There are so many things to consider when planning a wedding. Couples need to set a date and hire a suitable venue. Guest lists need to be prepared and invitations need to be sent. Caterers need to be hired and menus need to be finalized. It can seem like a never ending stream of interviews, decisions and contracts. Amidst all of the planning necessary to create the perfect wedding, it can be easy to overlook some of the less obvious considerations – like hiring a florist.
Flowers are an important part of any wedding. They help to set the mood for the venue, and are vital to creating an atmosphere that truly reflects the newly married couple’s hopes for the future. Far too often the hiring of a florist gets left to the last minute, and couples find themselves scrambling to find a reputable vendor who can supply the flower arrangements they desire.
The following tips should help couples avoid the last minute rush, and will guide them through the process of finding and hiring the best florist for their wedding.
Timing
It is important to start thinking about a florist for your wedding as early as possible. Ideally, you should have booked your florist at least four months prior to the date of your wedding. This may seem premature, but couples need to consider the time their florist will need to order the desired flowers and to prepare the arrangements. It is also important to consider the timing of your wedding. If you have set a date that falls close to a holiday, your florist will likely already be swamped with orders and any last minute wedding arrangements may suffer. Give your florist plenty of time to produce the stunning flower arrangements you expect.
Interviewing Prospective Florists
When hiring any outside contractor for your wedding it is important to set aside plenty of time for interviews and consultations. The last thing you want to do is pick a florist at random and hope for the best. Assemble the names of a selection of florists and make appointments to discuss your wedding plans with each of them.
Questions to Ask Your Florist
As you interview potential florists there are some key questions that need to be addressed. First and foremost, you need to know if they can handle the size of your wedding, and if they are able to arrange for delivery and set up of all flower arrangements. You should also be sure that they are familiar with the location of your wedding, and that they can coordinate with the venue on delivery times.
Keep the following questions in mind when you consult with a prospective florist:
- Can they provide samples of their past work? If not, move on to the next florist on your list.
- Can they provide recommendations from past customers?
- Can they coordinate the flower arrangements to match the color and theme of your wedding?
- Can they provide a sample bouquet?
- Are they prepared to transport the flowers and decorations to the wedding location, and is there an extra fee for this service?
- What is the cut off date for changes in tone, color or theme?
- Can they provide an itemized quote before you sign the contract?
- Are their any hidden fees, such as delivery charges or set up fees?
Reputation
Once you have found a couple of florists that you feel can offer the style of arrangements you want for your wedding, it’s time to do a little research. Before signing a contract, you will want to investigate the florist’s reputation. The internet can be a useful tool when it comes to checking out potential vendors for your wedding. Look for online reviews of the florists you are considering, and see how they compare with one another. You should also consult the events planner at the venue you have secured for your wedding and/or reception. Rental venues have experience working with all types of contractors, and that experience will prove invaluable in weeding out the less reputable florists from your list. The on-site manager at your wedding venue should be able to steer you clear of any florists with a history of unprofessional behavior.
With all of the decisions to be made while planning your wedding, the choice of florist can get lost in the shuffle. But by following these few helpful tips, you can make the decision easier and can be sure of securing a florist who can deliver the flower arrangements you desire on time and in a professional manner. Remember, plan early, ask the right questions, and never settle for second best.
