Dont let the wedding florist rip you off

Make a list of your favourite flowers. If the blooms you would like are particularly expensive, remember that just a few can make an impact if used creatively.

The secret behind the best wedding flowers is finding the right florist. Start your search six to nine months before the wedding and expect to finalise all the details about three weeks before the big day.

Questions to ask your florist:

• Do you have photographs of your work?
• Have you worked at my venues before?
• What type of flowers will be available when I am getting married?
• What are the latest trends? Is colour in or out? What are the most popular types of bouquet?
• Should I choose a colour theme for the whole day?
• Are you a member of any professional associations?
• What shape of bouquet will work with the style of my dress (take along a shot of your gown and a fabric swatch if possible)?
• Given my budget, what type of centrepieces do you recommend?
• How will the ceremony and reception flowers co-ordinate?
• What happens if the flowers I ordered are unavailable on the day?
• Will you be doing the flowers for my wedding? If not, can I meet the florist(s) who will be?
• Can flowers be moved from the ceremony to the reception?
• Can you provide vases, napkin holders, candelabra and so on? What will they cost? Will you arrange collection of these after the wedding?
• Are there any other costs beyond flowers, vases, labour and delivery?
• Do I have to pay a deposit? When is the balance due to be paid?
• What is your cancellation policy?

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