Do Your Homework: Real Work vs. Styled Shoots
In a world driven by AI and digital perfection, it can be hard to tell what’s real when browsing a floral designer's online presence. Photos might be stunning—but are they from actual weddings, or styled photo shoots?
A good way to find out is to cross-reference social media with the designer’s website. Most experienced florists document their work during real events—capturing behind-the-scenes videos and quick snapshots at the venue—because professional photos aren't always guaranteed. If you see a consistent thread of real weddings on their social media, followed by polished professional photos of the same events on their site, that’s a great sign.
On the other hand, if the majority of their work appears to be flawless styled shoots with fewer real weddings, it could be a red flag. This often means the designer isn’t booking many actual weddings and may not have the experience to handle the unique demands of a live event.
Experience Matters More Than You Think
Floral design for weddings isn’t something you master overnight. It takes years of hands-on experience, ideally training under a seasoned professional and/or attending floral school followed by a lengthy externship. Ask any potential florist how long they've worked in the industry and how many weddings they complete each year. A reliable benchmark? A floral designer handling at least 20-30 weddings annually likely has the experience to bring your vision to life and handle last-minute challenges with ease.
Beware of Overly Cheap Quotes
It’s tempting to choose the lowest quote to stay on budget—but floral pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Designers use their own flower "recipes" based on style, experience, and the specific details you’ve provided. Without clear direction on flower types, quantities, and design style, quotes can vary wildly—and aren't truly comparable.
If a quote comes in significantly lower, that may signal inexperience. These florists often underestimate timing and logistics, arriving too early (leading to wilted flowers) or too late (rushing setup or missing key components). The price might be lower, but the risk to your wedding day is much higher.
Florals Can Make or Break the Atmosphere
Whether your dream wedding is minimalist or luxurious, flowers set the tone. They’re more than just décor—they bring color, life, and emotion to your event. If budget is tight, it’s better to extend your engagement and save up rather than to compromise your floral and decor vision and regret it later.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing the right floral designer is about more than just pretty pictures. It’s about trusting someone with the rhythm, beauty, and timing of one of the biggest days of your life. Do the research, ask the right questions, and remember...good design is always worth the investment.
