Wedding Flowers for Filipino Brides: A Guide to Local and Imported Varieties 2024

Wedding flowers play a crucial role in any bridal celebration, and in Filipino culture, they carry even more significance. Flowers are used for various reasons, from decorations to symbolize the couple’s love, to adornments that reflect their cultural heritage. It is essential to select the right flowers to ensure that they convey the right message and resonate with the bride and groom. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both local and imported flower varieties that are perfect for Filipino brides. Each flower has its unique meaning and significance, and we will provide tips on how to incorporate them into your wedding decor.

Local Flower Varieties for Weddings

List of Common Local Flowers

• Sampaguita: The national flower of the Philippines, symbolizing purity, simplicity, and humility. It is also known as the flower of love.
• Rosal: A popular choice for wedding bouquets, symbolizing love, beauty, and purity. It is a classic flower that has been used in Filipino weddings for generations.
• Waling-Waling: A rare and expensive orchid, that symbolizes beauty, elegance, and perfection. It is considered the queen of Philippine orchids and is highly sought after by brides.
• Gumamela: A versatile flower that comes in various colors, representing friendship, love, and beauty. It is a favorite among brides and florists because of its vibrant colors and hardiness.

Tips on How to Incorporate Local Flowers

• Use sampaguita as a garland for the bride or groom’s car or as a hair accessory for the bride. It is a simple yet elegant way to incorporate a touch of Filipino culture into your wedding.
• Create a stunning floral arch using rosal, waling-waling, and gumamela. It is an excellent backdrop for photos and a beautiful way to add color and texture to your wedding decor.
• Add gumamela to your centerpieces for a pop of color and texture. It is a versatile flower that can be used in various arrangements.

Imported Varieties for Wedding Flowers

List of Popular Imported Flowers

• Roses: A classic choice for weddings, symbolizing love, passion, and romance. It is available in various colors and is perfect for bouquets, centerpieces, and boutonnieres.
• Peonies: A popular choice for bridal bouquets, symbolizing happiness, prosperity, and good fortune. It is a delicate and romantic flower that adds a touch of elegance to any wedding decor.
• Tulips: A symbol of true love, tulips come in a variety of colors and are perfect for wedding centerpieces. It is a versatile flower that can be used alone or mixed with other flowers for a stunning display.
• Calla Lilies: A sophisticated and elegant flower, representing purity, faith, and admiration. It is a popular choice for modern brides who want a simple yet elegant bouquet.

Considerations When Choosing Imported Flowers

When choosing imported flowers, consider the following:

• Availability: Imported flowers may not always be available in the Philippines, so it is best to check with your florist ahead of time.
• Cost: Imported flowers can be expensive, so consider your budget carefully. You can opt to use them sparingly or mix them with local flowers to keep the cost down.
• Seasonality: Some imported flowers may not be in season during your wedding date, so it is essential to choose flowers that are available during your wedding month.

Creating Stunning Wedding Flower Arrangements

Tips on How to Mix Local and Imported Flowers

• Choose a color scheme that complements your wedding theme. It is essential to select flowers that blend well with your overall wedding decor.
• Use local flowers as the base and add imported flowers for a pop of color and variety. It is an excellent way to showcase your cultural heritage while adding an international flair to your wedding arrangements.
• Create a balanced arrangement by mixing different flower sizes and textures. It is essential to add depth and dimension to your arrangements for a more stunning display.

Suggestions for Different Types of Wedding Arrangements

• Bouquets: Choose a bouquet that complements your wedding dress and reflects your personal style. You can opt for a classic bouquet or a modern one, depending on your preference.
• Centerpieces: Add a touch of elegance to your reception tables with stunning floral centerpieces. You can mix and match flowers or stick to a single variety for a more cohesive look.
• Boutonnieres: Create unique boutonnieres using local flowers and imported flowers. It is an excellent way to incorporate your cultural heritage into your wedding attire.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wedding flowers is an important decision for any bride. By incorporating both local and imported flower varieties, you can create stunning arrangements that reflect your cultural heritage and personal style. Remember to consider availability, cost, and seasonality when choosing imported flowers, and use local flowers as the base for your arrangements. With these tips and suggestions, you can create beautiful and memorable wedding flower arrangements that will be cherished for years to come.