A Practical Guide to Wedding Flowers in the North East

Understanding Your Wedding Theme and Style

Key Considerations for Your Florist

To tailor your floral designs perfectly, your florist will need to grasp the overall vibe and style of your wedding:

• Wedding and Reception Venues: Describe the settings in detail, whether they're indoor or outdoor, and the style (e.g., classic, modern, rustic).
• Attire and Color Palette: Share details about the bridal gown, bridesmaids' dresses, and the groom’s attire. Color swatches or photographs can be very helpful.
• Desired Atmosphere: Communicate the mood you wish to evoke—romantic, elegant, whimsical, etc.

Budgeting for Your Wedding Flowers

It's crucial to have a rough budget in mind when discussing options with your florist. According to The Knot's Real Weddings Study, the average spend on flowers and decor in 2019 was approximately $2,400, though this can vary widely based on your location and the scale of your floral needs. A clear budget will help your florist recommend the best flowers and arrangements to meet your financial and aesthetic goals.

Choosing the Right Colors and Styles

Color Scheme Insights

• Integration and Avoidance: Ensure your florist knows any colors that should be included or avoided.
• Consistency Across Elements: The colors of the bridesmaid dresses, groom’s attire, and even tablecloths should be considered to create a cohesive look.

Floral Arrangements and Sizes

• Consider the Participants: The ages and heights of bridesmaids, and roles of other attendants like page boys or the matron of honor, can influence the style and scale of floral arrangements.
• Hairstyles and Floral Accessories: If incorporating flowers into hairstyles, discuss the planned hairstyles with your florist to ensure compatibility.

Venue Specifics and Custom Requirements

Wedding and Reception Venues

• Size and Lighting: The scale of the venue and the lighting conditions can dramatically affect the visibility and impact of your floral arrangements.
• Cultural or Religious Considerations: If your ceremony is in a religious venue, be sure to discuss any specific floral restrictions or traditions with your florist.

Reception Details

• Table and Room Arrangements: Decide if you want centerpieces for tables and how they should complement the room's decor.
• Vehicle Decorations: Some couples choose to decorate their getaway car with flowers, which requires additional planning.

Effective Communication with Your Florist

The more information you provide, the better your florist can fulfill your vision. Share pictures, sketches, and even fabric samples to convey your ideas clearly. It’s advisable to meet with your florist at least four weeks before your wedding, though earlier is better, especially during peak seasons.

For those planning their wedding in the North East, consider consulting with local experts like Elvet Flowers in Durham, who specialize in wedding arrangements.

By thoroughly planning and communicating with your florist, you can ensure that your wedding flowers will be a breathtaking highlight of your celebration.