The photo on the left are flowers that I gathered from a number of shops and warehouses to fit the theme of my wedding. These however, were fake flowers (because we were travelling the day before, I didn't want to have any problems). On the other hand, the bridal and bridesmaids' bouquet, and all the boutonnieres were real. At the time, I really wanted to make my own bouquets, (especially since my original florist cancelled on me last minute!), but I didn't have any of the supplies and hadn't tried to make any before, I was simply short of time.
Since then, I've had the longing to learn and make bridal bouquets and boutonnieres. With this 20% Time Project opportunity, I now have a great reason to pursue this desire. My first attempt at ever putting a bouquet together is the image on the right, for this past Mother's Day. In my opinion, it's not the same as a hand held bouquet, and it's obviously done by an amateur. Ideally, if I could succeed in making hand held bouquets and boutonnieres that look professionally done, I could have it as a side business, as a hobby.
To begin, I would consider the following "Inquiry Questions":
1. Which flowers are seasonal (which seasons), which are all year round and are in high demand for wedding bouquets? For boutonnieres?
2. What are the various bouquet shapes, and the various ways to put a bouquet and boutonnier together?
3. What materials will I need for keeping the arrangements together, for hand tying bouquets and boutonnieres?
4. What are the various fillers, greens, and wild plants I could include that are long lasting?
5. Where can I source out locally discounted/warehouse flowers for making my own arrangements?
6. What resources are available from farmers and distant suppliers?
7. Which shops will provide the materials needed?
8. Where are the best ideas and examples to use for myself and my clients?
9. What is the time frame for each step required for each type of bouquet or boutonniere?
10. What technical skills are required and need the most practice in able for me to succeed?