Friday, February 5, 2010

Flowers 101


When you first start planning your wedding, all the tasks that have to be completed can seem, well, overwhelming. There is the lighting, the reception vanue, the food, the flowers., the music, the transportation, the entertainment... the list goes on and on. However, one of the most overwhelming tasks that a bride encounters can be picking out your flowers.  Most brides didn’t go to school to major in horticulture or botany, so brides might not know all the information necessary when it comes to picking out your flowers. Relax, you don't need to. This is why you hire a professional for your big day!



What you NEED to know BEFORE meeting with the florist: It's helpful to have your ceremony and reception venues picked out before you meet with you florist. That way, they can get an idea of the space, colors and lighting they are working with that way. Also, if you know what colors/shades your wedding party will be wearing and what color scheme you’re interested in, the florist can give you some specific suggestions for type of flowers and design that would be complimentary.
What you DON’T need to know BEFORE meeting with the florist: You don’t need to know the technical names of flowers or when your favorite flowers are in season. You also don’t need to have a list of every flower you want at your wedding or every flower you have ever liked. You florist will be armed with knowledge and ideas- so let them do their job.
What to bring to your first floral consultation: PHOTOS! Florists love visuals so they can get an idea of what you are interested in. They can also use these photos as a guide when designing your bouquets, centerpieces and boutonnières. You will find millions on photos on-line - TheKnot.com is a great resource for ideas. Be sure to bring a photo of your dress and the bridesmaids dresses. It will be important for the florist to know the color and style of the wedding day attire.  Also, think of some words to describe the wedding you are envisioning. Is it playful? Classically romantic? Traditional? Wild? Those words will help the florist get their creative juices flowing which in turn will help make your arrangements for that day more YOU.

What to look for in a floral designer: When inteviewing potential floral vendors it's important to make sure your personalities are a match. Pick a florist that is willing to listen to YOUR ideas and then be willing to offer their own ideas and opinions to reflect your vision. It can be especially helpful to come prepared to the consultation armed with photos of designs that are appealing. While you're there, ask to see their portfolio. You can often get a feel of what kind of a designer they are based upon their previous jobs. Are the responsible for bringing the centerpieces to the reception? It will also be important that you feel you can be honest with them. If there is something you DON'T like - don't be afraid to tell them! Oftentimes, by finding out what you DON'T like... they can help you figure out what it is you DO like. If you are really concerned about what the final floral design is going to look like, you can request that the florist create a "mock" bouquet, centerpiece, etc. Of course, you will be charged for the florist's materials and time... but it will be worth it to ease your worries.


There are a few questions you will want to be sure to ask your florist at you consultation. Does the florist deliver the flowers? If they do, do they then stick around to pin flowers? Not every florist will do this, so be sure to ask. (Luckily, if you have hired Events Refined for your event, we can deliver your flowers... and then pin them on everyone!)



You now have some information to help you pick out your flowers for your wedding day. Flowers can bring so much life and beauty to a wedding, so have fun with it! Don't be afaid to think out of the box... you might be surprised with what you end up falling in love with!

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