Winter weddings in Georgia offer a chance to showcase seasonal flowers that thrive in cooler months, ensuring stunning arrangements without the high costs of imported blooms. From festive poinsettias to elegant roses, these flowers complement the season's colors and textures while being practical for the climate. Here's a quick rundown of the top options:
- Carnations: Affordable, long-lasting, and available in a variety of colors.
- Poinsettias: Festive red and cream tones perfect for December weddings.
- Gardenias: Romantic white blooms with a strong fragrance, though they can be delicate.
- Hollies: Green leaves with red berries for a seasonal, textured look.
- Pine Branches: Affordable greenery that adds volume and a wintery touch.
- Cedar: Evergreen foliage ideal for bouquets and décor.
- Amaryllis: Bold, structural blooms in red and white.
- Roses: Year-round availability with versatile color options.
- Orchids: Elegant and dramatic, available in white and rich shades.
- Tulips: Bright, cup-shaped flowers that add color and grace.
These flowers not only fit the winter aesthetic but also help keep costs manageable by focusing on in-season and locally sourced blooms. Whether you're planning bouquets, centerpieces, or larger installations, these options provide plenty of inspiration for your Georgia winter wedding.
10 Best Winter Wedding Flowers for Georgia: Quick Comparison Guide
Benefits of Seasonal Flowers for Georgia Winter Weddings
Opting for seasonal flowers for your Georgia winter wedding can lead to big savings. Flowers that naturally bloom between December and February are more affordable because they don’t require the extra costs tied to importing out-of-season varieties. Imported flowers often come with hefty shipping fees, while locally or regionally grown blooms arrive fresh and ready without the added transportation costs. Plus, seasonal flowers bring an unmatched level of freshness to your arrangements.
Freshness truly stands out in wedding decor. Locally sourced, in-season flowers are delivered quickly and require little to no preservation. As Karla Marentes from Kamala Floral Design notes, flowers grown locally and in season are noticeably fresher and more vibrant.
Georgia’s USDA Hardiness Zones (6a to 9a) create the perfect environment for hardy blooms that thrive in frost and complement winter wedding designs beautifully. Locally harvested flowers are well-suited to winter conditions, ensuring your bouquets and centerpieces look stunning throughout the event. Cathryn Haight, Editor at The Knot, highlights this advantage:
"Choosing your wedding flowers by season versus by color or shape will always pay off, especially if you get hyperspecific and source flowers in season by month. Asking your florist: 'What flowers are in season right now?' will yield bouquets and arrangements filled with petals at their prime".
Another benefit? Supporting local Georgia flower farms. By choosing locally grown blooms, you not only reduce your wedding’s environmental impact but also contribute to the local economy. Many local growers use sustainable practices, cutting down on the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping. Incorporating American-grown flowers into your wedding captures the essence of the season while fostering a connection to the community.
1. Carnations
Carnations are a fantastic choice for Georgia winter weddings. With colors ranging from white, burgundy, yellow, and red to orange and pink, they can complement a variety of wedding themes. As Georgia Vintage Weddings suggests, "Do Buy: Amaryllis, Hypericum Berries, Camellias, Carnations - These not only smell great but are low on the pollen count", making them a thoughtful option for guests with allergies. Their adaptability and durability make them a go-to for many floral arrangements.
The ruffled petals of carnations bring texture and volume to bouquets, while their ability to endure colder weather makes them perfect for winter. Pairing red carnations with roses and ranunculus creates a harmonious and festive look for December weddings.
Caring for carnations during the winter is simple. Start by trimming the stems at a 45° angle and placing them in water at room temperature with flower food. Change the water and recut the stems every 2–3 days. To keep them fresh longer, store arrangements in a cooler space (around 60–65°F), away from direct sunlight and ripening fruits. With proper care, carnations can stay vibrant for up to three weeks.
Joanna Dyer, owner of Snapdragon Floral, shares, "We love to open our carnations and roses for weddings, but we keep them tight with delivery so you can enjoy them the maximum time".
