FLOWERS 51 BLOOMS ON A BUDGET I adore fresh flowers, but don’t have an unlimited budget. How can I make the best use of my investment? To ensure you’re happy at the end of the process, it’s important to be honest about the budget at the start of it. In return your florist should be open with you and let you know whether your vision is achievable within the parameters. Jacqui says, “Prioritise spending on statement pieces that hold significance to you, such as your beautiful bouquet, a striking floral feature for your ceremony, or elegant table arrangements to elevate your guests’ experience. Don’t be tempted to dot flowers everywhere as this reduces the impact, wastes your money and will often go unnoticed.” Nathalie is on the same page when it comes to investing in your statement pieces: “Use them throughout your wedding day,” she says. “For example, one of my favourite designs is a broken arch. This is much more cost effective than investing in multiple smaller designs.” You could even get creative in your repurposing. Sue says, “I always recommend arrangements that can be moved throughout the day or repurposed. A favourite suggestion of mine is to use centrepieces on the registrar table en masse. Pictured is a culmination of all five centrepieces plus two additional tall table centres used to make one impressive looking design, which can be split up and moved to the tables for the wedding breakfast. Another option is to use the bridal party bouquets as centrepieces or scattered around the room with the cake, gift table, bar and so on to add further decor at no extra cost.” It doesn’t have to end here as some of your displays can have yet another money-saving lease of life according to Nathalie: “Utilise your centrepieces or venue flowers as thank-you gifts for key guests at the end of the night. Centrepieces are rarely handled during the course of the day, so it’s a great way not only to stretch the budget but also reduce waste.” As well as being a key consideration when it comes to sustainability, keeping your blooms seasonal is also a way to keep control of the purse strings, as well as making your florist happy! Nathalie explains, “Seasonal flowers are at the ready, they’re at their best and they’re often grown locally. If you opt for flowers that are out-of-season the price increases because they’ll need to be imported. If you love roses, then a summer wedding is perfect for you. If you love muscari, consider spring nuptials.” Jacqui concludes, “As designers, we know where to save and how to create more abundant florals. If a florist comes back and their quote is too high, but they tick all the boxes for you, give them a chance to rework it, particularly if they’ve worked your venue before. Embracing expert advice and focusing on what truly matters can ensure your wedding florals are both breathtaking and budget conscious.” “The best way to start budget planning is to have a musthave and a nice-to-have list. The must-haves are your personal priorities, so we recommend putting them in order.” - Jacqui Owen, Jacqui O BLOOMING MARVELLOUS Bouquets, centrepieces, accessories... What haven’t I thought about yet? “When it comes to planning your wedding flowers, it’s easy to forget the small details that can really elevate your special day,” Rachel says. “Don’t forget about the backdrop inside your venue. Choosing a stunning floral focal feature like a colourful arch or floral pillars will elevate your wedding and add a luxurious vibe. “The finishing touches will ensure your wedding has a cohesive aesthetic and design from the fresh flowers on your cake table, to the floral arrangements around your welcome sign and delicate floral headpieces of your flower girls. “What about custom confetti to match your wedding’s palette and your bouquet? We supply our couples with locally sourced eco-friendly dried petals that reflect the blooms used in their wedding flowers. “Finally, show your appreciation for your special guests or close family members with personal flowers such as buttonholes or wrist corsages. These elegant floral accessories not only add a touch of sophistication to their attire but also make them feel honoured and cherished on your big day.” WITH THANKS TO OUR EXPERTS Gemma Wakerley, Booker Flowers & Gifts, https://bookerflowersandgifts.co.uk | Sue Simcock, Florist by Nature, https://floristbynature.co.uk | Jacqui Owen, Jacqui O, www.jacquio.co.uk | Rachel Peers, La Beau Fleurs, www.labeaufleurs.co.uk | Sarah, North & Flower, www.northandflower.co.uk | Nathalie Somerset, Somerset Blooms, https://somersetblooms.co.uk LA BEAU FLEURS NORTH & FLOWER SOMERSET BLOOMS © Tom Pitfield Photography FLORIST BY NATURE www.esthersheaphotography.com JACQUI O www.lesleymeredith.co.uk
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