among wedding florists, but its trendy cousin, the pincushion protea, is rapidly gaining popularity. This exotic and bold bloom boasts vibrant petals in fiery hues of red, orange, and yellow, arranged in spiky sprays that add a dramatic touch to any arrangement. For couples seeking to make a statement with their wedding flowers, the pincushion protea is an excellent choice.
Coral Fringe Tulip
Incorporating fringe-tipped tulips into your bridal bouquet can add an unparalleled layer of visual intrigue. The serrated edge on their petals creates a unique texture that catches the eye and adds depth to the overall arrangement. While these flowers come in various colors, we’re particularly fond of the coral variety, whose warm, pinkish hue gradually transitions to a delightful apricot shade near the fringed edges – a true showstopper.
Red Ginger
As creative director of Here Comes the Guide, Jenna Miller extols the virtues of red ginger, likening its unique appearance to a long, shiny pine cone in full bloom. This exotic flower can be showcased solo as a striking centerpiece or used to add an unexpected pop of color to more elaborate arrangements.
Aralia Leaves
Infinite Events, in collaboration with Katie Preftakes Photography, brings us the stunning Aralia plant. Dubbed ‘the new Monstera’, this vibrant green foliage boasts bold, sturdy leaves with unique ‘points’ that evoke a tropical island charm. Imagine using these statement-making greens to create a dramatic beach ceremony arch or layering them across your wedding tables for a sleek, modern centerpiece – perfect for couples seeking a fresh and fashionable twist on traditional decor.
Dyed and Dried Flowers
Elegant arrangements are evolving as designers increasingly focus on incorporating textured greens and fillers that showcase vibrant colors. A creative twist has emerged, where feather-like greens are transformed through bleaching, while wispy fillers are dried and dyed to add depth and dimension to bouquets. This innovative approach not only elevates the aesthetic appeal but also fosters an eco-friendly sentiment. As Rachel Craig Photography’s founder, Rachel, notes, dried flowers allow for eternal preservation, making it a beautiful and environmentally conscious gesture to cherish blooms without the need for disposal.
Greenery
The latest wedding floral trends from 2019 feature lush, flowing greenery that sets the tone for a warm and inviting atmosphere. This trend is perfectly complemented by the incorporation of bold, vibrant colors that add a pop of personality to the overall aesthetic. According to Jaclyn Watson Events’ Jackie Watson, couples are embracing this contrasting approach, opting for a harmonious blend of earthy tones and striking hues that reflect their unique style.
Bold & Colorful Blooms
When it comes to making an event truly unforgettable, unique floral arrangements are key. By incorporating unexpected blooms or foliage, you can create a showstopping focal point that perfectly captures the essence of your special day. Rather than playing it safe with traditional roses, consider mixing things up with different textures and colors to add depth and visual interest. Even if your venue doesn’t have a tropical vibe, incorporating exotic flowers can transport your guests to a more elevated realm. The key is to be bold and creative in your floral design choices, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. With so many talented florists out there, you’re sure to find inspiration for your big day. And if you need a little extra motivation, be sure to check out our list of top NYC wedding florists on Instagram – it’s a great way to get started planning your own floral masterpiece.