When to Finalize Your Wedding Flowers (And Why You Shouldn’t Wait)
One of the most exciting parts of wedding planning is choosing your flowers! From lush bouquets to breathtaking centerpieces, florals play a huge role in setting the mood for your big day. But when should you finalize your wedding flowers? And why is it crucial to secure your florist early? Let’s break it down.
When to Book Your Wedding Florist
Ideally, you should book your wedding florist 8 to 12 months before your big day. Many sought-after florists book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons in spring and fall. If your heart is set on a particular floral designer, reaching out as soon as possible ensures they’ll be available for your date.
Why It’s Important to Lock in Your Florist Early
- Availability Fills Fast – Florists typically take a limited number of weddings per weekend to ensure quality and attention to detail. If you wait too long, your dream florist might already be booked.
- Time for Customization – Booking early allows you to collaborate with your florist to create personalized floral designs that align with your wedding vision, theme, and budget.
- Better Flower Selection – Certain blooms are seasonal, and early planning allows your florist to secure the best flowers for your date.
- Budget Planning – Flowers are a significant part of the wedding budget. The sooner you finalize your floral designs, the easier it is to allocate your funds accordingly.
- Coordination with Other Vendors – Your florist will work closely with your wedding planner, venue, and other vendors to ensure seamless decor integration.
What to Have Ready Before Finalizing Your Wedding Flowers
Before you sit down with your florist to finalize the details, make sure you have:
- Your wedding date and venue – This helps determine floral availability and setup logistics.
- Color scheme and theme – Your florist can help refine your vision, but having an idea of your preferred palette is essential.
- Bridal party and guest count – Knowing how many bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces you need is key.
- Budget range – This helps your florist recommend the best flowers and arrangements within your price point.
- Inspiration photos – A Pinterest board or a few saved images can help communicate your vision clearly.
When to Make Final Flower Selections
Your florist will typically schedule a final consultation 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding to confirm your floral choices. This is the time to finalize bouquet styles, centerpieces, and any additional floral decor. If you need last-minute changes, they should be made no later than 4 weeks before your wedding to ensure availability and adjustments.
Wedding Vendor Booking Timeline
To keep your planning on track, here’s a general timeline for booking your wedding vendors:
- 12+ Months Before
- Book your venue
- Hire a wedding planner (if using one)
- Secure your photographer & videographer
- 8-12 Months Before
- Book your florist
- Hire caterer & bakery
- Choose your wedding dress
- 6-8 Months Before
- Secure entertainment (DJ/band)
- Book hair & makeup artists
- Send out save-the-dates
- 4-6 Months Before
- Finalize rental items (tables, chairs, linens)
- Order invitations
- Schedule tastings with caterer/bakery
- 2-4 Months Before
- Finalize wedding timeline
- Have final floral consultation
- Confirm guest count with vendors
- 1 Month Before
- Make last-minute changes to decor/florals
- Confirm all vendor details & timelines
- Pick up wedding dress alterations
Booking your wedding vendors early—especially your florist—will ensure a stress-free and beautifully designed wedding day! Ready to secure your dream wedding flowers? Let’s chat and bring your floral vision to life! Call us today for a complimentary consultation 954.247.9826