How Much Are My Flowers Going to Cost?

This is probably the most common question florists are asked when contacted, and the most difficult to answer. It’s a bit like asking how much a car costs. Well, do you want an older model, older with high mileage, older with low mileage, or do you want a new car? if so, what kind; a Kia or a Ferrari? If you want a Kia, what options are important to you, cruise control, leather seats, rear window defogger? You get the idea.

Each option results in a different dollar amount. With cars, there are hundreds of choices. With flowers and design products, there is no end to the possibilities.

In order for a florist to quote a price, he or she must meet with you to fully understand your personal vision, likes, and dislikes. Most florists offer no cost-no obligation consultations by appointment. These meetings usually last about two hours. At this time photos and ideas are shared. With your help, the florist will determine your needs and help you define a style that reflects your own distinctive tastes and personality.

There are many factors that determine your flower costs, such as how many flowers are used, how ornate the bouquets or decorations are, the time of year, the type of flowers used and whether they are locally grown. Simple designs with in-season, local flowers are the most economical while elaborate designs with exotic flowers shipped from far away are most expensive. Prices for flowers sky rocket around Valentines Day and Mother’s Day, as the market demand increases.

In 2010, a couple in South Orange County California spent an average of $31,000 for a wedding of 180-200 guests. The national average is closer to $20,000.

Knowing how much to spend on your wedding flowers can be confusing and difficult. Most people don’t often buy flowers, and when they do, they rarely need more than one or two arrangements at a time. How do you know where to start when considering your bridal party flowers, ceremony flowers, and flowers for the reception? I recommend you start with your complete budget for the entire wedding.

Most studies suggest that you should plan on spending about 10% - 15% of your total wedding budget on the flowers. Mathematics would suggest that if your overall wedding is costing $20,000, then you should budget anywhere from $2000 to $2500 for your flowers. While this is a common formula, most florists will work with any reasonable budget.

Once you let them know what you are comfortable spending, they can customize your wedding to meet your target. The more flexible you are and the more artistic license you give your florist, the happier you are going to be, both with the pricing and with the beautiful results.