How does the florist market their product?

I usually recommend using the Internet as a resource for finding two or three Florists whose body of work appeals to you. I’d start by paying particular attention to the Florist’s website. Websites offer a first glimpse into a designer’s attention to detail and pride of workmanship. Websites that look like they were cobbled together by an amateur and that showcase poorly photographed images do not usually make a good first impression. What does the quality of the website have to do with the quality of the floral design, you may ask?  A Florist is part of the design community. How a Florist showcases his or her products is a direct reflection of their eye for design. A Florist who is unwilling to invest a few more dollars to improve their image is hardly what I would consider a design professional. There are however exceptions. Florists who are new to the business but might otherwise be very talented designers may not have the financial means to have a wonderfully designed website. Finding these diamonds in the rough may take a little more effort, but the next few steps should help.

Does the Florist’s design style appeal to your own sense of style?

A Florist’s past work is a great indication of what you could expect. I’m always amazed by how many brides pick a Florist without feeling a connection to some of that Florist’s past designs. This would be a good indication that the Florist may not be the best choice for your sense of style. Florists tend to develop a unique design approach over the years and it may not be in keeping with your own. The more innovative and seasoned Florist will display a much wider range of design flair and creative styles. Remember, if you don’t see at least a couple of arrangements that grab your attention, it might be time to move on. The chances of that particular Florist bringing your vision to fruition are fairly low.

Do your personalities bloom or wilt?

Once you’ve decided on a few Florists, it’s time for the interview. I don’t mean that you have to prepare a scripted set of questions… it’s far simpler than that. Begin a dialogue with the Florist and get a feel for his or her personality. Can you easily relate to her? Is he attentive to your design requests, or does he try too hard to persuade you to see things his way?

Being aware of your own personality will also help with the selection. If you’re a little indecisive, it may help to have a Florist who can steer you in a particular direction. If on the other hand you’re the type of person who knows exactly what she’s looking for, then perhaps a Florist that’s excited and eager to execute your vision is a better match for you.

How do the Florist’s prices fit with your budget?

This is always a big one. You should determine early on what type of clientele a particular Florist services. It doesn’t make sense to start a conversation with a Florist whose clients predominantly represent movie stars and fortune 500 executives if you have a small to modest budget. Don’t be afraid to ask what price range a Florist usually works within. It helps to reference their past work and simply ask them what the cost was for a specific arrangement or bouquet. This will give you an idea of what kind of budget you may need in order to work with that Florist.

Go with your gut.

In the end, your gut feeling will rarely steer you wrong.  You do know what to do — trust your instincts.  Choose a Florist who makes you feel confident and excited about what he or she has to offer you for your wedding.  And since a Florist needs to bring a sense of calm to the wedding process, choose a Florist with whom you quickly and easily develop a meaningful and comfortable relationship.