Choosing Flowers for a Garden Wedding In South Georgia
As a South Georgia wedding venue owner, we have seen how bridal flowers react to the elements. Choosing flowers for a garden wedding is about balancing your "dream aesthetic" with the practical reality of nature (wind, heat, and bugs). Since you’re planning for 2026, the trends are leaning toward "living art"—designs that look like they grew there naturally rather than being placed there.
Here is a guide to choosing the right blooms for your ceremony:
1. Match the Durability to the Setting
In a garden, your flowers are battling the elements. You need "hardy" stems that won't wilt by the time you say "I do."
Heat-Resistant Stars: Roses (especially Garden and Spray varieties), Dahlias, Zinnias, and Carnations.
Waxy & Droop-Resistant: Calla Lilies and Orchids have thick, waxy stems that hold water well and won't brown in direct sun.
The "Greenery" Foundation: Eucalyptus, Ruscus, and Olive branches are nearly indestructible and provide that "lush garden" volume for less cost.
⚠️ The Divas: Peonies and Hydrangeas are beautiful but notoriously thirsty. If you use them outdoors, ensure they are in water (vases/floral foam) rather than just tied in a dry bundle.
2. Shop the 2026 Season
Buying in-season is the best way to save 15–20% of your floral budget while ensuring the highest quality.
Spring: Peonies, Sweet Peas, Tulips, and Ranunculus.
Summer: Lisianthus (looks like a rose, but tougher), Sunflowers, Zinnias, and Cosmos.
Fall: Dahlias (the absolute queen of autumn), Chrysanthemums, and Ornamental Grasses.
Winter: Hellebores, Anemones (with the striking dark centers), and Amaryllis.
3. Design with "Living Backdrop" Aesthetics
Since your space is a "living backdrop," your arrangements should mimic that movement:
Grounded Meadows: Instead of tall vases that might tip in the wind, use "meadow" arrangements that sit on the grass along the aisle.
Textural Layering: 2026 is all about texture. Mix soft ruffles (Ranunculus) with architectural shapes (Protea or Anthurium) to create depth that looks great in photos.
Monochromatic Depth: A modern trend is using one color (e.g., all shades of pink) but using five different flower types to create visual interest.
4. Practical Checklist
The Fragrance Factor: In a garden, you’re competing with natural scents. If you want a "signature scent," choose Lilies or Jasmine. If you have allergies, stick to low-pollen options like Hydrangeas or Orchids.
Bug Prevention: Incorporate herbs like Lavender, Rosemary, or Mint into your arrangements. They smell incredible to humans but naturally repel many insects.
Repurposing: Ask your florist to design aisle markers that can be easily moved to the reception bar or sweetheart table after the ceremony.
Pro-Tip for 2026: "The Sculptural Shift"
Couples are moving away from tight, round bouquets toward asymmetrical, airy shapes. Think of it as "controlled chaos"—it feels much more authentic to a garden setting than a perfect sphere of roses.
The team at The Glade is dedicated to making your wedding day flawless. From the initial planning stages to the final farewell, our experience and attention to detail ensure a smooth and stress-free process. The venue includes many amenities that simplify your planning, such as dedicated getting-ready suites for the wedding party, ample parking, and flexible vendor policies. Choosing The Glade means choosing a partner committed to bringing your vision of a perfect fall wedding to life.
We understand the importance of having a seamless plan, regardless of the weather. The Glade provides both enchanting outdoor spaces and an elegant, climate-controlled indoor reception hall. Our "Plan B" is just as beautiful as "Plan A," ensuring that a little spring shower won't dampen your spirits or ruin your day. This flexibility allows you to plan with confidence, knowing your celebration will be perfect, come rain or shine.
Located just a short drive from Tallahassee, The Glade offers the perfect blend of a destination feel with local convenience. Your guests will appreciate the easy travel, while you get to enjoy a private, serene setting that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle. Our dedicated team is committed to bringing your vision to life, working with you every step of the way to ensure every detail is flawless. From our versatile spaces to our commitment to personalized service, The Glade provides the ideal canvas for your unforgettable spring wedding.
The Glade Venue, South Georgia
The Glade Venue is a locally owned wedding venue just 35 minutes north of Tallahassee, under an hour from many South Georgia towns, and just 50 miles from the Alabama line.
We are dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include 5 to 10 locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
The Venue at Far Out Farms The Old Barns at Dry Run Farms The Bella Rosa Notting Hill Farm Events by Bliss Barn Green Clover Farm The Venue at Murphy Lane Talula Mesa
Oaks of Devonaire Bluestone Estate Eden Farms Weddings shfweddings.com