This weekend, my ridiculously amazing husband (his words haha but he really is!), George, and I went to Longwood Gardens in Kennet Square, PA. The former estate of Pierre duPont, Longwood Gardens is home to one of the largest conservatories and indoor greenhouses in the country. Its gorgeous every time of year...and funny thing is, I've only been there in the winter! I haven't even seen it at its height in the spring! However, during the dull winter months, its great to go and visit the Orchid Display inside the Conservatory. There are so many varieties and colors! And its a great place to be indoors but feel like your outside. We were fortunate enough to go this past Saturday as it snowed outside (so beautiful). The space is breathtaking, but unfortunately after I inquired with the staff, you can't use the space for weddings!! Its such a shame since they have the perfect event space in multiple locations inside the Conservatory...even a Ballroom with hardwood floors and chandeliers. Can you just imagine having your photos taken here?
As we walked around, the aspiring photographer came out in me and I started snapping away at all of the gorgeous flowers on display. It certainly helped me to draw inspiration for weddings! As some of you might know, as you start planning your wedding, in particular your flowers, you become somewhat of a botanist....knowing all of the names of flowers you probably never thought you would care to know! As such, I took the liberty of writing down all of the names of the flowers I saw at Longwood Gardens to hopefully help you all in planning your bouquets, centerpieces, you name it! Hope it helps and inspires you to go out of your comfort zone (roses, hydrangea, peonies) and think outside the pot! ;)
Cattleyas: The "Queen of Orchids" and my favorite flower. I actually had this flower in my wedding bouquet! They are the most beautiful orchid in my opinion and some grow to be really big so they make a big statement in a bouquet. This is a purple with yellow lips but my favorite is below :)
Another version of a cattleya
Red Phalaenopsis
Vanda Orchid
The Lily flower symbolizes purity and refined beauty. Based on the color or type, the Lily flower can convey different meanings. They're a summer blooming flower so can be a cost effective option if you'll be getting married during this time as they'll be in season. This lily I believe is called a "fanfare" and is creamy with yellow to apricot center. My mom's favorite is the stargazer and is the most sought after...its a beautiful deep pink with white trim. Gorgeous! And they have the best smell. Just be careful to trim the seed pods as they stain!
Belladonna Lily
