Wedding Flowers: Calla Lilies & Orchids
- According to the History of Wedding Flowers, flowers have not always been used in weddings. At one time, brides used herbs and garlic. People believed that these herbs and garlic kept evil spirits away from the couple. The first recorded use of flowers at weddings was among the ancient Greeks. The bridesmaids made garlands, bouquets and boutonnieres. They also used plants and flowers to make a crown for the bride. This crown was regarded a gift from nature.
- Countries have different traditions using flowers in their ceremonies. The term "flower girl" comes from England, where a young girl leads the bride, along with her bridesmaids, to the church. The flower girl drops flowers along the way so the bride's life will have flowers and happiness. In a traditional German ceremony, the bridal couple holds candles that have flowers and ribbons tied on them. In a traditional Swedish ceremony, the bridesmaids carry small bouquets of herbs, and the groom has thyme in his pockets. The aroma of the herbs is supposed to scare off trolls.
- According to the Wedding Flowers Guide, the word "calla" means beauty. This flower is originally from South Africa. Brides should not have a problem getting them for their wedding any time of the year since they are now grown throughout the world. According to Planting Flower Bulbs, calla lilies come in several bright colors as well as white. Calla lilies can be off white, green, pink, burgundy, peach, orange, yellow and black. And while most calla lilies have leaves that are heart shaped and dark green, some hybrid calla lilies have spotted leaves.
- According to Wedding Flower Guide, the Singapore orchid is a top orchid choice among brides. It is white and purple. Use them in garlands and to complement other flowers. If your colors are white, yellow, pink or pale green, you may prefer the cymbidium orchid. Cymbidium orchids have large heads and waxy petals. This orchid is also wilt resistant, a positive quality for a summer wedding flower. Another choice is the Vanda orchid. It is found in Malaysia, Thailand, Borneo and the Philippines. This orchid has five petals that range in color from blue and purple to spotted white. You can also choose the Phalaenopsis orchid, which has large, white flowers that have yellow in the lip. This orchid comes from South Asia, Southeast Asia and East Asia.
- When you choose flowers, one aspect to consider is the relative formality of your wedding. Calla lilies and orchids are often used in formal ceremonies. The color of your bridesmaids' dresses is another consideration. You may want flowers that match their dresses or at least are complementary to them. How well your flowers will hold up to the elements is another consideration, particularly if you are having an outdoor summer wedding.