Not necessarily, although the trend these days is more towards reusable, recycled and green decor, rather than use them once, and then chuck them in the bin, flower displays.
That said, it is hard to beat a beautifully arranged vase of flowers, and they don’t need to cost the earth or break your bank account either.
If you are looking to liven up your event with some beautiful blooms, keep these tips in mind
Live and Reusable?
While everyone loves the bright splash of cut flowers, live arrangements can be just as appealing, while also being reusable. And keep their fresh appearance. Consider terrarium centrepieces or even a forest of live herbs.
Don’t forget about your containers! Event flowers often come in plastic, cheap containers, assuming that they will be discarded after use. But they don’t have to be! Ask your florist if they will take-back containers for reuse. Or at a minimum, ensure they are recyclable. This is where it can pay to avoid materials like florist foam, which is not recyclable.
Sharing is caring
If you’re using an in-house florist at a large conference centre, ask if they offer a shared floral program. This type of program encourages event planners to share arrangements at a discounted price, renting them for multiple events, basically.
Seasonal
Whether it be tulips or sunflowers in summer, or berries and evergreens in winter, going with in-season flowers can also present cost saving advantages.
Local
Want to connect your attendees with their host destination? Pick out something that is local, and lekker! But do note – just because a flower is local does not mean it is low-footprint. Check to see if your local florals are outdoor or greenhouse grown. Greenhouse grown flowers can have a high energy and carbon footprint.
Organic
If you’re looking to ensure your flowers promote environmental and human health through reduced use of chemicals, ask for organic, or natural grown. Plus you will be supporting local business!
Charitable
If you have to buy event flowers, why not tie your arrangement into a special cause? Some florists may offer arrangements that contribute a donation to an important cause, depending on what you order. Or you can drop the arrangements off at a local hospice to cheer up someone’s day.
Not Endangered!
Make sure that you ask for non-endangered floral means avoiding any plants that have been listed as at risk of extinction. Be cool.
So be it from birthdays to weddings and galas to conventions, flowers are a staple of many events. By being beautiful and sustainable, your floral arrangements can make a bold and statement. We do encourage you to inspire others with your examples of best sustainable event florals.
If you have had a great floral display at an event – please send us a picture on Twitter @ThePlannerGuru – so that we can share with others.
