27 Questions to Ask Wedding Florist/Floral Designer

Category A: Experience & Logistics

1. How many weddings have you done?
   (At least 20–30 is good for a professional.)
2. Have you worked at my venue before?
   If no, ask “Will you visit it beforehand or talk to the venue coordinator?” (They should.)
3. How many weddings do you take on per weekend?
   Too many (like 8–10) means rushed work and possible late deliveries.
4. Do you deliver and set up the flowers on the wedding day? Is that included in the price?
   (Yes for most florists, but do confirm.)
5. Do you do pickup and cleanup after the reception?
   (Some charge extra. Some don’t offer it at all. Know before you book.)
6. What time will you deliver on the wedding day?
   (Should be early, at least 2 hours before guests arrive, often before the photographer starts taking getting‑ready photos.)
7. What is your backup plan if flowers arrive damaged or late?
   (Good answer: “I have extra blooms and a backup driver.”)

Category B: Flowers & Design (The Important Stuff)

8. What flowers are in season on my wedding date?
   In‑season flowers are cheaper and fresher. Ask for a list.
9. Can you show me photos of weddings you’ve done with a similar budget and style to mine?
   (Not just the expensive, huge weddings.)
10. Do you create a mock‑up or sample bouquet before the wedding?
    (Some do for an extra fee. Others work from photos.)
11. Can I substitute flowers to save money?
    Example: swap expensive peonies for garden roses or carnations. A good florist will help.
12. Do you have a minimum order amount?
    Many florists have a minimum of $1,000–$2,500. If yours is lower, ask if they will still work with you.
13. Will you reuse the ceremony flowers at the reception?
    This is a great money‑saver. Example: the arch flowers can become the sweetheart table centerpiece.
14. Do you provide vases, holders, and other supplies? Is there a rental fee or deposit?
    Some include basic vases. Others charge a rental fee (you return them after the wedding).
15. What happens to the flowers after the wedding?
    Do you take them? Does the florist pick them up? Can guests take them? Know the plan.

Category C: Pricing & Proposal (Get It in Writing)

16. Can you give me a detailed, written proposal before I book?
    (Yes. Never accept a verbal quote.)
17. Does your proposal include delivery, setup, and pickup fees?
    Ask to see line items. Some florists hide fees.
18. Are there extra fees for holidays, early morning (before 8 AM), or complex installations?
    (Good to know upfront.)
19. What is your deposit to book the date?
    (Usually 30–50% of the total.)
20. When is the final payment due?
    (Often 1–2 weeks before the wedding.)
21. What is your cancellation policy?
    If you cancel, do you get any money back? If they cancel, do you get a full refund?
22. What if I add or remove flowers later?
    Is there a deadline for changes? (Usually 2–4 weeks before the wedding.)

Category D: The Wedding Day & Emergencies

23. Who will be delivering and setting up?
    The florist personally, or an assistant? (Both are fine, just know, it’s always better.)
24. Do you have a backup vehicle or cooler in case of a breakdown?
    (A professional florist does.)
25. How do you keep flowers fresh during a summer wedding?
    (Coolers, shade, water tubes, misting. Ask for details.)
26. What happens if a bouquet breaks or flowers wilt during the day?
    Do you have extra blooms or a small emergency kit?
27. Do you provide pins, tape, or extra supplies for the bridal party?
    (Very helpful for fixing boutonnieres or loose stems.)

Part 7: The “Secret” Questions That Reveal Problems

These questions are not rude. They show you are a smart & well-prepped client. A great florist will answer honestly.

Question 1: “Can I speak to two recent wedding clients of yours?”

• Good answer: “Absolutely, here are their email addresses.”
• Red flag: “I don’t give out client info” or “Let me check.” (They should have permission already.)

Question 2: “Tell me about a time flowers arrived late or damaged. What did you do?”

• Good answer: An honest story with a solution (e.g., “I ran back to the shop and remade the bouquet in 20 minutes.”)
• Red flag: “That never happens to me.” (That’s not true.)

Question 3: “What is something couples often forget to ask you about?”

• Good answer: “Delivery windows,” “That we don’t do cleanup unless you pay extra,” or “That vases need to be returned.”
• Red flag: “I can’t think of anything.” (Then they surprise you later.)

Question 4: “Do you offer any discounts for using only in‑season flowers?”

• Good answer: “Yes, I can help you choose beautiful in‑season blooms to save money.”
• Red flag: “No, my prices are the same no matter what.” (That’s unusual.)

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