So, You're Engaged...Congrats!

It’s that time of the year!  Engagement season is here and now is the time to interview your prospective wedding vendors.  Meeting with the facilities manager, your officiant and your wedding planner is very important. But meeting a florist with your wedding plans can be a pretty daunting endeavour.

Fear not, here are 14 pointers to relieve you from floral stress:

1. Research – While many vendors have a referral list, it is important to do you own research and ask your own questions.

2. Interview – Interview at least 3 florist, even more than once if necessary.

3. Investment - Cheaper doesn’t always mean better! “You Get What You Pay For”.  Your wedding is a serious investment!  Note:  Be honest about your floral budget and your expectations. Does your budget coincide with your overall vision?

4. Flexibility – If you have a specific budget that you would like your florist to meet, be flexible to their recommendations.

5. Portfolio – Look at your florist's previous work.  Does it all look the same?  Does it inspire you? Does it look contrived, like the same old “flowers stuck in a vase” without creativity or ingenuity.

6. Creativity – Is your florist creative and innovative?  Can he/she create complex designs or create a custom design for your wedding or is he/she a “copy cat” designer?

7. Style – What type of florist are you seeking? Do you want traditional, contemporary, rustic, etc.  Interview florists who are willing to mesh with your style or give advice.

8. Knowledge – Seek a florist who is knowledgeable and is competent in floristry.  Is your florist aware of flowers, colors, seasons and how to properly nourish and condition flowers.

9. Aesthetics - Is your florist a visionary? Is she/he competent in the appeal and overall look of a design?

10. Quality – Does your florist design with Grade-A flowers?  Is your florist's work of excellent or low quality?

11. Trendy – Is your florist abreast of the latest wedding market styles and trends?

12. Personality – Are they friendly and easy to work with?

13. Hire a florist – Are you hiring a professional or amateur?  Ask for recommendations, qualifications, awards, recognitions, etc.

14. Responsiveness – Is your florist responsive? Does it take them weeks or sometimes months to respond to your queries?