INFORMATION FOR THE FLORIST CONSULTATION

Your approximate budget; plan to spend between 10-20% on flowers.

Wedding theme: This could be based on colors, particular type of flowers, outdoors, or holiday: bring your ideas and photos. Valentine's Day is very romantic, but roses can be very expensive; sometimes service can be questionable due to volume.

Swatches of dress fabric for color matching; pictures of dresses helpful.

Formal or informal celebration decision.

Regulations for the ceremony site. What, if any, decorative items are included: candelabra, pew bows, plants, aisle runner, etc. Can rose petals, bird seed, rice, confetti be used?

Reception Facility: Are table centerpieces included?  If so, what kind? Will there be a hostess, musicians?  Will a cake knife be provided?

Style of cake. Would you like it decorated with fresh flowers?

A list of the wedding party

Get a written quote of your order.

ASK THE FLORIST

How many weddings are scheduled on your wedding date?

When will construction of bouquets begin?

Who will be creating the floral designs?

Who will do the decorating (church & reception site)?

Will the corsages and boutonnieres be pinned on by florist?

What are the delivery charges? Is there a set-up charge?

HELPFUL HINTS

Receiving Line Options: entire wedding party or just bride, groom, and parents?    After ceremony or at the reception?  If neither, the couple should go from table to table to thank guests.  Favors (if any) could be given at this time.

Head Table Alternative: In the case of large wedding parties, it can be convenient to reserve tables  for the immediate family and wedding party. Have the reception facility set up a special table for  for bride and groom. Ask the waitstaff to serve them if there is a buffet.

Flower Girl: In lieu of sprinkling fresh rose petals, she can carry a fireside basket with sweetheart roses to be given to guests in aisle seats.

Ringbearer: Instead of a pillow, have him carry a satin/lace covered box containing the rings or a special bear with ribbons and floral trim.  (The actual rings are the responsibility of the Best Man.) If you have a second child you wish to be in the wedding, he/she could carry a satin-covered Bible or prayer book. Flowergirl/Ringbearer are generally ages 3 to 7; especially young children are sometimes unpredictable at the moment of the procession.