Why Vibrant Palettes are Making a Comeback for Summer Weddings
While I'll always have a soft spot for the timeless elegance of a classic white and green wedding, I have to confess, the recent trend towards vibrant, joyful colour palettes has been incredibly exciting to work with. It feels like couples are ready to truly express their personalities through their flowers, and I, for one, am thrilled to be a part of it.
Here in Northern Ireland, we’re blessed with such a magnificent, green landscape. It’s the perfect canvas. And this summer, I’m seeing more and more couples choosing to paint on that canvas with the most incredible, joyful colours. There’s a new confidence in the air, a desire to create a wedding day that feels less about tradition and more about a pure, unadulterated celebration of love. And what better way to do that than with flowers that feel truly alive?
From Muted to Magnificent
For a while, the wedding world was dominated by soft blushes, muted tones, and subtle pastels. And while beautiful, there's a definite shift happening. This summer, it’s all about creating an atmosphere of pure joy, and that’s being translated into the language of flowers.
Think sunset-inspired palettes of fiery oranges, sunshine yellows, and deep, romantic magenta pinks. Or, for a touch of drama, electric delphinium blues and rich purples paired with softer lilacs. These aren't just colours; they are moods. They create energy and a sense of wonder, turning a beautiful day into an unforgettable one.
Bringing a Vibrant Vision to Life in June
June is a spectacular month for colour. The gardens and flower markets are literally overflowing with possibilities. Some of my absolute favourites to work with for a vibrant summer wedding include:
- Peonies: Of course! While known for their soft pink and white tones, they also come in the most stunning, vibrant coral and deep raspberry hues. They add a touch of romance and luxury to any bold bouquet.
- Delphiniums & Lupins: These provide those incredible spires of blue and purple that are so hard to find elsewhere in nature. They add height, drama, and a touch of that wildflower magic.
- Garden Roses: Forget just pale pink! I'm sourcing the most incredible garden roses in shades of golden mustard, burnt orange, and hot pink. Their scent is just as intoxicating as their colour.
- Ranunculus: These multi-petalled beauties come in almost every colour imaginable, from brilliant yellow to fiery tangerine orange, making them perfect for adding pops of intense colour.
The key to a vibrant palette is balance. It's not about throwing every colour under the sun together. It's about a considered, artistic approach. I love pairing hot, fiery tones with softer, complementary shades to create depth and sophistication. Imagine a bouquet of coral peonies and orange ranunculus, with little hints of soft blue forget-me-nots peeking through – it’s that balance that makes it sing.
More Than Just a Bouquet
This trend extends far beyond your own flowers. It’s about creating a cohesive, immersive experience for you and your guests.
- The Wedding Party: Imagine your bridesmaids in elegant, neutral dresses, their bouquets providing a stunning, unified pop of colour. Or think of the groom's buttonhole – a single, perfect, vibrant bloom that hints at the floral story to come.
- The Ceremony: A vibrant floral arch or dramatic pedestal arrangements can frame your "I do's" beautifully, creating a breathtaking focal point that will look incredible in your photographs.
- The Reception: This is where we can have some real fun! From colourful bud vases scattered across tables to a show-stopping floral installation over the dance floor or top table, vibrant flowers can completely transform a venue and create an instant party atmosphere.
If you’re planning your wedding and dreaming of a day that feels uniquely you, perhaps a vibrant, colourful floral story is the way to tell it. Don't be afraid to step away from the traditional and embrace a palette that reflects your own joy and personality.
I'd love to hear your thoughts – are you team classic and neutral, or are you falling for the allure of a bolder celebration? Let me know in the comments below!
David