2. Poinsettias
Poinsettias are often seen as the ultimate Christmas flower, making them a perfect choice for December weddings in Georgia. Their bold red or cream-colored bracts, paired with lush green leaves, instantly create a festive vibe that fits seamlessly with winter wedding themes.
These flowers truly shine in large displays like altar arrangements, where their size and vibrant colors make a striking impression. For a timeless holiday look, consider pairing red poinsettias with white roses in bouquets and centerpieces. The combination adds a touch of elegance while embracing the season's festive spirit.
To keep poinsettias looking their best, place them in bright, indirect light and water them moderately - just enough to keep the soil moist but not soggy. With the right care, their colorful bracts can stay beautiful for months.
If nighttime temperatures drop below 60°F, keep poinsettias indoors to protect them. For containerized poinsettias in outdoor settings, move them to a sheltered area or cover them to shield their roots from the cold.
3. Gardenias
Gardenias are known for their creamy white petals and captivating fragrance, making them a dreamy choice for a romantic winter wedding. However, they’re not well-suited for cold weather and can be difficult to source during the winter months.
These delicate flowers are highly sensitive to temperature changes and require specific growing conditions. Even if you manage to secure them, gardenias are prone to wilting during outdoor ceremonies or cooler events. Additionally, their high pollen content could be an issue for guests with allergies.
If you love the look of gardenias but want to avoid these challenges, consider alternatives like white roses or orchids. These flowers provide a similar elegance and are far more dependable in Georgia’s winter climate. Choosing blooms that can handle the season’s conditions ensures your floral arrangements stay beautiful throughout your big day.
4. Hollies
Holly branches, with their shiny green leaves and bright red berries, bring a festive, wintry charm to wedding décor. The vibrant berries provide striking pops of color and texture, adding depth to floral arrangements. Pair holly with white winter flowers like garden roses or ranunculus, and mix in evergreen accents such as pine or cedar for a lush, seasonal look. Holly’s durability makes it a smart choice for outdoor ceremony arches or aisle decorations, as it holds up better in cold weather than delicate flowers, reducing the risk of wilting during outdoor photo sessions.
To keep holly branches looking fresh all day, proper care is essential. Start by ensuring the plant is well-hydrated before cutting branches, which helps prevent cold damage. Holly can dry out quickly in cold, windy conditions. Keep arrangements in a cool environment, ideally between 60–65°F, and avoid placing them near heat sources like fireplaces. For outdoor décor, store arrangements indoors and covered until they’re ready to be displayed. If your wedding includes outdoor photos in freezing temperatures, consider preparing backup bouquets or boutonnieres to ensure everything looks pristine. These steps will help holly maintain its fresh and striking appearance throughout your celebration.
With its natural winter charm and resilience, holly is a perfect addition to arrangements that reflect Georgia’s seasonal beauty.
5. Pine Branches
Pine branches are a staple of Georgia winters, making them an affordable and readily available option for wedding décor. Their easy-to-find nature not only keeps costs down but also adds fullness to arrangements effortlessly. With their lush evergreen needles, they naturally bring a sense of calm and seasonal charm. The deep green hue serves as a stunning backdrop for brighter flowers, adding both texture and depth to any arrangement.
Pine branches are incredibly versatile, making them a great choice for a variety of wedding arrangements. They work beautifully in cascading bouquets, where their greenery helps create a flowing design and adds volume without overshadowing delicate blooms. Bron Hansboro, Owner of The Flower Guy Bron, highlights this use:
"I'm personally fond of utilizing greenery in your bouquets and arrangements during the winter to complement your flowers. Cascading bouquets are still wildly popular, which foraged greenery can play a huge role in".
For centerpieces, pine branches pair well with winter flowers to create a layered, dimensional look. Adding pine cones gives an extra festive touch, perfect for a holiday-inspired theme. Joan Wyndrum, Co-founder of Blooms by the Box, shares:
"If you want a holiday vibe, then balsam, cedar, juniper, and boxwood are all great additions as well. Placing greens in winter wedding bouquets with pine cones is also a lovely way to add holiday flair".
