Flowers are often considered an essential part of a wedding.  I have never been to a wedding that took place without them (although I am sure it has happened)!  A bride will often chose her flowers based on her favorite types, scents and colors.

Because many people haven’t heard of a wedding that didn’t have flowers, florists seem to have found their niche.  Flowers often take a large chunk out of the wedding budget.  With a little flexibility and some planning, you can enjoy smelling the roses while sticking to your wedding budget.

Consider the size of your bouquets and other floral arrangement.  Bouquets don’t need to be huge, especially for your bridesmaids.  Your florist should be able to suggest ways to get more bang for your buck, such as including more greenery with your flowers, weaving in fabric that matches your wedding colors, or other creative ideas. 

Instead of flower centerpieces at each table, substitute something less expensive like votive candles or a symbolic object, like a miniature Eiffel tower if you got engaged at the top or plan to honeymoon in Paris. 

Also consider where you can reuse arrangements.  If you had flowers in your ceremony, where can you put them at the reception to give an extra nice touch?  Places to consider are: the food or dessert table, the bar, the restrooms, or near the band.  Since you have spent money on beautiful flowers, get as much use out of them as possible.

            Another way to decrease florist costs is to be open to considering different types of flowers.  Many florists claim that brides often come in wanting specific types of flowers.  Particular flower requests can really drive up the price based on type of flower, its popularity and the season.  Most likely a florist can take your preferences and come up with something very similar that you will be pleased with and which will cost less.

Consider which of your honored guests need lady corsages and then ask the women beforehand if they would prefer a pin-on or a wristlet corsage.  Light or sheer fabrics often require the florist getting up close and personal in order to pin on the flowers and at the same time avoid stabbing the recipient.  Putting a pin through some fabrics may also leave a hole, something your guest will likely want to avoid.  So rather than taking a guess as to what your guests would want, ask them what they will be wearing before placing the corsage order.      

If you are willing to put your own efforts and creativity into flower duty, you can put together your own spectacular bouquets with fresh flowers from a nearby farmer’s market.  Another option is to ask for help from a friend or relative who would be good at such a task.

Fortunately, for many brides choosing and ordering flowers is usually one of the easiest and most enjoyable tasks.  Remember however to have someone call the florist a few days before the wedding, then a day beforethe wedding and then the day of the wedding, to make sure everything is in order. 

Tip:  Remember, taking on tasks such as putting together your own flowers may add to your stress level.  As the bride, you already have a lot to think about on the day of the wedding.  Taking on other duties is entirely based on your preferences, how well you organize, how well you manage time and how much help you have available.