Floral arrangements and bouquets can make a big statement on your wedding day, and it’s not something you want to skimp on! Just like preparing food, flowers are a delicate and time-sensitive part of the big day, so it’s a piece that should likely be left up to the pros. Before you sign on the dotted line with a florist, make sure to ask them these ten questions.
Can you create a sample or sketch arrangement beforehand?
If you’re particular about exactly how your arrangements will be, consider asking your florist for a sketch or sample. It will cost you more upfront, but this way there won’t be any surprises on the big day.
What if a flower that I’ve requested isn’t available?
Many brides have visions that come straight from a magazine or Pinterest, but forget that flowers are a work of Mother Nature! Some shades might not be 100% like you envisioned them, or a style might not be available in your area. If you’re particular about the small details, you’ll want to voice that to your florist so that they can match your vision as closely as possible. Pro tip: It’s easier (and more creative!) for a florist to see a variety of photos of ideas and inspiration that you like and to then craft a unique design instead of trying to copy a photo exactly. Give your florist creative liberty and enjoy what they come up with based on what you like!
Do you provide vases?
Usually, a florist will have a selection of vases or containers available, but if you’re particular about a certain style or color be prepared to provide those yourself. Pro tip: You probably won’t use the vases from your wedding again, so try and sell or donate them after the big day so they can take on another life!
Are you handling any clean-up or pick-up?
At the end of your reception, the last thing you want to worry about is what to do with your centerpieces and other floral décor. Ask your florist beforehand if they’ll be coming back to pick up everything, or if it’s your responsibility.
Can you provide fresh flowers for a cake?
Many cakes are accented with flowers or other foliage. If you’d like those details on your wedding cake, be sure to ask your florist if they can provide you with that, or if it is up to your baker.
Can you make corsages and boutonnieres that align with the bouquets?
For your groomsmen and other important family members, you might be requesting smaller floral pieces like corsages and boutonnieres. Make sure to request those when you first meet your florist so they can provide you with a quote to make those pieces in addition to anything else.
Do you offer bouquet preservation services?
Many brides want to preserve their wedding bouquet for a shadow box, so be sure to ask your florist if doing that is a service they can provide, and if yes, how much it will cost.
When will the arrangements actually be made?
If you’ve never worked with cut flowers before this might seem like a strange question, but the answer is very crucial to how your flowers will end up looking on the big day. Depending on the variety, some flowers can take up to a week to fully bloom. Your florist should know which stems need to be cut and prepared first so that they’re all at their peak perfection for your wedding day.
Have you done events at this venue before?
The answer to this question isn’t necessarily a deal breaker, but it’s information you might want to know. If something happens on the day of, a vendor who has already worked at the venue in the past is probably more equipped to handle it than one who hasn’t.
Do you charge a delivery fee?
Depending on whether or not your florist is local, or how much equipment they have, you might be on the hook for picking up the arrangements. If your florist is available to deliver the flowers, make sure to ask what that cost will be. Pro tip: Don’t forget to ask when the arrangements will be delivered! It would be a shame to have spent your hard earned cash on beautiful flowers, only to have them end up weeping from being in the sun for hours.
Floral arrangements contribute greatly to the overall look and feel of your wedding day, so you want to be sure that you’ve spent the time and effort picking the right florist for your vision. By asking them these ten key questions, you’ll be well on your way to beautiful floral flourishes!
Do you have other questions that you would ask your florist before booking them? Share them in the comments below!
Erika focuses on email marketing, copywriting and merchandising at Zazzle, but she has a secret obsession with all things wedding! During the week you can find her writing punny subject lines while also pinning the latest wedding trends, and outside of the 9-5, she is usually cheering on the San Jose Sharks, reading a good murder mystery, or hunting for the best Philly Cheesesteak in the Bay Area.