These branches aren’t just limited to bouquets and centerpieces - they can be woven into various decorative elements. Lay them along reception tables for a rustic runner or use them with pine cones in decorative baskets for ceremony accents. Their natural, earthy appearance makes them especially appealing for couples looking to achieve a woodland or winter-inspired theme.
6. Cedar
Cedar is a popular choice for winter weddings in Georgia, thanks to its evergreen foliage that stays lush throughout the colder months. This timeless greenery brings a classic charm to wedding arrangements and works well in a variety of floral designs.
When combined with white flowers and pine, cedar creates a sophisticated, seasonal aesthetic. A perfect example is College Park Flowers' "Winter Bouquet with White Flowers and Pine and Cedar Greenery", beautifully captured by Swish + Click Photography.
Cedar is particularly useful in greenery-focused designs, especially when winter flowers are scarce. Its unique texture pairs effortlessly with thistles, berries, and other decorative accents, adding depth and richness to bouquets and centerpieces. Plus, its natural fullness makes it an excellent choice for filling out arrangements.
Beyond floral designs, cedar branches are incredibly versatile for décor. Use them in table runners, ceremony arches, or to wrap around candle arrangements for a festive, seasonal touch that elevates your winter wedding ambiance.
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7. Amaryllis
Amaryllis stands out as a stunning choice for Georgia's winter weddings, thanks to its bold winter blooms and extended availability. These eye-catching flowers are in season from December through late June, making them a reliable option for winter celebrations.
One of the most appealing aspects of amaryllis is its design flexibility. Lauren Chitwood from Lauren Chitwood Events explains that amaryllis "can [be] used in bulb form or cut. Its long stems provide great structure for design, allowing for either traditional or more structural elements". This means you can use amaryllis to create anything from timeless, romantic bouquets to sleek, modern arrangements with a more architectural vibe.
Beyond their beauty, amaryllis also offers practical benefits. With a low pollen count, they’re a thoughtful choice for guests who may have allergies or sensitivities. Available in striking shades like white and red, they can either enhance a monochromatic theme or bring a vibrant, festive touch to your wedding décor. Whether used as cut flowers or potted plants, proper care ensures their beauty lasts.
For cut amaryllis, keep them fresh by trimming the stems at a 45° angle, inverting the hollow stem, filling it with water, and sealing it with a cotton ball. Repeat this process two or three times a week, and the flowers can last up to two weeks. Potted amaryllis, on the other hand, thrive in cooler conditions (around 60–65°F) away from direct sunlight, heaters, and air vents. Rotate the pot every few days to encourage straight growth, and use stakes to support heavy stalks.
With its vibrant colors, ease of care, and unmatched versatility, amaryllis is an excellent choice for adding elegance and personality to your winter wedding arrangements.
8. Roses
Roses are a timeless choice for winter weddings in Georgia, largely because they’re available year-round. While they aren’t locally grown during the colder months, modern supply chains ensure high-quality blooms are always within reach. If you have your heart set on specific varieties, it’s a good idea to place your order at least six weeks in advance to guarantee availability.
These flowers fit effortlessly into any winter wedding theme. Joan Wyndrum of Blooms by the Box highlights their versatility:
"Garden roses are a big favorite, and we love them in alabaster white, Darcey red, and vitality ivory".
For couples leaning toward a softer, wintry palette, ivory spray roses and Quicksand roses are excellent options. These shades work beautifully in designs that mirror snowy landscapes. If you prefer a more dramatic look, romantic reds - both standard and spray roses - pair wonderfully with neutral tones like ivory or beige. Lavender roses, on the other hand, bring a pastel touch that’s perfect for a gentler, more understated winter vibe.
To create striking bouquets, consider pairing white roses with red poinsettias. For a more subdued look, mix standard and spray roses with ivory and beige tones. Adding Astrantia blooms can bring an interesting contrast, as Mary Stevens from Fearrington Weddings explains:
"Astrantia blooms offer a sharper shape to contrast the softness of the roses that permeate winter wedding florals".
