Wake Up And Smell The Roses

Moongates, floral clouds, garlands and angular archways – wedding florists across the country share some of their most inspired creations of late.

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Throwing shapes

After a new style became available, Emma at Pitlochry’s Coach House Flowers changed her archway tactics

IMAGES BY SALLY T PHOTOGRAPHY

When Laura and Aran first booked Coach House Flowers, they initially chose a completely different shape for their ceremony floral arch. But when florist Emma at Coach House Flowers ordered a brand new circular moon gate for her business, she couldn’t wait to tell the couple about it. “I phoned Laura to say I thought this shape would actually be better for her wedding,” she recalls.

This was because Laura and Aran were getting married outside by Loch Tay in Perthshire, and Emma believed the moon gate would provide a dramatic backdrop for the vows while still being open enough for guests to be able to appreciate the stunning view of the water during the couple’s nuptials. “They both loved the idea. We agreed that we would make it look as wild and unstructured as possible to ensure it really fitted in with its rugged, romantic surroundings,” says Emma.

Emma used wild forest greenery to give the archway its lush, overgrown look, but softened it with white O’Hara roses and feathery flowers such as snapdragons and astilbe to create a sense of romance and whimsy. “I’m completely in love with O’Hara roses,” enthuses Emma. “They have this lovely old-worldly feel, and they smell amazing. They’re great because they’re more blousy than your average rose, and look more like peonies. Peonies are popular with brides but are only in season for a short amount of time, so O’Hara roses are a fantastic alternative if brides love that larger, garden rose look.”

Mellow yellow