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Peonies, with their lush petals and delightful fragrance, have long been a favorite in wedding bouquets and décor. Their natural elegance and versatility make them a perfect choice for couples looking to add a touch of romance and sophistication to their special day. Peonies are available in a variety of colors, from soft pastels to vibrant hues, allowing them to complement any wedding theme or palette. Their popularity has grown steadily, driven by both their aesthetic appeal and the symbolism they carry—often representing prosperity, good fortune, and happy marriage. As a result, more brides and grooms are opting to include peonies not just in bouquets, but also in centerpieces, arches, and other floral arrangements, making them a cornerstone of wedding floral design.
“Peonies are simply magical. Their fullness, combined with soft, romantic tones, makes them a perfect focal point for bridal bouquets. They have a luxurious quality that instantly elevates the entire floral design.”
— Sarah Winward
Part 1 – The Seasonality of Peonies: When Are Peonies in Season
Q: When are peonies in season?
Expert Answer: Peonies are most abundant in May and June. After that, florists may source from other states or internationally, which can increase the price.
“Peonies are at their best in late spring and early summer. If you’re planning a wedding outside of this window, we always recommend sourcing them from specialized growers who can extend the season.”
— Erin Benzakein (Floret Flowers)
Part 2 – How to Order Peonies for Your Wedding: Expert Advice
Q: How many peonies should I order for my wedding bouquet or arrangements?
Expert Answer: Bridal bouquets typically feature 5–10 stems, while maids of honor or bridesmaids may have 1–3.
“Peonies are statement flowers, and a little goes a long way. For a bridal bouquet, 5 to 7 peonies create a lush, full effect, and when paired with other seasonal blooms, they truly shine.”
— Ariella Chezar
Part 3 – The Meaning Behind Peonies: Symbolism and Tradition
Q: What are peonies associated with?
Expert Answer: Peonies symbolize good fortune, love, happiness, and prosperity, making them a perfect wedding flower.
“Peonies are steeped in tradition, symbolizing a joyful and prosperous marriage. I love working with couples who want to bring that sense of meaning into their floral choices.”
— Holly Chapple (Holly Heider Chapple Flowers)
Part 4 – Creative Ways to Incorporate Peonies into Your Wedding
Q: How can I use peonies in my wedding arrangements?
Expert Answer: Peonies are versatile, ideal for bouquets, centerpieces, and arches. Pair them with other flowers like ranunculus for a unique look.
“Peonies are not just for bouquets. They’re gorgeous in large installations and paired with vines, or as part of a centerpiece with textured greenery. Mixing them with bold colors, like ranunculus or anemones, can give an unexpected twist.”
— Mindy Rice
Part 5 – Planning and Budgeting: When to Order Peonies
Q: When should I order peonies for my wedding?
Expert Answer: Late spring and fall are the best times to source high-quality peonies. Outside these windows, peonies are more costly.
“To get the best quality peonies, I always recommend sourcing them in late spring or early summer. Fall weddings can still feature peonies, but be prepared for higher prices if you’re importing.”
— Nancy Teasley (Oak & the Owl)
Part 6 – Expert Tips for Making the Most of Peonies in Your Wedding
Dos and Don’ts of Using Peonies in Bouquets and Arrangements
Do:
- Hydrate Properly: Peonies need to be adequately hydrated to maintain their freshness throughout the wedding day. Always ensure they have plenty of water, especially during transport and setup.
- Keep Them Cool: To extend their lifespan, keep peonies in a cool environment. A temperature-controlled space can prevent them from wilting prematurely.
- Condition in Advance: To achieve a lush, open bloom, consider conditioning the peonies a few days before the event. This will allow them to open beautifully and fully complement your arrangements.
Don’t:
- Expose to Excessive Heat: Avoid placing peonies in direct sunlight or hot areas. Heat can hasten their blooming process and lead to quick wilting.
- Overcrowd in Arrangements: While peonies are stunning and full, avoid packing them too tightly. Giving them space to breathe enhances their natural beauty and helps maintain their structure.
- Forget Maintenance: Check on peonies regularly. Ensure the stems are always submerged in water and trim as needed to facilitate maximum hydration.
“Peonies need special care to last through your wedding day. Hydrate them well and keep them cool. For a more open look, condition them a few days ahead, and they’ll bloom beautifully in time for your event.”
— Eddie Zaratsian
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section:
Q: Can peonies be used in winter weddings?
Expert Answer: Winter peonies are harder to source, but if available, they are often from international growers, and the cost can be significantly higher.
“For winter weddings, we often source peonies from countries like Chile or New Zealand. The logistics may add to your budget, but for peony lovers, it’s worth every penny!”
— David Beahm
Q: How long do peonies last in arrangements?
Expert Answer: Freshly cut peonies can last up to a week in proper conditions.
“With the right care, peonies can last five to seven days in arrangements, but it’s essential to hydrate them properly and keep them away from heat.”
— Laura Dowling
Q: What colors of peonies are available for weddings?
Expert Answer: Peonies come in shades ranging from white, blush, pink, red, coral, and even deep burgundy.
“The range of peony colors is amazing, and each hue offers something different. Blush peonies evoke romance, while deeper reds bring a dramatic, moody effect to wedding décor.”
— Grace Rose Farm
In conclusion, incorporating peonies into your wedding is a beautiful way to symbolize love, prosperity, and happiness. Their luxurious blooms and diverse color palette can transform any wedding setting, from vibrant centerpieces to elegant bouquets. With proper planning and care, you can ensure that these stunning flowers remain fresh and vibrant throughout your special day.
Whole Blossoms: Your Source for Fresh Cut Peonies
When it comes to sourcing high-quality peonies for your wedding, look no further than Whole Blossoms. As a trusted provider of fresh cut flowers, Whole Blossoms offers a wide variety of peonies in different shades and sizes to suit your wedding theme. From late spring selections to hard-to-find winter blooms, they provide reliable options that ensure your arrangements reflect your vision perfectly. Explore their collection and let your wedding be graced by the timeless beauty of peonies.