A Guide to Harry and Meghan’s Wedding Florist: Philippa Craddock
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal wedding in May 2018 was a global event, and its breathtaking floral arrangements were a standout feature. The creative mind behind these stunning displays was Philippa Craddock, a renowned British florist known for her elegant and innovative designs. This guide explores Philippa Craddock’s background, her role in the royal wedding, and her floral philosophy.
Who Is Philippa Craddock?
Philippa Craddock is a London-based floral designer celebrated for her ability to create timeless yet contemporary floral arrangements. Before the royal wedding catapulted her to international fame, Craddock was already a prominent figure in luxury floristry, working with high-profile clients, fashion houses, and luxury brands.
Craddock’s style is defined by its organic beauty, combining lush blooms with flowing greenery to create designs that feel both natural and sophisticated.
Philippa Craddock and the Royal Wedding
The Commission
Philippa Craddock was personally chosen by Harry and Meghan to design the floral decorations for their wedding at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. Her selection was based on her ability to merge traditional and modern aesthetics while respecting sustainability—a key value for the royal couple.
The Floral Designs
Craddock’s floral arrangements for the wedding were truly iconic. Key elements included:
The Entrance Arch at St. George’s Chapel
The chapel’s entrance was adorned with an opulent arch of white flowers and greenery. This stunning installation became one of the most photographed features of the wedding.
Featured blooms included peonies, white roses, and foxgloves, complemented by an abundance of foliage such as birch, beech, and hornbeam.
The Bouquets and Arrangements
Meghan Markle’s bridal bouquet was a simple yet meaningful arrangement of white flowers, including forget-me-nots, sweet peas, lily of the valley, and jasmine. The bouquet also featured sprigs of myrtle, a royal tradition.
The flowers were chosen for their symbolism, with forget-me-nots paying tribute to Princess Diana, Prince Harry’s late mother.
Sustainability Focus
In keeping with Harry and Meghan’s eco-conscious values, Craddock sourced flowers locally from the gardens and parklands of Windsor Great Park.
After the wedding, many of the arrangements were repurposed and donated to local charities.
Philippa Craddock’s Floral Philosophy
1. Natural Elegance
Craddock’s designs emphasize the natural shapes and textures of flowers, creating arrangements that feel organic yet refined.
2. Sustainability
Craddock is committed to environmentally friendly practices, including the use of foam-free techniques and locally sourced materials.
3. Bespoke Design
Every arrangement Craddock creates is tailored to the client’s vision, making her work highly personal and unique.
Philippa Craddock’s Legacy Post-Wedding
The royal wedding cemented Philippa Craddock’s status as one of the world’s most prestigious florists. Since then, she has:
Expanded Her Brand: Craddock has launched floral design workshops and an online shop offering tools and resources for aspiring florists.
Authored a Book: The Flower Fix showcases her philosophy and offers guidance on creating beautiful floral designs at home.
Continued Collaborations: Craddock remains a go-to florist for high-profile events and luxury brands.
Learn From Philippa Craddock
Workshops
Philippa Craddock offers in-person and online workshops, teaching her sustainable floristry techniques and creative design principles.
Books and Resources
Her book, The Flower Fix, is an excellent resource for anyone looking to explore floral design with a focus on natural beauty and sustainability.
Social Media
Follow Philippa Craddock on Instagram to see her latest creations and gain insights into her creative process.
Why Philippa Craddock Was the Perfect Choice
Philippa Craddock’s work for Harry and Meghan’s wedding was a harmonious blend of elegance, tradition, and modernity. Her designs perfectly encapsulated the couple’s values and aesthetic preferences, leaving a lasting impression on viewers worldwide.
Whether you’re a fan of her royal wedding designs or looking for floral inspiration, Philippa Craddock’s work is a masterclass in timeless beauty and artistry.
