Wedding Flower - How to Get Started

Today, brides and grooms use wedding flowers to decorate their big day with personal style. The first hurdle? Finding a reliable floral designer. Here's a three-step guide to getting (and working with) a first- rate florist.

STEP 1: Finding a Florist....Been to a wedding or party with fabulous flowers? Ask the hosts for the florist's name. Your wedding site manager can give you names, too. If the florist has worked in the space before, he or she will have a good sense of the dynamics (high ceilings beg for tall table arrangements, while splendid Gothic interiors call for subtle palettes).


STEP 2: Allow Plenty of Time...Reserve your florist three to six months in advance. Allow even more time if the florist is very popular, or if you're marrying during high season (June through September).


STEP 3: Do Your Research...If you're no expert in flower types and terminology, visit your local bookstore or library and look for books about flower arranging. Pinpoint designs you like and flowers you favor. Bring these books (or color copies of specific arrangements) with you when you meet with your florist.