700 S. Federal Highway Deerfield Beach, Florida 33441 954-571-7888
| Business Hours 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Mon - Sat. Closed on Sundays (except by appointment). |
CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING FLORIST A florist’s contribution to a beautiful wedding is far greater than the combination of her blooms: From bouquets to centerpieces and even the decoration of your departure car, flowers add color and fragrance to every aspect of your day. Here’s how to find perfect arrangements. START YOUR SEARCH Look into possible florists as soon as you can (you need to order only a few months before your wedding, but florists are often booked a year in advance). As you check out reception venues, ask for recommendations (you can tap the florists even if you don’t book the location). Also ask friends: Anyone who has received a spectacular arrangement might know one. ASK QUESTIONS Each florist should have a portfolio to show you. Some questions to ask as you flip through Which flowers will be in season? What does she recommend? Can you watch her set up another wedding? Ask what she can do in addition to centerpieces and bouquets – some florist may also design the lighting and decorate arbors, chuppahs, pews or tents. DISCUSS YOUR IDEAS Once you’ve picked someone, give her the specifics of your vision. Show her pictures of flowers and arrangements you’ve collected from magazines (include some you like and some you don’t), and walk through your ceremony and reception sites together to discuss options., Ask for suggestions, even if you think you know exactly what you want. When you order your dress, give the florist a photo or sketch of it – your gown will set the tone for the entire event. Also provide swatches from your bridesmaids’ dresses, so the florist can make sure their bouquets are complementary. CONSIDER COSTS When deciding specifically which blooms you’d like at your wedding, remember that some are more expensive than others and out-of- season ones may be difficult to get. Your florist should be able to suggest alternatives that won’t compromise your style. For instance, if you’re getting married in the winter, you could use large-headed roses instead of peonies – the effect is similar. If your favorite flowers are expensive, consider using them in your bouquets and using something else for centerpieces. Whatever you decide, ask your florist to create a sample bouquet and centerpiece before committing. You will have to pay extra, but it’s worth it. READ THE FINE PRINT Your contract should include itemized costs for the flowers, along with substitutes in case the ones you want aren’t available at the last minute. It should also specify when and where the flowers will arrive and who will set them up and distribute personal flowers onsite. IDEAS FOR CENTERPIECES *Pick containers that reflect your theme or location. For a country wedding, use antique watering cans; for a beach affair try single stems in conch shells. Mix votives in varying shapes and sizes with single stems in bud vases for a high-impact look. *Use large bunches of a single bloom for a modern feel. *Ask for different flowers on each table – all in the same color (such as white lilies at one, roses at another). *Anchor stems in clear vases filled with citrus fruits for an especially lush effect, or line vases with dark leaves to give texture to the arrangement. |
