Avoid Allergies on Your Wedding!
No one wants a stuffy nose when they’re saying their vows; the tears running down your face should be from happiness, not allergies. What precautions can you take to ensure you won’t be sniffling and sneezing all day?
non-floral bouquets
Silk flowers can be a fantastic synthetic option for a bouquet if you suffer from allergies, and most florists have the capabilities to make them. Not only will you have a gorgeous arrangement, but your eyes won’t be swollen shut, and you’ll be able to breathe clearly. Plus, you won’t ruin any pictures or romantic moments by swatting away bees or other insects. “Sometimes we substitute high pollen/scented flowers with silk flowers and mix them in with fresh flowers,” Louise from Hirt’s Flowers says. This is the perfect compromise to having a gorgeous bouquet without suffering. “The key to making it realistic is using high-quality silks,” says Louise.
Some other cute options for an alternative bouquet are using brooches, buttons, sea shells, feathers, pinwheels, or paper flowers. Use pages from your favorite love story, sheet music, or a fun print or pattern to create a unique arrangement!
consider winter months
Pollen is the most common cause of allergies. Though it can be found year round, it is more prevalent in summer months. Trees and plants can bloom as early as February and stay until the end of summer into early fall. Once snow hits and the plants begin to die or freeze, pollen is less airborne. Therefore, you’ll be able to breathe more clearly and are more likely to make it through your ceremony without blowing your nose.
On the flip side, though, your bouquet may also be more expensive in these months. Because flowers are not as accessible from November to February, florists may have to order them from a different state or country, and you’ll notice this upcharge in your bill.
wear a veil
Orchard Photography
It may seem silly and we’ll admit the results aren’t dramatic, but wearing a veil can help fight off allergens. Have you ever noticed that your allergies aren’t as bad when you’re wearing sunglasses? They serve as a protective barrier, preventing any pollen from entering your eyes. A veil serves the same purpose! Though it is a thin barrier – and the holes in the lace allow for some allergens to make their way through – a blusher veil worn over your face as you walk down the aisle may be what prevents your sneezing fit halfway down.
Flowers to Avoid
Some flowers are more apt to carry pollen – which will not only affect your allergies but will also attract more bugs. When deciding what flowers to put in your bouquet, Nikki from Nikki’s Perfect Petals Designs says to avoid “mini asters (solidaster, montecasino, and goldenrod), sunflowers, chrysanthemums, stephanotis, baby’s breath, and stock.”
Super fragrant flowers may seem like a great idea, but reconsider using fragrant flowers like “stargazer lilies, freesia, hyacinth, and gardenias,” adds Lousie from Hirt’s.
Flowers to choose
Sabrina Hall Photography and Nikki’s Perfect Petal Designs
Don’t get discouraged! Just because you have allergies doesn’t mean you have to have a silk bouquet. There are plenty of flowers out there that won’t tickle your nose and activate your allergies.
According to Louise from Hirt’s Flowers, Nikki from Nikki’s Perfect Petals Designs, and Courtney from Graceful Wedding Company, this is a list of flowers perfect for an allergy sufferer’s bouquet.
- Hydrangea
- Roses (unscented)
- Calla Lilies
- Orchids (unscented)
- Dahlias
- Iris
- Bird of paradise
- Anthurium
- Tulips
- Magnolias
- Ferns
- Blue Thistle
- Ruscus
- Hypericum Berries
This list is by no means conclusive. Talk with your local florist to see what suggestions they have and trust their experience and expertise. Don’t know what some of these flowers are? Check out our flower glossary!
consult a doctor
Of course, nothing is a guarantee and you never know what Ohio’s weather – or pollen count – will bring. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, we highly suggest seeking out the expertise of an allergy doctor. Consult with them 8-12 months in advance so you can test out different methods and medicines to find which is the best for you!
