As conventional or unconventional as the bride herself, flower arrangements are seldom the muted, formal creations of days gone by.

Opt for an elegant, Victorian bouquet with antique white roses, a simple arrangement of wildflowers draped with tendrils of foliage, or a flamboyant cascade of bright blossoms. Innovative ideas include bunches of flowers instead of bouquets; these could be tied with gold cord or satin ribbon, or combined with aromatic herbs, candles or even dried twigs. Flowers at the service and reception

Flowers for the ceremony usually consist of an arrangement at the altar and entrance, as well as small arrangements such as posies on the pew ends. The church may have a prominent pulpit, which could be decorated, as well as small window boxes on the sills. White flowers with plenty of greenery are particularly effective in this setting. An archway of flowers or green foliage at the door of the church or in a garden setting creates a beautiful frame for the bridal couple. Check whether the venue provides its own flowers (this goes for the reception venue as well, where flowers may be part of a package deal). If another couple is getting married there on the same day you may be able to share the cost of flowers with them.

A large floral arrangement makes an impressive welcome in the reception venue's entrance hall, with the use of dried twigs, ribbon and coloured cord very effective in mass arrangements for the main and guests' tables and buffet table. Table arrangements should not obstruct the guests' view or conversation, and can be either low and flat or placed on tall stands, often as part of a candelabra centrepiece. The main table should also have a long, low arrangement along the front so that the bridal party is visible from all parts of the room. Flowers may also be used to decorate the wedding cake itself, as well as the knife to be used for the cake?cutting ceremony.