Picture by Reykphoto/Florals by La Fleur Events by Lana

It’s time to get your wedding in full bloom! Flowers are not just decor. They set the tone, bring your vision to life, and create an unforgettable atmosphere for you and your guests. With so many talented florists out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. To help you find the perfect match, here are some key questions to ask your florist before booking.

Photo by Pictures with Ariel/Florals by NuTrend Events

1. Are you available on my wedding date?

This is a make-or-break question. If a florist isn’t available on your date, there’s no reason to move forward. It’s simply a matter of logistics, not personal preference. I recommend booking your florist about 8–10 months before your wedding to secure your spot. If florals are a top priority or you have your heart set on a specific vendor, reach out to them first before contacting others.

2. Have you worked at my venue before?

Knowing your venue ahead of time can be a huge advantage when planning your florals. A florist who has worked there before can offer valuable suggestions on where arrangements will have the most impact and how to enhance the space. They may even be able to share photos from past weddings in their portfolio, giving you a clear vision of what’s possible. This familiarity not only sparks creative ideas but also makes the planning process more efficient.

3. Do you carry insurance?

Most venues require all vendors to carry liability insurance, and your florist is no exception. Having proper coverage protects both you and the venue in case something unexpected happens, so you’re not left liable. Before the big day, be sure you and your wedding planner have a copy of your florist’s insurance on file. This small step can save a lot of stress later.

4. How many weddings have you designed florals for?

This question will give you a sense of your florist’s experience level. Seasoned florists can do more than simply arrange flowers. They often play a key role in shaping your overall style and theme. With their expertise, they can recommend the perfect blooms to complement your vision and elevate your wedding day.

5. Can I view a portfolio or gallery of your past work?

Ask to see examples of their work and spend some time exploring their gallery. This will give you a clear idea of their style, versatility, and what they’re capable of creating. You can even use their past designs as inspiration when dreaming up your own wedding florals.

Photo by Arlaina Axenroth Photography/Florals by The Floral Factor

6. Can you walk me through your planning and design process?

Just like every couple has their own vision, every florist has a unique approach to their work. Understanding a florist’s process will help you determine if their style and workflow align with your expectations. Be sure to ask about their timeline for planning and delivery, as well as their preferred methods of communication. This way you can stay connected throughout the journey.

7. Could you provide a detailed quote, and what deposit is required to secure the date?

Once you’ve shared your vision and floral needs, your florist will provide an accurate quote. Most vendors will also require a deposit to secure your wedding date. Additionally, some florists may have a minimum spending requirement before they take on your event. Make sure you understand all these costs upfront to ensure they fit within your budget.

8. What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

It’s important to understand your florist’s cancellation policy before booking. While deposits are often non-refundable, you should clarify what happens to the remaining payment if you need to cancel. Some florists may offer the option to reschedule your floral services for a different date. Be sure to review the contract carefully to understand any cancellation fees or policies that could affect you.

9. Based on my theme and color palette, which flowers would you recommend?

A great florist will offer recommendations based on your wedding theme and color scheme. This is especially helpful if you’re unsure about which flowers to choose. They can guide you in selecting blooms that combine textures and colors beautifully, creating a stunning and cohesive floral display.

Photo by Parker Grey Photo

10. Do you offer mock-ups or live samples before the wedding day?

Many florists offer the option to create a mock-up of your floral design, allowing you to see and approve the arrangements ahead of time. This gives you the chance to make any adjustments before the big day, ensuring everything is exactly how you envision it. It’s a great way to avoid surprises and feel confident that your flowers will perfectly complement your wedding vision.

11. Do you provide decor items beyond florals?

Many florists offer a catalog of décor items available for rent, such as vases, candles, or arches. Be sure to ask what’s included and browse their selection to see if any pieces would enhance your design plan. If they don’t have exactly what you’re looking for, they may be able to source rentals from other vendors to help bring your vision to life.

12. What will the floral process look like on the wedding day?

Be sure to ask how much time your florist will need for on-site setup. This information should be shared with your wedding planner so it can be included in the overall timeline. Your planner will coordinate with the venue and ensure the florist has the appropriate access and time to complete the floral arrangements smoothly before the event begins.

13. Will your team handle tear down and clean up after the event?

Bouquets are often yours to take home after the celebration, but larger arrangements like centerpieces, aisle markers, or arches may need to be taken down or disassembled. Be sure to ask your floral team about their cleanup process. Check if they’ll handle tear-down after the event or if you’ll need to arrange for someone else to take care of it.

14. What happens to the florals after the wedding?

As mentioned previously, you’ll typically be able to keep your bouquets. Some florists may even let you take home the centerpieces! However, most floral arrangements are usually discarded after the event. It’s worth asking if your florist, another vendor, or guests can take any leftover flowers home or if they can be donated to local hospitals, nursing homes, or community centers to brighten someone’s day.

Photo by BEStudios

15. What information do you need from me?

Collaboration with your floral team is key to bringing your vision to life. Your florist may ask about your overall wedding theme, color palette, and any specific flower preferences you have. Be prepared to share as many details as possible, and having inspiration photos on hand can help communicate your style clearly and effectively.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect florist is a key part of making your wedding day truly special. Asking these questions will give you a clearer understanding of each florist’s style, experience, and approach. This will help you find one who best fits your vision and needs. With the right florist by your side, your wedding flowers will beautifully enhance every moment of your celebration.