Shine bright with stunning bridal flowers - Part 1
Spectacular wedding blooms by Hanneke Frankema and Max van de Sluis
Back to storiesInspiration for every bride
Are you a florist looking for fresh ideas, new trends and cutting-edge techniques for bridal floristry? Then this article is just for you!
Top floral designers Hanneke Frankema and Max van de Sluis created a stunning collection of bridal bouquets for the latest edition of DPK Floral Magazine. From romantic and understated to bold and extravagant, each design is a true work of art. They’ve pulled out all the stops: advanced techniques, refined structures, exclusive varieties and meticulous detailing. Every arrangement has been finished to perfection, ensuring that every bride shines on her special day.
Bridal flowers for big and small
During this photoshoot for DPK Floral Magazine, not only the brides, but also a sweet little bridesmaid took the spotlight. Many couples want to involve their children or young relatives in their wedding ceremony, whether as ring bearers, flower girls or page boys. Hanneke Frankema took this wish to heart and translated the bridal bouquet into a miniature version especially for the bridesmaid.
The base of the first round bouquet is covered with Jacobaea Ovidius, a striking variety with soft grey, velvety foliage. For the eyecatchers in the centre Hanneke chose Polianthes Elle Pink, Scabiosa Bon Bon Scoop™ French Vanilla, and Clematis Amazing® Sevilla, all favourites in bridal floristry. She paired them with wine-red orchids for a luxurious contrast.
The second bouquet features a spiral structure made from aluminium wire wrapped in dried moss, giving it a natural, rustic finish. Hanneke adorned the base with Gloriosa Superba Simba Fifty Shades, Clematis Amazing® Sevilla, orchids, and curly ferns. Both bouquets were also created in matching miniature versions, a touching detail that helps the flower girl feel just as special as the bride.
Innovative floral design
Max van de Sluis demonstrates an innovative technique in two of his bridal designs. He threads Cornus branches onto wire to build playful, modern structures. This method allows for precise flower placement while maintaining a natural, organic feel. Max used this technique to create both a star-shaped bouquet and an elegant cascading arrangement. Though very different in shape, both designs are airy, modern and full of character.
In the left-hand design, a wooden base covered in soft pink Hyacinth pins forms the heart of the bouquet. Around the centre, Max van de Sluis created a geometric star shape made from Cornus branches. Stems of Clematis Amazing® Kansas, with the leaves taken off, have been playfully placed overtop.
The second bouquet by Max van de Sluis proves that a single variety can make a bold statement. Here, Max combined the deep burgundy of Helleborus Mammoth Red with vibrant green Cornus branches, creating a wonderful colour contrast. A high-impact design for the fashion-forward bride!
Timeless bridal bouquets
White remains a timeless favourite in wedding florals. Whether as a mono bouquet or paired with soft pastels, white flowers give bridal designs a sense of purity and classic elegance. Here, sublime detailing and flawless execution make all the difference. If you’re after simplicity with a modern twist, these designs are sure to inspire.
This stunning bouquet by Hanneke Frankema carries a powerful message. The entwined branches symbolise the unbreakable bond between the couple. Hanneke chose an all-white palette, using a base of Gypsophila Xlence®, accented with a few precisely placed stems of Clematis Amazing® Vienna. The result is serene, sophisticated and beautifully symbolic.
In this transparent bouquet, Max used a delicate woven frame made of fine wire, painted green to enhance its natural look. Onto this, he meticulously glued individual pieces of Chasmanthium Latifolium ‘Mantis’ and tiny Tanacetum ‘Single Vegmo’ flowers. A refined, airy and joyful bouquet that feels fresh and modern.
For his hand-tied bouquet, Max selected Eryngium Sirius Questar®, Clematis Amazing® Kansas, Chasmanthium Latifolium 'Mantis', and Helleborus. He also added Gypsophila Million Daisy™, a new variety in our assortment with soft, round clusters of tiny white blooms. The Gypsophila instantly adds volume and a gentle softness to the design. A perfect bouquet for saying “I do”.
There's more to come...
With these breathtaking designs, Hanneke Frankema and Max van de Sluis are setting the bar high for bridal floristry this season. Whether your style leans towards understated elegance or modern artistry, the creative possibilities are endless. In Part 2, we explore colourful showstoppers and botanical bridal bouquets. Don't miss it!
