Choosing the right florist for your wedding day is an important decision. Flowers, with their different hues and textures, shape the ambience, resonate with emotions and give life to your envisioned theme. But how can you ensure the florist you choose will align with your aspirations? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you on this journey.
1. Determine Your Floral Style
Your personal style can guide you in achieving your desired floral arrangements:
- Classic: A style that never fades, classic arrangements often include traditional flowers like Roses, Lilies or Hydrangeas. They’re elegant and seamlessly fit any wedding theme.
- Romantic: Romantic arrangements usually contain pastel shades, trailing vines and delicate blooms like Peonies or Baby’s Breath. They evoke love and passion.
- Modern: For those looking for something a bit edgier, modern arrangements are about minimalist yet impactful designs. They often incorporate unique blooms or structural elements that make a statement.
- Rustic: Rustic arrangements feel free and unrestrained. They often incorporate native plants, wildflowers and elements like twine or burlap.
Having a grip on your style simplifies your search and provides a clear roadmap during discussions with potential florists.
2. Do Your Research
The right knowledge can lead you to your ideal florist:
- Dive deep into reviews and testimonials. Past clients can provide insights into the reliability and professionalism of the florist.
- Florists often have a signature style. By examining portfolios or galleries, you can discern if their style resonates with yours.
- Pay close attention to the freshness, arrangement and variety of flowers in their designs.
3. Schedule Discussions
It’s not just about the flowers; it’s about the connection too:
- Engage in face-to-face or virtual discussions. This can give you a sense of their approach, their passion and whether they can adapt to your vision.
- It’s also a chance to check on practical aspects such as their availability for your wedding date or any other commitments they might have.
4. Understand Inclusions
Different florists offer varying services. Knowing what you’re getting into can save future misunderstandings:
- Will they provide arrangements for the ceremony, table centrepieces, buttonholes and corsages? They might even offer decorative installations or floral arches.
- Will they provide vases, stands or other decorative elements?
- Do they assist in repurposing flowers from the ceremony to the reception?
5. Focus On Customisation
Ask these questions:
- Can they adapt to specific themes or colours?
- Do they welcome your ideas and input or do they prefer working with a fixed set of designs?
- Have they previously worked with rare or unique blooms you might desire?
6. Clarify Delivery And Setup
Smooth logistics ensure your special day remains stress-free:
- Finalise delivery times. Make sure they can cater to the exact timeframe when the venue is available for setup.
- How will they handle the setup? Will they need additional equipment?
- Ensure they are equipped to handle any venue-specific challenges.
7. Finalise The Contract
The outcome of your discussions with the florist should culminate in a well-defined and comprehensive contract:
- Every detail, every promise made during discussions, should be clearly documented.
- Ambiguities can lead to misunderstandings. If in doubt, ask and ensure clarity.
- Check for contingencies. What happens in case of unforeseen circumstances?