Floral Magic: The Blooming Beauty of Edmonton Weddings
As a wedding planner in Edmonton, I get to witness some of the most beautiful moments in life—couples saying “I do” surrounded by flowers that create an enchanting atmosphere. Let’s face it: flowers make a wedding. Whether it’s the bouquet the bride carries or the lush arrangements that adorn the reception tables, florals have a magical way of transforming any space.
So, if you're planning a wedding in Edmonton during the summer, you’re in for a real treat. Not only do we have gorgeous local blooms, but the choices are endless. Here’s a breakdown of the floral world in Edmonton, including everything from what’s in season, to the best ways to keep your floral budget in check—and whether faux florals might just be your new best friend.
Local Blooms: What's in Season in Edmonton's Summer?
Ah, summer in Edmonton—longer days, the sun finally showing itself, and flowers bursting into life. Some of the most stunning and accessible flowers are grown right here in our province. In the warmer months, you can expect to see a bounty of beautiful blooms like:
Peonies: These are the wedding flower. Incredibly lush, with petals that practically scream romance. The best part? They’re locally grown and available during June and July.
Roses: Timeless and elegant, you’ll find these beauties popping up everywhere. Edmonton’s growers have got some truly stunning varieties, and they’re available throughout the summer.
Lilies: Available in a range of colors, these are perfect for adding a touch of class and elegance to any wedding arrangement.
Dahlias: These quirky, multi-petaled flowers make for a gorgeous, unique addition to any bouquet.
Sunflowers: For couples looking for a fun and cheerful vibe, sunflowers are available locally and are perfect for outdoor summer weddings.
Lavender: Aromatic and beautiful, lavender adds a calming touch to your floral designs and can be used for both the bouquet and ceremony decor.
These are just a few of the local flowers that Edmonton has to offer. But as lovely as they are, there are a few things to consider when picking your flowers—namely, cost.
The Cost of Florals: Why Are Some Flowers So Expensive?
We all know that flowers can come with a hefty price tag. But why are some more expensive than others, especially during the summer? The answer lies in both demand and availability.
For example, peonies are a fan favorite during the wedding season. However, they have a short window of availability—usually only from late June to early July. That means florists have to rush to get their hands on these beauties, which drives up the price. Similarly, flowers like ranunculus and garden roses can be expensive because they’re often imported from other places. When demand is high and supply is limited, prices climb.
Then there’s the labor involved. If you're working with a florist to create custom arrangements, the cost of the labor involved in designing and assembling those bouquets or centerpieces can add to the expense. But hey, you’re paying for expert-level artistry, and that’s worth something, right?
Costco Florals: The Budget-Friendly Option?
Now, let’s talk about Costco florals—because, let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good Costco run? You can’t argue with the prices. Costco offers bulk florals that are both affordable and convenient, but there are some pros and cons to consider before filling up your cart.
The Pros of Costco Florals:
Affordable: The most obvious perk—Costco flowers are a fraction of the cost of ordering through a florist. For couples on a tighter budget, Costco’s bulk packages can help stretch the wedding budget further.
Convenient: You get to pick up your flowers in person, which can be a bonus for some. No need to schedule multiple appointments with a florist.
Freshness: Costco’s flowers tend to be very fresh (just make sure to plan to get them as close to the event as possible), and they often come in large quantities.
The Cons of Costco Florals:
Limited Selection: While Costco has a great selection, it’s not nearly as varied or customizable as what a professional florist could offer. So, if you have a very specific vision for your wedding, you might be limited.
DIY Stress: While the budget savings are tempting, keep in mind that you’ll be responsible for arranging those flowers yourself. For some, this is a fun DIY project; for others, it’s a disaster waiting to happen. And who wants to be arranging flowers the day before their wedding?
Lack of Expertise: Florists are experts at knowing which flowers pair well together, what colors will complement your wedding theme, and how to ensure your flowers last through the entire event. With Costco, you’re on your own.
Faux Florals: The New Trend?
Let’s talk about faux florals. Once upon a time, faux flowers had a bit of a bad reputation, but they’re making a serious comeback in weddings. Here’s why you might want to consider them:
The Pros of Faux Florals:
No Worries About Wilting: Faux florals will look perfect all day, no matter how hot the weather is. You won’t need to worry about them wilting or losing their shape mid-ceremony.
Cost-Effective: In the long run, faux florals can be a great investment because you can keep them as keepsakes after the wedding. Plus, they’re often cheaper than fresh flowers.
Customization: Faux florals can be made to match your exact vision. You can order specific colors or types of flowers that may not be in season or even ones that are hard to find locally.
Allergy-Friendly: No sneezing fits here! If you or any of your guests have floral allergies, faux flowers are a great alternative.
The Cons of Faux Florals:
Not Quite the Same as Fresh: There’s just something about the look and smell of fresh flowers that faux florals can’t replicate—no matter how advanced the faux options get.
Perceived Lack of Luxury: Some guests might view faux florals as “less-than,” though that’s changing. As the quality of faux blooms improves, this perception is fading.
Storage: You’ll need to store faux flowers carefully to keep them looking pristine, especially if you plan on reusing them.
Wrapping It Up: The Floral Touch
At the end of the day, flowers—whether fresh or faux—add an undeniable touch of beauty and magic to any wedding. And the great thing is, whether you go for bulk florals from Costco, hire a floral designer to create show-stopping arrangements, or embrace the convenience of faux flowers, there’s a solution for every couple.
From locally grown peonies to sunflowers brightening up a reception, your floral arrangements should reflect your personality, your style, and most importantly, your budget. With so many options at your fingertips, every couple can find something that’s just right—because weddings are about making memories, and flowers are the perfect way to do just that.
So, whether you’re a DIY floral enthusiast or a “leave it to the professionals” kind of couple, know this: florals are more than just decor—they’re the heart and soul of your wedding day. And honestly, who can resist a flower-filled celebration? 🌸