Sometimes some of these wedding planning terms can start to sound like another language. Tussy-Mussy? Pomander? 
Here are our simple descriptions of some of the more common terms in wedding bouquets, to help explain to your florist exactly what you want in your wedding flowers.

Nosegays: These are small, usually round, closely packed bouquets. These are perfect for the flower girl or junior bridesmaids in your wedding! Nosegays for girls over include trailing ribbons.

Tussy mussy: A tussy-mussy is a Victorian style of bouquet, carried in a small, hand-held vase. A tussy-mussy can include any type of flower. Sometimes the term refers just to the vase itself.

Composite: This type of bouquet is an individual, handmade creation in which different petals or buds are wired closely together on the same stem to create the illusion of a giant flower.

Pomander:  In the Middle Ages, lords and ladies would carry pomanders made of spices, flowers and herbs to sniff when they were confronted with more unsavory smells. You probably won’t need to carry ambergris on your wedding day, but these ball-shaped bouquets, on a ribbon loop, were inspired by these old-fashioned scented pomanders. 

Cascade: If you were a little girl watching Princess Diana’s fairytale wedding, you might remember her amazing cascade bouquet. This is a flowing collection of flowers and greenery, usually, like Diana’s, including ivy and other trailing greens. Perfect with a classic white gown and an elegant cathedral train!

Pageant bouquet: Just like the name suggests, this is a dozen long-stemmed roses, just like Miss America carries. A pageant bouquet is meant to be carried in one of the bride’s arms, not in front like other bouquets.

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