I am getting married in November, the weekend before Thanksgiving, and my wedding colors are white, gold and dark green. I am having a small wedding (30-40 people) and want to keep it as elegant as possible. I really wanted to use gardenias, at least for my bouquet, if nothing else. They were my grandmother's favorite flower and are meaningful to me. I was thinking of using gardenias, some other white flowers such as freesia or stock, gold berries and perhaps gold ribbon, and magnolia leaves-- but I'm not completely set on that yet. I haven't been able to meet with many florists, and have mostly talked to them over the phone... however, in the one meeting I did have, that florist told me I would be disappointed with gardenias as they "bruise" easily. She really discouraged me from the idea, but then said that if I was willing to pay for it, they could "try" it, basically. That makes me nervous. Now, I know that the more you handle gardenias, the more they might yellow... but my wedding is at 2 p.m. with pictures right away afterward, and the reception starts 3:30 or 4... we will be out of there by 7 at the latest. Do you really think I should consider a different flower instead of gardenias? Unfortunately, the florist didn't have much else to recommend on the topic, and she wanted me to bring in pictures of bouquets that I might want to have. I guess I was looking for more creativity and suggestions on the florist's part... but perhaps I am being too picky? Am I being too unrealistic here? Or, should I keep shopping for a different florist?
Keep looking for an new florist. Whoever you talked to is just being fearful, probably because of lack of experience or expertise.
Yes, Gardenias can bruise and yellow over the course of the day. A good florist will know how to handle them to minimize bruising and will treat them with spray on anti dessicant to minimize yellowing.
In spite of their delicate nature they are absolutely amazing, gorgeous and worth it even if they do turn yellow!!!! A bonus is that every time you smell a gardenia for the rest of your life you will remember your wedding day and that wonderful feeling will float back in. (In other words, do it!)
One holiday wedding I did them with wide open roses and sprayed a few camellia leaves gold to intersperce among the two...It was amazing.
A beautiful and simple centerpiece could be glass pedistal bowl with golden marbles, water and a floating gardenia or two...Surround it with votives and all is elegant and fragrant and oh so romantic.
Find a better florist and have faith...It will be worth it! All the Best! Sue of Hobart's Fine Florals http://www.hobartsfineflorals.com
Gardenias
Keep looking for an new florist. Whoever you talked to is just being fearful, probably because of lack of experience or expertise. 