We always love incorporating cultural and family traditions in our designs so we were very interested to learn that our bride Ljuba wanted to use the rosemary herb primarily in her wedding floral arrangements. Of Serbian decent, Ljuba wanted very simple flower arrangements for her big day in her favourite colour, yellow, combined with lots of fresh rosemary as the “greenery”. A symbol of good luck in Serbian culture rosemary is traditionally given to all guests in the form of boutonnieres/ corsages for them to wear. Not only was the incorporation of this herb a cultural tradition it also made everything smell wonderful!
The first item we created was a hand-made garland of greenery including salal leaves, pittsporum & seeded eucalyptus. We added in some white carnations and tied red, blue and white ribbons along its length to represent the colours of the Serbian flag. This garland was draped over the archway at the entrance to the Bride’s parents home.
Next we got into the rosemary! Boutonnieres and corsages of cream spray roses adorned with the herb were made for the wedding party and immediate family members. Guests were pinned with sprigs of rosemary by the wedding party at the reception. They smelled delightful in the cool, crisp November air!
A circlet of rosemary with baby’s breath was made for the flower girl crown. We loved how whimsical it looked.
The reception took place at Hart House, at The University of Toronto, in the Great Hall. This Neo- Gothic building featured vaulted wooden ceilings, beautiful stained glass windows and lots of dark wood paneling.
The long gallery style tables were set with a series of small arrangements down the length. Each table scape showcased either yellow mums or yellow spray roses mixed with rosemary greens in simple glass vases.
In between the flowers we placed glass cylinders with floating candles and submerged rosemary for an additional creative touch. The effect was simple elegance with a lovely fresh fragrance.
We wish Ljuba & Tome a long and happy marriage!
~Ashley
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