How to Choose Your Perfect Wedding Florist: A Comprehensive Guide for Couples

Hi, we’re wedding florists! We’ve spent the last six years helping couples plan their wedding flowers — helping them figure out what they need, how to make the most of their budget, and refining their color palettes.

We’ve also been on the other side (finding a florist), and know it can be a challenge to choose the right one. So we wanted to share a few tips for some of the most effective ways to go about finding your florist.

Here's a straightforward guide to help you navigate the process and find the perfect floral partner for your wedding celebration.

Start Early

Begin your search for a florist 6 to 12 months before your wedding date. Popular florists book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons. Here in New England, that’s spring, summer, and fall!

Define Your Vision

Before contacting florists, have a clear idea of your overall wedding style. It’s also helpful to have an idea of the role you want flowers to play. Ask yourself questions like: what’s most important to me—a grand floral arch for my ceremony? Lush centerpieces for the reception tables? What is my color palette? (We share a few tips for color palette ideas here.)

Creating a mood board with inspiration will help you create your vision — and it is the absolute best way you can communicate that vision to your florist. Even if your ideas feel like they're all over the place, an experienced florist can pick up on a theme in images you’ve saved, and help to narrow down and focus your ideas.

Consider Sustainability

If eco-friendly practices are important to you, look for florists who prioritize sustainability. This might include using locally sourced flowers or designing with reusable or compostable materials. 

Understand the Process

A professional florist should have a clear process for working with clients. This typically includes an initial consultation, a complete floral plan that outlines your vision, and an in-depth final meeting leading up to the wedding day, where you can discuss any changes or shifts in the plans.

Be Budget-Aware

Be upfront about your budget from the start. A skilled florist can help you maximize the impact of your flowers by suggesting what to focus on, and what to skip. Remember, the least expensive option isn't always the best value. But if you are leaning toward the least expensive option, just be sure your florist is clear on what they can do within your budget. Otherwise you may end up with something very different than what you thought you were getting.

Prioritize Impact

No matter your budget, consider focusing on high-impact floral designs that make a statement. Having a stunning ceremony arch or a dramatic reception installation (think hanging greenery vines or a huge floral cloud above the dance floor!) can create a bigger impression than tons of little bud vases lined up as far as the eye can see. 

Ask About Services

Be clear on the full range of services offered. Does the florist handle setup and breakdown? Can they repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception? Has their estimate included essential fees like delivery and staffing? Understanding these details can help you plan more effectively.

Communication is Key

Choose a florist who communicates clearly and makes you feel heard. Pay attention to their responsiveness and willingness to answer your questions throughout the process. Don’t hesitate to ask questions—this may be your first time planning an event of this scale, and florists know that, so no question is too simple or silly.

Stay True to Your Style

Your wedding should reflect your personality as a couple. Look for a florist who wants to incorporate your aesthetic and the design of your venue into their floral style. They should try and understand exactly what you’re looking for before they create a plan for your flowers.

Consider Seasonality

Discuss flower availability with your florist. Choosing in-season blooms tends to be more cost-effective than imported, off-season flowers, and locally-grown blooms tend to be the freshest.

Understand the Contract

Before signing, make sure you understand all the terms of your agreement, including deposit requirements, payment schedule, and cancellation policies. If you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification! 

And Finally, Let Go

If you have found a florist who you communicate well with and who you feel understands your vision, let them do their thing. Florists are creatives at heart, and work best when given the freedom to apply their expertise and artistic vision. Once you've shared your ideas, preferences, and any must-haves, trust in your florist's professional judgment.

Remember, you chose this florist for their unique style and skill. Allowing them creative freedom often results in arrangements that exceed expectations, as they can fully use their talent and experience. They may even come up with innovative ideas or combinations you hadn't considered.

Remember, choosing your wedding florist is about more than just beautiful flowers. It's about finding a professional who can translate your vision into reality, work within your budget, and provide a stress-free experience. Take your time, ask plenty of questions, and trust your instincts.

And if you’re getting married in New England, reach out to us about wedding flowers—we’d love to learn more about you!