Orchids are one of the most popular Chinese flowers since they are symbols of love and fertility, but other popular flowers include peonies, daffodils, and the lotus.

Whole flowers are an excellent alternative to rose petals. Small flowers cab be found in just about every shape and color, and you can throw flowers with a short cut life because they won’t be expected to look pretty in vases all through the ceremony. Have a group flower-picking session just before the wedding starts if you own the plants you want to use!

Another option is larger blooms, like whole roses (just make sure that they are thorn-free first). They can be tosses to guests instead of dropped on the aisle.

You may also consider non-flower options. Confetti, fall leaves, even glitter can be used as long as you are willing and able to handle the cleanup (throwing non-organic material like glitter outdoors may be a big no-no, so keep that alternative for an indoor ceremony). One last thought: the flower girls don’t have to throw anything. Imagine how cute they would look walking down the aisle blowing bubbles to herald the bride!

If you have a favorite flower, don’t hesitate to see if it will work for a centerpiece. Although the color may be less varied than with a bouquet, you make up with it by the profusion of blooms and the potential enjoyment for much longer than the short duration of the reception. Give them to your wedding helpers as gifts (like your aunt who helped clean up that spill or you sister who helped manage the bar all night), or for unassigned seating, but a sticker under one place mat at each table and the winners will be revealed after the food is served.

If you really aren’t sure, you may be able to get a baseline quote. Give a florist a few ideas for must-have flowers, and then work out the number of arrangements together to get a quote early in the planning. This will give  you an idea of how much truly needs to be set aside for your wedding day blooms.

The shape of the lilies makes your bouquet look like it is on fire, and the orange will contrast beautifully with your dress, making the bouquet pop and drawing every eye in the room.

To make use of this tradition, have your florist work a flower into your hair on the left side, and even consider doing the same for your maids, switching up the placement depending on their relationship status.

To keep down on potential messes, have guests sign the empty vase as they enter the reception hall, then have someone fill it up and insert a centerpiece later to be displayed right at the head table.