Finding the right flower and colour

This evening, Himself and I went to this furniture shop that has an amazing selection of artificial flowers and most of them are sorted according to their colours. I was more inclined towards more delicate tones of pink while Himself preferred pinkish-purple on me. Instead of trying to paint a mental picture of me holding the bouquet, we decided to try seeing the actual effect of the different flowers on me:

When you are not sure about how certain colours or flowers will look on you, it is a good idea to visit shops that sell silk flowers and try holding them. Go with a good friend or your other half who is ready to give honest opinion on what looks best on you.

The conclusion from this trip was: light pink suits me better than pinkish-purple because it kind of brings out my darker-toned skin. The latter colour, although it looks good on me in dresses and accessories, it does not bring out the best in me.

Now with a little more idea on what colour works for me, I am more able to look for more specific ideas for corsages and handheld bouquets.

Some of the things that came to my mind when considering the flower type are:

1) Is it seasonal or is it readily available?
     - Seasonal flowers may be more expensive or not readily available (e.g. tulips, cherry blossoms)
     - for the environmentally-conscious bride, importing flowers = more carbon footprints

2) Does the flower have any significant meaning for both of us?
    - favourite flower?
    - symbolises a memorable event for the couple?

3) Is it hardy and able to last the whole wedding? Does it wilt easily?

4) What is the colour combination that I want, are the colours going to compliment each other?

5) What are the other accompanying flowers in my bouquet that will complete the look?

6) What kind of look for the bouquet am I going for?
     - Romantic? Soft? Bright and cheerful? Unconventional? Vintage?

7) Am I allergic to the flower or pollen? (last but kind of the most important one)
     - certain flowers causes me to have persistent nose itch and I have no plans to look like Rudolph on my big day. Not even for a X'mas-themed wedding. -___-"

Anyhow, most of these considerations are no longer applicable for us because Himself and I decided to use artificial flowers for both the corsages and handheld bouquet. There are many silk flowers and "real touch artificial silk flowers" that feel and look like the real thing. I will be exploring this option and write more on it soon.