Designing Your Wedding with Intention & Impact

Thoughtfully planned florals for your Hudson Valley New York wedding.

As a wedding planner in Upstate New York and the owner of The Maples Estate, I’ve seen firsthand how florals can completely transform a space. They bring color, life, scent, texture, and personality to a celebration—serving as the thread that ties your vision together. Whether you’re drawn to simple greenery or dramatic installations, florals are one of the most powerful tools we have in shaping a truly memorable experience.

Here’s what I always walk couples through when planning their floral design—plus tips for creating visual impact while staying true to your values and budget.

Floral Design That Fits Your Vision & Budget

Floral arrangements don’t have to be extravagant to be impactful. With the right approach and intentional placement, even minimal florals can feel thoughtful and elevated.

✔ Simple & Cost-Effective Floral Designs
If you're hoping to be mindful of your floral budget, I often recommend smaller centerpieces, bud vases, or greenery-forward designs. Potted plants or herbs are another beautiful, natural choice—and they can double as favors your guests will actually use.

✔ Statement Floral Pieces
If florals are a top priority, we can help you invest in one or two high-impact designs—think a ceremony arch, a hanging floral moment, or dramatic aisle arrangements that can later be reused in your reception space.

✔ Over-the-Top Floral Installations
For couples who love a big design moment, lush floral chandeliers, immersive floral walls, or a floral-clad reception entrance create a show-stopping atmosphere that guests won’t forget.

Where to Invest & Where to Save

As part of the planning process at The Maples Estate, I help couples focus their floral budget where it matters most—making sure your vision and values stay at the center of every decision.

Where to Invest:

✔ Ceremony Backdrop: Whether it's a floral arch, a greenery installation, or large ground arrangements framing your vows, this is a high-impact area that will be heavily photographed.
✔ Head Table or Sweetheart Table: A floral-forward design here ensures a stunning focal point for photos.
✔ Hanging or Suspended Arrangements: If you want an upscale, immersive look, floral chandeliers or hanging centerpieces create a luxurious feel.
✔ Lush Entrance Installations: Create a wow moment at dinner with a wall installation behind the bar or placed behind your sweetheart table.

Where to Save:

✔ Repurpose Ceremony Flowers: Move aisle arrangements to line your reception entrance or bar, and rearrange your ceremony arch behind your sweetheart table for a second life.
✔ Mix Floral & Non-Floral Elements: Candles, fabric draping, and vintage decor can add elegance without additional floral costs.
✔ Opt for Greenery-Heavy Designs: Lush greenery is cost-effective and textural, creating a full, romantic feel without relying on premium blooms.
✔ Smaller Centerpieces: Instead of large arrangements, use bud vases or clusters of seasonal blooms to create an intimate and effortless look.

Flower Grower: @littleannsflowers — Arrangements by client

Sustainable Floral Choices for an Eco-Friendly Wedding

One of the values we hold close at The Maples Estate is sustainability. As a planner, I’m always looking for ways to bring intention into every design choice—especially with florals. Florals are naturally beautiful, healthy for insects and pollinators and they don’t have to come at a cost to the environment. Consider these eco-conscious floral ideas to align with your values:

✔ Choose Seasonal & Locally Sourced Blooms

Work with local cut flower growers who prioritize sustainability and organic farming practices.
Opt for flowers that are in season to reduce the environmental footprint of imported blooms.

✔ Compost Florals After the Wedding

Instead of letting your florals go to waste, arrange for composting so they return to the earth naturally rather than ending up in a landfill. Some florists offer this as part of their services!

✔ Repurpose & Reuse

Donate your flowers post-wedding to hospitals, nursing homes, or local organizations that will continue to enjoy them.
Use potted plants, herbs, or dried florals that guests can take home as keepsakes.
Rearrange ceremony florals for your reception decor instead of ordering separate pieces.

✔ Ditch Floral Foam

Ask your florist to use foam-free mechanics (like chicken wire or reusable floral structures) rather than traditional floral foam, which is harmful to the environment.

Bringing Your Floral Vision to Life at The Maples Estate

At The Maples Estate, floral design is never an afterthought—it’s a core part of the planning process. As your planner, I guide you through every step, from setting a floral budget to sourcing the right team, prioritizing what matters most to you. Whether your style is bold and modern or soft and romantic, we’ll create a cohesive floral experience that enhances your wedding weekend from start to finish.

Let’s create something beautiful together.
Learn more about what it’s like to plan your wedding with us and explore what’s included in our wedding package.