Unresponsive Florist

I would look for another florist, but I'd be concerned about getting the deposit back from this one. I might first check and see if the check cleared. If it hasn't, I'd put a stop payment on it. You'll pay a fee, but depending on the size of the deposit it's probably better than risking losing the deposit. For others in the planning stages, heed this example and DO NOT pay a deposit without getting and signing the contract first. Good luck!

Did you receive a detailed proposal that outlines exactly what you want, including costs? If you did not, and that is supposed to be what she is working on for the contract, then I would ask for the deposit back and find another florist.

You have no contract if there is no agreement...no 'meeting of the minds'. Regardless of what her ultimate 'contract' terms are, one does not exist right now so she cannot keep your deposit.

If she resists in returning it, she would likely lose in small claims court.

The florist my daughter is using completed a SUPER detailed proposal after a one-hour meeting to discuss the vision for the day. The proposal included specific flowers for each piece that was to be prepared (bouquet, corsage, etc) and all details (including rental containers) for the centerpieces. Additional decorative elements (archway flowers, mantle decor, etc) all presented in detail with inspiration pictures included. All this was given to her well before we put down our deposit so we all knew exactly what we were agreeing to.

You should know what you are placing a deposit on before you actually place that deposit. Would you hand a car dealer $1000 without knowing anything about the car you are buying?

I would call and ask for your deposit back, or tell your bank to stop the check (if it is a check) and find another florist. This isn't normal behavior for a vendor.

I would definitely find a new florist. That would be way too much stress and anxiety, especially because you'll probably be needing to communicate with them frequently the few weeks before the wedding, and that won't really work if they're not responsive. I've been emailing with my florist for the past week or so to give him final numbers for centerpieces, numbers for corsages and bouquets, and last minute changes I wanted to make. Not only was he willing and happy to make all of the changes and work with me on everything, but he answers all of me emails in 24 hours AT MOST (usually he'll email me back within a few hours), even with it being busy wedding season. I'd find someone who is responsive and who you feel comfortable with since you won't be able to be on top of them the day of.

Try to get your deposit back, but if they haven't cashed your check yet perhaps you could cancel the check. I would just do it before they do decide to send you a contract because as of right now, if you don't have a contract there won't be any penalties for cancelling.

I would check with your other option before notifying the current one that you're cancelling, but honestly even if the other isn't available, I'd keep looking. This one doesn't sound like someone you feel you can depend on. If they are unresponsive and dismissive (e.g., laughing at you...) now, it's likely they are going to stress you out even more as the wedding gets closer.

I agree with others that a good florist/vendor should be able to provide you with a contract almost immediately. The first florist we met with took detailed notes during the meeting and emailed daughter a contract within 24 hours. The second, and one she ended up booking, took notes on her computer as we talked in her office and printed out a contract -- listing all the specifics -- at the end of the meeting, and made an appointment with us to come back a week or two later to see a sample centerpiece she would make as an example of what daughter could expect. At the second meeting, we made some minor revisions to the contract, which she again updated as we talked, and at the end of that meeting we signed an incredibly detailed, multi-page contract that included full-colored pictures and descriptions of every item in the order, and gave her a deposit. When we've had questions, we've emailed her and she's responded within 24 hours. Don't work with someone who doesn't provide the quality goods & services you need. (PS -- the florist we booked is charging $1000 less than the other florist for more flowers/arrangements and higher quality. Don't give up!)

If you can get your deposit back, I would go with someone else

I will never understand unresponsive vendors. It is so common and it makes me crazy! It's so bad for business!

I would get my money back and run!

Is it too far to meet with this vendor in person? I would try to set up an in person meeting. Sometimes we read emails with a different "voice" than is intended by the sender. I'd meet with them and explain your concerns. If they are unresponsive to that then I'd give them one last "warning" by saying "if I don't have the contract from XX date I will be forced to terminate this agreement and seek other services".

I'm running into a similar issue with a musician.

See if the other is available -- then you can set a course of action.

Sorry you're dealing with this :-( If it was me, I'd secure a second florist and then ask for a refund. I get busy schedules and perhaps as brides (and someone paying a lot of money) we're a little more impatient than their usual customers. However, laughing at your inquisition is simply unprofessional. They've shown you what dealing with them will be like, and for me, I wouldn't be comfortable with the unresponsiveness.

Hi Stephanie! I am so sorry you are dealing with this situation with your vendor. Agreeing with the others, I would definitely figure out a Plan B, find another florist, and then ask for your deposit back.

If you need help finding new florists in your area: under our Vendors page, you can search by your location , read great reviews, and connect with them directly for price inquiries & details. I hope this helps.