Your wedding florist's most Frequently Asked Questions

More tips from our friendly neighbourhood florist, Poppy, of Smart Flowers, Swift Current.

Another great bouquet photo from http://www.smartflowers.ca/

Is it ok to visit several florists to get estimates for my wedding flowers?

Sure, but tell the florists that you are gathering estimates rather than making an appointment for a consultation. Be prepared with a detailed list of your floral needs. The florist will be able to give a rough estimate without a lengthy meeting. If you are gathering ideas and then comparisons, it is best to inform the florist of your intentions. Floral designers are trained and highly skilled floral artists. Their ideas have value. You may be asked to pay a consultation fee if you want to discuss a florist's actual ideas for your wedding. In most cases, the fee will be applied to the flowers once the order is placed.

What should I bring to the flower shop when I have my wedding consultation?

The more information you can provide the better your florist will be prepared to offer creative suggestions. Your florist will want to create a spectacular and memorable event for you. Anything you can bring will be beneficial:

• Pictures that depict what you have in mind are extremely helpful.
• Bring a photo of your dress and a sample of the fabric if you have it
• Swatches of fabric and or photos of the bridesmaids' dresses.

Also think about what "style" of wedding you want. If you are not sure, your florist can offer suggestions based on your wedding plans so far

Will my florist work within my budget?

Yes. Be honest about your budget on the initial consultation so the florist knows what to recommend. By taking your budget into consideration from the very beginning of the planning process, the florist can give you the best advise on how to place the flowers for maximum effect and what types of flowers will be the best value to achieve your desired look.

How far in advance should I contact the florist when ordering wedding flowers?

Many florists can accept only a set number of weddings on a given day, so it is important to contact your florist well in advance to begin planning. A good rule of thumb is to contact your florist at least three-six months in advance.

However, if your wedding is going to be an exceptionally elaborate event, take place during peak wedding season or fall on a holiday, then six months to a year is not too soon to contact your florist. This will allow the florist to begin looking for any props or specialty items you might need. Wedding flowers can be highly specific and colors often have to be very precise, so florists need advance notice to place flower orders.

Are there any hidden costs?

Be sure to ask your wedding florist about any additional costs or about any chance of the flowers going over budget. Remember that flowers are a natural perishable product and your local florist asks for the best from their suppliers and growers, but even then sometimes mistakes can happen or product may come in not as expected.

Ask your florist what they do in these situations and what they can do to ensure there are no surprises on your wedding day.