Deborah Chan
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but choosing your wedding flowers can be one of the most exciting parts. Before you start, it's important to know your budget. The average couple spends around 8-15% of their total wedding budget on flowers. Once you have a number in mind, you can start looking for a florist who can work within your budget. You should start your search between eight and twelve months ahead of the wedding date, as good florists get booked up early. You can find florists through word of mouth, wedding magazines, social media, or a wedding planner. When you meet with your florist, you can discuss the types of flowers and arrangements you want, such as bouquets, boutonnieres, centerpieces, and ceremony flowers. You can also ask about repurposing flowers from the ceremony for the reception to save on costs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Budget | 8%-15% of the total wedding budget |
| Florist | Research and hire a florist 8-12 months in advance |
| Flowers | Bouquets, boutonnieres, centerpieces, ceremony flowers, corsages |
| Reuse flowers | Repurpose flowers from the ceremony for the reception |
| DIY | Make your own bouquets and arrangements |
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What You'll Learn
Budgeting for flowers
Flowers are one of the most memorable parts of a wedding. They add an overwhelming sense of romance and luxury to the ceremony and reception spaces, enhancing the wedding décor, the wedding party's attire, and the resulting photography.
The cost of wedding flowers can vary depending on several factors. According to some sources, the average cost of wedding flowers is around $2,200 to $3,500, with couples typically spending between $500 and $3,500. However, depending on the location, size of the wedding, and other factors, the cost can quickly increase. For example, couples who wed in certain regions, such as the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast/New England, or the Southwest, spent more on their wedding flowers, with averages ranging from $2,734 to $3,457. The number of floral arrangements, the types of flowers chosen, the size of the arrangements, and the seasonality of the blooms will also impact the total cost.
- Determine your priorities: Before choosing flowers, decide on your must-haves and what you're willing to splurge on or sacrifice. Bouquets and boutonnieres, for instance, may be higher on your priority list since they will feature in many photos.
- Set a realistic budget: Know exactly how much you can or are willing to spend on flowers. The average couple spends around 8% to 15% of their total wedding budget on flowers, but this may vary depending on your personal preferences and the importance of flowers to you.
- Browse real weddings for inspiration: Look at real wedding photos to get an idea of the styles and types of flowers you like. This will help you create a floral budget that aligns with your vision.
- Communicate your budget to florists: When meeting with prospective florists, be upfront about your budget. Ask them what they can achieve within your budget to get an idea of their pricing for bouquets, centerpieces, installations, and other extras.
- Shop seasonally and locally: Buying flowers that are in season and sourced locally can save you money on transportation costs and result in fresher, more pristine blooms.
- Mix expensive and affordable flowers: If you have your heart set on a particular flower that is costly, consider mixing it with more affordable blooms or adding greenery or filler florals to create full arrangements without breaking the bank.
- Repurpose flowers: To save money, consider repurposing your ceremony flowers for the reception. For example, a floral arch can be reused as a backdrop for the sweetheart table or escort card display. You can also use aisle arrangements to accent the cake table or bridesmaid bouquets to decorate the bathroom.
- Compare prices and recommendations: Ask for recommendations from newlyweds, browse wedding magazines, and search social media hashtags to find florists who fit your budget and style. Compare prices and read reviews to make an informed decision.
- Consider alternatives: If you want to reduce flower costs, you can opt for smaller vases with fewer flowers or incorporate other decorative elements like votive candles, lanterns, photos, or personal keepsakes. Dried baby's breath, for instance, is an inexpensive option that can be spray-painted to match your color palette.
Remember, the key to budgeting for wedding flowers is to be flexible, creative, and realistic. By communicating your budget and preferences to florists and comparing options, you can achieve beautiful floral arrangements that enhance your special day without breaking the bank.
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Finding a florist
Set a Budget
Before you start looking for a florist, it's important to determine how much you can spend on wedding flowers. The amount you allocate to flowers may depend on your overall wedding budget, the types of flowers you want, and the priority of flowers in your wedding vision. Couples typically spend around 8% to 15% of their total wedding budget on flowers. Once you have a budget in mind, you can start searching for florists who can work within that range.
Start Your Search Early
It is recommended to begin your search for a florist between eight and twelve months before your wedding date. Good florists get booked up quickly, especially during the summer months, so it's best to reach out as soon as you can. This will also give you more time to discuss your flower choices and make any necessary adjustments.
Location, Location, Location
Consider the location of your florist. Ideally, you want to find someone who is located within a reasonable distance from your wedding venue. This is especially important if you plan on having large flower installations, as they often need to be created onsite and your florist will need to arrive early on the day of your wedding to set up.
Word-of-Mouth Recommendations
One of the best ways to find a florist is through word-of-mouth recommendations. Ask newlyweds you know, browse wedding magazines, or search hashtags on social media for inspiration. If you're working with a wedding planner or venue coordinator, they may also have suggestions for florists in the area.
Research and Connect
Once you've compiled a shortlist of potential florists, take the time to research their work, personality, and price range. Set up appointments or phone calls to connect with them and ask any questions you may have. A great florist will be able to answer your queries and make you feel confident in their abilities. Don't forget to discuss your budget and vision to see if they can create what you're looking for within your price range.
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Types of flowers and arrangements
When it comes to wedding flowers, there are a few key arrangements to consider. These include bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, centrepieces, and ceremony flowers.
