How to Make the Most of Your Wedding Floral Budget

Earlier this year, on the blog, we shared what your wedding will realistically cost (based on typical estimates for PMP couples).

And we touched on the fact that, here in Maine, we see an average investment for floral design around $4,000.

It's no wonder why. It really can elevate your big day. Plus, it should go without saying that florists put a ton of time and energy into planning and designing beautiful wedding flowers, which is far from easy to DIY. 

So, if wedding flowers happen to be a to-do you need to tackle on your planning list in the coming months, but you need some ideas on how to stretch your dollar in these times, you’ve come to the right place. We’re sharing how you can make the most of your floral budget—right here, right now.

Photo: A. Fogarty Photography // Florals: Yellow Twist Floral Design

1. Prioritize & find a balance.

We all know that it’s easy to get sucked into using social media as planning tools. And while they’re great platforms, it’s best to keep them at arm's length when it comes to gathering inspiration for your wedding day—especially when it comes to floral design.

To avoid going over the top, first, prioritize your wedding flower budget. A good place to start is by thinking about the photos you’ll want to be framed from your big day (for example, the two of you in front of your ceremony arbor and your family and wedding party giving their speeches in front of the dining tables). Then, use those areas as your baseline for your floral priorities.

Doing this will also help you find a balance. Do you envision lush ceremony florals? If yes, opt for lowkey centerpieces and reception florals, or vice versa. Also, remember that your florist will be the best go-to resource out there. They have unique inspiration from their vast experience, and they’ll know what's "in-season" and local, which helps keep costs down, too.

2. Consider volume over variety. 

Go with big blooms—those that can take up more space in, say, a centerpiece vase. You’ll also get more bang for your buck if you stick to one, two, or three key types of blooms (versus a variety). Want to know why? Because the greater the variety within your floral design, the greater number of individual bunches your florist will have to purchase. It all adds up, that’s for sure! The best thing to do? Refer to your florist for suggestions on the perfect combination of flowers to give you the volume you need. 

3. Repurpose your ceremony flowers.

Here’s the perfect reason to put more of your floral budget towards the ceremony space: while it’s typically the shortest (and most beloved) part of your wedding day, the flowers used from your ceremony can play double-duty. Some ideas to get you started include using your ceremony arch as the backdrop for a photo opp or dessert table, aisle lanterns and candles for centerpieces or guestbook table decor, and bridal party bouquets for your cocktail tables.

Photo: A. Fogarty Photography // Florals: Yellow Twist Floral Design

4. Remember to keep an open, realistic mind. 

While it’s completely okay to have a vision for your floral design, don’t get too picky. If you have pretty strict guidelines for your florist to follow (the exact blooms and arrangements you want), it’s going to be a challenge keeping your floral budget within your ideal range. So, just do your absolute best to keep an open, realistic mind when it comes to working with your floral vendor. 

5. Trust in your florist & give them creative reign. 

And, on that same note, trust is key. Yes, it means letting go of some control. But, your florist is in business for a reason. They know their stuff, and they have plenty of knowledge and experience bringing couples’ visions to life. That said, if you’re open to it, give them creative reign. Provide them with a picture of the general look and feel you’re hoping your florals accomplish on your wedding day. Then, sit back and let your florist work their magic to help you make your goals a reality (within your budget, of course). 

READY TO DESIGN & PLAN YOUR PINCH ME MOMENT?

Depending on the planning journey you choose, we can provide budget guidance and allocation suggestions, as well as vendor referrals based on both your budget and style. Contact us to get more information on our packages and to start planning your special day!