Florals for a wedding are EVERYTHING. They add the perfect amount of elegance and are the perfect way to let your unique personality shine through! Whether you go with a traditional white bouquet, stay strictly green or go wild with a pop of color, florals are an amazing way to complete the look you are going for and tie everything together.
However, they come with a pretty penny... Think about it, you've got a bridal bouquet, the bridesmaid’s bouquets, the centerpieces, the groom and his groomsmen’s boutonnieres, an archway, and those are just the pieces that are standard!!
These costs can add up quickly so to make it a little easier on you, I have composed a list of 10 ways to help lessen the costs without sacrificing the beauty of fresh flowers.
1. Ask your florist to use plastic instead of glass
Doing this is a very simple and easy way to save money. Plastic vases run about $1-3, while glass vases range from $10-60. Depending on how many arrangements you choose to buy, this cost can add up.
2. Choose flowers that are in season
Choosing a flower that is in season can lessen the cost substantially. When you buy things from out of season they're a rare commodity and will likely be shipped from somewhere else, both of which adds to your cost!!
3. Stock up on flowers
Choose 1-3 different types of flowers to add into your arrangements. This will allow your florist to buy in bulk and offer a discount!
4. Go green with the flowers
Recently, it has become more common to literally go green with the flower of choice. These are typically cheaper options which keeps the 'floral budget' from getting too crazy!
5. Minimalist bridal group bouquets
Rather than carefully picking large bouquets for the bridesmaids, go the minimalist route and choose more inexpensive options, the focus should all be on the bride's bouquet anyway, right?!
6. Get rid of boutonnieres
Think about ditching the boutonnieres for the groomsmen, some may say they are
outdated, and others won’t even realize they’re gone.
7. Double up on the flowers usage!
You spent a lot of money on your arrangements, why not get the best use out of them? Use flowers from the ceremony for the reception, and try using the bridesmaid's bouquets for centerpieces once pictures are over.
8. Consider making your own bouquet
Better yet, consider PRESERVING YOUR BRIDAL BOUQUET! You pay good money for gorgeous flowers on your wedding day and then they what, get thrown away?! Consider my heart officially broken if that's your plan! Did you know that I offer flower preservation services? Check out the 'Impressive Petals' tab on my website. ;)
9. Talk money with the florist
Talk to the florist about money before you start talking flowers to your florist. This way, right off the bat, you can learn what's realistic and what cannot happen. If your budget is particularly low, the florist can present the low budget options s/he has.
10. Keep an open mind
A lot of brides dream of their wedding day and what they want it to look like, and this is great! However, it can cause a little turmoil because sometimes you realize, dreams are hard and can be expensive. (Lame, right?) Keeping an open mind helps keep realistic visions come to life.
Flowers are beautiful accessories to your wedding, but remember that they are just accessories! Your wedding will be beautifully wonderful no matter what your flower choices are and preserving your bouquet is the perfect way to make sure you get the most bang for your buck!
XOXO
Jacqueline
