Today’s wedding and event floral concepts are often accompanied by fresh garland, a charming accent that weaves natural textures and tones throughout any interior space. From table runners to backdrops and cake-wraps, fresh garland is available in a wide range of pre-fastened greens – all of which add unique qualities to the palette of your design.

Photo: Modern Day Floral, Grand Rapids, MI

Adding fresh flowers to the mix

Whether you use white garden roses or pink peonies, fresh flowers can bring to life virtually any mix of garland. Think of the garland as your vase, and let the natural grandiosity of your bride’s favorite flowers complement the green bay leaves or blueish tones of eucalyptus within the garland itself.

Photo: Ludema’s Floral & Garden, Grand Rapids, MI

Sometimes fresh garland serves as a useful canvas for adding fresh flowers to create arbors and large-scale designs. The team at Ludema’s Floral & Garden (Grand Rapids, MI) created this amazing arch without using any wire cages or foam. “We ordered the extra full Sprengeri / variegated Pitt garland, and doubled it up,” said shop owner Allison Ludema. “Then we used corsage glue to attach all of the roses. It worked great!”

Things to know when buying garland for your wedding or event

Ordering Window: The “2-3” Rule: When ordering fresh garland, always remember the critical “2-3” rule. The rule has two parts: a) place your order 2-3 weeks before your event, and b) plan a delivery date at least 2-3 days ahead of the big date. This allows for assembly, product availability, and gives time for your chosen greens to reach their full visual (and, in some cases, aromatic) peak.

Customize your Size: Your garland is put together by the even foot. Before ordering, take the time to determine how many pieces you’ll need for the job, and at what length. For example, you may require (17) eight-foot strands, (10) two-foot strands, and a single strand that is 36 feet in length. DO NOT CUT the garland after receipt, as doing so could cause it to unravel.

Keep Your Garland Cool and Misted: Upon receipt, be sure to mist your garland every couple of days with water. This will provide longer-lasting freshness leading up to your event. Store the garland in a cool dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. Shedding is normal, so plan for a small amount of cleanup as you work with it.

Which garland mix is right for me?

Ask your wholesale representative about the wide selection of garland available from California and Florida. There are too many types and combinations to fit into one blog post, but here are a few examples, just to get you started.

Bay Leaf

Photo: Ludema’s Floral & Garden, Grand Rapids, MI

Bay Leaf garland has a wonderfully sweet scent; a pleasant herbal fragrance that captivates guests and induces a naturally-relaxing atmosphere. Casting a classic green hue, Bay Leaf garland serves as wonderful backdrop for added flowers, or on its own. Typically, the fresh bay leaves are still drying upon your garland’s arrival; they will completely dry out within 1-2 weeks, unless misted periodically.

Silver Dollar & Seeded Eucalyptus

Photo: Ludemas Floral & Garden, Grand Rapids, MI

Photo: Modern Day Floral, Grand Rapids, MI

Eucalyptus is beloved for its greenish-blue color and lush texture. The curved leaves and unique aroma have secured its place as a top-choice for wedding and floral designers everywhere. Eucalyptus will maintain its color, even after the foliage completely dries out, adding to its versatility.

Nagi, Podo & Green Pitt

Photos: Modern Day Floral, Grand Rapids, MI

For a cornucopia of texture and variety, consider garland with a triple mix of different greenery. One popular option includes the strong scent and grayish green leaves of Pittsoporum with the thin leaves of Podo and the large, deep green leaves of Nagi.

For more info on fresh garland, contact your Kennicott or Nordlie sales representative.

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