b'KRISTINE HERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY DANA CUBBAGE WEDDINGSPERFECT PETALSFrom the bouquet to the boutonniere, centerpieces to aisle dcor, flowers play a significant role in creating a beautiful event. They help set a casual or elegant atmosphere with their vibrancy, fragrance, and design, all while reflecting your and WHITNEY HEARD PHOTOGRAPHYGREY GARDEN CREATIVEyour fiancs personality and style.Finding the right floristCreating wedding arrangements is a labor-intensive and time-con-suming project, so find a florist who specifically works in weddings. While researching potential florists, pay attention to their port-foliosafter all, youll want to work with someone whose talents match the style you have in mind for your wedding. Preparing for your floral meeting Before meeting with potential florists, have some ideas in mind regarding types of arrangements and, more specifically, which flowers you would like to see on your wedding day. Research which flowers correspond with your color scheme and whether theyll be in season at the time of your wedding. Keep in mind, just because a flower isnt in season doesnt mean you cant have it in your bou-quetit just may cost a little extra. Attending a wedding show is an CAROLINA HERRERA PHOTOGRAPHYexcellent way to see (and smell) a variety of arrangements up close! QUESTIONS TO ASKMeeting and interviewing floristsWhen do we need to orderWho will set up on the day After gathering ideas, set up an introductory meeting with a fewflowers?of our wedding? different florists to see samples of their work and photographsDo you have a portfolio? Will you stay at the ceremony of weddings theyve done in the past. This is a time when youllHow long have you been do- to arrange and distribute thedefinitely want to bring your Todays Bride magazine to help guideing weddings?flowers?your conversation, make sure you ask all the right questions, andWhat floral dcor options doWill you transport flowers be-get all the information youll need to make an informed decision.tween the venue spaces? you offer, like vases, candles, Its also helpful to bring along pictures from books, magazines, orand/or arches? When do dcor itemsPinterest boards that illustrate your ideas. Additionally, give yourDo you work with fresh need to be returned?florist photos of your gown and your bridesmaids gowns, swatchesflowers or silk flowers?What is your policy for lost orof your color scheme, and pictures of your decor. What kind of flowers do youdamaged items? Consider your budgetrecommend? Do you offer floralAs with any part of your wedding planning, its important to knowWhat is your substitutionpreservation? how much you want to spend. Honesty is the best policy, and youllpolicy? When should I preserve mysave yourself a lot of stress if you know your budget ahead of time. bouquet?Do you charge for delivery? A versatile florist should be able to provide options within your financial limits without compromising on style!Dont forget to ask the general questions on page 5FLOWERS|12-8 MONTHS UNTIL I DO|TODAYS BRIDE 129'