How can a couple convey their vision to the florist?
When I meet with my couples, I like to hear all the details about the wedding: the dress, the linens, the graphics and fonts being used, etc. It’s so important to have a complete picture of what the couple is envisioning. With that information, I can really make the flowers personal and execute something that will blow them away.
- Kim Dodrill, Swoon Floral Design (photo above)
With so many different types of flowers to choose from, how can a bridal bouquet mean something?
I love it when people allow their flowers to have a personal connection. It could be by including a type of flower that was Grandma’s favorite, incorporating a family heirloom or making [the bride’s] bouquet the type of flowers that the groom bought her early on. Few guests may recognize the significance, but it will mean the world to those who do.
- Jordan Gladow, Blüm, Design in Flowers (photo above)
Do you have any recommendations for keeping flowers budget friendly?
Local and seasonal is always best! Here in the Northwest, we are lucky to have an amazing bounty of fresh local flowers from late spring through early fall. Overall, share your floral likes and dislikes, as well as your must-haves, and then let your florist use her creativity and expertise to keep the expense down.
- Bonnie Berg, Punch (photo above)
What kind of questions should a bride ask when choosing a florist? Start with the basics: How long have you been in business? Do you have a shop/studio?
When a couple is choosing a floral designer, I think it has a lot to do with chemistry, communication and experience. I love when my potential clients ask to see my work. A deep portfolio is so important. You want to be sure that you and your designer are clearly on the same page as to the look and feel of the wedding plan.
- Shannon Kilduff, Sun Blossoms Floral (photo above)
What is the best way to preserve the bridal bouquet?
Think ahead and select a few flowers to incorporate that your florist knows will dry naturally. Some flowers will be brittle and hard to maintain, even when dried professionally. I suggest drying a few naturally and then creatively incorporating them into a shadow box with photos from the weddings and other memorable items from your special day.
-Maryam Bazargan, Artistic Flowers & Décor (photo above)
