Simple Guide Finding Your Florist


Hiring the right florist for your wedding is essential, but it can be hard to know exactly what to look for.  So that all the choices don't become overwhelming, plan a timeline for when you'll need everything ready, and know the right questions to ask.

Consider the date.
Stay on the right track by noting the date of your wedding on your calendar, and start your florist search 6 months before.  The date you've selected can make a big difference in the preparations you need to make, and may determine what your florist can do for you.  If it is close to a major flower-giving holiday, like mothers' day or Valentine's Day, you're going to pay more for your flowers, and your florist won't be able to prioritize you the way he otherwise might.  

If the flowers you want aren't in season at the time your wedding, they will need to be shipped, resulting in higher costs, and the possibility that they could get damaged during shipment.  Consider flowers that will be in season, or make adjustments elsewhere in your budget to accommodate the extra fees.

Plan ahead.
You won't need every detail planned out, but the more information you can give the florist, the better chance they'll have of making you happy.  Decide what flower types and colors you want for your bouquet, as a good start.  From there, you can create your centerpieces, alter arrangements, and anything else.

Narrow your search.
Base your expectations from past work.  Talk to friends and family about florists they can recommend, and put them at the top of your list.  The florists should have pictures of some of their creations.  Go to their shop or website, and critically look over the arrangements.  Ideally, you should see a good mixture of designs, both classic and trendy, that display their ability to create something appropriate and unique for an occasion.

Interview the designers.
Talk to a few different florists to contrast what they offer, and how well they would fit your needs.  Tell them about your ideas, listen to theirs, and have your questions prepared in advance so you won't forget anything important.  In addition to questions about rates and offers, ask if you can change your order later if you're inspired by a new idea, or if you would be stuck with your initial order.

Bring pictures of your gown and a swatch of its' fabric, as well as photos of the reception area.  Clippings of floral arrangements that you liked in magazines can also be a useful guide.  You should also bring a list of all the flower arrangements you'll need, and who they're for.  That way, corsages, boutonnieres and bouquets, can be labeled with names or titles, so everyone gets the right flowers

Any concrete examples of what they can do for you would help.  Ask if they are willing to create a sample bouquet or centerpiece, based on the ideas that you've discussed.  It is a great way to determine how in sync you are.  Perhaps they could draw up an itemized price quote.  The cost of their services may not be as clear as you'd think, so you'll want to know about any extra charges.  If your budget is getting away from you, consider saving money by integrating silk flowers in with fresh ones.

Make your decision.
Don't decide on the spot, or rush in to anything.  Shop around, take some time to weigh your options, and choose your florist 4 months before your wedding.

In most cases, the bill functions as your contract, so study it before signing.  Make sure the names, addresses and phone numbers are all correct.  Check the itemized list of flower arrangements, the name of your floral designer, and the exact service that they will provide (including delivery and set up).  Finally, verify the total cost, including your deposit, and the amount still owing.

Check in.
You'll have a million things on your mind in the final weeks before your wedding, so you'll be glad you marked your calendar with reminder dates.  1 month before your wedding is a good time to check in with your florist to confirm delivery times.

Once you know what to ask, and when, picking your florist is not such a challenge.  Just relax, trust your instincts, and prepare your questions.  Before you know it you'll be throwing that gorgeous bouquet over your shoulder!