The Gerbera of Fall Weddings
The gerbera daisy has long been a favorite for many brides around the world. Whether they are used in bouquets, centerpieces, boutonnieres, aisle petals or even as accessories in her hair, this particular flower has remained one of the most popular choices for weddings. Although many search out for a specific color when planning their floral displays, it is important to research the particular varieties available during their matrimonial season.
Certain types of gerbera daisies are cultivated at certain times of the year which usually allows for stronger heads, wider availability and sometimes even higher cost efficiency. Sticking to seasonal palettes is a wise decision during event planning, opting for shades that are darker during the winter and lighter hues during the summer months. If you are anticipating an autumn ceremony, here are a few deliciously decadent gerbera varieties that are perfect for your momentous celebration.
The Serena
The Serena gerbera is a luscious variety that is shaded in a dark pink with a dark center. Many believe that the color pink should be excluded from autumn weddings but this is certainly untrue. Fuchsia hued flowers make wonderful fall accents when combined with the right compliments. This is a wonderful choice to pair with other gerbera, including oranges and peaches, exuding an exciting seasonal color motif. It’s dependability is renowned and is strong headed to prevent weeping and drooping in centerpieces. Other substitutions for this variety are the “Picasso” and the “Dark Serena”.
The Calypso
The “Calypso” gerbera is a stunning choice for fall when searching for hues of orange. Possessing a dark center and frilled inner sepals, this bold choice makes autumn arrangements pop with the vibrancy of color and delicate outer petals. The best combination for the Calypso is to combine it with red, yellow or peach varieties to stun and awe wedding guests. Other substitutes for the “Calypso” can be “Orange Illusion”, “Milonga” or “Sirtaki”.
The Yellow River
A sensational yellow gerbera for this season is the “Yellow River” gerbera. Yet another strong headed variety, this bloom is known for its durability and density throughout its petals. This breed has a green center making it work well with other varieties of flowers in bridal work, including boutonnieres, bridal bouquets and aisle markers. Resembling the appearance of the sunflower, this particular type of gerbera makes an easy transition from summer to fall events, perfect for mid to late September weddings. Other similar yellow gerberas include “Kalika”, “Illusion” and “Chelsea”.
All images ©2010 Suzie Hearl Canale
Common questions about Wedding Gerberas
1. Are gerberas on wedding cakes edible?
Gerberas are not an edible flower but are harmless as decorations on wedding cakes. They are a lovely accessory because of their bright colors and fan like shape which creates a perfect eye popping visual for wedding guests.
2. Is there a way to preserve a wedding bouquet?
Yes, there are actually several ways to preserve your wedding bouquet including drying, pressing and floral preservation. Drying and pressing are possible options depending on the types of blooms you are using. Floral preservation is an expert process which extracts the moisture from the petals, dehydrates and then seals the flowers to maintain their natural beauty. After this process, the bride has the option of artistic design, including shadow boxes, table displays and jewelry boxes.
3. What are the names of common high quality pink wedding gerberas?
A few dependable pink gerberas perfect for weddings are the Serena gerbera, which is hot pink, Pinky Eye and Pink Fantasy which are medium pink and Grizzly which is a double petal peachy pink gerbera. A favorite blush pink gerbera is Minette.
4. When are gerberas in season?
You can order gerbera daisies pretty much year round but try not to get hooked on ordering by a specific name. Choose a flexible color palette instead, to ensure a quality pick from your florist.
5. What are the best gerberas to order for a fall wedding?
It’s fun to stick to shades of red, yellow and orange during this time and there are some real beauties available. A strong orange gerbera is the Optima or the Candella gerbera. Classic Fabio, Entourage and Mateo are also within the autumn color scheme. Some gorgeous two toned gerberas recommended by Hilverda de Boer of Alsmeer, Holland are Mystique and Mexx.
6. Does a burgundy or chocolate colored gerbera actually exist?
Yes, they do! A beautiful burgundy gerbera is the Chateau gerbera. Gerbera Mythe is also a top choice by many buyers.
7. What are a couple of names of white gerberas suitable for weddings?The Bianca gerbera is a beautiful choice for a wedding gerbera. It has a green center and delicate white petals. If you are looking for a white gerbera with a black center, Husky is a great option!
