50 Gemma says, “I love to start with looking at the venue and seeing if there are any naturally beautiful features we can add to, for example a grand staircase, a big fireplace or gorgeous tree for an outdoor ceremony.” THE CONSULTATION Claire says, “I always like to book my couples in for a consultation so that I can get to know them and understand what they want their wedding to look like. Where possible we’ll go for a venue visit and walk through the spaces so we can talk about different ideas and where the flowers will work best. If you’re looking for installations, I’ll need to talk to your marquee company or venue to see what is and isn’t possible, so there’s a lot of planning with regards to logistics and getting a team together as well.” Susanne from Milston Flower Barn (www.milstonflowerbarn.co.uk) says, “We approach wedding flowers with a commitment to authenticity, aiming to reflect each couple’s unique vision. Our process begins with an in-depth conversation to gain the insight that allows us to create a design that feels genuinely personal, blending flowers and elements that echo your journey together.” WHAT’S NEXT? Susanne continues, “From the consultation, we craft a bespoke floral plan, detailing everything from bouquets and centrepieces to intricate installations, ensuring that each component fits seamlessly into the broader vision and budget. Regular check-ins and site visits keep the plan aligned with each detail, so you can feel confident that your flowers will create the perfect backdrop for your special day!” Louise says, “Once you decide you’re happy that your florist has understood your vision, you secure their services with a non-refundable booking payment, which will be taken off the final balance usually due between six to eight weeks in advance. In the months that follow, your florist may suggest another consultation to confirm everything. Things can change in that time so it’s important to make sure everyone is happy with the final designs.” Emma advises, “It’s a good idea to finalise your choices about six months before the wedding to give your florist time to plan and order. And remember, flexibility is key. Some flowers might not be available or might look different than expected, so trust your florist to suggest alternatives if needed.” HOW CAN WE ENSURE OUR WEDDING FLOWERS ARE AS SUSTAINABLE AS POSSIBLE? SOURCE LOCALLY GROWN Michelle from Posey Rose (www.poseyrose.co.uk) says, “With the average wedding emitting as much CO2 as five people do in a year, we really do strive to keep flowers as sustainable as possible. This can be tricky for couples to manage. After all, we’re so used to popping to the supermarket where you can pick up a wealth of beautiful flowers that we often don’t think about where they come from and how they got to us. One thing that’s crucial is using British and locally grown flowers. These are often grown by small and local flower farmers in a way that’s sympathetic to the environment with the added bonus of travelling limited air or land miles.” Gemma from Femme Petale (https://femmepetale.com) picks up the mantle, “Flowers are grown all over the world with many roses coming from South America and Africa, meaning a heavy carbon footprint, transport wise. If you’re getting married between late spring and early autumn, you may be able to use British flowers for your wedding, if you choose a florist who has relationships with local growers to source these for you. These naturally have a lower environmental footprint than imported flowers and in my opinion, are even more beautiful for it!” Milston Flower Barn © https://thefalkenburgs.co.uk Megan Lily Floral Design © www.naomijanephotography.com Megan Lily Floral Design © https://robtarren.co.uk Posey Rose © www.charlotteburnphotography.com Milston Flower Barn © https://paulgphotography.co.uk
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