April showers bring May flowers…or so they say. But what do May flowers bring? As we embrace the spring season, our thoughts turn to one of the most enchanting elements of wedding design—wedding flowers. Our latest newsletter dived into the lush world of wedding florals, and I'm here to share some more highlights and personal musings that didn't make the inbox cut. Thank you to Enza of Enza Events and Ashley Drago of Damselfly Designs for their contributing thoughts.

Before we dive in, I also just want to say that the advice here on the blog is truly the tip of the iceberg when it comes to everything a wedding planner can help you with when planning your wedding. If you’re looking for a New York wedding planner, head here for ways we can work together to make your life easier!

Let's dive into all things how to choose your wedding flowers, shall we?

Why are Wedding Flowers so Expensive?

Wedding flowers are more than just décor; they are the heartbeat of a wedding's aesthetic. So many couples come to us sharing photos of gorgeous blooms and over-the-top greenery when explaining their vision for their wedding day. However, the magic of flowers comes with a price—a price that often surprises many couples. Why? Because creating those breathtaking arrangements is a labor of love and skill.

Being a floral designer is about more than just playing with pretty petals. It involves a symphony of tasks: cutting flowers, preparing them, and then, the pièce de résistance, designing each unique piece. This labor-intensive process is why, when you see the cost of wedding flowers, you're not just seeing the price of blooms but the artistry and hard work of designers who create one-of-a-kind masterpieces for your special day. From hanging floral chandeliers to creating unique bouquets, centerpieces, and arches, everything you see on a wedding day in handmade.

Wedding Florals + Your Wedding Budget

While sticker shock is normal, I also want to stress that I think gorgeous florals are absolutely worth the investment every single time. Floral elements add an unparalleled layer of luxury and uniqueness to your wedding day. But while Pinterest might show you the dream, it never quite shows the price tag attached.

Some of the advice out there to save money doesn’t translate to “real life” either. For example, you may here to “choose seasonal flowers” or “use more greenery” to save money. In my experience, just because a flower is in season doesn't mean it's local, and local doesn't always mean cheaper. When you see a wedding with a huge amount of greenery, don’t assume that the price tag was lower because you don’t see any florals.

Planning Your Floral Budget

As you plan your floral budget, remember the three main parts of your wedding: the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.

First, we have your wedding ceremony. This is where your floral journey begins, setting the tone for the day. Consider investing in statement pieces like a stunning arch or aisle decorations that can be repurposed later in the day. The key here is to choose blooms that make an impact without overshadowing the true stars of the show – YOU.

Then, we have your cocktail hour. The floral arrangements here can be more understated, adding a touch of elegance without requiring a significant portion of your budget. Small table centerpieces or scattered petals can enhance the ambiance without competing with the main event. This is your chance to be playful and inventive, perhaps incorporating elements that reflect your journey as a couple.

Finally, we have the reception (which will likely take up a majority of your floral budget!). You'll want your tables to look stunning with centerpieces that catch everyone's eye and maybe even a few flower touches around the room to tie everything together. Think about what makes you smile—maybe it's tons of candles surrounded by wreaths, or perhaps it's simple vases with your favorite blooms. This is your chance to make the space truly yours.

The Value of a Wedding Planner

Navigating the complexities of wedding flowers can be overwhelming, and for such a large portion of your wedding budget, you want to make sure your investing wisely. That's where the value of a seasoned Wedding Planner comes into play. With our expertise, we can guide you through making informed decisions that align with your vision and budget, ensuring that every petal and stem adds to the overall vision of your wedding day. Let's chat and start planning the wedding of your dreams. Click here to inquire!