Flowers are one of the most important decorative elements of your wedding, adding to the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of your big day. Like your venue, dress, and table design, flowers are essential. However, choosing the right ones isn’t as simple as selecting your favorites and hiring a florist. Factors like seasonality, cost, and venue constraints can complicate the process, and many couples accidentally make a few mistakes along the way.
While wedding planning may be new to you, florists are experts in their field. They’ve likely worked on countless weddings, and their experience can help you avoid common pitfalls. Trusting their knowledge will help bring your vision to life while staying within your budget. “A florist can guide you to get the most for your money and suggest blooms that fit your style,” says Cameron Hardesty, CEO of Poppy.
We’ve identified some of the most common wedding flower mistakes and gathered expert advice to help you avoid them.
Choosing Out-of-Season Flowers
One of the biggest mistakes couples make is not considering seasonality. “It’s easy to fall in love with a flower, but if it’s out of season, it could be expensive or unavailable,” says Michelle Pupa, owner of Stoneblossom.
In-season flowers are usually more affordable and withstand the weather better. “Local farmers grow in-season varieties, which means lower costs and better quality,” explains Melissa Sullivan, lead designer at Le Bloomerie.
If your favorite flower isn’t in season, Brittney Kee of Brittney Kee Floral Design suggests finding an alternative with a similar shape and texture. Your florist can recommend options that match your color scheme.
Misunderstanding the Cost of Wedding Flowers
Many couples underestimate how much flowers will cost. “Clients often compare wedding flowers to Costco prices, but wedding florists use higher-quality blooms that are more expensive,” says Sullivan.
The cost of labor also adds up, especially for large installations. “Florists may need to buy materials like wood, cement, and zip ties. These costs are passed on to the client,” Sullivan adds.
Florists should provide clear, upfront expectations about costs. “Clients need to be honest about their budget, so we can create something that fits both their vision and financial limits,” says Kee.
Using Too Many Flower Varieties
While variety adds texture, too many different flowers can make arrangements feel chaotic. “Using too many varieties can overwhelm the design and increase costs,” says Hardesty.
To avoid this, your florist can help find the right balance. Kee suggests sticking to three main flowers, adding greenery and fillers for complexity without overdoing it.
Using Too Few Flower Varieties
On the flip side, using only one or two varieties can make arrangements look flat. Even minimalist designs need some depth and texture. “Different textures and shapes can make a big difference,” says Pupa.
Give your florist the freedom to experiment. “Let the artist create something cohesive. Restricting them can result in a less impressive design,” says Sullivan.
Not Varying Your Color Palette
Choosing a single color for your flowers can make the arrangements look monotonous. “Sticking to one hue can limit the design,” says Sullivan.
Instead, work with your florist to develop a color palette that includes different tones and shades. “Subtle variations can create a layered, beautiful effect,” Pupa suggests.
Focusing Flowers in One Area
Concentrating flowers in one part of the venue can disrupt the overall balance of the space. “It’s important to distribute florals throughout the venue,” says Pupa.
Discuss the size and structure of your venue with your florist to ensure a well-balanced design. They can help plan the floral flow so every part of the space is decorated appropriately.
Ignoring the Scale of the Venue
Flowers should be sized to match the venue. “Oversized arrangements in a small space can feel overwhelming, while tiny arrangements in a large ballroom may get lost,” says Pupa.
A tour of the venue with your florist can help them understand the space. Even if a site visit isn’t possible, sharing photos and details can help the florist plan appropriately sized arrangements.
Clashing with the Venue Style
Your flowers should complement the venue’s architecture and design. “A boho style at a luxe venue like the Ritz might not be the best fit,” says Kee.
Whether your venue is a ballroom or a barn, choosing florals that match the space will create a cohesive look. Hardesty suggests using three to five descriptive words to guide the design process.
Not Allowing Enough Set-Up Time
Some venues have strict time limits for set-up, which can be a challenge for florists. “We’ve encountered venues with only a two-hour set-up time, which isn’t enough for large floral installations,” says Sullivan.
Make sure your venue allows enough time for your florist to set up and take down their designs. Review the venue contract carefully and consult with your florist before signing.
Not Trusting Your Florist
Your florist is more than an artist—they’re a designer who combines creativity with logistical expertise. “If you don’t trust your florist, you’re wasting your money and causing yourself unnecessary stress,” says Kee.
To avoid micromanaging, choose a florist whose style matches your vision and let them work. “Be open to their suggestions; they know what will look stunning,” says Pupa.
Not Disposing of Flowers Properly
Weddings often create a lot of waste, and flowers are no exception. Many florists offer clean-up services and try to upcycle blooms when possible. “I encourage clients to take flowers home or donate them,” says Kee.
Composting is another option. Check with your florist to see if they offer eco-friendly disposal methods.
Booking Your Florist Too Late
Booking your florist at the last minute can cause unnecessary stress. “Floral designers are in high demand, especially during peak wedding season. Waiting too long to book can limit your options,” says Pupa.
Ideally, book your florist six months to a year before the wedding. This gives them time to plan, order materials, and secure the best deals from suppliers.
Choosing Overly Fragrant Flowers
While fragrant flowers may seem appealing, they can overwhelm guests, especially those with allergies. “Fragrance can also interfere with the dining experience,” notes Kee.
If you’re set on using fragrant flowers, Pupa recommends placing them in well-ventilated areas or using them sparingly. You can also opt for less fragrant varieties that still provide visual beauty.
By avoiding these common mistakes and trusting in your florist’s expertise, you can ensure that your wedding flowers will be both beautiful and seamlessly integrated into your big day.