Traditionally, bridal bouquets are made from roses or other flowers bound with silk or satin ribbon. However the bridal bouquet can form a large part of your overall flower budget, with even simple bouquets often costing in excess of $200.  Some brides on a budget often opt for artificial flowers made from silk or other fabric. As lovely as those are, if you’re a bride who wants to add a distinctive look to her walk down the aisle, you might want to consider designing your own unique bouquet.

For brides who aren't scared to experiment with non-traditional ideas, the choices for bridal bouquets are limited only by your imagination and creativity, particularly if your service isn’t very formal. If you’re not very crafty, you can solicit a friend or relative to help you execute your vision.

Here are some ideas for designing a bouquet with a difference:

• Paper – Craft paper comes in an array of colors and styles and can be made into beautiful lifelike flowers.  If you can't imagine making your own,  take a look at the stunning bouquets from DK Designs.  The best bit is that these flowers will never die!
• Ribbons – Some brides have fashioned elaborate bouquets out of the silk or satin ribbon that usually surrounds traditional flower bouquets. You can combine complementary colors and add pearls, strings of beads or crystals.
• Plants – Environmentally conscious brides carry small live plants that can be used in their new home or replanted in their garden. Actually, the custom of carrying the wedding bouquet began in ancient times when brides carried garlic and herbs to ward off evil spirits. Garlic might not be the best choice for brides of today, but deep green leaves or herbs tied with a pale ribbon can still produce a pretty bouquet.
• Feathers – From stunning and unusual groups of feathers, to flowers made from feathers, this is a hot trend for modern weddings!
• Fans – Instead of a bouquet, you can carry an intricately patterned fan as you walk down the aisle.   There are some gorgeous lace Spanish fans available that you will be grateful to have for a hot weather wedding.

If you or your groom suffer from bad allergies, are trying to find ways to save on your wedding budget or just want to put a personal stamp on your special day, think outside the box. You might be surprised at what you come up with!