Ever see the exquisite floral arrangements on television? Weed through endless pages of a wedding magazines and drool over pages that show tablescapes ad whimsical arrangements that scream a million bucks? Unfortunately, in a perfect world unless your Donald Trump or your daddy is an oil tycoon, the average person cannot afford them. So, my BEF’s, here are a few tips that can give you that “Flower Power” and get the most out of your dollar.
#1 Do not walk in to a store and start talking. Don’t let out your budget, look, flower type, or give any ideas. Let them sell themselves. Ask a lot of questions. Ask to see a portfolio, have them show you around the shop and ask them to educate you on the different florals that are available, ask how many weddings they usually do on a weekend. All of this will have an effect on your overall purchase. They will try to sell you. Do your homework before you start interviewing,, so you can read between the lines and avoid getting overcharged.
#2 Go Local! Peek at your local growers, farmers, and nurseries. A lot of the time, you can get them to give you invaluable information about what is grown locally, what is in season, and often can pay next to nothing plus you stay green by avoiding shipping.
#3 Ask if you can use your own containers. This can save you a ton! It is often 60% above what they paid. By using your own containers, you can shop at the Dollar Tree, flea markets, craft store, wholesalers and save a bundle allowing you to put your money somewhere else.
#4 When you ask to see a portfolio, be aware that most use Teleflora. They are a national service, but a florist who uses them must stick with the blooms that are made for that arrangement and must stick to the overall design. This isn’t getting very creative and just says to me they can’t be inventive or very accommodating. Ask to see what they’ve done for weddings in the past and ask to see pictures or get references. Do not accept just the Teleflora book….you will be disappointed.
#5 Ask, question, and negotiate hidden charges and fees. Often, when you sign your contract, get home and look at it a few months down the road, you discover that the price wasn’t what you had anticipated! Delivery charges and set-up fees are the most common and just about guaranteed. If you’re using a wedding planner, ask if they can include this in your contract as part of their set-up duties. You could also ask the venue if the florals are dropped off early while the food staff is setting the tables, if they can put them on the tables for you. This will save you from paying extra to your florist.
#6 If you’re incorporating ribbons, jewels, or accents in your arrangements, ask if you can bring your own. Florists charge double to use theirs.
#7 If you’re using rose petals for your aisle or on your tables, ask your florist how big the bag is if you should order from them. Some bags are simply sandwich size bags, others are 3x the size. Compare pricing! In my opinion…rose petals are NOT worth the money just to drop them on the floor or grass and throw them away. Go to the grocery store, buy a few $4.99 bouquets and have fun ripping off petals. Great way to utilize your bridal party! =)
#8 Once your florist is chosen, limit the times you “stop by”, call to ask a question or better yet change your mind! In the end, they will consider you a pain the tookess and charge you extra for the hassle. If you know up front that your indecisive, ask what the absolute deadline is should you have a change of heart. If they order the flowers…you’re out of luck and stuck!
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