My Top 3 Tips to Save Money on Your Wedding Flowers
1 - Bigger is not always better.
If you think a big bride's maids bouquets or big centerpieces are the only way to go, then think again. Is it really worth going into debt to have large wedding flowers that you can't afford? I say no! I think when couples spend more than they should it's not because a florist talked them into it, it's because they may not have been open to suggestions. An example would be these very simple centerpieces from last weekends wedding. Long tables needed more than one floral arrangement to look full. A few well placed votive candles and with 3 simple babies breath with a single rose vases help to fill out the table and play to the country theme of the event.
Need help budgeting? Read out blog on how to budget correctly HERE.
2 - Larger flowers cost less in the long run than more expensive tiny ones
Have you ever wondered why a certain flower seems to be so expensive even if it's tiny? Size has nothing to do with cost. The cost of flowers has more to do with where they come from and how rare they are. There are many reasons why a flower could be more rare than others. Certain plants may only bloom once per year, meaning the farmer or greenhouse has to maintain that plant, the space it's in and everything needed to product that flower for a whole year before it's an actual flower they can sell. Orchid plants, for example, rarely bloom more than 2 or 3 times in one year. Also, a flower that retails for $3 per stem might not sound expensive but it's a flower such as Stephanotis or craspedia ~ these adorable little flowers rarely add to the bulk or size of a floral design. They mostly change texture and float above other more substantial flowers being used. Use flowers such as mini callas (like the one pictured below) and ranunculus in mass amounts and it's easy to see how the math adds up. 40 or 50 mini calla lilies at $6 per stem to create a hand tied bridal bouquet will cost upwards of $300, when 24 open tea roses will give the same size bouquet for a more modest $140 price tag.
If you need to save money, stick to seasonal flowers that are larger and more lush. Think color not flower type to ultimately get the wedding flower look you desire.
3 - Set realistic expectations on what you can DIY and what you can't
I love when couples get very involved in their wedding flowers designs. Personalizing your wedding decor with craft projects can be both fun and rewarding but be careful not to over spend. What seemed like an easy project can often mean buying lots of different things and can add up quickly. I've had folks spent hundreds of dollars buying glassware, burlap, ribbons and more only to find out that we could have provided everything including set up for less money. Speaking of set up, do you have access to the facility the night before to set up your wedding designs or do you need to hire someone to do that? Remember, the caterer has their duties so be careful not to drop too much extra on their plate. If it seems like it's not all falling together easily, it's time to rethink any DIY projects you had in mind. Once you become burdened, it's better to step back and let a professional help.
Looking for some ideas on how to save money on your wedding centerpieces? Read our blog HERE
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