Kate Middleton’s bouquet was unusual in that it was small and subtle, apparently made almost entirely from lily of the valley, and so seasonal it could have been plucked from gardens on the way. Florist Shane Connolly has pointed an environmentally friendly way forward here in resisting “green bling” with expensive out-of-season lilies and roses.
Middleton’s floral designer, Shane Connelly, was responsible for the bouquet, as well as the right maple trees inside the chapel. The Royal Palace released a statement on the bouquet, explaining the history of the flowers the future Princess was carrying:
“The bouquet is a shield-shaped wired bouquet of myrtle, lily-of-the-valley, sweet William and hyacinth. The bouquet was designed by Shane Connolly and draws on the traditions of flowers of significance for the Royal Family, the Middleton family and on the Language of Flowers.”
The use of all British flowers – everything was grown by UK growers or cut from the royal estates – has delighted flower growers.
Florist and flower grower Georgie Newbery of Common Farm Flowers in Somerset hopes it boosts an already growing trend.
Flowers in Westminster Abbey, during preparations for the royal wedding.
All of the flowers were chosen by Middleton with reference to the rather twee “language of flowers”, a floral code made popular by Queen Victoria. So the signature lily of the valley means “trustworthy”, myrtle “hope and love”, hornbeams “resilience”, and field maples “humility and reserve”.
Not only twee but also pitfall-laden: lilac is for “youthful innocence” or “disappointment”, depending on which version you believe, or just how distrustful you are.
Flowers featured on the royal wedding cake
Kate gave detailed instructions to include 17 different blooms and foliage for their meaning or symbolism – known as the “language of flowers”… Read more…
Kate Middleton’s Royal Wedding Dress
Kate Middleton has married Prince William in a dress designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen.The designer was only named as the bride, 29, arrived at Westminster Abbey with her father Michael… Read more
