Ideas for Lily Bouquets

Color and Complements

Given their distinctive shades, lilies stand out in monochromatic bouquets. Martha Stewart recommends combining orange and yellow gloriosa lilies with narcissus, roses and orchids for a vibrant and dramatic bouquet. The cherry red flambard lily would be striking in a similar arrangement, accented by roses, gerbera daisies and clusters of cherry blossoms.

Staying with the same species of lily can create bouquets of simplicity and romance. The trumpet voluntaire lily features medium-sized blossoms in shades of pink, yellow and cream. A cluster of these blossoms in a variety of colors, wrapped with a satin ribbon in an accent color, such as lavender blue, would make a whimsical and elegant bouquet for a garden wedding. As a bonus, the blooms are substantial enough to serve as matching boutonnieres. Highlighting the little known eucharis lily, Martha Stewart recommends a delicate bouquet comprised entirely of the white lily blossoms.

As there are many kinds of lilies, there is a special meaning associated with each one. For a bridal bouquet, try a mix of tiger lily (meaning good fortune and prosperity), white lily (purity and youth), and accents of eucharis lily (womanly charm). When sending a message of sympathy, accompany it with a bouquet of white stargazer lilies, the traditional flower of sympathy and mourning. Just avoid orange lilies; they typically represent intense dislike.

Some lilies contain enormous blossoms, making other flowers a distraction. For a simple but striking flower girl bouquet, simply tie a length of satin ribbon around a pink or white stargazer lily blossom. The dramatic bloom will be just the right size for smaller hands and can save money for larger arrangements.