Is this normal??

Is this normal??

I have been asked by my florist to pay the entire bill one month before my wedding date. I had to let her know that I wouldn't be sure about the number of tables until I get back all of my RSVPs. She agreed to wait a week or so. My FI says that we should not be paying her the entire amount until we see the service carried out. We are paying the hall in full ahead of time, however, she is working for a tip. The florist doesn't get much of one. Can anyone tell me what the normal procedure is?? TIA

Re: Is this normal??

I honestly have never heard of that. I paid my bill 2 days prior to the event. I would take a close look at your contract. I couldn't imagine paying someone like that so far in advance.

Re: Is this normal??

I was thinking maybe it is because she has to order all of the flowers....I don't know. It's not so much that it is so far in advance...it's more that we will be paying before we even see the flowers. Like with the photographer...you don't pay the balance until you pick up the album. My FI thinks that's how the florist should be.

Re: Is this normal??

I see what you are saying. But they will definitely want the money before the wedding day. Did you get to see a sample?

Re: Is this normal??

Yes....they really came out beautiful. I tried to tell my FI not to worry. It's just that we don't know anyone who has used this florist and didn't have recommendations to go on. She is new to the business but really does great work. I just wanted to make sure every other bride pays in full before the wedding. Thanks for your help!

Re: Is this normal??

That's how my florist works too! I dont think it is that unusual.

Re: Is this normal??

I'm not sure about other florists. . .but mine (Verbena Designs) was 50% 1 month before and the balance 2 weeks before. . . they are a small company and do require that money to order the flowers etc. . . While it is a lot of money and a bit scary to hand it over with little to reassure you of the final product. . . I feel like I trusted Jennifer at Verbena and felt secure with her each time I met with her or spoke with her. . . so I had to stay with that feeling. If you have trusted your florist up till now and haven't had any reason to get nervous or worry about the end result, why second guess yourself? Do you feel comfortable with your florist? Trust their judgement and capabilities? If so, relax. I'm sure everything will be fine. They know that a lot of their business is generated by word of mouth. . .so they are going to be sure to give you the best product they can and if your sample was beautiful, I'm sure the day of will be even better. Good Luck!!

Re: Is this normal??

we have to have the florist paid in full by the 15th and our wedding is on the 24th.

Re: Is this normal??

Yes....I definitely feel like I trust my florist. My FI never met her so I guess that is why he is worried. Flowers just wasn't his 'thing.'

Re: Is this normal??

My final balance was due 10 days before the wedding.

Re: Is this normal??

I've never heard of that. Mine is a few days before.

Re: Is this normal??

Re: Is this normal??

i think if they are a very small florist or if you are ordering a hard to get or out of season flower they might need the money a month in advance in order to pre-order flowers from a grower or wholesaler. but if they are a normal size shop i would assume they have a good relationship with thier floral providers and would be billed later for it.... it seems slightly odd but it wouldnt make me completely uncomfortable