How To Afford Wedding Flowers (My Experience)

For many brides, the most important part of their wedding day is the flowers. But unfortunately, flowers are often one of the most expensive things on any wedding budget. 

Fortunately, there are ways to save money while still having gorgeous blooms at your ceremony and reception:

How to save money on wedding flowers
Takeaways
Tips for saving money on wedding flowers
Ideas for beautiful but affordable wedding flowers
Guide to choosing the right flowers for your wedding
Advice for making your own wedding flower arrangements
Overview of factors that affect the cost of wedding flowers
Timeline for planning your wedding flowers
Additional resources for planning wedding flowers

Do Your Research

If you’re planning a wedding, chances are you’ve already found that flowers can be one of the more expensive parts. 

When looking for ways to save money on your wedding flowers, it’s important to know what different types of flowers cost and how much they’ll be delivered for. 

Sites like The Knot and WeddingWire have great resources for this kind of research, including tips from real brides about where they were able to find cheap deals on their bouquets and centerpieces (often at local flower markets).

Also keep in mind that many florists offer discounts if you pay cash or make an appointment during winter hours when fewer people are buying flowers (which means less revenue for them). 

It never hurts to ask around you may even find someone who will give you a deal just because they like your idea!

Finally: don’t forget about fees! Depending on where exactly you do business with this person or business, there may be extra licensing fees associated with using their services. 

You should also consider whether or not hiring professionals would result in savings overall versus doing everything yourself; many couples end up spending less money than anticipated by paying professionals rather than trying something DIY-style first time around 

Only then realizing “what could’ve been” later down the road after having realized how expensive it truly was.”

If you’re looking for more ideas on how to save money on fresh flowers for your wedding, check out this article on how to afford fresh flowers using expert tips to get more insights on buying flowers in bulk and choosing seasonal blooms.

Use a Company That Does Both Weddings and Events

If you decide to go with a company that does both wedding and event flowers, then you will be able to reap all of these benefits. 

The first reason is that they offer a wider range of products than simply wedding flowers. Because they cater to so many different types of events, they will have more options available for your needs. 

Second, because the business can offer so many different types of services in one location and at one time, it allows them to be more competitively priced than companies who specialize only in weddings or only in events. 

Also, if there is something specific about your vision that requires customization from the standard product line (such as adding fresh fruit), then this type of vendor will usually have it available as well since their inventory covers such a wide variety of options already! 

Thirdly and most importantly if you choose an event florist over a wedding florist when planning your floral needs for both ceremonies and receptions/parties afterwords then not only do you get great deals but also expert advice on how best utilize them within their budget limits!

Prioritize Your Blooms

To save money, you’ll want to prioritize your blooms. This means choosing flowers that will get the most attention and can withstand the trip from the farm or nursery to your venue. 

Most brides choose a few key focal points, like an archway or aisle runner, and then fill in with less expensive petals around these areas. 

It’s also good practice to focus on flowers that are in season when planning for cost-savings there’s no point spending extra money on imported peonies if they’re about to be pulled from farms across North America as soon as winter ends!

If you’re looking for some floral inspiration, here are some of our favorite arrangements:

Adding flowers to photos can enhance their beauty and make them more visually appealing. To learn how to do this easily, check out this guide on how to add flowers to your photos in a few easy steps using editing software or mobile apps.

Use One Type of Flower

One of the most cost-effective ways to create a gorgeous bouquet is by using just one type of flower. Using only one type of flower will give your bouquet more visual interest, and can also be less expensive than a mixed bouquet.

Using only one type of flower will help you stay on budget in other ways too. For example, if you choose an all white bouquet, you won’t have to worry about paying for dyed blossoms and can spend more money on other aspects of your wedding flowers.

Consider All Seasons

When planning your wedding flowers, consider all of the seasons. If you are having a summer wedding, consider flowers that bloom in summer. 

If you are having an autumn wedding, consider flowers that bloom in autumn. If you are having a winter wedding, consider flowers that bloom in winter.

There are many options for each season when it comes to sourcing your bouquets and centerpieces at wholesale prices:

Old flower pots can add character and charm to any garden, but they may need some aging for a more natural look. Learn how to do this quickly and easily in this article on how to age flower pots using a few household items like vinegar and moss.

Find Alternatives to Flowers

If you’re looking to save money on flowers, here are some great tips:

Use a variety of flowers. While it’s tempting to fill your bouquet with one type of flower, there are so many options available that can add texture and color without breaking the bank! 

Try mixing different types of flowers together for an interesting look, including herbs like rosemary or thyme and succulents. 

