5 Floral Design Ideas for a Picnic-Themed Wedding

Many couples are looking to cut costs when it comes to their big day, whether because they’re saving for a down payment on a home, they want to keep some funds for the honeymoon, or they don’t care to blow their whole savings on a single gathering. And simple, outdoor affairs may provide the answer since renting a public park or even hosting in a large backyard are bound to be less expensive than laying out the cash for a traditional venue. A picnic theme can take the savings even a step further and provide a fun way for couples to keep the day casual and intimate. But when it comes to the floral design for your picnic-themed wedding, you might be at something of a loss as to how to proceed, especially if you’ve decided to go boho with blankets on the grass for the reception. So here are a few ideas that are sure to wow the guests and make the most of your outdoor space.

1. Bowers. These flower-studded arches are more than simply decorative; they can also provide shady spots for your guests to lounge and eat (or take photos). If your outdoor venue has a lot of trees, though, you could turn the traditional idea of a bower into something more organic by hanging cascading floral arrangements from branches and setting up tables or blankets underneath for guests to sit and eat.
2. Urns. If you simply want to stud your outdoor space with bursts of color, but you don’t necessarily have tables, chairs, or other places to affix flowers or set vases, you might instead place several urns around the outdoor venue, perhaps in a makeshift perimeter or simple placed casually throughout your “seating” area. You could fill them with a variety of potted plants or simply place vases with cut floral arrangements inside.
3. Decorated planks. If you decide to include picnic tables and benches as part of your reception, you might find vases of flowers a touch too formal for the event. In this case, stick with the rustic theme by placing wooden planks down the center of the table, festooned with flowering vines for a natural and organic feel. You could even nestle flameless candles or glass ornaments in the foliage for additional decoration on the centerpieces.
4. Garlands. You could incorporate some wedding favors into your floral theme by setting up a garland station with a variety of flowers for guests to weave into pretty headwear. The ladies and kids in attendance are sure to love it, although you may have to come up with something else for your male guests.
5. Fruit. If you don’t have a ton of money to splurge on flowers, consider using just a few blooms in concert with fruit for centerpieces and other floral arrangements. Oranges, lemons, apples, berries, or whatever fruits are seasonal will add color and depth to your arrangements, and depending on the produce you choose, these items could even supplement your picnic supplies and act as tasty treats for your guests.