How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Florist
When it comes to planning a wedding, flowers aren’t just decoration—they set the tone, evoke emotion, and bring your vision to life. From the bouquet you’ll carry down the aisle to the centerpieces your guests will admire all evening, choosing the right wedding florist is a key decision. But with so many talented florists out there, where do you even begin?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect florist for your big day.
1. Start With Your Vision
Before reaching out to florists, take time to define your floral style. Ask yourself:
What’s your wedding theme? (Romantic, boho, modern, classic?)
Are there specific flowers or colors you love—or dislike?
Do you want big, lush arrangements or more minimalist touches?
Pinterest boards and Instagram saves are great tools, but remember: florists love when couples bring inspiration and stay open to seasonal and budget-friendly alternatives.
2. Set Your Floral Budget
Floral costs can vary widely, so it's important to determine your budget early. A common rule of thumb is to allocate 8–15% of your overall wedding budget to flowers, though this can shift depending on the scale and style of your event.
Knowing your budget helps florists recommend designs that align with your vision without overspending.
3. Do Your Homework
Look for wedding florists in your area with strong portfolios and glowing reviews. Here’s what to focus on:
Style match: Does their work reflect the aesthetic you're going for?
Experience: Have they worked at your venue or with your planner?
Online presence: Active social media or a well-organized website often signals professionalism and passion.
4. Schedule A Consultation
Narrow your list and schedule consultations (many offer them for free or a nominal fee). Come prepared with:
Your inspiration photos
Guest count
Venue info
Budget range
Must-have flowers or items (like an arch, flower crown, or hanging installation)
Use the meeting to gauge how well the florist listens, communicates, and understands your style. A good florist will offer creative suggestions, not just follow a checklist.
5. Review Proposals Carefully
After your consultation, you’ll likely receive a detailed floral proposal. Look for:
Breakdown of costs by item (bouquets, centerpieces, ceremony flowers, etc.)
Flower substitutions (in case of seasonal availability)
Setup and delivery fees
Rental items like vases, arches, or candles
Ask questions if anything’s unclear—transparency is key, especially with wedding logistics.
6. Consider Compatibility
You’ll be working with your florist throughout the planning process, so choose someone you feel comfortable with. Ask yourself:
Are they enthusiastic about your vision?
Do they respond promptly and professionally?
Do you trust them to execute your dream?
Floral design is an art. It’s important to feel confident giving your florist creative freedom to adapt and improvise, especially if last-minute changes arise.
7. Secure Your Date Early
Popular wedding florists book up fast, especially during peak seasons. Once you find the right one, don’t wait too long to sign a contract and submit a deposit. This not only secures your date but also locks in time to fine-tune your vision together.
Final Advice
Your wedding flowers should feel natural, personal, beautiful, and unforgettable. The right florist will guide you with both creativity and care, helping you turn your ideas into a stunning reality.
So take your time, ask thoughtful questions, and choose someone whose work speaks to you. When the big day comes and you see your bouquet for the first time, it should feel like magic.