You could also use a combination of greenery (like baby’s breath) and small blooming flowers like peonies or ranunculus. You can even use non-floral bouquets made entirely from leaves, twigs and other natural elements that grow wild in your area.

Make sure you’re using seasonal blooms... if possible! If you’re getting married in springtime when most flowers are in bloom around the world then this won’t be an issue but if not then consider using something else instead because it will help keep costs down considerably 

Since no one wants to go crazy buying out all their local florists stocks during their busiest period when everyone else is doing exactly the same thing too (plus remember those pesky wedding day delivery fees).

Don’t Be Afraid to DIY

You can save money by making your own flowers. Don’t be afraid to get creative, either! Choose materials that are inexpensive and easy to work with. 

Materials like paper, ribbon, lace, and even wire can be used to make beautiful floral arrangements.

Flower crowns are also a great idea if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to dress up your bridal party or guests at the wedding reception. 

They’re perfect for summer weddings because they add color and style without weighing down the hair on everyone’s head (it’s not exactly easy wearing a veil for hours on end).

If you’re planning to grow flowers in beds or containers, it’s essential to ensure the soil is in good condition to promote healthy growth. Check out this guide on how to amend flower bed soil to learn how to improve soil quality and provide the right nutrients for your plants.

Shop in Bulk

If you’re limited on time, consider shopping in bulk. This method can help you get exactly the flowers you want in a timely manner and save money at the same time.

It’s important to note that this is not always the best option for everyone: if you’re trying to get your hands on an expensive rose variety or a specific kind of flower (like peonies), buying them individually may be your best bet. 

But if you’re looking for something more common like gerbera daisies, buying in bulk will likely save you both time and money on your wedding flower budget!

Get Additional Ideas from the Professionals

See what the professionals have to say. Talk to your florist, and ask him or her for ideas on how you can keep costs down. 

They’ll be happy to share their expertise with you! You can also ask the florist for advice on what to do and what not to do in terms of saving money on your wedding flowers.

Fertilizing flowers is an essential part of promoting healthy growth and colorful blooms, but it can be overwhelming to choose the right fertilizer for your plants. Read this article on how to apply flower fertilizer to learn about different types of fertilizers and how to apply them effectively to your garden.

Go Seasonal – But Timing is Key!

When it comes to buying flowers for your wedding, timing is everything. While it’s true that there’s no such thing as an off-season for flowers (they have a way of showing up on our doorsteps even in the middle of winter), you’ll want to plan your wedding flowers with the seasons in mind so that you can get the best deals on them and enjoy them at their peak.

Seasonal Considerations

You won’t find peonies or tulips during their prime growing season, nor will you find roses when they’re not in bloom. 

Make sure that if you choose seasonal flowers at certain times of year, they are still going to look beautiful during those months.

Plan With the Pros, Order Online.

If you’re not a floral designer by trade, deciding on flowers can be daunting. Even if you are a professional, it can be difficult to know how much to spend and what price point is reasonable without seeing the final product in person. 

To help alleviate this stress, consider working with a florist who has experience with weddings. They will have the knowledge necessary to advise on appropriate flower types and colors based on your budget, venue and personal taste.

Once you have found an experienced florist that works within your budget – or one that can customize some of their pre-made arrangements for what works best for your wedding – it’s time to order! 

Don’t Skimp on the Special Day Bouquet

The bouquet is not just a symbol of your love for each other. It’s also the centerpiece of your table decor and what people will remember most about your wedding. Don’t skimp on this important part of the day!

>When it comes to choosing flowers, you have many options: silk or real; traditional or unique; botanicals (such as roses) or succulents (like cacti). 

The important thing is that they make you happy! If you’re having a green thumb and have room at home, consider growing some of your own flowers for the big day. 

You can even grow them together with friends or neighbors so that everyone gets some great blooms   but don’t forget to account for labor hours into this cost equation too!

Practice Makes Perfect for Bridesmaids’ Bouquets and Boutonnieres!

Practice makes perfect for bridesmaids’ bouquets and boutonnieres!

The best way to practice flower-making is to use actual flowers. But if you’re not near a florist, try using silk flowers or even artificial leaves at home.

You can also go ahead and practice working with your ribbons before the big day. Order some extra ribbon from your local craft store so you have plenty on hand for practice runs!

Try making bouquets on friends, family members (with their permission), or even yourself as practice runs you’ll feel more confident when it comes time for the big day.

Ask for Help & Support From a Friend or Family Member!

Asking for help and support from a friend or family member is a great way to cut costs, make the process easier and more fun, and keep it all in the family.

