Wedding Tip #23 - What to bring to meet your florist

So you're getting ready to meet your florist. What should you bring with you?

• Types of flowers that you like and will want to include
• Color samples (fabric from your dress, bridesmaids dresses, or table linens would be perfect)
• Theme samples (invites, photos, and objects like favors that you want to include)
• Candles? Sample/sketch of what you'd like to use and where if they are mixed with flowers
• Budget - have an idea of what you plan to spent on flowers. This is usually 3-8% of your total budget.

IDEAS! Go magazine crazy! (Or try google image search) Tear out bouquets and arrangements you like! Make notes on if you like this entire bouquet or just the flowers/colors used. Also - take a look at your florist's website or sample books and let her know what arrangements are your style.

NUMBERS. Where and how many floral items do you need? Here is a checklist guide:



______ Bridal bouquet
______ Groom's boutonnier
______ groomsman boutonnieres
______ dad/other boutonnieres (other could include readers, god parents etc)
______ bridesmaid bouquets
______ mom/other bouquets/corsages (other could include readers, god parents etc)
______ flower girl basket & ring bearer boutonnier
______ flowers for grandparents
______ Pew/aisle decorations
______ flower petals for aisle
______ alter/huppah/ceremony arrangements (alter decorations are usually left in the church)
______ flower garlands
______ wreaths
______ cocktail table & bar decorations (low vases)
______ table centerpieces (Tall? short? mix?)
______ head table(s) centerpiece(s)
______ cake table (you can use your bridesmaids bouquet OR petals for this too)
______ restroom decorations
______ extra toss bouquet?

You will also want to think about details such as when the flowers should be delivered, and what should be sent where. For example bride/bridesmaid flowers should be sent to where the ladies are getting ready. Corsages/boutonnieres usually go to the church. When you have your timeline together you will want to get a copy to your florist. You want your flowers on time - but not too early so they stay looking fresh!

Flower information including: seasonal flowers & descriptions including longest lasting: http://www.yourwedding101.com/wedding-flowers/seasonal-flowers.aspx