What to Ask a Florist Before You Book: A Short FAQ

A first conversation with a florist can feel like a test you did not revise for. You are expected to know quantities, styles and prices, yet most of us only order flowers occasionally. The good news is that you do not need to know the answers; you just need to know the questions to ask a florist. This short FAQ covers the points that tend to make or break a booking, from availability and quotes to substitutions and delivery, so you can compare options fairly and avoid surprises.

Before You Contact Anyone

Have these details to hand, because most florists will ask for them straight away:

• Event date and venue(s)
• Approximate guest count and number of tables
• Rough budget
• Colours and style you like, with a few images
• List of must-have pieces, such as bouquets and buttonholes

With this, a florist can say quickly whether they can help and roughly what is possible.

Availability and Fit

Are you available on my date?

This is the first question, and it saves everyone time. Florists often take only a limited number of events on a given day.

Do you work at my venue?

Familiarity with the venue helps with access, set-up times and rules. If the florist has not worked there, ask whether they will visit or need photos and a floor plan.

Can I see examples of your work?

Look at photos from real events, not just styled shoots. Pay attention to whether the style matches what you want.

Pricing and Payment

How do you price your work?

Some florists have packages; others quote from scratch. Ask what is included in the price: flowers, containers, labour, delivery, set-up, breakdown. Understanding the structure helps you compare quotes. [CẦN ĐIỀN: Susan Simi’s own pricing approach, if the site wants to describe it]

Is there a minimum spend?

Many florists have a minimum for events. It is better to know before you invest time in a consultation.

What are the extra costs?

Ask about delivery charges, hire fees for vases and stands, travel to distant venues, and any out-of-hours set-up. Also ask about VAT or sales tax if applicable.

What is the deposit and payment schedule?

Ask how much is due on booking, when the balance is due, and what happens if you change the date. Make sure it is written down.

What is your cancellation and postponement policy?

Life is unpredictable. Understand what you would owe if you cancel or move the date.

Design and Flowers

How do you handle my budget?

A good florist will tell you what is realistic and suggest where to save. If your wish list is bigger than the budget, ask what they would prioritize.

Can you work with in-season flowers?

Ask what is likely to be available on your date, and what they suggest for your color palette. Our seasonal flowers guide can help you prepare.

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What happens if a flower is not available?

Flowers are natural products; supply varies. Ask how substitutions are handled. A good florist will match color and style and tell you about changes, rather than leaving you to discover them on the day.

Can you show me a mock-up or sample?

Some florists offer a sample bouquet or table arrangement, sometimes for a fee. Ask whether it is included and how far ahead it can be arranged.

Will the flowers last through the event?

Ask how the florist chooses hardy flowers for hot or cold venues, and how they condition them. Our care guide gives context on what helps flowers last.

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Logistics on the Day

Who delivers and sets up?

Confirm whether the florist or a team member will deliver, what time they arrive, and who they will meet at the venue. Get a contact number for the day.

How long does set-up take, and what access do you need?

Venues have time limits. Share these with your florist so they can plan.

Who collects containers and equipment?

If you have hired vases, stands or arches, ask who collects them and when. Hidden fees sometimes arise here.

Can ceremony flowers be reused at the reception?

Moving flowers from one place to another saves money, but needs someone to do it. Ask whether your florist can arrange this or whether a friend should.

What happens after the event?

Ask about options for donating, repurposing or preserving flowers. If you want to keep your bouquet, see our preservation guide.

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Trust and Professionalism

Are you insured?

Many venues require suppliers to carry public liability insurance. Ask whether the florist has it and whether the venue needs a copy.

Do you have a written contract or proposal?

Always get the agreement in writing, listing date, items, price, delivery times and payment terms.

Can I speak to previous clients or read reviews?

Reviews on independent platforms and testimonials give a sense of reliability. Be wary of any florist who refuses to show past work.

How do you handle last-minute changes?

You may change guest numbers or tables close to the date. Ask the cut-off for final changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I contact a florist?

As soon as you have a date and venue, particularly for popular dates. Final details can be settled later.

Should I tell the florist my budget?

Yes. It lets them design realistically and offer alternatives. A florist cannot judge what is possible without an idea of what you can spend.

Do florists charge for consultations?

Policies vary. Some offer a free initial chat, while others charge a fee that is credited if you book. Ask when you enquire.

Can I supply my own flowers or containers?

Some florists accept this, others do not, for quality and liability reasons. Ask before assuming.

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Conclusion

Asking clear questions at the start helps you find a florist who fits your date, venue, style and budget, and avoids misunderstandings later. Keep the answers in writing, compare like for like, and choose someone who communicates well. A good working relationship is as important as beautiful flowers.