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The Huron Expositor, 1995-02-22, Page 46PAGE 6D -Wednesday, February 22, 1995 e Anita &W�y By AMY NEILANDS News -Record Staff Several factors help a bride to decide on the perfect flowers for that special day. Percy MacDonald, of Cooke's Florists, in Clinton, said that consulting with a florist about wedding plans and flower ideas about four to six months before the wedding is always best. "It makes it easier if it is booked ahead of time," said MacDonald. Going to the florist beforehand with a whole wedding plan makes it easier to choose the flowers for the bouquets, the church and the reception. •telling the florist the size of the wedding, the colors the number of attendants, the price budgeted for flowers and the style of the wedding are important influences in choosing the flowers. Given these factors, MacDonald said, the florist will make suggestions to the bride. She also said it is important that the bride takes those suggestions home to discuss them with her bridesmaids and others involved in the wedding plans before making a final decision. "Mull it over, come back and make a decision," she added. With many styles and arrangements of flowers, MacDonald said that the majority of brides are choosing fresh flowers over artificial flowers. She also said choosing gathered, hand -tied bouquets has become very popular. This style makes bouquets simple and natural, using flowers like lilies and asters. "Many are going with more of the loose and airy look to bouquets." The cost of flowers all depends on the type, said MacDonald. The prices range from about $300 to $1,000. She added that gathered flowers may have a lot of flowers but are not as costly. "It all depends on the type of flowers." With the decisions made and the flowers picked, all that is left to do is wait for the big day when the flowers are prepared and arranged at their designated locations. Left: Percy MacDonald, of Cooke's Florists, in Clinton, suggests that brides bring along their completed wedding plan - including colors, number of attendants, floral budget and the style of the wedding - when visiting the florist. If flowers are the language of the heart, what does your bouquet say: There are few things on earth as well-appointed for the pursuit of romance as the diamond engagement ring and the bridal bouquet. To capture their timeless beauty, consider choosing flowers that coordinate with the color and style of the bridal gown. 'lb find a florist, ask friends for recommendations or visit local florists and ask to see samples or pictures. Be ready to discuss your color scheme, flower preferences and, most importantly, the budget. Many couples want their flowers to be more than just beautiful. , If you want your flowers to have special meaning, consult the following list: V Carnation: sweet; innocent • Daffodil: regard and chivalry • Gladiolus: love at first sight • Honeysuckle: fidelity V Lily purity; innocence • Lily of the valley: happiness ♦ Orchid: love; beauty; fertility Rose: symbol of love • Stephanotis: bride's good - luck flower • Tulip: perfect love ♦ Violet: modesty; faithfulness After you've made your selections, take time to review the fine points. Let the florist know when and where the flowers can be delivered, when deposits are due, and the cancellation policy. And don't forget to order a tossing bouquet so that you can save and perserve the real one. Dealing with 'star' .status From the time you announce your engagement to the time you leave on your honeymoon, you - the bride-to-be - are the centre of attention. Here are a few hints to help you deal with being the 'star' of a wedding shower: • Spend a few moments chatting with each person who attends. Let each of them know that you appreciate the time, energy and expense she has exerted on your behalf. • At gift -opening time, you'll have the stage to yourself. If no spot has been pre -arranged, fmd a place to sit down where everyone will be able to see you. As you open each gift, hold it up for everyone to see and say a few words, personally directed towards the giver. Extend your thanks and perhaps mention how the gift will be used. • Take your time, choose your words and do your best to acknowledge each gift and giver. • If you receive a duplicate gift, thank the giver appropriately, and talk to her later, in private, about arranging an exchange. Perhaps your hostess will help you. • As soon as possible after the shower, write thank -you notes for all the gifts. Mention the gift specifically, offer sincer thanks and mention how it will be used. • Write a special note to your hostess. You can tell of the lovely time you had, the effort and expense you know the shower took, the useful gifts you received and the good start you'll have now, because of this special shower.