Since each type of protea is vastly different in terms of the size, look, and color, the blooms are fitting for a variety of color palettes and wedding styles – from bohemian chic and rustic to modern and contemporary.
Though they're one of the oldest families of flowering plants, proteas have just recently become popular in wedding bouquets and centerpieces. Native to South Africa – and named the national flower of the country, the bloom represents change and hope, making it fitting for nuptials to symbolize the change that occurs as the couple becomes a new family.
From the large, sturdy star-shaped king protea, to the stringy pincushion protea, to the whimsical, soft blushing bride protea, the blooms are perfect for brides who desire unique wedding bouquets or couples who want to have floral arrangements their guests may have never seen before. Proteas can be grouped into centerpieces or ceremony arches, be featured as a focal point at a ceremony entrance, or be a welcome addition to a lush bridal bouquet or a single-flower bouquet for a bride or bridesmaid.
Since each type of protea is vastly different in terms of the size, look, and color, the blooms are fitting for a variety of color palettes and wedding styles – from bohemian chic and rustic to modern and contemporary. Proteas come in soft shades such as white and blush, as well as bright hues including yellow and red. Though they're native to South Africa and Australia, the Northern Hemisphere has caught on and now grows them primarily in California and Hawaii, making them accessible for your big day.
Take a look at inspiring images featuring beautiful protea flowers and wedding flower arrangements from real weddings and styled shoots, below:
Photo by Koman Photography; From Real Wedding: Boho-Chic Inspirational Wedding with Desert Details and Soft Colors
Photo by Lucas Rossi Photography; From Event: Southern California Winter Wedding Styled Shoot with Boho Details
Photo by Jay Lawrence Goldman Photography; Floral Design by The Hidden Garden; Planning & Design by Geller Events; From Real Wedding: Bride Wears Yellow Dress to Outdoor Summer Wedding at Groom's Family Home
Photo by Michael Carr Photography; Planning & Design by Ann Whittington Events; From Real Wedding: Glamorous Outdoor Wedding with Rustic & Rose Gold Details in Texas
Photo by Jay Lawrence Goldman Photography; Floral Design by The Hidden Garden; Planning & Design by Geller Events; From Real Wedding: Bride Wears Yellow Dress to Outdoor Summer Wedding at Groom's Family Home
Photo by EDLT Photo; From Real Wedding: An Oceanfront Vintage-Inspired Wedding in Laguna Beach, California
Photo by Lauren Gabrielle Photography; Floral Design by HeatherLily; Planning & Design by A Charming Fête; From Real Wedding: Summer Real Wedding Featuring Tropical Décor at an Art Museum
Photo by Laura Ashbrook Photography; Planning & Design by Evoke Design & Creative; From Event: Tropical Tablescape with Playful Desserts Inspired by Hawaii
Opening photo by Lauren Gabrielle Photography; Floral Design by HeatherLily; Planning & Design by A Charming Fête; From Real Wedding: Summer Real Wedding Featuring Tropical Décor at an Art Museum