Selecting a Florist: What Questions Should You Ask
Even florists and flower shop owners themselves admit they couldn’t name all kinds of flowers back when they weren’t in the business yet. Therefore, you shouldn’t be that concerned if you can’t tell the difference of a rose to that of a carnation. Well, your unfamiliarity with flowers is actually the reason why you’re looking for a florist. So if you are looking for a flower shop to provide and arrange flowers for your wedding or any other special event, be sure you get someone who is reliable and has experience.
Other than the fact that you should be hiring someone whose work you like, you also must be able to ask them the right questions. So what should you be asking them?
1. Am I buying in-season flowers?
Some people already have the particular flowers in mind even before they start searching for a florist. The thing is you might have the specific flowers in mind, but do you know if they’re in season? You definitely will get utterly disappointed learning on the last minutes that your florist cannot provide you the flowers you want for the simple reason that they’re not in season. However, there are also those varieties which grow all year, including tulips, hydrangea, and roses. Well, the best flower shop gives you ideal alternatives or substitutes to the ones you originally want.
2. Do they charge to breakdown?
The common scenario is that the florist will charge you for keeping the vases, but they might also lower the setup and breakdown rates if they no longer are required to come back to the venue after the event.
3. Do you have a contract policy?
Signing a written contract with the flower shop is something you shouldn’t make a compromise on. Keep in mind that you may end up getting ripped off if there is nothing but a verbal agreement. Every single detail of the agreement has to be put in writing and in the contract, including rentals, deposit amounts, and others.
4. Do I get several consultations before the event?
While you may be able to visit and call the florist whenever you want, asking for samples and doing consultations is another thing. Hence, don’t forget to ask and inquire about their specific policy on providing samples, say bouquets and centerpieces and how much are they going to charge for them.
5. Are we going to do a walk-through and when will it be?
You should bear in mind that every event which includes flowers will have to have a walk-through, especially the ones like weddings. You don’t want to risk making mistakes and last minute problems on the actual day of the event.