This is a guide for florists to use color theory when creating beautiful and harmonious bouquets. It includes popular color schemes, their meanings, and suggestions for flowers and occasions.
| Color Scheme | Description | Emotional Impact/Meaning | Flowers to Use | Occasions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monochromatic | One color in varying shades and tints. | Sophistication, unity, simplicity | Roses (red, pink, or white), tulips, lilies, carnations | Weddings, formal events, sympathy |
| Analogous | Colors next to each other on the color wheel (e.g., red, orange, yellow). | Warmth, harmony, and cohesiveness | Sunflowers, marigolds, roses, ranunculus, daisies | Fall themes, rustic weddings, casual gifts |
| Complementary | Opposite colors on the color wheel (e.g., red and green, blue and orange). | Vibrancy, drama, and contrast | Red roses with green foliage, blue hydrangeas with orange tulips | Festive events, holidays (Christmas, Easter) |
| Triadic | Three colors evenly spaced on the color wheel (e.g., red, yellow, and blue). | Balanced, vibrant, playful | Red roses, yellow sunflowers, blue delphiniums | Birthdays, celebrations, playful themes |
| Split-Complement | One base color and the two adjacent to its complement (e.g., blue with red-orange and yellow-orange). | Subtle contrast, energy without harshness | Blue irises, orange dahlias, yellow lilies | Creative gifts, summer bouquets |
| Tetradic | Two pairs of complementary colors (e.g., red/green and yellow/purple). | Bold, dynamic, and exciting | Red roses, green foliage, yellow gerbera daisies, purple stock | Grand openings, large celebrations |
| Warm Palette | Colors like red, orange, and yellow. | Energy, passion, happiness | Marigolds, sunflowers, red carnations, orange lilies | Fall weddings, energetic celebrations |
| Cool Palette | Colors like blue, green, and purple. | Calm, serenity, elegance | Blue hydrangeas, lavender, eucalyptus, purple orchids | Sympathy bouquets, formal events |
| Neutral Palette | Whites, creams, greys, and greens. | Timelessness, simplicity, and peace | White roses, calla lilies, eucalyptus, baby’s breath | Funerals, minimalist weddings, formal gifts |
| Pop of Color | Mostly neutral colors with one bold accent (e.g., white with red or pink). | Subtle elegance with a touch of excitement | White hydrangeas with red tulips, cream roses with purple lisianthus | Romantic gifts, modern designs |
Tips for Florists
- Consider the Occasion: Choose a color scheme that matches the tone of the event (e.g., bright colors for birthdays, soft tones for sympathy).
- Balance is Key: Use a mix of large, bold flowers and smaller filler blooms to balance the visual weight.
- Incorporate Greenery: Greenery like eucalyptus or ferns helps tie color schemes together and adds a natural touch.
- Understand Symbolism: Ensure the color choices align with the recipient’s culture or traditions, especially for significant events.
This table helps create striking, meaningful bouquets with thoughtful color combinations.
