After a steady stream of pastels, rustic mason jars, and wildflower-inspired designs the past few years, here at Love ‘n Fresh we’re seeing a decided turn towards “sexy vintage glam” in wedding flowers this season and next. This shift might have a little something to do with me nudging clients this direction since I really am smitten with this new look. Who wouldn’t be inspired by this drama?

Colors

In contrast to the past few years of peach and blush at the forefront, the trending colors for florals here in our area in 2014 are deep, saturate, moody hues of oxblood, ruby, plum, burgundy, gray, deed fuchsia, burnt orange and royal blue with lots of rich greens in the way of foliage. Some brides are asking for just the deep sexy tones, which is awesomely daring in my opinion, while others are playing it a bit safer by punctuating this rich jewel-tone palette with the more familiar blush, peach, and coral.

Containers

Mixed vintage and tarnished metals are all the rage at the moment, harkening back to the Great Gatsby and Downtown Abbey. Gone is the humble mason jar, being replaced by bowls and compotes in mixed metals. Rose gold is very popular and is quickly taking over the previously popular silver mercury glass. But the metallic I’m most excited about is burnished copper. It makes any flower look like a million bucks.

Flowers

The popularity of the dahlia is ever on the rise and I’m sure it will be the top flower in weddings this coming year. The always popular and lovely ranunculus and peony show no signs of slowing down though. Interesting and delicate filler flowers are getting more of a foothold, including nigella, poppy pods, and queen anne’s lace. There are lots of new foliages available now that will start showing up more in high-end floral designs this season, including heirloom begonia leaves, purple kale, and hibiscus.

Style

A lush, rambling, unstructured arrangement is much more popular with Love ‘n Fresh brides these days than the more traditional, structured “ball”. This “garden-style” trend is on the rise, and I’m certain it’s here to stay for awhile.

Origin

Locally-grown flowers are becoming very popular as the “farm-to-centerpiece” movement gains momentum. About 80% of the flowers sold in the US are grown and shipped in from out of the country, often from South America. In just the past few years, there has become a greater focus on supporting local, small American flower farms and more and more brides are choosing this more sustainable option when decorating their big day. Love ‘n Fresh Flowers has been at the forefront of this trend for the past five years by custom-growing our clients’ flowers, and we’re really excited to see demand increase for locally-grown materials. Flowers from a small local farm are always seasonally-appropriate, extra fresh, fragrant, and highly unique when compared to the ho-hum traditional rose bouquet.