Floral Checklist
Flowers
The Englishman points with pride to Stratford-on-Avon, the home of Shakespeare, the world’s greatest poet. The American is equally proud of Mt. Vernon, the home of Washington, ‘Father of his country’; and we Kentuckians believe our State to be the garden spot of the world.
- Alexander Walters, bishop of African Methodist Episcopal Church, in My Life and Work, 1917
Oh how true that Kentucky be mentioned as the garden spot of the world. Its beauty is breathtaking with Bluegrass and flowers abundant. As a Kentucky bride, you are so fortunate to have incredible florists and floral designers right here in the state. They will work with you, no matter the budget, to help design and create the look you desire for your wedding.
As you begin interviewing florists, make sure to bring with you ideas, swatches and/or pictures of your gown and bridesmaids. If you simply cannot grasp a concept, don’t worry, your florist is experienced and will help offer suggestions to get you started. It is best to become prepared knowing the number of attendants you will have, flower girls, ring bearer, groomsmen, parents, etc. This will make the meeting run smoothly. As always, be honest about your budget, so your designer can show you options that work best for you.
Listed below is a guideline to assist you when deciding the flowers needed for your wedding. Keep in mind some facilities may have policies on throwing loose petals, aisle runners, and clean up. Before meeting with your florist, know the facility guidelines. This is especially true if you are getting married in a church or synagogue.
Flowers make an amazing statement regardless of the number and size. Enjoy this portion of the planning. Nothing is more beautiful!
Wedding Party
- Bride’s Bouquet – traditionally paid for by groom
- Bridesmaid’s Bouquets
- Flower Girls
- Hand-Tied, Wrist or Corsages for Mothers and Grandmothers – traditionally paid for by groom
- Boutonnières – Groom, Groomsmen, Ushers, Ring Bearer, Fathers, and Grandfathers – traditionally paid for by groom
- Readers
- Cantor/Soloist
- Godparents
- Program Attendants
- Officiant or Clergy only when appropriate
Ceremony
- Aisle Runner
- Archways
- Chupah (Jewish Ceremony) or Mandap (Indian Ceremony)
- Aisle, Pews, Chairs
- Altar Arrangements
- Honoring Deceased Family Members
- Religious Adoration Flowers (Christian Ceremony)
- Candles
- Unity Stand Arrangement
- Entrances on Doors
- Railings outside the church, synagogue or ceremony location
Reception
- Guest Tables Sweetheart or Head Table
- Escort Table (place cards)
- Guest Book Area
- Railings outside the reception location
- Toss Bouquet
- Restrooms
- Cake Table
- Bars
- Buffets
- Dance Floor
- Arrangements on Mantles or similar structures
- Entry or Doorway
- Cocktail Hour if in separate room
- Hors d’ oeuvres trays or Food Stations
Heaven is a Kentucky of a place
- an anonymous preacher quoted in The WPS Guide to Kentucky, 1939
