How do I do DIY wedding flowers?

DIY wedding flowers can save money and feel personal, but they take planning. Start by choosing flowers that are in season and known to last. Roses, chrysanthemums, carnations, and greenery like eucalyptus are forgiving. Avoid very delicate blooms that bruise easily.

Buy your flowers from a local market, a flower farm, or a supermarket. Ask when they get fresh deliveries. You can also grow your own, but have a backup plan if the weather is poor. Order or pick your flowers two days before the wedding. Trim the stems at an angle and put them in clean water with flower food. Keep them in a cool place, out of direct sun.

The day before, arrange your bouquets, buttonholes and centrepieces. Use floral tape and ribbon for bouquets. For table flowers, simple jars or bottles look charming. Have a bucket of water for each arrangement and keep them in a cool room overnight.

On the day, assign a friend or family member to place the flowers at the venue and hand out buttonholes. Make sure someone knows where everything goes. Practice one bouquet beforehand so you know the technique. Keep it simple, and don't aim for perfection.