Roses also pair beautifully with traditional winter greenery and berries, enhancing their seasonal charm. Their durability makes them a practical choice for boutonnieres and floral arrangements, as they hold up well in colder conditions throughout the day. With their adaptability and elegance, roses remain a cornerstone of winter wedding designs, setting the stage for endless creative possibilities.
9. Orchids
Orchids are a fantastic choice for weddings in Georgia, as they’re available year-round, making them perfect for winter themes. While they aren’t locally grown during the colder months, modern supply chains make it easy to source them. To ensure you get the specific varieties you want, it’s best to place your order about six weeks in advance for imported options. Their versatility and elegance make them a standout addition to floral designs.
Visually, orchids shine in winter weddings, especially in white and rich shades like regal purple or plum. Their large, dramatic petals add a bold touch to any arrangement. Pair them with winter greenery such as dusty miller, silver dollar eucalyptus, balsam, cedar, juniper, or boxwood for a seasonal and sophisticated look.
Orchids work beautifully in cascading bouquets, creating a dramatic and eye-catching effect. They also make stunning cake decorations, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table. While they can be pricey, their size and durability make them a worthwhile investment.
To keep orchids looking fresh, maintain them indoors at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F, and protect them from cold drafts. If you’re transporting them on your wedding day, avoid placing them near cold windows or exposing them to chilly air. Their natural resilience ensures they’ll stay gorgeous throughout your celebration.
10. Tulips
Tulips bring a vibrant mix of color and grace, even though they’re often associated with spring. Thanks to modern importation, these blooms are available year-round, though they may come at a higher price. If you’re planning to include tulips in your arrangements, it’s a good idea to check availability with your florist ahead of time.
Tulips come in a stunning variety of shades - white, yellow, red, and even deep purple. Their signature cup-shaped blooms add a fresh and romantic flair to bouquets and centerpieces.
However, tulips can be a bit delicate. They’re prone to wilting since their stems don’t retain water well. To keep them looking fresh during colder months, replace the vase water daily with cold water to reduce bacteria buildup. Store them in cool spots, away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or ripening fruit, as these can shorten their lifespan. Althea Wiles, founder of Rose of Sharon Floral Design Studio, emphasizes:
"Tulips are particularly sensitive to bacteria in the vase water, so I tell my clients to change the water every day or two. This simple step can add several days to your arrangement's life".
For best results, cut the stems at an angle and recut them every few days. Avoid overfilling the vase with water, as tulips’ soft stems can become mushy if submerged too much. Mary McCorkle, floral designer and owner of Studio Brambles, explains:
"Tulips' soft stems are water sensitive and they tend to go mushy quicker with too much water. When filling your vase for your tulip arrangement, less than full is actually plenty of water".
Marietta Floral Design's Custom Winter Bouquets
Celebrate the charm of Georgia's winter blooms with the help of a local floral expert for your winter wedding. Marietta Floral Design specializes in crafting custom bridal bouquets, featuring locally sourced flowers that are hand-delivered to Marietta, Kennesaw, Acworth, and the Metro Atlanta area.
Their arrangements highlight the best of the season - think roses, orchids, pine branches, and cedar - perfectly tailored to complement classic, rustic, or modern wedding themes.
In addition to bouquets, Marietta Floral Design offers full floral installations, including centerpieces, archways, and table arrangements. Custom designs start at $55.00, making it easy to coordinate every detail of your wedding décor.
For added convenience, they provide same-day delivery across Marietta, Kennesaw, Acworth, and Metro Atlanta. Just place your order before the daily cut-off, and your flowers will arrive fresh and ready to enhance your special day.
How to Use These Flowers in Your Wedding
Now that we’ve highlighted the top 10 winter blooms, let’s explore how to weave them into your wedding for a stunning and cohesive look.
Winter weddings in Georgia offer a unique chance to play with color palettes. Whether you lean toward classic deep reds and greens, timeless whites and silvers, or unexpected pastels and jewel tones, these flowers can help reflect your personal style. Here’s how to incorporate them into key elements of your wedding.
