The search for a florist should begin at least one year before the wedding. During the busy season, November through April, available dates at many florists fill up fast. During this time florists also have to deal with balls, and graduations, as well as everyday orders, so florists may not even service weddings during some of the busy weekends. If you are planning a wedding around a major holiday, especially Mother’s Day, Christmas, or Valentine’s Day, you may want to begin your search earlier than a year. These are the busiest holidays at flower shops and florists not only have to contend with the piles of orders that amount during this time, but also servicing your wedding and the wedding of others. Searching early for the right florist is the best bet for any bride.

To start, make a list of flower shops in the area of the wedding site. Call each shop and find out if you need to schedule a wedding appointment or if you can walk right in. Most florists like to have a formal meeting with the bride and have some of the information, such as the wedding date, before the actual meeting.

Once you are at a flower shop, assess the atmosphere of the store. If the employees are friendly and are willing to help you, and work well with each other, this is a sign that they are willing to make your wedding day a success. When you choose your florist, get to know them personally. When florists know the bride and groom, they can personalise the wedding flowers better.

To be prepared during the first meeting, bring a list of questions to ask the florist. The florist will have their own questions to ask you, but bringing your own questions will help you in choosing the best florist. Here are some examples:

*Will the shop set up at the church and the reception? If needed, can they deliver the flowers to the home before the ceremony?

*How far will they travel to set up at the church and reception?

*Do I need to put a deposit down to secure my date, and if so, will I get that money back?

*How long before the wedding should I secure my date?

*Do you have pictures from weddings you have done that I can look at?

*What is the availability of _____ (fill your flower in here) during this time?

*What are the average prices for different flowers and such?

*Do you work with any bakers or caterers that you can refer me to for the wedding?

*How far before the wedding do you work on the bouquets and such?

These questions, plus any you think of, should give you an idea about the florist and their work at weddings. From these initial meetings, you can decide which florist will service your wedding the best and make it a day you and your groom will always remember.