Flowers

> Check out the Wedding Directory for florists

With a wedding on the way, now’s the time to start looking at florists’ window displays for a good idea of their style.

If you like big bouquets full of blooms and foliage then a florist who specialises in arranging single orchids carefully is possibly not the one for you.

Likewise florists who try to push brides towards exotic flowers and contemporary styles are not right for the bride who wants a small bunch of roses in her hands on her big day.

Typically flowers are influenced by the theme of the wedding (perhaps a colour or style), the shape of the bride’s dress and how long-lasting the flowers are. A structured bouquet, for instance, is brilliant for a slim-fitting, chic dress while a hand-tied bouquet will suit a traditional romantic bride.

Traditionally bridesmaids will carry flowers, but consider buttonholes for the men as well. The mother of the bride and groom may like flowers in a similar style and remember to think about flowers for the ceremony venue and reception.

A professional florist will be able to find solutions to suit each budget and remember that flowers in season are better value.
Ask to see a portfolio of the florist’s work and check whether they supply the containers.

Confirm in writing – it would be dreadful if the florist hadn’t noted that one bridesmaid suffered from hay fever and needed a silk posy!