Greens for the Summer: Geranium, Olive Branches, and More

Chocolate Geranium leaves could be the new super hero of wedding flowers. They are a smart, stylish “Robin” paired with the glory-seeking flowers (who are clearly “Batman”). They have such a gorgeous green leaf outlined with a deep blue or nearly black trim. It’s as if someone has taken a thin dark marker to draw the leaf and then colored it in with a green that can only be duplicated in nature. The chocolate stains the middle of the leaf so that you see almost two leaves. Now add the lovely little crinkle around the edges that add texture to the bouquet. I describe the aroma as spearmint but I think it could be interpreted other ways.

Olive branch may be a more recent trend on the wedding scene and yet the Romans have used it in celebrations for thousands of years (think athlete proudly wearing a ring of olive branches after an athletic victory). Brides are wearing olive branches in their hair but with a lot more glam. Our studio made one a few weeks ago with a grouping of garden roses and Ranunculus.

I love so many things about using olive branches, the color, the olives themselves and the sleek shape of the leaves. The leaves create their own contrast because the under-side is so pale gray it is almost opaque. The mini olives offer authenticity to the almost surreal effect of luxury blooms like peonies.

 

Describing Rosemary is a little like stating the obvious. But remember, this is a powerful little plant. Your guests will smell this arrangement sitting at the table as it wafts through the air, carried on the vapor from your candles. It can add height and is also a source of grey or blue for the brides looking for combinations for taupe, pewter and navy. I like to use it to break up the blooms so that each flower catches the eye.

Herbs have such a unique appeal because their aroma are often associated with a memory. Because it is so effervescent, rosemary will remind your guests of the special evening they spent celebrating with you for months to come.

Camelia Leaves and Pittosporum Nigra are like night and day in both color and shape. Camelia leaves are shiny and dark green. The flowers have a very vintage feel and don’t last long which is why we use just the leaves in summer arrangements. Pittosporum are white, green and frilly. They are such a lovely backdrop for white flowers. They provide both contrast and texture – a powerful combination. Greeneries like Seeded Eucalyptus are helping designers create the trendy whimsical, airy look that so many brides are going for.

Natural elements added to arrangements for outdoor weddings in wineries, barns and meadows allow the countryside to contribute to your decorating. Indoor weddings with varied greeneries help brides capture the glam-rustic style by complementing luxury blooms and tableware. Keep in mind, a lot of this greenery is only available in the summer months so be prepared to discuss these greens with your designer if you are planning your wedding for the warmer seasons.