Floral questions

[GYTANA]

Ok, so I’m new at this, but I was hoping you girls can help me out. I have my first appointment with the florist in two weeks and I do not know what to ask and not to ask. I have two appointments at two different florist in the area were I’m getting married. the one thing that I have notice was that I had called about 6 different florist and all except 2 had said to call them back around April and may. My wedding is in September, I do not have a theme, and the girl’s dresses are going to be cranberry red. So for all you girls that have gone to the florist could you give me some info please?

[Jenn031706]

First, I would make sure you have a budget in mind when you talk to the vendor, that way you know if you should continue to talk with them or if they are going to be way above your price range.
Second, I would find out what flowers are going to be in season when you will have your wedding. Unless you have your heart set on something and won't budge, getting flowers in season will save you a lot of money.
Third, I would talk about incorporating your theme into your flower displays. Make sure this is something that the florist can do. Show the florist pictures and ideas that you like. The florist will be able to suggest flowers that match the theme that you want to go with. You should also know how many bridesmaids/groomsmen you will have for a more adequate price.
Fourth, Call the Better Business Bureau and see if there are any complaints against the florist. If not, good, but it can save you a lot of heartache in case there are.
It's also good to see portfolios of their work and see how many weddings they have done. See what kind of displays they have available for rent (arch, candleabras, etc.)
Most important, make sure you feel comfortable with the florist. Make sure you feel that this person can handle this job and that you can trust that they will fullfill your contract. Follow your gut. The price may be nice, but if you can't trust everything will be to your liking, it's worth the extra money to feel at ease about it. Don't agree to anything until you have thought about it for a few days.
Hope this helps,
Jenn

[Cashy98]

The only thing I can think of to tell you is to beware of chain stores or larger stores. They tend to be way more expensive when it comes to flowers. If you go to a smaller, locally-owned store you will probably get a better deal. Perhaps you can find an independant person. That's what I did. I got such a great deal too. This lady works from her home and she does the most beautiful work. I'm having all roses (decorations, bouquets, corsages, bouts, etc) for only $400!! I'm sooooo happy, because I love roses and I know they can be expensive. Also consider getting flowers that are in season and readily available. If you want "special" flowers, then expect to pay a lot more.

[GYTANA]

Thanx guys this really helps me out. i'll have to get you input when i start looking for a photographer.

[missyb11233]

I'm trying to get my wedding together too, but I can't decide if I should get plain flowers or get a bouquet made from crystals or pearls in from this shop I know. Here's picture of it. The designer can create anything, but I can't decide. Hhhheeellpp!! She only has three 2005 collections left.

[JenandTony]

My wedding is in June and the florists I talked to said to come back around January so I guess it's common among florists to wait till 5-6 months before the wedding to be booked. I had to explain that I was from Cincinnati (getting married in Michigan) and that I needed to book the florist THEN because I wouldn't be back up to Michigan for awhile, so I was able to meet with them then.

Anyways, the florist will lead the way quite a bit, but know how many attendants (bridesmaids and groomsmen) you'll be having, roughly what size arrangments and how many you need, and if you need centerpieces for the reception and things like that. Also, know what arrangements you want specific flowers for and what arrangements you don't mind using less expensive flowers for. I decided that since we're going to be having 20-25 tables, I was fine with using carantions (very inexpensive flowers) in the table centerpieces to save some money.

Other than that, bring pictures of what you like and don't like, and relax. The florist does this for a living! He/she will ask the questions to find out what you need.