Bouquets are an excellent place to showcase texture and variety. Use amaryllis as a bold structural element to create eye-catching focal points. Pair white roses with red poinsettias for a striking December vibe that feels festive yet elegant. Orchids, especially Phalaenopsis varieties, add a graceful draping effect, enhancing the movement and flow of your bouquet. For a winter touch, include accents like berries, pine cones, or greenery such as cedar or pine branches. These additions not only enhance the seasonal feel but also add depth without stretching your budget.
For centerpieces and table settings, reusing your ceremony flowers at the reception is a smart way to save money while maximizing visual impact. Amaryllis works beautifully as a standalone table decoration but can also be paired with roses and holly berries for a fuller, more dramatic arrangement. Greenery like cedar or pine is an affordable way to create cascading designs and fill out your arrangements without compromising on style.
When it comes to floral arches and entryways, combining amaryllis with flowing orchids creates a breathtaking effect. Use pine branches and cedar as a sturdy base, then add bursts of color with carnations, tulips, or poinsettias. Amaryllis stems can also be used to frame mirrors or doorways, adding an elegant touch to unexpected spaces.
To ensure your vision comes to life, communicate clearly with your florist. Share your themes, color palette, and preferred blooms to create a design that feels cohesive and uniquely yours.
Conclusion
A Georgia winter wedding offers the perfect opportunity to feature seasonal flowers that bring beauty, freshness, and a touch of practicality to your big day. From the bold elegance of amaryllis to the timeless charm of roses and the festive allure of poinsettias, these blooms provide plenty of options to create stunning arrangements.
Opting for in-season flowers means you're choosing blooms that naturally thrive during winter, ensuring they look their absolute best. As Zola puts it, "Incorporating seasonal flowers into your wedding day gets you the best quality blooms for a lower price tag". Plus, it eliminates the need for expensive, time-consuming imports. This choice not only guarantees fresh, vibrant flowers but also reflects a thoughtful, budget-conscious, and sustainable approach.
Using locally sourced flowers goes a step further by supporting Georgia's floral industry while adding a seasonal touch with native greenery like cedar, pine branches, and magnolia leaves. These elements bring authenticity and texture to your wedding décor.
Collaborating with skilled florists ensures your vision comes to life with blooms that balance beauty and practicality for a winter celebration. As Zola advises, "Trust your florist to guide you towards winter wedding flowers that are appropriate and budget-friendly". Their expertise can turn your ideas into a breathtaking reality.
At Marietta Floral Design, we take pride in crafting custom winter wedding arrangements that highlight the season's best blooms. By sourcing flowers locally and delivering them with care, we ensure your wedding florals are fresh, vibrant, and uniquely tailored to your special day.
FAQs
What are the cost advantages of choosing seasonal flowers for a winter wedding in Georgia?
Choosing seasonal flowers for your winter wedding in Georgia is a smart way to save money. These blooms are grown locally, which means you can skip the hefty import fees and lower transportation costs. Plus, because they’re in season, they’re typically fresher and more lively, giving your floral arrangements a beautiful, vibrant look without stretching your budget.
What can I do to keep my winter wedding flowers fresh all day?
To ensure your winter wedding flowers stay fresh and stunning, start by keeping them well-hydrated. Place the blooms in cool water before the big day, giving them the moisture they need. For arrangements, use floral foam or water tubes to help maintain that hydration throughout the celebration. Before the event, store your flowers in a cool, humid spot, away from direct sunlight, heaters, or any other sources of heat. By following these tips, your flowers will remain lively and gorgeous all day long.
How can I use pine branches and cedar in winter wedding decorations?
Pine branches and cedar are a fantastic way to infuse your wedding decor with a warm, wintery vibe. Whether you use them to create graceful garlands, charming wreaths, or striking table centerpieces, they bring a natural touch of greenery that feels both inviting and elegant. In bouquets, they add texture and a rustic flair that complements seasonal flowers beautifully.
To make the decor even more festive, try incorporating accents like berries, pinecones, or delicate fairy lights. You can also mix them with other winter greens or seasonal blooms to craft lush, visually stunning arrangements that perfectly capture the spirit of the season.