20 Elevated Ways to Use Carnations Throughout Your Entire Wedding

Carnations are undeniably popular. They're well-known by the masses and used for tons of different occasions. That's because the flowers are incredibly versatile—have you seen the bloom's wide array of shades? Their different sizes and relative affordability only add to the appeal. Despite how commonly used they are, however, some are hesitant to spotlight them on their wedding days. That's because they've been unfairly labeled as filler flowers. While they're great for that purpose, that's certainly not all they're good for! To prove it to you, we've put together a list of creative and elegant ways to use carnations throughout your entire wedding. The following bouquets, centerpieces, and more incorporate the blooms in some truly beautiful ways.

We're big fans of using these ruffled buds in unique arrangements, backdrops, and floral installations. Why? Because their lower price tags let you buy the blooms in bulk! That means you can decorate your event space with more petals than you thought possible, which opens the doors to some impressive décor options. Take this gorgeous ceremony structure by Rosehip Flora. Those hanging floral strands are stunning, and guests likely had no idea just how affordable a display like that can be. Essentially, carnations allow you to make any arrangement feel full and lush, whether used on their own or combined with other blooms.

Click through the rest of this slideshow to get even more carnation wedding inspiration. We've included it all, from bridal party accessories to wedding cake accents. See what you like and talk to your florist about bringing your own vision to life. That being said, we think some of these ideas can easily be DIYed!  

Say "I do" to a pretty backdrop, like this hanging installation of "floating" carnation buds created by A Vintage Affair and Bella Lu Floral.

Who knew carnations could look so lush? Holloway transformed these pale pink ones into the prettiest flower crown.

Adornments Flowers & Finery plopped brightly-colored carnations in this venue's pool to help decorate the space.

Carnations don't have to be the main event. Here, they filled in giant arrangements by La Rosa Canina. Roses, wax flowers, eucalyptus, and more were also included in the mix. 

A big carnation is perfectly suited for the groom's buttonhole. Flower Design by Janet created this boutonnière.

String carnation garlands wherever you please—they only look expensive. Bash Please and Siren Floral Co. collaborated on this ceremony structure.

A pink Special Events Factory carnation was the finishing touch to this bride's Sonsearai Dominique Salon hairstyle.

Use carnations to decorate your ride, whether it's for your entrance or your getaway. These blooms came from Shotgun Floral Studio + Design House.

These Cocoa Room cluster centerpieces contained single carnation stems.

We love the idea of wedding flower bars: stations were guests can design their own arrangements as favors. To keep yours affordable, include only blooms that'll give you the most bang for your buck, like carnations. Floriography Designs set up this example.

Even if you don't want a carnation boutonnière for your groom, it's a great option for your ring bearer. There's no need to spend big bucks on an accessory he might accidentally ruin. This couple got theirs from Fifty Flowers.

A king protea was the main event in this bride's cool Chic Rustique bouquet, but carnations contributed to its beauty.

Put carnations in unexpected places for a memorable event design. Poppy & Mint Floral Company stuck these ones into doorknob holes!

At this wedding, bridesmaids carried simple white bouquets composed entirely of carnations. Parsonage Events designed them.

String clusters of the blooms (like this one, by Mum's) above any event space to give it an enchanted vibe.

Make you and your new spouse's reception seats stand out with something similar to these L7 Events carnation decorations.

Give mom a special accessory, like this Brancoprata corsage containing pink carnations.

We love this idea for a bridal shower, but it also works for a spring wedding! These carnation Aura Design "raindrops" fell from hydrangea "clouds"—how genius is that?

Michelle Edgemont created an impressive carnation installation to hang over this wedding reception's bar.