How to Hire a Floral Designer for Your Wedding

A spectacular floral arrangement can transform a room and make the plainest of settings take on the aesthetic feeling of a fairy tale. That’s why flowers are one of the most important components of a wedding. Consider these tips when you hire a floral designer for your wedding.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pictures of wedding and reception venues
• Color samples

1. Collect the necessary items. Before you choose a florist, make sure you have swatches of the colors you have in mind for your wedding, as well as pictures of floral arrangements you like. Compile a list of everyone in your wedding party who will need flowers. Be sure to bring pictures of the wedding and reception sites.

2. Make a list of potential candidates. Head to the nearest computer with Internet access or browse your phone book. There are likely to be a several different options, so choose a few floral designers to compare prices and services.

3. Schedule an interview. Bring all of the items mentioned above to provide the florist with a clear idea of what you’re looking to accomplish on your wedding day. Going in for an interview does not mean signing a contract, so feel free to ask questions and negotiate.

4. Ask if the florist is a wedding specialist. If they have worked on weddings before, the floral designer should be able to provide a portfolio of previous projects. Request to see a list of previous customers.

5. Find out if they have more than just one wedding to do on your big day. If your choice is between a florist with only your wedding to get ready for and one with a host of weddings, it is wise to go with the one who will be able to focus more on your needs.

6. Know what is included in the price. Are containers and fixtures such as vases, arches and trellises included? If you will have to rent them, you need to know if the floral designer can provide them, or if you have to go to an independent rental agency.

7. Establish a place and time for the flowers and materials to be delivered. It is best to have the florist deliver them personally, and a little early, so any potential problems can be addressed.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure if you are viewing samples of a florist’s previous work that they are from the florist who will be serving you.
• Stick to your budget. Be upfront with how much you can spend and don’t let a florist guilt you into spending more than you should.
• Don’t agree to anything until you have all the specifics in writing.

[abigail]

on 5/18/2007 Excellent article - thanks!