Erin Tobiasz, a children’s librarian in Pittsburgh, decided to incorporate local flowers from the fields outside her library into her bridal bouquet when she got married two years ago. She included goldenrod, zinnias, and other flowers sourced from local farmers to give her bouquet a unique and meaningful touch.
Many couples, like Erin and her husband Matt, are choosing to use locally grown flowers for their weddings as a more sustainable and personalized option. By supporting local flower farmers, couples can avoid imported flowers that may have been treated with preservatives or harmful pesticides. Using local flowers also allows couples to connect their wedding to a specific season and location, adding a special touch to their big day.
Jessica Stewart, a florist in Pittsburgh, emphasizes the benefits of using local flowers for weddings. Unlike ordering from large wholesalers, working with local farmers gives florists the opportunity to create more customized and dynamic arrangements. Instead of ordering the same flowers in bulk, florists can choose from a variety of sizes and shades, creating a more unique and visually interesting color palette for the wedding flowers.
In a world where social media often dictates wedding trends, Jessica believes that true luxury comes from embracing individuality and finding beauty in the unconventional. Rather than replicating designs from other weddings, she encourages couples to seek out special and unique flowers that add a touch of personality to their floral arrangements.
By choosing locally grown flowers for their weddings, couples not only support their communities but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly wedding industry. Whether it’s goldenrod from a local field or foraged rose hips from a nearby forest, incorporating local flowers into wedding bouquets and centerpieces can create a meaningful and beautiful experience for both the couple and their guests.