How Many Flowers Do I Actually Need for My DIY Wedding
Planning your DIY wedding flowers? This question usually pops up quickly: “Can I really do this myself?”
You absolutely can—and knowing how many flowers to plan for is the first step toward creating arrangements that feel intentional, abundant, and beautifully you.
At Ella June Gardens, I grow and curate Buckets of Blooms for DIY brides who want an earthy-elegant, fresh-from-the-garden look—without the overwhelm.
The first step you want to determine is how much DIY are you up for? Download my Free 5 question guide to find out!
Next I have a simple, stem-by-stem guide to help you plan with confidence.
What’s in a Bucket of Blooms?
Each Bucket of Blooms includes 90 stems of the best flowers and foliage blooming the week of your wedding.
Choose a color direction:
The Sweetheart – soft, muted pastels
The Joyful – bright, vibrant colors
Each bucket also includes 5 premium blooms—perfect for focal moments in bouquets and arrangements.
👉 (You can read more details on the Buckets of Blooms FAQ page.)
The Bridal Bouquet
Your bridal bouquet is the most elaborate arrangement you’ll make.
🌸 70–90 stems
This creates a full, layered, hand-tied bouquet with room for premium blooms and texture. Many brides dedicate one full bucket to their bridal bouquet, with a few stems left for accents.
Bridesmaid Bouquets
Bridesmaid bouquets are lighter, simpler versions of the bridal bouquet.
🌿 30–50 stems per bouquet
This keeps everything cohesive without competing with the bride.
Centerpieces
The number of stems you’ll need depends on the vessel.
🕯️ Cylinder Vase (8" tall x 3" wide)
20–30 stems
🍃 Pedestal Compote (about 4" across)
30–50 stems
Pro Tip: Keep centerpieces under 15 inches tall so guests can easily connect across the table.
Bud Vases
Bud vases are a favorite for DIY brides and create relaxed, romantic tablescapes.
🌿 3–10 stems per vase
Pro Tip: Group 5–7 bud vases per table with candles or runners for an elevated, effortless look.
Boutonnieres & Extra Stems
Not every stem makes it into a bouquet—and that’s a good thing. Bent or shorter stems are perfect for:
Boutonnieres
Corsages
Bud vases
Small accent moments
✨ Stay tuned for an upcoming post on creating wearable flowers that last all day.
How Many Buckets Do Most Brides Order?
3 buckets → personal flowers + a few centerpieces (micro weddings)
6 buckets → popular for intimate weddings (80-100 guests)
1 bucket can make:
1 large bridal bouquet with extras
OR 2–3 maid bouquets
If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to help you map out a plan that fits your day.
Want More Confidence?
My in-the-gardens workshops teach my exact hand-tied bouquet process so you feel calm and confident during wedding week. Many brides say this is where everything finally clicks.
A Note from Mother Nature 🌼
Buckets of Blooms focus on seasonal beauty and curated color palettes, not rigid flower lists.
Pick your palette, share a little guidance, and I promise you’ll receive the freshest, most beautiful blooms—thoughtfully curated for your wedding day vision.
Ready to Get Started?
Buckets of Blooms are available mid-May through late September, and dates book quickly.
👉 Fill out the inquiry form to reserve your wedding week
If you’re dreaming of joyful, memory-filled moments with flowers and the people you love most—you’re in the right place.
— Ella 🌿
