Cool-Weather Wedding Flowers

Summer petals get a lot of attention, but winter's offerings aren't exactly shrinking violets. We asked floral designer Meredith Waga Perez of Belle Fleur in New York City to show off their flower power.

This winning hand features Vanda orchids and clematis in purple, the color long associated with nobility. The vivid hues pop against dreamy white garden roses, ranunculus, and lisianthus. "For a modern twist, ask for an arrangement in a loose teardrop shape," says Waga Perez.

Maybe your guy wore a full-on corsage to the prom, but times have changed (and he's now grown up). "A charming accent is all he needs to stand out," says Waga Perez. She likes boutonnieres featuring a single bud that's also used in the bride's bouquet.

Clockwise from top left: agapanthus, clematis, sweetpea, orchid, and ranunculus (in center).

Re-create this scene by grouping phalaenopsis orchids in slim vessels of varying heights. For a less pricey option, Waga Perez suggests dahlias, Queen Anne's lace, or anemones. Then add a decorative screen as a backdrop. "It's an easy way to give any escort-card table a lift," she says. Head to target for basic styles you can paint, wallpaper, or cover in fabric; eBay often offers vintage models; or, for the most wallet-friendly solution, score one for the day from a local party-rental company.

Similar bud vases available at Jamali Floral & Garden Supplies

Gracie

hand-painted screen

The clean lines of these place settings take their marching orders from the center tour de force: a silvery lantern surrounded by a glorious wreath of ranunculus, orchids, picasso calla lilies, jasmine, and sweetpeas. "Sweetpeas are my go-to winter flower," says Waga Perez. "While they appear to be delicate, they're actually as hardy as they come." An engraved card case atop lettuce-edged napkins acts as both place card and favor.

Belle Fleur

lantern

Alpha Engraving

business-card case

Crate & Barrel

stemware

"The first thing I say to a bride is, 'tell me about your dress,'" says Meredith Waga Perez, co-owner of Belle Fleur in New York City, which is fitting, since Waga Perez was once a fashion designer. With her keen eye for all things of the moment, she loves to create luxe arrangements that mimic a gown's intricate folds, patterns, or texture. "As long as there's synergy between what she's wearing and what she's carrying, I'm happy."