We here at HD Blooms adore using locally grown flowers and plants for weddings and events and of course in our seasonal planters and are so happy this has become a popular trend for several reasons. For example - the greenery in this photo from a big install we did for showhomes out in Chestermere is all from BC, the sugar cones and dogwood branches are also from BC, (and the iron feature is from a local Calgary supplier who designs and manufactured here in town).
While there are many benefits to incorporating locally sourced blooms into floral arrangements, there are also some challenges to consider. Here's a breakdown of why locally grown flowers work well and some reasons they might pose challenges:
Why Locally Grown Flowers and Plants Work:
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Freshness and Quality:
- Locally grown flowers are often fresher because they don't have to endure long transportation times. This can result in better quality blooms that look vibrant and last longer.
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Seasonal Variety:
- Local flowers plants and greenery are available in-season, offering a wide variety of options that match the time of year. This allows for a more cohesive and natural look in floral designs and of course in our planters.
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Environmental Impact:
- Choosing local flowers reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting flowers long distances. This aligns with sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Some local grown native plants and flowers also align more closely with lower water usage needs which as we found in 2024 was a big selling point and also so incredibly important.
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Supporting Local Economies:
- Purchasing locally grown flowers supports local flower farmers and the broader community. It contributes to the local economy and helps sustain small businesses - we also proudly like to support Canadian businesses!
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Unique and Uncommon Varieties:
- Local flower farmers often cultivate unique and uncommon flower varieties that may not be readily available through large-scale, commercial flower distribution. This allows for more personalized and distinctive floral designs and more interesting planters so they don't look like you purchased them from the big box store meaning a truly customized, bespoke high end look.
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Connection to the Community:
- Using locally grown flowers can create a sense of connection specifically for our special events- between the couple getting married, the event, and the community. It adds a personal touch and can be a meaningful aspect of the celebration.
Challenges of Using Locally Grown Flowers:
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Limited Availability:
- Depending on the region and climate, locally grown flowers may have a limited availability, especially during certain seasons. This can make it challenging to find specific blooms for off-season weddings.
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Weather and Climate Constraints:
- Local weather conditions and climate fluctuations can impact the availability and quality of locally grown flowers. Extreme weather events or unseasonable conditions may affect the supply.
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Cost Considerations:
- In some cases, locally grown flowers can be more expensive than imported ones due to smaller-scale production and higher production costs. Couples should be prepared for potential cost variations.
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Specific Design Requirements:
- If a couple has a very specific vision for their floral arrangements or planters and certain flowers/plants are not locally available, compromises may be necessary, or additional efforts may be required to source those specific blooms.
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Limited Flower Varieties:
- Local flower farms may not offer the same range of flower or plant varieties as large-scale, international distributors. This limitation could affect the diversity of the floral arrangements.
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Logistical Challenges:
- Coordinating with local flower farmers and ensuring timely delivery can present logistical challenges. Adequate planning and communication are crucial to avoid any disruptions.
Despite these challenges, many folks find that the benefits of using locally grown flowers outweigh the drawbacks. By embracing seasonal blooms and supporting local farmers, they contribute to a more sustainable and community-focused approach to floral design.