- Are the flowers I have chosen in season? What flowers are in season for my wedding date? Do you have access to out of season flowers? You’ll want to make sure that the flowers you’re wanting to use are in season because if they’re not it could become rather costly, If they’re not in season and the price isn’t a big issue, you’ll want to make sure that the florist has the ability to order the flowers you want because if they can’t, you might want to consider going with a different florist.
- Do you set up the arrangements at the ceremony and reception sites? Is there a set-up fee? It will he nice to know this upfront because if they don’t set up the arrangements or if the fee is too high you’ll need to find someone else to take care of this for you.
- Can I change my order once it has been placed? What is the cut-off date for new ideas? Before you place the order, you’ll want to make sure that you’re ordering what you want. Most places will charge a fee to change the order once it has placed, if they allow the change at all. Some places have strict rules about no changes once the order is placed.
- What times will the flowers be delivered to each location? You’ll need to know this so that you can arrange to have someone at the site to let the florist in.
- Will you transport the ceremony flowers and decorations to the reception site? Is there a fee for this service? If they won’t do this or if the fee is too high, again you’ll have to make arrangements with a friend or family member to do this.
- Will you return to the ceremony site to pick up rentals or will I be responsible for rental returns? This is an important thing to know. Because the last thing you want is to go on your 10 day honeymoon only to come back and find that the rental pieces were never returned and now you have a huge late charge.
- Can you make a sample of my bouquet and centerpiece? This is helpful; it will let you know if you actually like what they’re doing and allow you to make minor adjustments to the plans.
- Will you write up an itemized quote? (be sure get an estimate for each item-bouquet, tossing bouquet, boutonnieres, corsages, etc.). You will want them to do this so that you can take it to another florist to get a price comparison.
- Are there any additional charges or hidden charges?
- Do you have liability insurance?
- What is the deposit? When is it due and when is final payment required?
- What is your policy on cancellation?
- Do you offer bouquet preservation?
You should also prepare a list of things that you MUST have for your wedding and a list of things you would LIKE TO HAVE, if your budget allows. Make sure you select a florist that listens to you and grasps the look and feel you want to achieve for your wedding. Let the florist know what you want, but be willing to compromise. Be open to the florist’s ideas and suggestions. Remember, they are the professionals and when you hire a florist, you are not only hiring them to make floral arrangements, but you are also hiring them for their expertise and talent.
