Hannah and Rich chose the grand Hatfield House in Hertfordshire for their nuptials but they were adamant this was not to be a stuffy do. So it was out with formal and intimidating and in with elegant and unfussy.

This illustrious venue was once the childhood home of Elizabeth I and has associations with our current Queen too. I’ve designed flowers for all kinds of weddings but rarely for a royal residence  - what a treat!

Hannah’s desire for a natural and organic theme inspired the thinking behind this design.  The wedding colours were muted greens and silver greys.  So getting the foliage right first was important;  a beautiful mix of oak leaves, soft ruscus, beautiful seeded eucalyptus, and euphorbia - standing tall in long vases to give the displays eye-catching form. 

For added romance, shades of ivory;  scented garden roses (a gorgeous mix of White O’Hara, Majolica and David Austin Patience), late sweet peas, towering delphiniums, rananculus, viburnum, tuberose and jasmine trails – a heady combination that perfumed these eminent rooms with a gorgeous scent, an added bonus.

And for the bride, a comely bouquet of creams and greens tied with silk ribbons and velvet in sage and grey; refined and romantic.  Ivory roses symbolic of grace and charm and quality. The bridesmaids all carried one perfect garden rose tied with silk ribbons.

There was no holding back in the dressing of this distinguished setting.  Rather regal statement pieces were called for here.  In addition to the tall flowery displays, a spectacular 10 feet elevated table top dressed the wedding table and 5 smaller ones, the king tables.  And the drama continued with and 8 foot tall flower filled urn, fit for royalty, to decorate the reception entrance.  And for the evening party we decorated a moongate infused with royal colours; burgundy, lilac and purple , all to the delight of the guests but most importantly the wedding couple;

Palace or castle, if you are getting married in a distinguished setting, don’t let it over-awe you. Choosing your wedding flowers should never feel imposing, your flowers should reflect you, not what others say or think you should do. And it’s this, finding your flowers, that only a bespoke floral designer can do for you. And for me, it’s always that’s the pleasure!  

Photos by Craig Williams

Wedding Planner Songbird Weddings

Venue Hatfield House