Questions to ask FLORISTS!

I would ask them when they make the arrangements for your wedding.

For instance, if you have a sunday wedding, do they make it on Friday or saturday.

That might make the difference in which florist you pick. IT did for me

Do they make a sample before your wedding??
What if you change your mind on the flowers you want??

alina .... definitely bring your swatch & any pics of flowers you like & might like to use.

If you're getting high centerpieces .... on stands
Ask if they setup your centerpieces onto the stand ahead of time or do they send someone to do it at the hall. (If they do it ahead, they may fall etc ... on the spot is best for high cntrpieces.)

also...
Find out if they charge a setup or breakdown fee. Also, how many people will be there to set up your centerpieces.

Most florists will give you an estimate with the breakdown of everything. Don't sign anything until you've gone home & discussed it. Then negotiate.

It also helps to go with a list of who is going to need corsages, bout's etc. Think parents, godparents, grandparents, special guests (ie. readers), etc. Then think reception. Welcome table, mantle piece etc.
You should also have a budget in mind when you go. things can get out of control.

good luck!

I am meeting w. florists this weekend too!
Not sure how helpful this is, but here is the Knot checklist:

Your Florist: 12 Questions to Ask



Lock in your floral designer early in the wedding-planning process. You'll want a designer who is gifted, knowledgeable, and agreeable. Most importantly, your florist should delight in providing you with the most beautiful flowers your budget can handle. Be sure to check with the local Better Business Bureau before hiring. Here are 12 questions to ask potential florists:

1. What is the florist's design philosophy? Minimal? Traditional? Elegant? Edgy and modern? Florists love explaining their artistic sensibilities -- the styles they love, their favorite flowers, the palettes they adore. Do the florist's views fit with your own ideas?

2. Does the florist's style -- and the overall look of the shop -- match yours? (This is common sense. Go with your gut.)

3. Can you see photographs or live examples of past work? (Real bouquets and arrangements will give you a better sense of the florist's abilities than photos -- especially photos that aren't of the florist's actual work but show things the florist says he or she can do.)

4. How big is the shop (number of staff), and who will work on your wedding? Make sure the floral designer you're interviewing will actually create the arrangements.

5. Try to gauge the florist's expertise by asking questions. What flowers will be in season when your wedding takes place? If your budget is on the small side, ask how you can maximize your options. What are some less expensive alternatives to blooms beyond your price range?

6. What are the hottest floral trends of the moment? Why do they work or not work? What's the most innovative concept the florist has recently brought to a design project?

7. Which flowers are least likely to wilt in hot weather? What are some hot weather no-nos?

8. Has the florist done weddings at your ceremony and/or reception sites before? If so, he or she may have pictures of arrangements done at your site and will be knowledgeable about what sizes, shapes, and colors work in the space.

9. Will the florist deliver flowers for your wedding or spend time at the site, setting up and making sure everything is in order? You'll pay more for a full-service florist, but you get what you pay for.

10. How many weddings will the florist do on the same day or weekend as yours? The florist's answer determines how much time will be spent on your gig.

11. Does the florist offer rental items -- vases, potted plants, arches, trellises, candelabras, urns -- or must you contact a rental company?

12. Does the florist preserve bouquets after weddings? If this is important to you, find out now if he or she will do so, or if you can be referred to someone who does. You may have to make an appointment *before* the wedding to ensure that your bouquet can be preserved directly afterward.