Planning a wedding in Calgary means dealing with changing seasons, each with its own charm—and its own floral challenges. We’ve worked with couples through every month of the year, and we’ve learned that timing and nature play a huge role in how your wedding flowers turn out. So, let’s talk about what works, what doesn’t, and how to make your floral choices fit your season, your budget, and your personal style.
Spring Weddings: Fresh, Fragrant, and Full of Possibility
Spring is often a favourite for weddings in Calgary. Firstly, the weather starts warming up and secondly, nature begins to bloom all over again. The flowers available in spring offer bright colours, soft petals, and plenty of flexibility in design.
Tulips are a classic choice this time of year. In other words, they’re simple, elegant, and available in just about any colour. Daffodils and hyacinths also work well, especially for couples who want something fragrant. Peonies start to appear near the end of spring and remain a sought-after option for romantic bouquets.
That said, spring weather in Calgary can still be unpredictable. We’ve had snow in April and dry heat in May. Therefore, it’s smart to choose blooms that can handle sudden temperature shifts. Ranunculus and anemones are hardy enough to manage the swings, while still looking soft and romantic.
If you’re not sure which flowers will be available at your exact wedding date, a seasoned Calgary florist can guide you. We help couples sort through local availability and shipping timelines so there are no surprises the week of the wedding.
Summer Weddings: Bold Colours and Full Bloom Options
Summer is flower season in full force. Most importantly, it offers the widest selection of blooms, both locally grown and imported. Roses, dahlias, zinnias, and sunflowers are all strong summer performers. Moreover, the colours range from soft pastels to bold jewel tones, giving you a lot to work with when building your theme.
However, Calgary’s summer can be hot and dry, especially in July. So, not all flowers can withstand direct sunlight during an outdoor ceremony or photo session. For instance, hydrangeas may wilt quickly if not kept cool and hydrated. On the other hand, orchids, lisianthus, and calla lilies do well even on warmer days.
Seasonal greens like eucalyptus, ruscus, and dusty miller are not just filler. That is to say, they add texture and contrast without overpowering your focal blooms. Another useful tip: schedule your delivery for early morning if you’re planning a midday outdoor wedding. This helps preserve freshness longer.
For custom combinations or ideas tailored to your venue, it helps to explore your custom flower order options. We often build arrangements that reflect both the season and the specific look our couples are after.
Fall Weddings: Warm Tones and Unexpected Textures
Autumn weddings bring in rich, warm tones that can feel cozy and dramatic at the same time. Think burnt orange, burgundy, copper, and deep green. Dahlias are a standout for fall. So are marigolds, mums, and celosia. These flowers carry a lot of visual weight, which makes them ideal for larger bouquets and centerpieces.
Fall is also the time for incorporating dried elements like pampas grass or thistle. These pair beautifully with fresh flowers and add a different kind of elegance. That is to say, they’re both trendy and timeless. Another bonus? They hold up well in both cool and warm settings.
Weather-wise, Calgary’s fall can be unpredictable like spring. September can feel like summer while late October can bring early snow. Therefore, it’s a good idea to avoid delicate blooms that need high humidity or constant refrigeration.
We also recommend thinking about scent. Some fall flowers are more earthy or herbal than sweet. If fragrance matters to you, make sure you preview the bouquet blend in advance so there are no surprises on your wedding day.
Winter Weddings: Minimalist Charm and Year-Round Favourites
A winter wedding in Calgary is magical when done right. However, floral options are more limited during colder months. Many flowers have to be imported, which can affect availability and pricing. That said, some flowers remain reliable regardless of the season.
Roses, carnations, and lilies are solid winter staples. Amaryllis and winter berries also offer rich seasonal colours without needing much support. Pairing white flowers with greenery or frosted accents can deliver that clean winter look many couples love.
For those planning an indoor ceremony or reception, winter flowers hold up well. The colder temperatures actually help keep the arrangements fresh. However, transport and storage must be managed carefully. You don’t want blooms freezing in a delivery van before reaching your venue.
We also encourage couples to think beyond traditional blooms. Evergreen branches, pinecones, and dried lavender can elevate winter arrangements while staying in tune with the season. These extra elements help fill space without stretching the floral budget too far.
Flower Tips for Any Season in Calgary
Every couple has a vision. But as florists, we know the key to a stress-free wedding day is blending that vision with practical knowledge. Calgary’s climate is unique, and each season presents both opportunities and challenges.
One often overlooked tip is scheduling your flower order early. For example, popular wedding dates can cause delays in supply chains. Booking your florist months in advance gives you the best shot at getting what you want without having to substitute.
Also, think about your venue. If your ceremony and reception are outdoors, flowers need to last longer and withstand weather shifts. If indoors, you can be more flexible with delicate blooms and scent-heavy choices. We always suggest discussing these details in person or by phone to avoid miscommunication.
Last, don’t be afraid to mix fresh flowers with dried or artificial accents. When done well, these combinations are beautiful and long-lasting. Plus, they can help stretch your budget and allow you to keep pieces like your bouquet long after the day is over.
If you’re ready to plan your wedding flowers or want help sorting seasonal ideas, contact us for a quick consultation. We’re here to talk through everything—from style to season—to help make your day feel just right.
FAQs
What flowers are available all year in Calgary?
Flowers like roses, carnations, and lilies are available year-round due to greenhouse growing and international sourcing. These work well in any season and offer a wide range of colours and sizes.
Are certain flowers cheaper in specific seasons?
Yes. When flowers are in season locally, they tend to cost less because they don’t require long-distance shipping. Out-of-season blooms can still be ordered, but the cost is usually higher.
Can I use artificial flowers for my wedding?
Yes, many couples blend artificial flowers with fresh ones. High-quality artificial blooms look real in photos and are especially helpful for winter weddings or budget-sensitive couples.
How do I keep my bouquet fresh for photos?
Keep your bouquet in water for as long as possible before the ceremony. Store it in a cool place, and avoid direct sun or heaters. Your florist may also use a hydration wrap to extend freshness.
Is it possible to customize wedding flowers to match my colour theme?
Absolutely. A florist can guide you through matching your colours with available blooms. Some flowers can even be tinted to suit specific colour schemes if necessary.