What's Your Peony?

Caroline Lima Photography

If I had to guess, I'd say 95% of the world's population (well, at least the female population) would name the peony as their favorite flower of all time. And what's not to love? Peonies boast a gorgeous color palette, ruffly petals, and huge, fluffy blooms during their peak. But with their short harvesting season in most areas, and their higher price point, sometimes peonies are not even an option. Or perhaps you're one of the few who isn't crazy about peonies like the rest of the world (it's okay to raise your hand if that's you! While I love peonies, I love many other flowers just as equally!).

So what do you do if you love peonies but aren't getting married during peony season, or if you simply don't love peonies, but want something equally as eye-catching?

Sub an Equally Fluffy Flower

A large part of the peony's charm is their large, ruffly, irresistible fluff. And truthfully, sometimes it is hard to find another option that is equally as fluffy and charming, but there are options! Garden roses are a great option, as many varieties provide a similar amount of fullness and romantic fluff. Believe it or not, standard roses are often a great sub, too, as your florist will know exactly how to make them extra large and open for you! Depending on the season, dahlias and ranunculuses can provide some really great fullness, too, often coming in the size of your hand! Bonus points with both dahlias and ranunculuses: they have really beautiful, unique petals!

Amanda Castle Photography

Sub a Pop of Color

If you're not looking for the large, ruffly fluff that peonies provide, but rather the focal point it provides for bouquets and arrangements, I recommend substituting a pop of color in its' place. Luckily, this is a really easy option for you, because almost all flower varieties come in several colors, so you have hundreds of options! You can get both the fluff and the pop of color with ranunculuses and garden roses. Or go straight to the color pop with poppies, scabiosas, anemones, clematis, calla lilies, and so many other options!

Heather Chipps Photography

So, what's your peony? Will you choose the fluff, the color pop, or both?

Still need help figuring out how to find just the right flower for your wedding day? I've highlighted lots of different flower options on my Instagram profile, under "Dictionary," so go on and take a peek!