What flowers should not be in a wedding bouquet?

Short answer

Avoid flowers with strong scents, heavy pollen, or toxic sap, especially if anyone has allergies or children are near. Also skip blooms that wilt quickly in heat, like gardenias or hydrangeas, unless you have a cool venue and a florist who can prep them well.

The main flowers to avoid are those that cause allergic reactions, such as lilies, which have heavy pollen, and scented blooms like hyacinths or freesias, which can be overwhelming in a small space. Also steer clear of toxic flowers like foxgloves, delphiniums, and oleander, particularly if you have young flower girls or guests who might touch them. Some blooms, like gardenias, hydrangeas, and peonies, bruise and droop quickly in warm weather, so they are risky for summer weddings unless your florist uses special conditioning.

Think about the practical side too. Flowers with thorns, like roses, need their thorns removed to avoid scratched hands. Avoid anything with a strong drip, such as amaryllis, which can stain your dress. If you have a specific flower in mind but are unsure, ask your florist for a safe alternative that looks similar.

Finally, check with your venue and registrar about any restrictions on flowers, especially if you are having a civil ceremony. Some venues ban certain flowers because they stain carpets or attract bees. Your florist will know what works locally and what is in season, so trust their advice over a Pinterest board.