So you’re ready for your first visit with your florist!! Congratulations! This can be a very exciting time - flowers play such an important role in your big day and you want to make sure everything is just as you want it!   The best way to achieve this is to plan ahead. You do not need to know every last detail when meeting with your florist for the first time, but being a little bit prepared can go a long way in making sure you get exactly what you want and can really help your florist get a sense of what you will need so that she can be planning right along with you!   It’s never too early to get started, so here we go!

What should I bring to my florist appointment:

1. Any picture of flowers and arrangements that you LOVE – magazines, clippings, photos. Do some research on the web and maybe even start a Pinterest.
2. Any picture of arrangements that you HATE or colors she dislikes – it’s equally important to know what you absolutely do not want.
3. Pictures of your venue - many brides come in with their laptop and can show the florist online what the venue and/or church will look like. It is a great idea for you to do this!
4. Any containers that you will be supplying
5. A budget – it’s a good idea to at least have a general price range for your florist to keep in mind during the planning/consultation phase. Your florist will listen to you and consider the budget when creating the quote.
6. Addresses, phone numbers and contact persons at all venues.
7. A list of people in your wedding party including parents, people who you want to recognize such as readers, church attendants, etc.
8. Colors and fabric swatches if available at this time – or at least a general idea of colors and/or themes that you love.
9. Dates! Consider all of your wedding floral needs too - will you be needing flowers for the rehearsal dinner perhaps? What about brunch the day AFTER the wedding?   What about a flower arrangement for a great aunt who cannot attend in person but would like to be there in spirit? Flowers speak a beautiful lanquage.

CONCLUSION:

Your florist will then render a quote for you that should be available within the week and will either be emailed to you or quoted by phone. Please do not expect specific details at this point. Your first quote will be simple, and then once you decide to use this particular florist, you will have another meeting where specifics will be discussed and your quote will be finalized. The first quote will at least give you a price point that can be used for comparisons with other florists.   A good florist will continue to work with you and continually adjust as needed based on needs that may arise along the way. A good florist will have some flexibility up until the flowers are actually ordered and then will need to be committed to.   You hope to have a great relationship with your designer and once the plans are made, you’re happy with the final result!   Communication is key!   Good luck in your planning!