Sometimes wedding consultations become so routine for the professional that we forget this is probably the very first time you have planned a wedding! Everything is new to you and completely unknown, from flower costs to delivery details. The best way to get the most out of your wedding floral consultation is to gather a little information ahead of time. So let’s talk about five things you should know before you meet your florist!

1.) The estimated size of your wedding. Your florist wants to know approximately how many guests will attend and how many will be in your bridal party.  These numbers give an idea of how many tables will be at the reception and how many personal flowers (bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres, etc.) will be needed.

2.) Your colors and the overall feel of your wedding. These things help us to start picturing what you are dreaming about for your beautiful wedding. Pinterest pictures of color palettes and favorite flowers/bouquets are also helpful. Is your theme Romantic or Modern? Vintage or Glamorous? Choosing flowers will be much easier with these details in mind.

3.) Who will be receiving flowers for your wedding? Of course there is the bride’s bouquet but what else? Flower crowns or bouquets for bridesmaids? Boutonnieres for groom and groomsmen? Think about who else you would like to honor with corsages or boutonnieres- moms, dads, grandparents, ushers, hostesses, attendants, flower girl, ring bearer? 

4.) Ceremony and Reception Flowers. There are two parts to most weddings- the ceremony and the reception- and flowers are used to decorate both. Aisle flowers or altar arrangements at the church? An arrangement with the guest book? Flower Arch for the backdrop? And centerpieces for the reception tables, buffet, bathroom, chairs? Flowers for the cake? You don’t need to know all these things before your consultation, but think about the options and bring pictures of both venues if possible.

5.) What is your budget? No idea? Because you have never planned a wedding? That’s okay but it is helpful if you have done a little homework before we meet. Your flowers will generally be about 10-15% of your overall budget. My best advice is not to cut costs on your bouquet because it will be in every photo of you, and will probably be the photo sitting on your nightstand in 50 years, reminding you of your beautiful day.

Now you’re ready! Please contact me if you would like to meet to talk about flowers for your beautiful wedding. I can’t wait to see what you are dreaming!