I always think a bit of helpful knowledge, prior to a wedding consultation goes a long way.
After all, you've never been married before, so how do you know?
As an ex wedding planner, I have seen some great ideas and some which frankly shouldn't have been allowed if only there was someone to give good advice...
So, if you are planning on a consultation to discuss your flowers, here's a few things you need to have thought about, or to be able to get your hands on quickly.
A Little Homework beforehand...
Consider your style, you will get asked about this a lot from various suppliers, so it's worth taking some time beforehand to think about this one. If this question makes you think "I haven't got a style!" think again... do you like natural designs as though they have been "just picked", vintage glamour, boho, gothic or are you traditional in your approach or are you into alternative ideas, it could be as a couple you are a bit of everything. Check out Pinterest for ideas - but before you do read our Pinterest heartache blog
A good wedding supplier will be able to ask the right questions to find this out if you haven't quite figured it out yet.
Know a colour scheme you are working with - it can change of course but think about this before your consultation.
If you have chosen a specific colour that you would like to match, a sample of the colour would be great please, thank you very much.
If you can't get hold of the actual fabric, we usually suggest a paint sample from a local DIY store to bring with you.
Ideally, a photo of your outfits - a copy or link to it so your florist can see your choices and what you love.
Know in advance the number of buttonholes, names of the recipients, how many guest tables you have, how many people will be sitting at the top table if you have one.
If you know access times and contact names for your venue & wedding coordinator you will definitely gain lots of brownie points.
Pinterest boards - lots of couples create boards with images of things they like - be prepared to share this with your wedding supplier before the consultation, it helps to gauge an idea of things you already like, then they can start thinking of ideas too for you.
A word of caution with this type of social media, however. Many of the images posted are from the USA and don't quite sync with UK seasons or prices.
Would you like some inspiration? Click here for the link to our Pinterest Boards
Many of the posts are of the luxury variety, which is fabulous if this is what you are after, but create disappointment when you find out the costs!
If you feeling creative... make a Mood board and whittle down all the saves.
Your wedding suppliers will then be able to see exactly what you are dreaming of.
Check out our blog "Why florists love and are frustrated by Pinterest!"
Another word of advice: Foliage - it's really on-trend in the UK at the moment for weddings.
Please bear in mind that "foliage" is not free or grows on trees... well it does actually, but hey!
It costs as much and sometimes even more than flowers because of the length of time it takes to grow and it's often imported from far-flung countries.
Eucalyptus is really popular with couples but can be really poor quality in the Summer months and don't forget it has a STRONG menthol scent.
Ask your floral designer for other seasonal foliage's - there are lots of lovely alternatives.
P.S. while on a bit of a rant - Gypsophila (Babys Breath), very pretty, but - beware!
Did you know, it smells REALLY unpleasant, especially when it gets warm, keep it for outdoor decor where possible or cooler months.
Finally, the one thing that many couples shy away from - money.
As a wedding supplier, we do need to find out your allotted budget for flowers or whatever you are ordering and you really do need to think about this beforehand.
We don't want to embarrass you and start suggesting super-luxury items when you have a smaller amount in the piggy bank, or vice versa.
Be prepared to share approximately what you would like to spend, for flowers it is usually 10% - 15% of your total budget if that helps.
You don't need to be exact, just have a rough figure in mind.
We know you want the best value for money and you will usually get a few estimates that is natural, however, a great wedding supplier will take the hard work away from you and be able to suggest lots of ideas for varying budgets, just share with us.
Would you like to book an appointment to discuss your wedding flowers?
We would love to meet you!
Call or email us asap - dates fill up fast.
Steph & Tim
01273 951745