Chicago Wedding Resource Spring/Summer 2018-2019

CHICAGOWEDDINGRESOURCE.COM CHICAGO WEDDING & PARTY RESOURCE SPRING & SUMMER 2019 | 31 8 Award-Winning Locations Serving Chicago & Suburbs 630.719.5186 PhillipsFlowers.com Simply Radiant Image © Andre LaCour Photograph y CW&PR-Dec-2018_Layout 1 11/13/2018 8:15 PM Page 1 1. SHOP IN-SEASON AND LOCAL The best way to prevent droopy flowers is to pick varieties that are in season for your wedding locale and date. Stick to flowers accustomed to the hot summer climate. We tend to move towards orchids and tropical flowers that will hold up better in transportation in the summer months. Plus, local and seasonal blooms are actually more cost effective, so you’ll get more beauty and blooms for your buck. The key is to make sure you are requesting seasonal product. We might be able to get a few peonies in August, but they are so expensive and extremely small compared to May that it is not worth it. While your florist will be able to advise you regarding floral choices for your specific needs, it’s best to avoid fragile flowers. 2. AVOID DELICATE VARIETIES Hydrangea and cafe au lait dahlias are very heat sensitive. Placing those in direct sunlight will shorten their life quickly. Use sturdier florals such as roses, tea roses, pods and tougher blooms to hold up in the heat. Other blooms that are perfect for the summer include orchids, sunflowers, daisies and tougher dahlias varieties. 3. CONSIDER NON-BLOOMS If you’re planning an outdoor summer wedding, you can avoid the wilting flower issue altogether by using alternative decorations. Paper flowers, succulents, lanterns, vines, branches and candles, for instance, are all beautiful options that aren’t affected by the sun. 4. GIVE YOUR FLOWERS EXTRA TLC While nothing can completely prevent your flowers from being impacted by the weather, there are a few preventive steps you can take. Always try to keep flowers in shade until last minute. If you are taking pictures before your wedding outside, consider having a second bouquet made as a back up, if first gets too hot during this time. Also have centerpieces created where the flowers are in direct water versus using floral foam. © CTW Features FLOWERS & DECORATIONS Seasons of Love Choose the bloom you love, of course. These flowers will be widely available – and less costly – in the following seasons: SPRING Cherry Blossom Daffodil Forsythia Freesia (available year round) Hyacinth Lilac Lily-of-the-Valley Peony Sweet Pea (into early summer) Tulip SUMMER Calla Lily Dahlia Gardenia Gerbera Daisy Gladiola Delphinium Hydrangea Lily Sunflower Tuber Rose FALL Amaranthus Aster Berries (such as holly) Calla Lily Chrysanthemum Grapevine Hydrangea WINTER Amaryllis Evergreen Gardenia (a summer flower that’s popular in the winter) Rose Star of Bethlehem Tulip (late winter)