Thursday, September 29, 2011

How to Choose a Florist

When it comes to choosing professionals for your wedding there are a number of things to consider- budget, style, compatibility, location, etc. There are a number of wonderful professionals out there, but they won't all be compatible, they may not be in a good geographic location for your event, and they may not fit your style concerns or budget.
Beverly & Chuck's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Lindsay Docherty Photography
Beverly & Chuck's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Lindsay Docherty Photography
To start, do your research and ask around. If you have friends or family members who have recently gotten married, ask who they used and if they were happy- ask to see pictures. Also, look online, read reviews and even ask your venue or other wedding professionals for recommendations. It's always a good idea to meet with a couple of different florists (or DJ's, videographers, photographers, etc.) this way you can get an idea of who is the best fit for you in all categories- budget, style, compatibility, location, etc. 
Erica & Gene's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Timeline Weddings
Erica & Gene's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Timeline Weddings
When you meet with a florist, bring pictures of bouquets and/or arrangements that you like and that show the look you're going for. This will give the florist an idea of what you like and will help them give you a price estimate. It can be hard if you have your heart set on a specific flower, because all flowers have seasons, and severe weather can impact how long a flower is available, or if it is available at all, so try to have an open mind! There are a lot of beautiful flowers out there, and many have look-a-likes, if a flower you want is unavailable or is out of your budget, ask the florist for a recommendation of something similar.
Kaylan & Dan's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Lloydlee Heite
Kaylan & Dan's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Lloydlee Heite
Spend time talking to the florist so you can get to know him/her just as they are getting to know you. Be prepared with questions and ask to see pictures of their work. Also, if they have a wedding coming up, they may have some bouquets or arrangements in house, it never hurts to ask if you can see what they've created. Don't be afraid to ask your questions, you're hiring them to do a job, this is your chance to find out if they're the right fit for you. Consider asking them if they've worked in your venue before; and if so, what type of arrangements do they recommend for the space? Does their price quote include set up and break down? If you want your guests to be able to take the arrangements at the end of the night, make sure you ask for a price quote with vases included and not as rentals. 
Kristen & Steve's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Mike Landis Photographer
Kristen & Steve's Wedding
Photo courtesy of Mike Landis Photographer
If you're not entirely sure what you want or need, ask for recommendations. There are a lot of times throughout your wedding day that you can use flowers, but you don't have to, so don't let your budget hold you back. There is a florist out there that is a perfect fit for you- do your research, ask your questions and you'll be fine. And if you need a recommendation or help, well that's what your wedding planner is for!

-Becky

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