Formulating florals.

I have thought about flowers, but haven't made up my mind about anything. I haven't even met with a florist yet. I've noticed that most brides these days carry posy bouquets, which got me thinking about other possibilities. There are so many more presentations than the typical posy (round) bouquet, so I thought I'd post a little Bouquet 101.

1. Posy/Nosegay. Pictured is a typical posy bouquet. Both posy and nosegay bouquets are round in shape and generally petite. The nosegay typically has other foliage or greenery and is smaller. Bouquets are sometimes mounted in a tussie-mussie, which is a Victorian silver cone-shaped vase. Sometimes people use the words posy and tussie-mussie synonymously, though the latter actually refers to the holder. Posy bouquets are also sometimes called round bouquets.
2. Biedermeier. The Biedermeier, named after the German style of interior decorating, is a round bouquet that features flowers of different type or color arranged in concentric rings. Usually each ring is a single type or color.
3. Arm Sheaf/Presentation. Also known as a Bernhardt, inspired by bouquets given to the actress, this bouquet contains long stemmed flowers that the bride carries cradled in her arm.
4. Brooch. Originally created/popularized by Amanda Jane, a brooch bouquet is typically made out of vintage (or heirloom) brooches, sometimes incorporating silk or floral flowers. Any sort of trinket can be incorporated into the bouquet including wine corks, earrings, buttons, etc. Brooch bouquets can be kept forever as heirloom keepsakes...but keep in mind, they can get pretty heavy!
5. Composite. Dating back to the early 20th century, a single, large flower is constructed out of hundreds of individual petals wired together. It is a very time-consuming and expensive process but makes for a big impact.
6. Cascading. My grandmother carried a cascading bouquet. Also known as a shower or teardrop, this bouquet was very popular between 1910-1930. This is the most formal and traditional bouquet, designed to spill gracefully over the bride's hands and trail downward. Princess Diana carried this bouquet.
7. Pomander. Typically carried by flower girls or junior bridesmaids, the pomander or kissing ball is a ball of blooms suspended from a loop of ribbon. They are also often used as wedding decor.
8. Hand-Tied. Simple, yet classic, the hand-tied bouquet is a simple gathering of loose flowers simply bound with stems exposed. Also known as a clutch bouquet.

There are a number of less popular bouquets that I did not include in this list including the fan, crescent, muff, and ballerina. You can read about them here.

Luv,
the Bride

Sources: Toss the Bouquet!, Bunchesdirect, Perfect Wedding Day, The Language of Flowers, Wedding Flowers and Reception Ideas