The Seasons in Scotland
This is a florist’s guide to planning your elopement flowers in Scotland. This is just a guide, because Scotland doesn’t four neat seasons that will begin and end on specific dates. It has moods and micro-seasons, each with its own light, aromas and textures.
Whether you’re eloping in a windy glen, beneath soft midsummer skies or on rain slicked cobbled streets in Edinburgh the season will shape everything. Especially your flowers.
If you’re planning your Scottish elopement from across the ocean, knowing what florals and foliages are available can help you imagine your day more clearly. The most important thing I’d suggest to you is to trust your florist. I’m able to weave the magic of the season into your bouquet, but I may not be able to guarantee you precise types of flowers for your day.
Early spring
These flowers are usually available during March to May. Expect lots of pastels, soft greens, buttery yellows and delicate blues.
Several spring flowers can be delicate, so think carefully about travel arrangements if planning your elopement during early spring.
Locally grown blooms can be easily impacted by late frosts, cold soil and unexpected weather. I often use imported flowers during this season.
Anemone
Hellebore
Muscari
Hyacinths
Snowflakes
Fritillaria
Narcissi / Daffodils
Various foliages, including ivy, evergreens, birch
Late spring
These flowers are usually available during May into June. Expect more abundance and colour. The days are becoming longer and greener, the weather is changeable but tends to be drier than earlier in the year.
Weather can still have a large impact on what florals will be available.
Alliums
Delphiniums
Foxgloves
Poppies
Ranunculus
Solomon’s seal
Iris
Tulips
Various foliages, including ivy, eucalyptus, spirea
Summer
These flowers are usually available during June, July and August. Think golden evenings, long days, fields in full song. Expect lots of traditional blousy wedding flowers, like peonies and roses.
Summer in Scotland can be very wet. Pack a brolly and a raincoat! There will usually be sunny spells, but wind and rain too.
This time of the year is peak tourist season, so plan than into your travel timing and plans. Also, be aware of the midges!
Ammi
Campanulas
Delphiniums
Dianthus
Larkspur
Hydrangea
Roses
Peonies (early summer, sometimes late spring)
Snapdragon
Stocks
Scabiosa
Sweet peas
Various herbs, like mint
Various foliages, including ivy, jasmine vines and beech
Autumn
The season of abundance. This typically runs from September to November. The florals and foliages shift into richer tones, more textures and dramatic contrasts.
This is personally my favourite season in Scotland. There’s dramatic golden landscapes, rutting deer and cool, crisp days.
Amaranthus
Chrysanthemums
Craspedia
Dahlias
Grasses
Roses
Phlox
Sunflowers
Scabious
Sedum
Statice
Rudbeckia
Zinnia
Various foliages, including ivy, rose hips, hawthorn
Dried elements like seed pods and branches
Winter
This season runs from December to February. The locally grown season is over for flowers and I often use imported flowers during this season. Scotland looks stunning in the winter, gorgeous afternoon sun, snow capped munros and steaming mugs of hot chocolate to warm your hands.
Expect snow, especially the further north you go. Weather can often by changeable, so plan for rain, wind and snow. Days are short, your chosen photographer will be able to advise on the best timings for making the most of winter light.
Paperwhites
Tulips
Ilex
Dried flowers and elements like hydrangeas, seed pods and branches
Various foliages, including berries ivy, mistletoe, evergreens
Things to consider
Certain flowers are divas. Dahlias and peonies definitely fall into this category! They have very short prime windows. Please let me know which flowers are your favourite and I will try my best to source them, but sometimes it won’t be possible. I will use my considerable experience and skill to ensure your bouquet and flowers still capture your vibe.
Are you planning your Scottish elopement soon?
Looking for magnificently messy florals to carry up a munro? Or a wild and whimsical bouquet? We’d love to bring some floral magic to your day. You can find more information about elopement flowers here.
