Unless you are a floral designer, when it comes to wedding flowers, it’s totally normal to not know how much they cost or be surprised at how pricey bouquets can be. Over the past 5 years I’ve written up proposals for dozens of bouquets for elopements, bridal shoots, or other projects and have realized over time that there is a lack of knowledge in this area leaving some surprised at price tags. So, today I thought I would share a breakdown of why bouquets cost what they do. Especially when a single bouquet is the only piece needed.
The Flowers
It depends on the type of flower, for instance hydrangeas can be purchased by the stem. but flowers are ordered and purchased in BUNCHES. Some bunches are 25 stems, some are 12, and others are 5. I cannot order just 3 garden rose stems or 7 ranunculus stems and this is a good thing! Ordering a bunch or more most times, gives me the availability to choose the prettiest blooms for your bouquet that are open just the right amount at the right time. There’s almost a science to it and it’s always best to have more than you need for more options to make your bouquet a great final product. I typically order 25%-30% more than needed just incase a bunch isn’t as fresh as I would like or I end up needing more.
In an event like a wedding where you have multiple pieces to create flower bunches can be spread out. So your overall cost per piece (Though weddings usually aren’t itemized) will go down a bit since your bunches can be used across ceremony florals, centerpieces, and wedding party florals.
Seasonality is important. Your floral designer will be helpful in helping you choose flowers that will be in season on your wedding day. If you are dreaming of peonies for your October or November wedding, your designer may be able to find them but they will be substantially more expensive than when they are in season in the Spring. Also, if your designer is pulling a specific flower at the end of it’s season, he or she will need to order more to pull off the same effect as peak season and have more to choose from as many stems may not be as full.
Labor & Other Costs
Besides to cost of flowers you will also be paying for your designer’s time. An average bouquet takes me personally 2-3 hours to complete. That’s not counting the processing of the flowers once they are delivered. The unboxing and cleaning of flowers and placing them in their water buckets takes a lot of time. Your bouquet is the star of the show and deserves such time. There are also supplies that need to be factored in. Tape, scissors, zip ties, and that silk ribbon tied beautifully around the stems can cost upwards of $20 a yard or more. I think a lot of people don’t think about the time commitment to create bouquets and other floral pieces. It takes undivided attention and that need to be added into your cost.
However…
Having a smaller budget shouldn’t mean lower expectations or a less beautiful bouquet though! A great designer will listen to your expectations, be honest with you but show you how to accomplish your vision within your budget.
I hope this post helped you understand what goes into floral design a little bit better! I think education and gaining knowledge is so important for both brides and creative industry professionals and potentially opening other’s eyes to why flowers cost what they do makes me happy.
Warmly,
Michelle