Alan Retief and his team from Caar’i Flora has seen wedding trends bloom, evolve, and come full circle. From timeless tips to fresh-forward florals, Alan shares his expert insights on how to make your wedding flowers meaningful, on-trend, and truly memorable.
Floral chemistry – Why a one-on-one with your floral designer matters.
A personal appointment with your designer is of the utmost importance. This is the only way we can truly capture the essence of your vision, understand your needs, and bring them to life. Meeting you in person immediately tells me about your personality, and after years in this business, I can quickly sum up your style and what you envision for your big day. Every couple is unique, and my goal is to ensure that your wedding reflects your love story in the most beautiful and meaningful way.
Bloom on a budget
When it comes to budgeting, every couple has different priorities, and we respect that. However, I always remind my clients “You can’t buy a Rolls Royce with the budget of a Volkswagen Beetle!” When we create a quote, we assess the couple’s needs and vision, putting together a preliminary estimate based on that. I always say, “This is the Rolls Royce quote,” and from there, we can refine and adapt until all parties are happy.
It’s also crucial to remember that if you receive a quote that’s higher than expected, don’t immediately run to another designer. Instead, go back to the original designer who already understands your vision. Even if your concept needs to be adjusted entirely, that designer is still in the best position to guide you, ensuring that you’re comparing apples to apples rather than starting from scratch. This approach leads to a far more cohesive and satisfying final result.
Six ways to maximise your flower budget
1. Repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception Aisle arrangements, altar pieces, and arches can be seamlessly moved to the reception space. Aisle flowers can become table centrepieces, and a floral arch can double as a stunning backdrop for the sweetheart table or photo booth.
2. Choose seasonal blooms Seasonal flowers are more abundant, which typically translates to better pricing—and they’ll feel right at home within the time of year you’ve chosen to say “I do.”
3. Focus on statement pieces Rather than spreading your floral budget across dozens of small arrangements, invest in a few show-stopping focal points. Think a dramatic ceremony arch, a lush bridal bouquet, or an elaborate hanging installation.
4. Incorporate greenery Greenery brings a fresh, organic feel while stretching your budget further. Eucalyptus, olive branches, and ferns are all timeless choices.
5. Opt for impactful arrangements over scattered florals Instead of placing smaller arrangements everywhere, choose a few high-impact installations and let them shine. A dramatic floral chandelier, entrance piece, or tablescape centrepiece can transform a room effectively.
6. Work with an experienced florist who understands your vision The right florist is key to maximising your floral budget. It’s not always about quantity. It’s about creating moments you will remember.
Four floral trends
Monochromatic arrangements
Think all-white elegance, moody mauves, or vibrant corals in layered tones. This trend creates a clean, modern aesthetic that still feels lush and intentional—and allows texture and shape to take centre stage.
Bold colour palettes
While neutrals will always have a place, this year we are embracing colour with open arms. Rich jewel tones, electric citrus, and unexpected combinations (like mustard with blush, or cobalt with crimson) are redefining wedding florals. Bold doesn’t mean busy – it means confident, curated, and full of personality.
Dried flowers paired with fresh blooms
This trend continues to evolve with more creativity and contrast. Dried elements like pampas grass, preserved palms, or bleached ruscus add texture, longevity, and a modern edge when paired with soft, fresh florals.
Personalised, sentimental bouquets
Bouquets are becoming more meaningful than ever. Brides are weaving in flowers from their childhood gardens, tributes to loved ones, or symbolic blooms that tell a deeper story. Think heirloom brooches wrapped around stems, handwritten notes tucked in petals, or choosing flowers that represent milestones in the couple’s journey.
Wedding flower blunders to avoid
Ignoring seasonal availability.
Following fleeting trends too closely.
Choosing delicate flowers that won’t last.
Neglecting the venue’s natural beauty.
Not repurposing ceremony flowers.
Underestimating floral costs.
Skipping a consultation.
Forgetting logistics and delivery times.
Choosing overpowering scents.
Overcomplicating designs instead of focusing on impact.
Seasonal flower guide
• Spring: Peonies, Ranunculus, Sweet peas.
• Summer: Roses, Hydrangeas, Sunflowers, Dahlias.
• Autumn: Chrysanthemums, Amaranthus, Calla lilies, Proteas.
• Winter: Anemones, Camellias, Hellebores, Orchids, Tulips.
Popular bouquet shapes:
• Round bouquets: A timeless, elegant choice with tightly arranged blooms.
• Cascade bouquets: Dramatic and flowing, perfect for a grand bridal entrance.
• Hand-tied bouquets: A more natural, loose arrangement with a romantic feel.
• Posy bouquets: Small, compact, and easy to hold – ideal for minimalist brides.
• Asymmetrical bouquets: A modern, artistic take with varying heights and textures.
Vase it up!
From single stems in minimalist bud vases to eclectic groupings of vintage vessels, this look adds elegance, dimension, and flexibility to tablescapes. Not only do they create visual interest with varying heights and textures, but they also double up as décor and guest favours, allow for easier setup, take-down, and reuse. Plus, they last longer than floral foam arrangements!
With an eye for elegance and a heart rooted in storytelling, his creations go far beyond pretty petals … they’re floral expressions of feeling, memory, and magic. Read more about florist extraordinaire Alan Retief here.
Text: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG. Images: FRANCOIS PISTORIUS.
Details: Visit caariflora.co.za or follow @caari_flora on Insta and @TheCaar’iFloraGroup on Facebook.
