What you should bring to a consultation

For a newly engaged bride-to-be, it can be confusing and even a bit overwhelming to prepare for all the meetings and decisions you have to make before your wedding day. We get a lot of questions from brides about what they should bring to a consultation and how to prepare for selecting their flowers.

So here are a few tips for preparing for a floral consultation:

1. Try to have these numbers on hand:
# of guests
# of tables (# of centerpieces)
# of attendants (bridesmaids/groomsmen/speakers, etc) who will need flowers

2. Your florist will ask you questions about your venue, including where the ceremony and reception will be held, whether it's indoors or outdoors, any unique features of the venue, etc. So try to have as much info as possible. Most of them will already be familiar with more popular venues, but any information helps.

3. Try to have some colors or flowers picked out that you like. This will give the florist some direction when selecting the designs. Just a general idea is fine because the consultant will help you narrow down the details.

4. Bring any photos or magazine clippings that you like, even if they are all different. This will give the florist a better idea of the styles you like and will allow them to pull ideas from those images that inspire you.

5. Bring back-up! One or two extra people can help make decisions and offer support during the consultation. Make it someone you trust and who knows what you like. Don't bring more than two people or you'll have a hard time accomplishing anything.

6. Don't be afraid to ask questions. We know our stuff, but we're not mind-readers! Voice any concerns you  might have and get answers right away so you can focus on the fun stuff.

7. Visit more than one florist. It can't hurt to get a quote from several different shops. Then just pick the one that suits you best. Or you can bring new ideas back to the florist you really like to perfect your designs.

Each florist and each wedding is different so we can't predict exactly what will go down at your consultation, but being prepared will help things go more smoothly and ensure that you have a productive meeting.