Bouquets
The bridal bouquet is a central element of the wedding flower arrangement. It is often designed to reflect the bride's personality and style. Bridesmaid bouquets are usually smaller versions of the main bouquet, incorporating similar flowers, colours, and design styles.
Boutonnieres
A boutonniere is a single bloom or a cluster of small buds attached to the left lapel of a suit jacket. They are typically worn by the groom, groomsmen, ushers, and close male family members. Popular flower choices include calla lilies, ranunculus, spray roses, and baby's breath.
Corsages
Corsages are worn on the wrist like a bracelet and feature a single bloom or a small cluster of blooms arranged with ribbon, elastic, tulle, or a metal cuff. They are commonly worn by mothers and grandmothers at weddings and can also serve as an alternative to bridesmaid bouquets.
Centrepieces
Centrepieces are flower arrangements placed on tables at the wedding reception. They can add colour and elegance to the event space. Centrepieces can vary in size and style, from simple bud vases to elaborate floral displays.
Ceremony Flowers
Ceremony flowers are used specifically during the wedding ceremony. This includes decorations for the aisle or backdrop and flowers for a post-nuptial petal toss. A floral arch is a popular choice for creating a romantic setting for the ceremony and can also be repurposed for the reception.
When selecting flowers, it is essential to consider your budget, the availability of certain blooms, and the overall style or colour scheme you wish to achieve. It is advisable to start planning your wedding flowers early, ideally between eight and twelve months before the wedding date, to secure the services of your preferred florist.
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Reusing flowers
During the Wedding
If your ceremony and reception are in the same location, it's easy to repurpose flowers from the ceremony as decor for the reception. For example, a statement floral arch can be reused as a backdrop for a sweetheart table or a photo backdrop for guests. Similarly, flowers from the aisle or ceremony altar can be reused on the head table or in the lounge. Bouquets can be reused as centrepieces, but be aware that they may be too small or too tall for guests to see each other across the table. If you're reusing flowers from the ceremony, be sure to carefully wrap them or place them on a towel to avoid getting water on the reception table linens.
After the Wedding
If you're not leaving for your honeymoon right away, you can retrieve some of your floral arrangements and display them in vases throughout your home. You can also dry your wedding flowers to create a bridal bouquet keepsake. To do this, hang fresh blooms upside down to air dry for 2-3 weeks, removing any leaves that fall off. Once dried, spray with hairspray, place in a frame using floral foam, and hang on your wall. Another option is to create resin keepsakes with your dried flowers, such as coasters or paperweights. You can also turn your flowers into potpourri by adding essential oils and placing them in a decorative bowl or sachet.
Donate or Transform
You can donate your wedding flowers to organisations like Random Acts of Flowers or Repeat Roses, or transform them into botanical jewellery. To make jewellery, press and preserve the petals, spray them with a clear acrylic sealant, trim any excess stem or foliage, and then incorporate the flower heads into necklaces, earrings, or bracelets.
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Timing and logistics
Start Early
It is recommended to begin your search for a florist between eight and twelve months before the wedding. Good florists get booked up quickly, especially during the summer, so it's best to reach out as soon as you have a venue and date.
Set a Budget
Before you start meeting florists, it's important to know how much you can spend. Couples typically allocate around 8-15% of their total wedding budget to flowers, but this can vary depending on your priorities. Once you have a budget in mind, be sure to communicate it to your florist so they can suggest options within your price range.
Consult a Florist
When choosing a florist, consider their location. Ideally, you want someone who isn't too far from your venue, as they may need to arrive early on the day of the wedding to set up large installations. A great florist will be able to answer all your queries and fill you with confidence. They should be able to advise on the types and colours of flowers, as well as practicalities such as minimum spend, item hire, and on-the-day logistics.
Final Amendments
Stay in touch with your florist throughout the planning process, and be prepared to make final amendments around six weeks before the wedding. This is also when you'll need to confirm final numbers with your caterers and venue.
Save Money by Recycling Flowers
To save money, you can repurpose flowers from the ceremony for the reception. For example, a floral arch can be used as a backdrop for a sweetheart table, and bridesmaid bouquets can add colour to vases in the bathroom. Discuss these options with your florist to get the most out of your flowers.
Order Flowers in Advance
If you're ordering flowers to arrange yourself, it's a good idea to order them in advance. Some flowers, like ranunculus, are recommended to be ordered a few days early so they arrive as they're starting to bloom.
Planning wedding flowers can be a fun but detailed process. By starting early, setting a budget, and staying in communication with your florist, you can ensure a smooth process and beautiful results.
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Frequently asked questions
Couples typically allocate 8-15% of their total wedding budget to flowers. The final amount will depend on your wedding location, the types of flowers you want, and your overall budget.
Start your search for a florist between eight and 12 months before the wedding date. Good florists will get booked up early, especially in the summer, so reach out as soon as you can.
Ask for recommendations from newlyweds you know, browse wedding magazines and search on social media. If you're working with a wedding planner or venue coordinator, they should be able to suggest local florists.
Ask the florist about their minimum spend, whether they hire out items like vases and candles, what the logistics are on the day, whether they will clear down, and whether they will have a team with them.
This will depend on your budget and what's most important to you. You might want flowers at the ceremony, in the reception, or both. Bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces are a good place to start.