Ask someone to help with bouquets and boutonnieres. Whether it’s your mom or sister, someone who’s close by can lend a hand with this simple task.

Get flower arranging assistance! If you’re an expert at DIY projects like making wreaths or table centerpieces but don’t know much about floral arrangements, consider hiring someone else to do them for you you can get them done professionally by asking around on Facebook groups.

Ways Friends and Family Can Help with Wedding Planning

Area of HelpHow Friends and Family Can Assist
VenueHelp search for and visit potential venues, negotiate prices, and assist with logistics on the day of the wedding.
DecorationsOffer assistance with DIY decorations, creation of centerpieces or flower arrangements, and setup or takedown.
AttireHelp with the selection of wedding attire, including shopping for dresses, tuxedos, and accessories.
CateringAssist with the planning of the menu, help with food preparation, and serve food or drinks.
EntertainmentProvide music or entertainment, help with the selection of reception games or activities, and coordinate with vendors.
PhotographyHelp take candid photos, assist the professional photographer in capturing special moments, or take charge of group shots.
HoneymoonHelp with honeymoon planning, provide advice on travel destinations or work on the itinerary.

Keep It Simple and Affordable With a Floral Crown and/or Floral Hair Pins!

Floral crowns and floral hair pins are a simple way to add a little bit of style to your wedding day!

Floral crowns can be DIYed with flowers from the florist, or you can go for something more extravagant like this one. Floral hair pins are also easy to find and cheap   just check out Amazon or Etsy.

Flowers Are Beautiful But They Can Be Expensive

Flowers are beautiful but they can be expensive. This is especially true if you want to use a lot of them, which is often the case at weddings. You can save money by using less flowers or by using alternatives that look similar but cost less.

Tips for Saving Money on Wedding Flowers

TipDescription
Repurpose arrangements throughout the dayInstead of getting a new bouquet or centerpieces for each part of the wedding, see if your florist can repurpose arrangements from the ceremony or reception.
Choose in-season bloomsFlowers that are in season are often less expensive and more readily available than out-of-season blooms. You can also choose locally grown flowers for a more eco-friendly option.
Use fewer, larger flowersInstead of using a lot of smaller, less expensive flowers, consider using larger blooms like hydrangeas or roses for a dramatic look that’s still cost-effective.
DIY your flower arrangementsIf you’re crafty and want to save money, consider making your own flower arrangements. You can also enlist the help of friends and family to make it a fun activity.
Use alternatives to expensive flowersYou can achieve a similar look to expensive blooms like peonies or garden roses by using more affordable alternatives like carnations or dahlias.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a lavish wedding or an intimate one, flowers can be an important part of the day. 

You want to make sure that your vision is realized and that you don’t spend too much money on them. The tips above will help you do just that while getting the look and feel of your dreams!

Further Reading

If you want to learn more about creating beautiful wedding flower arrangements while staying within a budget, check out these additional resources:

How to Get the Wedding Flowers of Your Dreams on a Budget: This article from Brides.com provides tips on getting the best value for your money, finding inexpensive alternatives to pricey flowers, and working with a florist to create your ideal bouquet.

How to Save Money on Wedding Flowers: The Knot also has a helpful guide on saving money on wedding flowers, including advice on choosing in-season blooms, repurposing flowers, and DIY flower arrangements.

The Top 10 Most Inexpensive (But Totally Beautiful!) Flowers: For some inspiration on affordable flower varieties, take a look at this list from The Knot of the top ten inexpensive flowers that are still gorgeous and perfect for weddings.

FAQs

What are some ways to save money on wedding flowers?

To save money on wedding flowers, try to choose in-season blooms, work with a florist to repurpose arrangements throughout the day, and consider using fewer, larger flowers for a dramatic look that’s still cost-effective.

How do I choose the right flowers for my wedding?

When choosing flowers for your wedding, take into account your color scheme, season, and overall theme. You should also consider the size and style of your bouquet, as well as the type of flowers that are available within your budget.

Can I make my own wedding flower arrangements?

Yes, you can DIY your wedding flower arrangements to save money. Just make sure to start practicing well in advance, choose flowers that are easy to work with, and have a backup plan in case anything goes wrong.

How much should I expect to spend on wedding flowers?

The cost of wedding flowers can vary widely depending on the type and quantity of flowers, as well as where you’re getting married. As a general rule, though, most couples spend between 8-10% of their overall wedding budget on flowers.

When should I start planning my wedding flowers?

It’s a good idea to start planning your wedding flowers as soon as possible, ideally around six months before your wedding date. This will give you plenty of time to research flowers, meet with florists, and make any necessary changes to your plans.