Look around – When you go to friend’s weddings or other functions, ask for referral when you come across arrangement that you really like. Ask friends and family members for referral. Go to wedding and bridal expos and talk to as many florists as you could. But be aware that the person you talk to may not be the florist that will be doing your arrangement. pacificweddings.com is another good place to find ideas.

Book early – As soon as you know your wedding date. Book your florist early, especially during wedding season between June to September. At Sweet Blossoms Hawaii, we required a deposit of 10% to hold the day and 40% more 3 months before the wedding day and finally the remaining balance a few days before the wedding.

Let’s talk – Have questions about flowers? Make a appointment and let’s talk. Out initial consultation is complimentary you. Over the years, we found that communication between the florist and the couple are the most important thing on getting what the couple expect for their wedding ceremony.  When you have any questions, go ahead and ask the florist.  Make sure you’re comfortable with the person you’re dealing with, let it be the photographer, the wedding planner or the florist.

Bring pictures – Clip pictures of bouquets and centerpiece arrangements that you like and bring them to your meeting. This will help the florist understand your wants.  Explain to your florist how large the bouquet you want or your florist can suggest a size that would fit you.  Most of our bouquets are about 6.5 to 7 inches (as a reference, a volleyball is 8.2″ diameter) Remember, it is like your dress, it is not the bigger the better.  You want something that will fit you.

Budget – Not many couples are on a no budget wedding, so we like to have the couple fill out our questionnaire and that helps to initiate the budgeting process. We are not car dealership, so it’s okay to tell us your budget. We are very creative on massaging the budget to get what you want. For example, saving two dollars per table centerpiece of 20 can give you $40 worth of additional flowers to be used for the most important flower arrangement of all, the bridal bouquet.

Sweet Valentine and Holidays. It may be a very romantic idea to have your wedding on Valentine Day. But the reality of it is that most florists will not be able to give you the full attention you deserved during the week of Valentine Day. Choice of flowers are limited. You will be paying a premium for the flowers during that week. Sometimes your first choice may even become unavailable as the valentine week comes near. Let’s not stack our stress over a happy occasion like a wedding. Let’s schedule your wedding away from busy florist holidays such as Valentine, Mother’s Day, and Prom and graduation season. You and your florist will have more time to prepare for the wedding. Happy wedding planning.