Over the past few years in the wedding industry I have seen the popularity of incorporating native flowers rise substantially. As a native flower lover I find this really exciting, and best of all it’s more than just another ‘trend’.

The majority of my clients want to incorporate native florals into their wedding because it is meaningful to them. They may have international guests attending and want to showcase all our stunning Australian blooms and foliages (many international visitors have never seen anything like our native blooms!); they may be conscious of where their flowers have come from and want to support local Australian growers; they may just feel an affinity to our native product and want to incorporate them in some way – I know every time I look at gum nuts I get taken back to my childhood and May Gibb’s Snugglepot and Cuddle Pie!

Past thinking used to be that native flowers don’t mix well with other seasonal product and that you should go with all natives or not at all. But I totally disagree! Mixing in native florals with seasonal blooms produces beautiful textures and interest within the bouquet.

It is one of my favourite styles of bouquets to make and 90% of the weddings I do include a component of native flora. The juxtaposition between soft garden style blooms and hard chunky natives can be really eye catching and set your bouquet apart from the rest. Yes you can have roses and natives in the same bouquet!

The range of native product available to use is extensive, so trust in your florist to choose what will work best for your style and colour palette. Large chunky banksias may not always work, but soft, airy flannel flower may be perfect. Not only are natives beautiful but they hold up out of water really well, so are a great option for our warm summer days.

Like all locally grown flowers, natives are seasonal, and the same product is not available all year round. This is a good thing and means that your flowers will reflect the season of your wedding – every time you see those blooms back in season you will be reminded of your special day.

Interestingly, in the floral world here in Australia, when we refer to ‘natives’ we are often grouping in South African natives in the same category; think gorgeous protea, leucadendron and blushing bride. They are a similar style to Australian natives and grow well here so are often mixed in with Aussie native bunches. Be specific with your florist if you would only like to include only Australian native flowers in your wedding.

Many native flowers will dry out really well and make a beautiful keepsake from your wedding day. Take out a few stems that you want to keep from your bouquet and hang them upside down in a dry shady spot (just ask your florist which stems will dry nicely).

Ms Zebra Says: I personally love Australian native florals – and love that they’re back on trend! 

About Jess of Sweet Pea and Honey Bee: Jess is the owner and head floral designer of Sweet Pea and Honey Bee. Based in Annandale in Sydney’s Inner West, she specialises in wedding and event floral design.  She has a big soft spot for native flowers and the use of colour and texture feature prominently across her work.