8. How long do cut gerberas last?
The answer to this question really depends on the quality of the stems and the variety. Quality shipments of gerberas can last two to three weeks if they are taken care of properly, while a low quality gerbera can wilt after a day. Quality level is incredibly important when dealing with gerberas.
9. What is the smartest way to order gerberas from a florist for a wedding?
The most cost effective and high quality way to order wedding gerberas is to stick to a color theme and stay away from choosing specific names. Many times, the specific name will be very expensive and there are many alternatives that your well educated florist will know about.
10. What is the best way to arrange gerberas in centerpieces?
There are a few ways to create a beautiful look with gerberas. First, you can cut about an inch off the stem and simply drop the stems in a clear vase in either cylinder or square in shape. You can also manage gerbera successfully by using oasis which really helps to place the flower perfectly amongst the others in the arrangement.
11. What is the proper technique to use when prepping the gerbera before arranging?
Cut about an inch off the stem and place them in a bucket of warm water, not hot! Then place the bucket in a cool area. Depending upon what they are being used for, you can also apply the tube around the head to prevent a week stem. Make sure you don’t touch the stems too often since they are susceptible to bruising.
12. What are some ways to create wedding bouquets using gerberas?
One way to make a beautiful and simple bouquet is to gather some stems in one hand and then wrap a color themed ribbon around the stems. Apply pearled pins down the center of the bouquet to finish the look!
13. If arranging your own wedding flowers, how long before should you order the gerberas from your florist?
It is safe to order them a month in advance and then pick them up a few days before the event. You might also be able to ask your florist for help in prepping them for you!
14. Is it wise to try to plant my own gerberas in order to save money on the flower budget?
No, this is a highly risky move and almost promises a disaster. If you are trying to cut back in budgeting, eliminate centerpieces and use easy votive candles instead and order only the flowers you choose to carry.
15. Can you put gerberas in oasis?
Yes you can! It isn’t wise to pre-arrange far in advance, but they will live for a few days in oasis, perfect to use for a wedding centerpiece. Make sure the oasis is thoroughly soaked through with warm water before applying the flowers.
16. What are the significant symbols attached to the gerbera daisy?
The gerbera has many different meanings. One symbol attached to the gerbera is innocence. Other meanings include loyalty and cheerfulness. The most popular symbolic association with the gerbera is of course, happiness!
The remarkable reaction on the bridal Gerbera Daisy
The gerbera daisy has been an undisputed favorite amongst many flower lovers for centuries. The unexplained “enchantment” surrounding this species brings an instantaneous joy to many, making it one of the most beloved varieties in the floral industry. Their instinctual reaction of elation has kept the fleur at an overwhelming demand and made them one of the highest requested cut flowers within the United States, China, South Africa and many European countries. Originating from Barberton, South Africa, the gerbera’s natural ability to create a stirring excitement for her beholder has raised the popularity of the gerbera around the world. The latest available statistics concur that 114,583 gerbera bunches (1 bunch is 1,000 stems) were shipped in the U.S. in 20071. As one of the highest imported flowers into the United States, the flower’s versatility in usage is boundless across several different occasions. One area of particular growth is within the wedding business.
Once deemed an “old fashioned” flower, the gerbera daisy is making a massive comeback as the desired feature in many wedding bouquets. Due to its ease of usage, longevity and abundance in variety, this bloom is winning the hearts of many as being a “must have” for their special day. One reason why popularity has soared is because of the introduction of modern hybrid assortments, such the funky purple hued Gerbera Viridifolia. This unique shade is ideal for fall weddings as it is a romantic compliment to many of the traditional red, orange, yellow and green hues typically seen at this time. Other stunning shades for autumn might include the orange, “Optima”, the crimson “Jaimy” or for that all-white affair, the flawless “Bianca” Gerbera.
Another reason why this bloom is creating serious headway is its cost effectiveness and ability to stand alone in arrangements. With the undeniable existence of a recession, many brides are opting for this simple hand-held bouquet composed of either single or multi hued stems of gerbera daisies. By forgoing the complex larger bouquets and opting for a more unembellished ensemble, the bride not only brings the focus to herself, but she is undoubtedly saving herself a substantial amount of money. It only takes five to ten stems of an elite bloom to create and unforgettable reaction as a bridal bouquet, making the gerbera the perfect choice. Guaranteed to be a head turner, its simplicity in design allows the audacious petals to stand alone as the only necessary accessory to accompany a bride walking down the aisle.
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