Advice! When your friend is your florist…

mountaingirl18

I have a friend who, to put it mildly, is very opinionated and well, also very high maintenance. She used to work as a florist, and knowing that I was on a budget very generously offered to do the flowers for the wedding; labor free of charge. How could I say ‘No’?

However, with every idea I have she puts it down, insists tulle is tacky, and hates the color pink (my wedding color). Am I surprised? Not entirely.

We meet a few weeks ago to discuss arrangements and I sent her a follow up e-mail shortly thereafter. And then a text a week later. I feel it is important we are on the same page.

It’s been a couple weeks now I haven’t heard a word from her. I’m wondering if I need to start looking for a different (professional) florist. The wedding is in August. Am I jumping the gun?

I just hope this doesn’t become a drama fest. Any advice?

tldh

Your wedding isn't until next August.  I waited until about 3 months out to book my florist.

As for dealing with your friend,  is the free labor really worth the cost?

cutiepie12702

You might be jumping the gun, but her not being on the same page is a red flag for me. My wedding is also in August and my color is fuschia, and if I went to a florist who had an issue with what I wanted I would not use them. I think you should look around for other florists to at least explore your options, and see if you end up finding someone who really gets your vision and you think would do a better job at creating it than your friend. When it comes to business, working with friends is not always the best option....too many things can go wrong.

Lisa50

Do you want another florist?  If so, you're not jumping the gun.  I think, though, if you read and re-read your post, you have your answer.  Good luck!

deb84

...bad things happen!

I'd hire a professional, but that very well could hurt her feelings at this point.  Tell her NICELY that you appreciate her offer but that you found a professional florist within your budget and that you want her to just be able to relax and enjoy the day.  Or something like that.  If you are already having this many problems with her they are going to continue. 
Your other option is to pay her and then say, "I am paying your for your services, this is my wedding-THIS is what I want."
  I would in the very least meet with other florist and run your ideas by them. 

flower_diva

yup find a non-friend professional florist to handle your flowers. you will be happy you did.