Congratulations, you have found the dress! But now comes the next big question: what are you going to hold?

January is always a huge month for wedding planning, and one thing I notice during consultations is that while many brides have a clear idea of their colour palette, they are often unsure about the actual shape of their bouquet.

With Pinterest offering millions of images, it can be overwhelming. Do you go big and wild? Neat and tidy? Trailing and dramatic?

As a florist, I always tell my brides that your bouquet is your ultimate accessory. It shouldn't just be beautiful; it needs to work in harmony with your height, your style, and crucially, the silhouette of your dress.

To help you decide, I’ve broken down the four most popular bouquet styles I create, and who they work best for.

1. The Hand-Tied Bouquet (The Modern Classic)

This is, without a doubt, the most popular style I get asked for, and for good reason. A hand-tied bouquet is exactly what it sounds like: a collection of blooms spiralled together by hand and tied with ribbon, leaving the stems exposed.

The Vibe: While it can be done neatly, the modern trend is for a "loose," organic, and garden-inspired look. Think lots of texture, mixed foliage, and flowers that look like they’ve just been gathered from a meadow.

Best For: Almost everyone! It is incredibly versatile. A loose hand-tied bouquet looks stunning with Boho dresses, A-line skirts, and relaxed chiffon gowns. It adds texture without being too formal.

2. The Shower or Cascade Bouquet (The Statement Maker)

The shower bouquet is having a massive resurgence. Traditionally associated with 1980s royalty (think Princess Diana), the modern version is far softer, greener, and more romantic. It features flowers that trail downwards from the main cluster, creating a teardrop shape.

The Vibe: Dramatic, luxurious, and timeless. It creates a real "wow" factor as you walk down the aisle.

Best For: This shape balances out volume perfectly. It looks incredible against a full Ballgown or a Princess silhouette. However, it also works beautifully with a very plain, sleek column dress, where the flowers become the main detail.

3. The Posy (The Minimalist)

If you are a bride who believes "less is more," the posy is for you. This is a smaller, rounder arrangement, often with very little foliage, focusing purely on the flower heads.

The Vibe: Elegant, traditional, and understated. It’s easy to carry and won't weigh you down.

Best For: If your dress has intricate details on the front, like heavy beading, lace, or a statement belt, a posy is perfect because it won't hide the dress! It’s also a great choice for petite brides who don't want to be overwhelmed by a massive arrangement.

4. The Pageant or Presentation Bouquet (The Vintage Choice)

This is a style we are seeing more of recently. Also known as the "arm sheaf," this bouquet is made of long-stemmed flowers (like Calla Lilies, Delphiniums, or Roses) designed to be cradled in the crook of your arm, rather than held in front of you.

The Vibe: Vintage glamour and high-fashion elegance.

Best For: This looks striking with slim-fitting dresses or vintage 1920s/30s silhouettes. It creates distinct, clean lines that look wonderful in photos.

A Final Tip from Me

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules. It’s your day!

When you come for a consultation with me, bringing a picture of your dress is the single most helpful thing you can do. Once I see the fabric and the shape, I can guide you toward the flowers that will enhance your look perfectly.

Whether you want a giant, wild arrangement or a neat, chic posy, let's chat about creating the perfect accessory for your big day.