Wedding Florist 101

Your florist can play an essential role in creating your bridal party style as well as the ambiance of your ceremony and reception.  Finding the right florist and utilizing their expertise will allow you to achieve the look you want while getting the most value for your floral expenditures.  Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of your floral consultation and assist you in getting the results you want from your florist.

 

 

 

 

First, know your budget.  Of course, this applies to all vendors with whom you consult.  Spend the time to determine what your total wedding budget is going to be.  Prioritize which aspects of your special day hold the most importance to you; then you can allocate your finances accordingly.  A rule of thumb for floral expenses for the wedding and reception is 10% of your wedding budget.  Of course, this can fluctuate depending on the size of your bridal party, immediate family and number of guests at the reception. Every bride has a budget, and when you share this information, then your florist can be honest with you about what you can achieve within your budget.

 

 

Seasonality is a very important factor for your wedding flowers.  Not only are in-season flowers generally more cost-effective, flowers in prime blooming season will look their very best.  Some flowers are available year round, while others have a very short growing season, or have to be imported from other countries, adding to the cost.  Your florist can direct you to the best possible choices, and offer you alternative ideas if you have your heart set on something that isn’t readily available or within your budget.

 

 

 

 

Recognize the value of utilizing a professional and the experience and expertise that they can draw upon. Your florist should spend a significant amount of time during the consultation asking you questions and listening to your input.  Then, allow them to utilize their creativity and knowledge to create a look that fits your vision.  Rely on your florist to translate ideas you have into something that is unique for your wedding.  A great designer will also offer recommendations about utilizing candles, lighting, linens and other décor components to maximize the impact of your flowers while creating a cohesive look.

 

 

Ask your florist about utilizing different sizes and styles of centerpieces for your reception.  This can present a very interesting landscape in your reception space, and allow some different pricing tiers for your centerpiece expenses.  Consider creating some dramatic floral focal points.  By doing so, you can focus more of the flower budget to these areas and simplify the components in other areas while creating the

floral impact you desire.

 

 

 

 

Months prior to the wedding, many brides happily explore DIY projects to personalize elements of their special day.  Some might think that doing their own bouquets and centerpieces would be a great way to save money.  Unless you are experienced with floral design, this is not the time to experiment.  Do you really want to spend the 48 hours leading up to your wedding day stressed about flower arranging?  Recognize that a portion of your floral expenditure is the talent, professional expertise and peace of mind that you are purchasing.

 

 

Working with your wedding florist should be a fun and exciting part of your wedding planning.  Find a professional who understands what you want and will spend the time to create your unique look within your budget.  The results will be memorable!