How to hire a florist
A florist designs and supplies arrangements for weddings, events and deliveries — where the honest constraint is that flowers are seasonal and substitutions happen.
What the job usually involves
- Wedding flowers: bouquets, boutonnieres, ceremony and reception.
- Event and corporate arrangements.
- Delivery bouquets and sympathy flowers.
- Installations and arches.
- Setup, and collection afterwards.
What to ask before you agree to anything
- Are the flowers I want in season on my date?
- What is your substitution policy if something is unavailable?
- Is delivery, setup and collection included?
- How long before the event are arrangements made?
- Can we move pieces from the ceremony to the reception, and who does that?
Warning signs
- A promise of a specific flower regardless of season, with no substitution clause.
- No mention of setup or collection in an event quote.
- Inspiration photographs accepted without discussing what they would cost to reproduce.
Common questions
Are wedding flowers cheaper in season?
Generally yes, because out-of-season flowers are imported and priced accordingly. A good florist will suggest what is naturally at its best on your date and gets you closer to the look you want for the budget you have.
What happens if my flowers are unavailable?
Substitution is normal — crops fail and shipments vary. What matters is the policy: a florist should commit to substituting like for like in colour and style, and to telling you rather than surprising you.
How far ahead should I book a wedding florist?
Several months for peak season, and earlier if you want a specific florist. Final stem counts and details can usually be adjusted much closer to the date.
How does Region Beacon work for florists?
You describe the job once. The first nearby business that takes it gets your details and contacts you; nobody else does. You deal with whoever you pick directly, and you pay them directly — Region Beacon never handles the money and takes no commission, so nothing is added to your price for using it.
How do I know if a florist's quote is fair?
Get more than one. A single quote tells you what one business charges; three tell you what the job is worth where you live. Ask each for the same scope in writing, and treat a quote far below the others as probably missing something rather than a bargain.
Get quotes from florists near you
Describe the job once and the first nearby business to take it contacts you. Only that one gets your details, no commission is added, and your details are not sold on to anyone.