It Stems From References…..



The best place to start is with references. Take time out to ask family, friends, and trusted business associates to recommend someone they have used in the past. Another option that can be considered is attending bridal shows, the more the merrier. If all else fails, let your fingers do the walking and use the yellow pages.

When you have received your references and suggestions, you should review these and decide on at least three different florists. By all means, choose more, if you so desire. Then once you've decided, visit the shops and take a look around.

…and a keen eye

You do not have to be a botanist or a flower connoisseur of sorts to make a good selection. Take note of the different floral arrangements in each store. Does any particular one stand out? How many of the floral arrangements on display actually catch you eye? What is the condition of the flowers themselves? Are they healthy and have vibrant full blooms? How about the store location itself? Is it well kept and clean?

Your ideal florists should have an impressive portfolio that reflects their experience, design styles, and skills. A professional florist's portfolio will have photographs of floral arrangements used in previous weddings. As you review this portfolio, look for the variety in styles and occasions. Make sure you are not looking at a lot of pictures of the same floral arrangement or the same wedding. Make it a point to notice if the portfolio included photos of all bridal bouquets and centrepieces used in each wedding.

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Get proactive. When you plan to visit a potential florist, make sure to carry fabic swatches of the wedding apparels for the entire wedding party. You can even start to collect clippings of flower arrangements you find enticing and take them along on your visit to the florist. I recommend that you develop a clear idea of what you want.

Are they Listening?

As you present your ideas and suggestions to the florist, pay attention to their receptiveness and the quality of their responses. Are they really listening to what you want? In addition, make sure the individual that you are questioning so thoroughly is the same individual that will be responsible for making your floral arrangements.

It is also recommended, by industry consultants, that you book your florist at least 6 to 8 months in advance. Not to mention, some wedding consultants suggest signing a contract with your florist about 4 to 6 months before the scheduled wedding day. When it comes to the actual contract itself. Ensure that you have all your desires and expectations clearly printed in writing.

There is some information you need to have available for your florist. Your florist of choice will need to know the location of the wedding and the reception, and how many floral arrangements will be needed to decorate it. Additionally, every florist needs to know what color schemes are being used at the venue, so that the final flowers arrangements won't clash. If you opted for centrepieces, you will need to know exactly how many. Your florist must know the number of bridesmaids, groomsmen, mothers, fathers, grandfathers, program participants, and special guests will be attending. Most importantly, the colors of the wedding party remain crucial information for your florist.

Remember!

Remember to make decisions that complement the environment you will be in. Hence, if your wedding will be outside, make sure your selected floral arrangements can withstand the elements of nature.

In an effort to avoid last minute misunderstandings, ask your florist the following questions:

What are the least expensive flowers that will be in season during my wedding?

What is the most successful idea you have had for a past wedding?

Do you deliver and set up the floral arrangements?

Are there any extra delivery or set-up charges?

How long does the set-up take?

Are there any additional or hidden costs I should know about?

How long do I have to add, subtract, or change floral arrangements?

Can I have an itemized estimate of the services we discussed?

What is your minimum deposit, and how soon do I have to put down a deposit?

There you have it, all the sound guidance you need to find a florist that is the perfect match for your perfect day. Have no fear, the water's fine. Dive right in.