9 Simple Steps to Perfect Wedding Flowers

Choosing your flowers is one of the most exciting parts of the wedding planning process. But before you make the final decisions, here are a few pointers you may want to consider.

1. Find the Right Wedding Florist
Before you schedule interviews with selected florists, think about the type of person you will work well with. Do you want someone who is going to grab the buds by the stems and take control? Or are you looking for someone who wants you to guide them every step of the way? A combination of both? Whichever style your after, make sure you select someone that has an open line of communication so that you can exchange ideas easily.

2. Make a Budget
You can figure that 10 percent of the total wedding cost will go to the flowers- from the bouquets and boutonnieres to the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception decor. Make sure you plan your budget accordingly.

3. Create a Vision
Take the time to really determine your taste and style. Are you more of a minimalist, or are you looking to adorn everything in exotic flowers? Create a file or magazine tear-outs and in addition to bridal pics, include lifestyle shots, colors and fashion photos. You can also create a Pinterest page and share it with your florist. This will give him or her a clear idea of your likes and dislikes.

4. Consider Your Reception Site Specifics
Think about your reception site as a blank canvas on which the florist can create your overall look. Is there bright red wallpaper that needs to be considered? Is it a botanical garden that won't need much floral accent? Or are you starting with an empty loft that needs the works? Make sure to schedule a site visit with the florist before the wedding to ensure you are on the same page.

5. Establish a Wedding Color Concept
Choose your ideal color palette and make a list of your favorite flowers. Consult with your florist to see if the two will mesh well.

6. Consider Your Wedding Dress
You should have already picked out your gown before you meet with your florist. Your wedding dress will dictate the style of bouquet you should carry. While you might not think so, florists base many decisions on the bride's gown- how ornate it is, whether it's white or ivory, if it's classic or modern, and so on. Most florists think of the wedding dress as the centerpiece of the day, so this will give him or her a good idea of where you're going with the wedding style.

7. Map Out Your Wedding Style
Your style is different from your vision. Are you looking to carry a very dramatic, long bunch of flowers or a tight posy of blooms instead? Style also affects the overall price and the choice of flowers that will or won't work in the type of bouquet your eyeing.

8. Size Up Your Crowd
Take the time to estimate how many people will be attending your celebration. The number of guests will determine how many tables and consequently, how many centerpieces you will require. Another headcount to consider is the number of attendants, as you will need to know how many groomsmen, bridesmaids and flower girls you will need to outfit. Both of these can dramatically impact your price. If you determine that you are requiring fewer than average centerpieces, you may be able to get those orchids flown in from China that you swore you couldn't live without.

9. Get Everything in Writing
All the work you will do to get this far will mean nothing if don't have it all in writing. So make certain that your florist drafts a contract, specifically stating the the flowers you're going to have, how many bouquets, etc. you will need and the total price.

Following these 9 steps will ensure you choose the right florist to help bring your vision to life and create the wonderful day you look forward to.