What's an average florist budget for a NJ wedding?

odessag

I seriously don't know how much i should budget for a florist in NJ. I have 175 people coming so that's 17 centerpieces, then i have 8 bridesmaids and 8 groomsmen. I don't want to embarass myself by asking for too much stuff and give a low ball budget. How is the process? Do i make an appointment and say "Hi, this is my budget, what can u give me?" Please help, any tips are greatly appreciated too.

Stems5283

Hi, 

I am a floral designer for weddings/events in Boston.  Each florist does things differently. I personally like to know a brides budget before hand b/c a lot of times I don't think clients realize things add up.  

I think you should contact a variety of dfferent florist and schedule an appointment. Be up front about your budget but do keep in mind that where you have a large number and guest and a large bridal party that you might have to cut back on certain items.  The right florist will be will to work with your budget as long as you are willing to work with it  as well.  

Some ideas for cutting back to have differents concepts for your tables. Maybe 10 of them are just varying glass cylinders with candles. Another concept could be varying glass cylinders filled with water. Somer have floating flowers and others floating candles.  

Also see if your florist will rent certain items. That can really cut down on cost. Espeicially with larger items!!! 

Make a list of items you need and star the ones that are the most important that you will not remove or substitute.  If you bring pictures with you as well the florist should be able to make suggestions of substitutes that might be cheaper but maintain the look you want!

chilover27

my budget for flowers was not high I am getting 7 tall and 7 short center pieces 5 bm 5 gm plus flower girl and 2 ushers and church flowers for about 2400 just remember only use flowers that are in season also use roses that aren't to expensive i  am using metropolitan flower and plant in saddlebrook loved them!

odessag

Thank you so much for your advise & recommendations! They are really helpful. I've set a few appointments with some florists and i'm keeping my fingers crossed! Are there any questions i definitely should ask?