Top Ten Things to Know Before Your Floral Consultation

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday and happy new year!

As we head into 2012, I know many of you might feel the pressure of securing all of your vendors for your big day. It's true, florists like us are booked up to a year in advance. If you haven't already, pick up the phone and start scheduling your consultations.

To make the most of your time during your floral consultation, do your homework beforehand. Here's what to know before coming in:

1. Reception Venue: Make sure to have this booked first, then bring in your contract, possible floorplan, and any other special requirements, like special vendor insurance coverage, before visiting your florist. The more we know about your space, the better we can assist with your design elements.
2. Color Palette: While I know many of you struggle with this, it's best to have a few colors in mind before sitting down with your florist. From there, we can coach you on whether or not it will work with your flower selection and reception venue.
3. Bridal Party Members: Make sure to have picked your bridesmaids and groomsmen. Also think about others who you would like to honor with flowers. Traditionally, mothers, fathers,  grandparents, flower girls, ring bearers, readers, and ushers receive these.
4. Ceremony Location: Some churches and temples have restrictions on decorations. Ask if they have a list of requirements that you can provide to your florist.
   
5. Favorite Flowers: If you have a list of flowers you would like to see incorporated into your arrangements, bring it along. Please remember, many flowers are seasonal or novelty varieties, preventing even the most resourceful florist to procure them.
   
6. Number of Guests Invited: This is helpful to know when proposing the number of table centerpieces. It also helps us work within your budget parameters.
   
7. Floral Budget: The average cost of wedding flowers is 10% of the entire cost of your wedding (less your dress and rings). This is a good rule of thumb to follow when figuring out how much you will need to spend.
   
8. Personal Style: Flowers today represent your personal style. Take some time to flip through magazines, websites, and blogs and print out or email these to your florist before your consultation. This will help them guide you during your floral selection. If you have found your dress or bridesmaid dresses, bring pictures or fabric swatches along with you.
   
9. Lighting Requirements: Often times certain reception sites lack luster in their decor. It may appear to be a blank canvas, with little to be inspired by the architecture of the space. Here is where lighting can make a huge difference in the overall decor. Whether it's candlelight or beyond, it would be worth asking your venue if they have any restrictions before incorporating it into your space.
   
10. Linen Options: Ask your venue what types of linen come with your package. If working with a caterer, find out what is included in your contract. Linen color and texture can make a huge impact on your entire table display.