Alternative

There are so many parts and details to any given wedding, it must be assumed that some are totally superfluous. For me, one detail I really don't care about are flowers. I think flower are lovely. I am getting married right after Easter, and the church will be full of them. However, I just cannot justify them as a major budget item. I have plans for flowerless centerpieces (more on that later) and am currently working through flower alternatives for the wedding party.

For the groom, his men, and our fathers, I have found this lovely how-to thanks to Ms. Ferris Wheel and intend to make my own version of these boutonnieres for the big day. They can be made in advance, won't cost an arm and a leg, and should stand up to a full day of hugs and dancing without looking smooshed or wilty.




Picture thanks to Ms. Ferris Wheel

 Now, for the bridesmaids, I cannot make up my mind. There are SO many options out there!

There are paper bouquets, like these from and greenweddingshoes.




Photo and how-to by greenweddingshoes.com



I really like these, but why if you are going to carry flowers why not live ones? That will live on.... Like these!

Photo by Troy Grover from greenweddignshoes.com

Why even mess with flowers at all when there are great options like these:

Photo from Offbeatbride.com (shop)

CANDLES!



Photo via Sheila Hallatt

 HANDBAGS!

Photo from weddingbee.com

PARASOLS!



Photo by Mighty 5146 from Offbeatbride.com

 FANS!

Clearly there are lots of options. Clearly, I need to do some narrowing down. I asked MOH MD if she had any suggestions for flower alternatives for the bridesmaids. After giving me a funny look she suggested this:

(Photo via Chicagoist.com)

HA! She is soooo funny. Maybe the bag-o-wine is not such a bad idea!

Are you using bouquet alternatives? Which ones?