Florist Consultation---Qs to ask???

I would ask the breakdown of pricing. How much are the vases and how much are the flowers. After you get those prices, you know the rest is labor. The labor should cost no more than 30% of the total cost. I would also ask how many stems of each flower will be in the centerpieces/ bouquets. This will give you a much better idea of the arrangement sizes.

How big will the bouquets be?

What's the price per stem?

Will they be delivering, or do you need to pick up?

How early do you buy the flowers?

Do you get to chose what bouquets are wrapped in?

Are your flower choices in season?

Ask about who will set up and take down all of the arrangements, and if they will transport to your venue. That was one of the big things that FH and I looked for with the florist.

You can ask about stem counts -- but she'll probably guess at this point. There's really no way he/she could know that until the final designs have been determined. The cost of flowers, even when purchased wholesale, fluctuate all the time -- and often without warning. That's based on things the florist has no control over.

The very best way to approach your consult is to begin by being honest with your budget. Any professional will treat a bride with $1,000 budget with as much respect and concern as a bride with a $9,000 budget. So, please....be honest, and get the budget out of the way. She doesn't want to make suggestions you'll love, but can't afford.

Tell her the feel/theme of the wedding. We've done very classic designs, and we've done far more whimsical designs. If you have a photo of your gown, bring it. This will help her get a clearer vision of what you find beautiful. Then, let her know how many pieces you need -- really think it through. Include every personal flower (bouquets, bouts, corsages, flowergirl, etc.), every ceremony piece, and every centerpiece you want. If you have you own vases, tell her. It will save you money. Ask her to design pieces that are multifunctional (we often use reception pieces during the ceremony -- it saves money. Even an arch spray can be repurposed for the sweetheart or escort card tables). Bring BM dress swatches if you have them (so helpful in choosing matching/coordinating flowers and ribbons for handles) and lots of photos of what you like. Your florist knows that you aren't an expert, but he/she is. You may be showing her expensive peony arrangements, and if you've got the budget for that, great. However, she knows which new varieties of roses mimic a peony, and that will save you money. Also, many brides immediately dismiss greenery. Using greenery means using less flowers. Besides, when done correctly, it frames your flowers. Don't shy away from greenery. Ask your florist to show you some. The bottom line is communication and honesty. If the florist knows your budget, how many pieces you need, and what your colors/theme are, he/she should be able to put together something you'll love.

Oh, ask about delivery, set-up, and breakdown fees. Some florists will allow you to pick up your orders.

SO helpful! I'm doing this right now too!