Where Are Flowers Typically Used in a Wedding?

Wedding flowers do much more than simply decorate — they create mood, highlight key moments, and tie together the overall aesthetic of your day. If you're just beginning to plan, here are the main areas where flowers and installations are typically used:

1. Ceremony Flowers

The ceremony is where your guests get their first impression and where some of the most meaningful moments happen. Popular ceremony floral elements include:

• Arches or backdrops (floral arches, moon gates, broken arch installations)

• Aisle markers (petite arrangements or posies on chairs or ground)

• Pew or chair decor

• Petals or low floral accents down the aisle

• Welcome sign florals

2. Personal Flowers

These are the flowers carried or worn by the couple and their closest people. They’re small in size, but big in meaning — and frequently photographed!

• Bridal bouquet

• Bridesmaids' bouquets

• Groom’s and groomsmen’s boutonnieres

• Mothers' posies or corsages

• Fathers' boutonnieres

• Flower girl petals or bouquets

• Ring bearer boutonniere or accessories

3. Reception Flowers

After the ceremony, your guests will spend most of their time in the reception space — and flowers here add personality, elegance, and warmth. Common reception floral elements include:

• Centerpieces for guest tables (ranging from simple bud vases to lush, full arrangements)

• Sweetheart or head table arrangements

• Cake flowers

• Escort card or seating chart florals

• Bar or lounge area florals

• Hanging installations or ceiling treatments

4. Cocktail Hour Decor

Though more minimal, adding thoughtful floral touches to your cocktail hour sets the tone:

• Bud vases or small arrangements on cocktail tables

• Florals for signage, bars, or lounges

Flowers can be as simple or extravagant as your style allows — what matters most is choosing the areas that are most important to you. Whether you're going classic, romantic, modern, or wild and whimsical, florals will always help tell your story.