Florist questions.. I need help!

emierose

Ok ladies... I'm getting wild answers about budgeting on other boards, mostly because I think the cost varies by region, so I'm hoping some of you can help me crunch the numbers for the western/central NY area and what to expect as I try to figure this out.
So, first things first. When the heck should I be contacting florists? Wedding is next Sept 2011. Reception and Ceremony site is locked down, so I have an idea of what I need centerpiece/decoration wise - basically about 12-14 tables (although I may do non-floral, or single stem hydrangea centerpieces with grapevine and candle accents)
Then ofcourse the table with escort cards, guestbook, etc., For the ceremony (outdoors at the same place as our reception) we will need a few things although the site gives us a vined arch to use, and I plan to also use paper lanters inside and outside.
I have 4 bridesmaids, and I am not asking for any out of season flowers or extraordinary things. I'd like to use mostly purple roses, green accents, and whatever is in season in those shades.
When is the right time to book the florist, and budget wise what should I be expecting? Any advice is much appreciated!!

S_A_Friedel

I had booked my florist about a year out - so if I were you I'd start looking now - dates book up fast.

I had 2 altar arrangements, orthodox flower crowns, my bouquet, 4 BMs, 4 GMs, Godparents, Grandparents, Parents, Groom, cake flowers ... I think that was everything ... it ran around $800.

Some of my flowers were a bit more on the expensive side (I had roses & stephanotis added which are both pricier types of flowers).

Hope that helps!

C*Mia

I am going through Wegmans (amazing track record and portfolio!) Out of Dewitt. I'm doing all Calla Lilies which are probably the most expensive flowers you can get. They run more than roses  

For my bouquet, 5 BM's, 9 Bouts, 6 or 7 corsages its about 800. I booked about 8 weeks before the wedding. More than i wanted to spend but my centerpieces are all free and are non floral so I saved a ton of money there!

Good luck 

ackrazy2100

I am getting married Sept 2011 as well. I booked Rachel Pasquerelli www.in-bloom-weddings.com

So sweet and helpful. She has a $1000 minimum for peak season weddings.