The cattleya, also known as the corsage orchid, is the one that most people think of when considering orchids. It comes in white, pink, purple, yellow, and a few striped varieties. It sports large frilled blooms and has a wonderful tropical fragrance.
The dendrobium is known more commonly as the Singapore orchid. This type of orchid has ten or more delicate flowers on each spray and comes in cream, purple, green, red, and striped varieties. Its smaller blooms lend themselves to more dainty and refined arrangements.
The phalaenopsis has a flat, oval shaped flower on a long stem. It can be found in white, pink, purple, and yellow. This orchid is sometimes called a moth orchid,as the petals resemble the fluttering wings of a moth
Orchid wedding flowers can be used in any type of ceremony to add sophistication and elegance. Due to their high cost, most brides choose to use a single cattleya bloom as the centerpiece of another arrangement such as a bridal bouquet or headpiece. Dendrobium orchids would look beautiful arranged in plain cylindrical vases as altar arrangements or reception decorations. Phalaenopsis orchids look lovely mixed with other flowers in the brides or bridesmaids bouquets.
Where orchid wedding flowers really shine is at a beach themed wedding. Their fragrance and appearance make them perfect highlights for the surf, sand, and tropical ambience of a seaside ceremony. Loose orchids can be used as reception-table decorations and buffet accents. All species of orchids blend beautifully with seashells for stunning decorations and emphasis. For example, place wooden bowls or glass dishes filled with orchids on your reception tables.
If you are traveling to the tropics for your wedding, think about using halved coconuts as your vases to create an island flair. Mark off the different areas of the beach ceremony with large vases of mixed types of orchids ringed by seashells. Place two large arrangements on either side of where the bride and groom will exchange their vows. Orchid leis are another great island decoration, and they can be worn by the bridal party or used as table decorations. Orchids would lend drama and sophistication to any arbor or arch, especially if paired with dark greenery.
Orchids do have a reputation for being expensive and delicate, but as theyre becoming more popular and less rare, prices are starting to drop. Make sure you are working with a reputable professional who has experience with exotic flowers. For example, if you are getting married on the golden beaches of Hawaii, look for a local florist who specializes in orchids. Many offer package deals for all your wedding flowers, and some will handle all the ceremony details as well.
Spend some time researching orchids before you select the variety you want as your wedding flower. Many websites and books are available showing pictures of the blooms and the types of arrangements that are possible. Tropical travel magazines and brochures are great places to look for orchids. Cut out the pictures that appeal to you. That way you can give your florist examples of the type of orchid that matches your style.
The choice of an orchid wedding flower will require research and preparation on your part, but for beauty and fragrance, orchids are more than worth it.