Though a bride could carry spring peonies in the dead of winter or delicate irises on a sweltering August day

, Barry West, owner of Blossoms Events in Murrells Inlet, says couples can choose an alternative by using locally grown, seasonal plants to create sustainable and interesting bouquets and centerpieces.

A basket with delicate maidenhair fern surrounded by sturdy white cyclamen and variegated ivy would make a lovely (and sustainable) centerpiece for a dinner table. The addition of a sparkly ribbon, or two decorative birds could add a festive touch, but the best part is that each piece can be replanted in the newlyweds’ garden, or given as gifts for their guests to grow themselves. Blossoms Events often uses succulents, herbs, and live wreaths when decorating for an event—including a square wreath crafted from live plants at a recent Kiawah Island wedding.

Another, practical reason to use plants: our long, steamy summers are tough on delicate petals. Succulents such as sedum or the diminutive thorny crowns of hen and chicks can stand up to high temperatures. These tough plants are easily rearranged into window boxes or border gardens to enjoy long after the ceremony is over. They have also been cultivated in the area for generations, “Your grandmother probably had succulents on her porch,” says West.

Herbs, including thyme, rosemary, basil and cilantro in terra cotta containers, are another option that West prefers as they can be given to guests—not to mention seasoning the evening’s dinner. Using boxwood topiaries to line the aisle, indoors or out, supplemented with moss or twigs lends a garden feel. Forced bulbs and flowering branches are options in late winter when many plants are still dormant. No matter what the choice, plants offer a memorable and enduring touch.