When and how to start the florist search?

Amsdragonfly

I will be a year out this week from my wedding date. I was wondering when I should start searching for a florist, and when to contact one? I was concerned because of flowers being in season- do I want to be able to see them when I go to the florist for the first time or does it matter? I would like advice from ladies who have done this before about how to even go about finding the right florist- what kinds of things do you need to ask and know, and what kinds of things should I be telling them? 

I know that we have a limited budget, that I want flowers in season for fall (mums, thistle, daisies, etc), that I have bell jars I want to use for the center pieces to put flowers in and that I'm not bent on having large boquets. Also, our wedding venue is almost an hour from our home (making it a destination wedding) so would we be looking for a florist closer to the venue or closer to our actual home? Does anyone have any advice about how to go about the whole "finding a florist" thing? Thank you in advance!

Maggie0829

You can start researching florists any time that you want.  Some florists don't like to book brides so far out from their wedding date but others don't mind.  Start collecting pictures of things you like and make lists of flowers that you love.  If you really want to see the flowers in person I would suggest to go to florists in your area now because they will be carrying fall flowers at this time.

As for finding a florist or two to look into, I would ask family and friends for recommendations.  I would also ask your local board to see who they would suggest.

When you speak with a florist, tell them your budget first.  This is very important because if they don't know your budget then they will not know what to suggest.  Also, bring in one of the jars that you would like to have used in your centerpiece.  This will give them an idea of size and amount of flowers needed.  Finally keep an open mind.  They may have some ideas for your wedding that you may not have thought of.

As for your "destination wedding" an hour does not equal a destination wedding.  Most florists will not think that an hour is too long of a distance to deliver flowers.  Using a florist close to your home instead of near your venue will provide you easy access to your florist for visits and such, but know that you will most likely have to pay a higher delivery charge.

Anorden

I have plenty of brides who book more than a year out for their flowers. Depending on the florist, they may not be able to fully lock in a price estimate that far out, but they should at least be able to give you an idea of what your cost would be. By going in about the same time of year you will be able to see flowers that will actually be available easier. As far as where you would like to get your flowers, I would meet with a few designers and see who best fits your wedding or your personality. I have delivered up to an hour and a half away before and assume most other florists will as well. Hope this helps!