4. Consider your reception site - Are you having an outdoor garden reception and therefore will only need minimal floral accents, or is your reception being held in a large empty space that will need lots of décor? Bring along a photo (a press kit or picture you took at your site visit) in case your florist has never worked a wedding at your venue before.
5. Create a color concept - There's really no point in visiting a florist without knowing the colours you want to incorporate in your décor and if your wedding party will be wearing these colours as well. You can't pick your flowers if you don't know what colours will work.
6. It's all about the dress - Florists base many decisions on the bride's gown. Whether it's white or cream, classic or contemporary, etc. Most florists think of the wedding dress as the centerpiece of the day so make sure you bring a picture of your gown with you.
7. What's your wedding style - Are you looking to carry a very dramatic, long bunch of flowers or a tight, neat bouquet? Style will not only determine which flowers will work best for your wedding but will also affect the price.
8. Size matters - What's your head count? That number will determine how many tables and, consequently, how many centerpieces you'll need. How many attendants will you have to get flowers for - bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearer, your parents? This will also dramatically impact the price.
9. Get it in writing - Make sure your florist drafts a contract, specifically stating the flowers you're going to have, the arrangements you need, the price, and what time you can expect them to arrive on your wedding day. Don't hesitate to include the things you absolutely don't want as well.
