Fridays in January 2009 will be reserved for a five-part series on choosing your florist. There will be great tips and ideas to help you plan well, be more efficient, and save time and money!

"Sorting Through All Those Florists" Part One

Interview a handful of florists to decide which one will be the best fit for you. I suggest three interviews if you can, in order to get a good feel for what's out there. If you are starting from scratch, where do you begin?

First, ask your friends and associates if they have any referrals. Next, comb local Wedding magazines, source guides etc. and circle the ads you like. Go to websites of florists you are interested in - look at the photos, the style of and the presentation of their work. Not all websites are created equal, so bear this in mind as you sort through some of the schlock that's out there. On one hand you do not want to dismiss a florist because their website is not to your liking, but on the other hand, you want to see that a florist is up to date with their website and current with styles etc.

Phone some florists you like and have a short (10 minute) conversation with them to decide if you want to book a consultation.
A word to the wise - don't just show up unannounced at a florist shop and want to talk wedding flowers. The initial conversation can be a lengthy one, and it is much better to set aside a meeting time.

When you book your first consultation, ask if it is complimentary, or if there is a fee for their time. Try to get a sense of the
florist's personality - are they flexible with meeting times? Are they polite and eager to book an appointment? Are they available for your wedding date? (Some florists only accept a certain number of wedding bookings within the weekends).

Book your appointment and ask if there is anything you need to bring to the first meeting.

Check back next Friday for Part Two: "Preparing for The First Meeting".