What Couples Need to Know About Wedding Flowers: A Conversation with Ella & Louie

Photo by Anna J Photography

Let’s face it — wedding florals are one of the most pinned, saved, and scroll-stopping elements in any wedding design. But while Instagram makes it look effortless, the reality behind those lush blooms is far more complex than most couples realize.

I recently sat down with Tracey Morris, owner of Ella & Louie, one of Santa Barbara’s most respected floral designers, to talk about what really goes into sourcing, designing, and installing wedding florals — especially in the face of unpredictable weather, supply chain challenges, and budget constraints.

Here’s what every couple should know before they start dreaming in dahlias.

The Weather Factor: Flowers Are Living Things

You may have your heart set on peonies or dahlias, but Tracey was quick to point out that climate and seasonality play a major role in floral availability — and durability.

“When it’s 90+ degrees and you’re setting up in full sun, you have to be strategic. There are some flowers I just won’t use — they’ll wilt before the ceremony even starts.”

Many specialty blooms are imported and delicate, and a hot day can mean disaster if your florist isn’t planning accordingly. This is why trusting your florist’s expertise is key — they understand how to work with nature, not against it.

Photo by Mollie Crutcher Photography

Practical Floral Tips for a Smarter Wedding

If you're looking to create beautiful florals without unnecessary stress or overspending, Tracey shared a few golden tips:

Focus on Photo Moments

Concentrate your floral budget where it will make the most visual impact — like your ceremony backdrop, bouquet, or sweetheart table. These are the images you'll treasure most.

Guest Count = Centerpiece Count

The more tables you have, the more florals you’ll need. Keeping your guest list intimate allows for a more focused and elevated floral design without stretching the budget.

Think Twice About Candles in the Heat

If you’re planning a summer wedding, open flames can melt or malfunction. LED candles or ambient lighting alternatives will hold up better and still provide that romantic glow.

Choose Flowers That Can Handle the Day

Not all blooms are cut out for outdoor events or long timelines. Let your florist recommend hardier varieties that are just as stunning — and far more reliable.

Photo by Anna Delores Photography

Final Thoughts: Trust the Process, Trust Your Vendors

This conversation with Tracey was a great reminder that wedding planning is about more than just the vision — it’s about making smart, thoughtful choices that align with your setting, your values, and your budget.

When couples understand what goes into floral design — from sourcing and timing to weather and durability — they’re empowered to collaborate more effectively with their vendors. And that leads to better results for everyone.

Beautiful weddings don’t just happen. They’re built — bloom by bloom, decision by decision.

So as you plan, trust your team, stay flexible, and honor the process — especially when it comes to your flowers.

✨ Special Thanks

Huge thanks to **Tracey Morris of **Ella & Louie for sharing her wisdom, experience, and voice with us. Her work is not only beautiful — it’s thoughtful, sustainable, and rooted in intention.