11 Unique Wedding Bouquet Ideas for the Alternative Bride

Some people hear 'alternative bride' and immediately think of unconventional wedding gowns.
But a non-traditional wedding isn't all about the dress. There are many ways to skip, replace or upgrade wedding traditions.

These include choosing a venue that goes beyond the ballroom (e.g. a gym, stadium, bowling alley, etc.), toasting with a signature drink instead of champagne, having a friend or family member officiate the wedding, and so on.

Of course, if you're looking for an easy way to add a creative twist to your wedding, you can't go wrong with a unique wedding bouquet. That said, here are 11 ideas for a one-of-a-kind bouquet you'll love to carry all day.

1. Apple Bouquet

Are you considering a fall wedding? Awesome! There are many things to love about an autumn wedding including the fact that its apple season.

And speaking of apples, why not go for an apple bouquet? With red gala apples plus some filler flowers, you'll have a unique bouquet that's sure to be a conversation starter.

Tip: If you're DIYing your bouquet, use small apples and skip the berries as embellishment. You don't want a too heavy bouquet or one that will stain your dress.

2. Brooch Bouquet

If your something old is your bouquet, you'll love this idea. Plus, there are brooch bouquet sellers online, so finding one shouldn't be hard.

But if you prefer to make it yourself, make sure you have a lot of old jewelry on hand. You'll need around 60 pieces depending on the size of your bouquet.

Also, try to choose brooches or earrings or rings that aren't too delicate. Remember, you'll be wrapping your creation with stub wires. If some of the pieces break, it's going to be hard to glue them back together.

3. Feather Bouquet

Here's another non-floral inspiration you can add to your list of unique wedding bouquets. Not only are feathers eye-catching, but they're also very versatile depending on which looks you're going for.
For example, large quill feathers go well with rustic wedding themes. Fluffy feathers, on the other hand, match weddings with a 1920s vibe.

Or if you still prefer a floral arrangement, you can add feathers as an accent to your bouquet. It's a great way to give your bouquet a totally different shape and texture.

4. Succulent Bouquet

One advantage succulents have over traditional flowers is they are much more durable. In fact, they're so hardy you can replant them after the wedding.

Now, if color is a concern for you, don't worry. Succulents come in different varieties - from dark green types to purple ones. And of course, you can always pair them with your favorite blooms.

5. Air Plant Bouquet

Tillandsia or air plants seem to be the perfect wedding plant. You can use them as wedding favors, tablescapes, boutonnieres, etc.

And yes, they also look great as a bouquet, especially if your goal is to carry something that feels modern and whimsical at the same time. For brides who aren't afraid to go big, an air plant paired with protea makes for a fantastic splashy bouquet.

6. Pomander Bouquet

Unique bridal bouquets are exactly that because rules don't have to apply to them. As an example, pomander bouquets are traditionally used by flower girls.

But since you're a non-traditional bride, you can go ahead and have your wedding bouquet in that style. And by that style, we mean a round ball of flowers held by a ribbon or string of pearls or twine.

As for what flowers to use, roses are the usual option. But if you feel roses are too conventional, you can opt for sunflowers or carnations. Daisies are a good choice, too, as well as fabric flowers.

7. Single Stem

Can a single stem be considered as a bouquet? Well, no, not in the traditional sense. Which is why it's perfect for alternative brides.

Now, since you'll be holding only one flower, you'll want to go for a bigger variety. Consider a peony, king protea, large dahlia, or open magnolia for your single stem "bouquet."

8. Monochromatic Bouquet

There's a way to do a monochromatic bouquet without it looking one-note. The trick is to pick a color then gradate it.

Let's say you've chosen blue. Bright blue orchids aren't your only option. There's muscari, blue roses, blue hydrangea, and so on.

Don't be afraid to experiment or ask an expert florist to help.

9. Baby's Breath Bouquet

Think baby's breaths are just filler flowers? For a farmhouse style wedding, they might be the only thing you need for a uniquely rustic bouquet. Wrap with some floral tape, and you're good to go.

10. Wildflower Bouquet

There's something magical about a floral arrangement that looks not quite structured. And it's easy to achieve that effect if your bouquet is made up of flowers you've picked yourself.

Of course, it's one thing to pick flowers and another thing to actually have the talent to arrange them in an artful manner. If you're lacking in this area, get a friend to help or talk to a florist who can bring your idea to life.

11. Candy Bouquet

From cotton candy bouquets to pizza bouquets, there are all sorts of edible wedding bouquets these days.

A candy bouquet is something you might want to consider if you love sweets. Just remember not to leave them unattended or ants might get to them before the ceremony.

The Best Unique Wedding Bouquet Is the One That Makes You Happy

Are you worried about your bouquet looking too traditional for a non-traditional wedding? Don't stress too much about that. Choosing a wedding bouquet should be a pleasurable experience. If you're not quite happy about your choice of blooms (or non-blooms), it's okay to start over and look for other ideas like the ones listed here.

Need a Florist Who Can Help?

If you're looking for an Atlanta-based florist, we can discuss your wedding flower needs including the perfect unique wedding bouquet for an alternative bride.

Give us a call at 678.336.1195 or 800.337.1755 and let's make your wedding floral dreams come to life.