How do I Choose a Wedding Florist?

Choosing a wedding florist is an important decision for your wedding day. The flowers can help set the tone for the day, and can make the decor look beautiful and luxurious, or cheap. Following some simple tips will make the process easy.

Before booking a wedding florist, you will need to know some important details of your special day. This includes the location for the ceremony and reception, approximately how many tables you will have, the colors of your bridesmaids' dresses and any other colors you are including in your wedding. You don't want your flowers to clash with the rest of your wedding.

It is a good idea to make appointments with a few different florists; most experts recommend at least three. Bring photos from magazines with you, to show the florist what you have in mind. If you know which specific flowers you are looking for, that is a good idea too. You should also have a fairly clear idea of how many bouquets, boutonnieres, centerpieces, etc., you will need. When you visit the florist, they should show you photos and samples of their work, and offer references if asked. They should seem enthusiastic about your wedding and your ideas and be willing to work with you to be certain you are satisfied.

A wedding florist will also be able to tell you how realistic your expectations are. For example, are the flowers you've chosen in season and easily ordered? Purchasing flowers that are in season and locally grown will save you a good deal of money. If you know your flowers are going to be difficult to order, be sure to give the florist a few months notice -- this is a good idea anyway, to be sure you have everything you need.

Each florist you meet with should provide a quote. It is a good idea to go with a budget in mind as well, but after you see all the quotes, you can begin to decide who you want to book. You can even discuss quotes you have received with other florists, to see if they will work with you to match the price. It is also a good idea to ask the wedding florist if there will be any additional fees. Some florists might tack on a set-up fee or a delivery charge at the end, and you do not want to be surprised on your wedding day.

When you've chosen your wedding florist, it is time to reserve the day and create a contract. The contract should specify exactly what you are ordering, the full amount you will be charged, the services provided, such as delivery and set up, and the delivery time. At the time of signing, the wedding florist will generally require a non-refundable deposit, and the contract will specify when the balance needs to be paid. This is usually a week or two before the wedding, though each florist may vary. Choosing a florist this way will make sure your wedding day goes off without a problem.