Seasonal Alternatives to Baby’s Breath / Gypsophila
Gypsophila, or baby’s breath as it’s commonly known, is a popular choice for weddings. It’s such a pretty option and en masse can look really effective for that pretty country feel, while also keeping costs down. However, there are so so many beautiful seasonal options to consider that can be pocket friendly too. And seasonality is important, it means your flowers can be sourced locally, reducing their carbon footprint, and skips on the plastic involved when they get shipped in - win win!
It’s not that I don’t like Gyp, or think it should go for good - if it’s special to you and if you have your heart set on some little gyp clouds, totally go for it. They will be beautiful. A little known fact to keep in mind though, it has a rather weird smell and en masse can be quite ‘present’ - worth keeping that in mind if you’re in an enclosed venue with little air flow, it may well take over. Also I think there’s so many other gorgeous options you should think about first. Here’s just a few:
Alternatives to Gypsophila
Ammi
Ammi is another beauty that looks absolutely FAB en masse. Whether it’s a minimalist bridesmaid bouquet or a hanging cloud, it’s such a lovely whimsy option. It adds a lovely texture to fuller bouquets and arrangements too, adding height and movement, dancing around to give a pretty country garden feel. In summer it’s in its peak, which makes it super easy to source locally too.
Genista
In late winter and early spring this beauty is in its prime and it smells amazing, lovely and sweet. This isn’t as cloud like as gypsophila or ammi but it’s long stems add gorgeous texture and movement to a bouquet, swaying gently when carried. It looks beautiful paired with eucalyptus and soft ruffley blooms for an airy fairy feel.
Image credit: Amber & Muse
Astrantia
The pretty little flower heads of astrantia aren’t quite as dainty but they’re another really lovely option for a wild flower look. They have that real rustic feel to them. They look beautiful mixed in with other petite blooms. These also come in lovely burgundy and pink hues which would look gorgeous together for a tonal summer bouquet.
Image credit: BBC Gardener’s World Magazine
Syringa (Lilac)
Another fantastically scented beauty. This stunner will FILL your venue with the most gorgeous spring scent. Forever more each spring when these bloom you won’t be able to walk past a lilac bush without stopping for a sniff and thinking of your big day. Such a perfect bloom, so voluptuous. A costlier option but totally worth it.
Image credit: Nikolay Panov
Oregano
A lot more greenery on show than our old friend gyp’ but with such pretty little flowers and a MUCH better smell. Just stunning for a real garden feel. This works beautifully mixed with Gypsophila too, a nice way to achieve the look in summer while disguising the aroma.
Astilbe
Another beauty that comes in lots of lovely white and pink shades, which I love to mix all together. Definitely much more of a garden style option with a really rustic, feathery, gorgeous textural feel to it.
Image credit: Gardening Channel
That’s just a small selection of the many, many stunning options, hopefully you can see that there’s so much beauty to be had, each one bringing something unique. Depending on the vibe you’re going for on your day, your style and the season, there’s always the right bloom and your florist should make suggestions to you dependent on your day.
Personally, my favourite look for that real garden gathered style is a mixture, how about some gypsophila, oregano, astrantia and astilbe? A stunning textural look, much more unique look and rather reminiscent of the lovely Meghan Markle’s wedding bouquet!
If you’re looking for the perfect flowers for your wedding or event let’s have a chat, I’m always happy to talk flowers, give advice and make suggestions for you.