Do you really need a florist?

I have been asked many questions about DIY wedding arrangements. With today's 'vintage-rustic' wedding styles it seems so easy to arrange your own flowers that people consider the option very strongly.

There are, however, a few things to consider when you come to this decision. Where will you purchase your flowers? When will you purchase the flowers? How many flowers do you need? How will you ensure that you have enough flowers (and seeing that this option is mostly considered when on a tight budget) or ensure that you don't buy too many flowers? Where will you purchase the oasis, wire, etc. needed for the arrangements? When do you plan to arrange your flowers? Do you know how much time you will need to do all the arrangements?

Are you still considering doing you own flowers?

There is no doubt that you will get a lot more 'bang for your buck' if you know where to shop for flowers. The thing is, the money that you've save would have been spent on the knowledge and experience of a florist...one who is up to date with the latest styles and must-haves. It will also be spent on the authority to say to your florist: "this is not exactly what I had in mind" or "I loath carnations, d-o n-o-t use them!!" or even in the unfortunate situation "this is not what we discussed, I said I don't want carnations!". If you leave the arrangements to dear aunt Margaret who happens to love red carnations, especially if you pair it with ivy and baby's breath, then you might have to hold your tongue.

The advantages of having a florist is that he or she has the contacts and experience (and a reputation to uphold) to provide quality arrangements to your wedding or event. What is more is that (if they are reputable florists) they will always have a little bit of extra flowers with them for whatever you need - the groom was in charge of the cake and neglected to arrange for flowers, the restrooms look dull and dreary, you said you will arrange your own confetti and you forgot (this one I can say is from experience at my own wedding). A florist is always a good investment as he/she will be at the reception area and will (should) always be willing to help if something goes wrong. It is an extra person with experience on board to make your day the most memorable day of your life.

 

Yes, flowers are not cheap, they are delicate and need a lot of care and attention when they are cultivated, harvested and transported. They need even more care when they are being arranged, but in the end your florist will buy quality flowers which will last long to make beautiful arrangements which you can give as (quality) tokens of appreciation to the family and friends which made your day flawless.

The question is therefore not 'Do you really need a florist?" it is "Is it worth it to invest in  a florist" and in my honest opinion, yes, it is. You should be focused on yourself and your guests on the big day, not on worrying if persuading aunt Margaret not to use the red carnation actually worked! It is your spescial day, enjoy it!