Accordingly to The Guardian, there are about 400,000 types of flowering plant species worldwide (as of 2010). Quite a daunting number! Of course the number of flowers suitable for bouquets is much less, but it still can be quite a task to decide your wedding flowers. Here’s a few tips to help you get started, alongside some must-asks when meeting with a florist.

BEFORE YOUR MEETING

  • Know your wedding vision. Before you begin any vendor search, you and your partner should have an idea of the kind of wedding you envision: soft and romantic…bold and bright…rustic and chic? There possibilities are endless but your flowers should speak to your wedding theme.
  • Decide your wedding colours. Flowers do not have to match your linen or bridesmaids dresses. Instead they should be in accent colours that complement the different components of your wedding.
  • Make a list of flowers you like. Not sure? Google some photos to see which styles are most appealing to you. Keep in mind not everything you like will be in season, but be sure to bring these photos to your florist meeting (there’s many look-a-like flowers out there!).
  • Determine a budget. Begin by making a list of every single item you need from a florist (from pew markers to boutonnieres to centrepieces). Decide a realistic amount you would be willing to spend on each item and tally. Don’t forget about quantity (centrepieces can easily add up!).
  • Ensure your desired florist is available on your wedding date. You don’t want to drive all the way to a florist shop only to learn the florist is completely booked on your Saturday! Be sure to have at three options in mind.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR FLORIST

ABOUT YOUR FLOWERS

  • What flowers are in season during my wedding month?
  • Which flowers do you recommend for my theme?
  • How do you recommend the bouquet flowers tie in with the centrepieces (and so on)?
  • How do you recommend the groom’s boutonniere is distinct from the groomsmen?
  • Will the arrangements be done by you and another member of your team?
  • How far in advance will you assemble the flowers for my wedding?
  • How will the flowers stored?
  • How many other weddings do you have on the same date as mines?

ABOUT THE COST & SET-UP

  • What is the additional fee for set-up?
  • What is the additional fee for delivery?
  • What is the payment process?
  • What is your cancellation policy?
  • When do I need to finalize my order?
  • If I provide my own vases/jars, when will you need them by?
  • How long will set-up take for the items I’ve ordered?

TIPS

  • Compare the costs of providing your own vases/jars versus renting or purchasing from a florist.
  • Ensure your ceremony flowers are used for wedding reception too (i.e. use bridal/bridesmaids bouquets on the head table, use altar arrangements for the reception entrance way, etc).
  • Ensure your flowers compliment your venue. Don’t get tall vases if you have a gorgeous view!
  • There’s tons of ways to cut costs (do not order a toss bouquet, order a pin boutonniere instead of a magnetic, use less flowers in your centrepieces/bouquet).
  • If your venue is on an upper level, ensure your florist has access to a service elevator on your wedding day.
  • Donate your wedding flowers the next day. Check in with a local hospice, shelter, or senior’s center to see if they’d like your flowers. It’s a great way to brighten someone else’s day!

Happy planning!

Banner photo by: Lindsay Coulter Photography / Bouquet by: Pardon My Garden