Flowers - Top Savvy Tips

 1.

Know that top designers will work within a reasonable budget.  Even the most creative artists know how to stretch funds.  How? by using flowers that just look big-budget.

 2.

You can negotiate the components in a package.  You can trade one corsage and one boutonniere for fresh flowers on the cake.  What you can't trade is carnations for roses.  Packages involve flowers that the florist can get readily and inexpensively, without substitutions.

3.

Florists can get almost any flower at anytime, but be aware that shipping charges can be costly.

 4.

Flowers that are in season in your area can be  cheaper,  sometimes by as much as 40%, than those that have to be flown in.  If you're looking to save money, stick with whatever is in season.

 5.

Understand that half the cost of flowers is in the labor.   If your budget is tight, go for gorgeous blooms arranged in a simple fashion.  The less fuss, the more you can spend on flowers and not the florist's work.

6.

Your florist may also do some wedding planning.  Some coordinate other decor elements like lines, tableware, lighting and furniture/tent rentals.

7.

Try to get a "dry-run" bouquet for your formal portrait.  (This should be done several weeks before the wedding of course!) It may be half the price of your "real" bouquet.

 8.

Don't expect the wedding day flowers to be exact duplicates of sample arrangements.  Since availability varies from week to week, florists  may not always be able to get something very specific. 

9.

Save money on rentals by providing your own vases.  This will also give you an opportunity to review other options.  You can use Nanna's good silver vase as well as some funky finds in your colors. i

10.

Experience does count.  Yes, Aunt Carol may have a green thumb in her garden, but stick with a professional.  Ask to see their portfolio of previous work - and look for those who are accredited through a reputable organization.