Money saving ideas
Weddings are expensive, unfortunately that’s not going to change. Weddings are a lot of work and the professionals behind them earn every penny you give them.
I understand the whole “champagne taste on a beer budget” thing and I have a few nifty ideas I would like to share which might help you achieve your dream flowers without breaking the bank. Every couple has an ideal budget for their wedding, you never know, these few tips might help you hit that goal.
Read on for my Top Ten money saving ideas.
1. Prioritise
As a florist, it goes without saying that flowers and décor were EXTREMELY important on my wedding day. But for some the most amazing food and drink is their priority. Obviously if flowers aren’t your thing spend less. But you probably still want to decorate your tables. I rent out beautiful candlesticks, birdcages, fishbowls etc that can make pretty centrepieces without the cost of flowers.
2. Focus
Spend your money wisely. Focus on using displays where people will see them, enjoy them and where the photos are being taken.
I would recommend spending your budget on a show stopper floral display, something your guests will remember, rather than spread your budget thinly on small, forgettable arrangements. But think carefully about where these should be placed.
If you are getting married in a church do you really need to blow your budget on ceremony flowers? Of course it would be lovely to walk through a floral arch as you enter the church but not everyone can afford displays like these. If you don’t have a huge budget don’t spend it all on an area you only see for a few seconds.
If you are on a tight budget something simple but affective would be a great alternative, a beautiful floral wreath or heart at the door would be gorgeous, also it can be easily transported to the reception. That leads me nicely to number 3.
3. Recycle, reuse, repurpose
The best way to save money is to re-use your displays. Pew ends can be re-used as chair backs for the reception or as table centres. Pedestals can be re-used as extravagant entrance arrangements for the reception. Even bridesmaids bouquets can be popped in a vase as a table centre; and no one will even notice.
4. Simplicity is the key
I always tell my brides that my time costs money. If I have to spend hours creating some elaborate display then the costs will soar. Keep things simple. A gorgeous hand tie will cost less than a wired, intricate, trailing bouquet and can be equally as stunning. Do you want to spend money on a full flower arch for your ceremony? Choose to have a corner section decorated instead, you get the arch without the full costs.
5. Be flexible
Yes, you may have your heart set on that delicate Lily of the Valley flower but if you use that in every arrangement it will completely blow your budget. Instead have a few sprigs in your bouquet only. It will make you will feel extra special, (after all you are the bride!); without feeling like you have settled for second best. Any good florist can offer alternative blooms that will work just as well.
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6. Thank You
This is such an easy way to save money. Instead of thank you gifts why not give away your table centres to your mum, mother-in-law and anyone else who has helped in the run up to your day. If you have a flower filled wedding don’t let them go to waste. Share the love.
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7. Share the costs
Are you getting married at a church? If so check to see if there is another wedding taking place on the same day. You might be able to share the cost of the church flowers. To be clear, I do not mean sharing your wedding flowers with another couple, which is something I have read is happening. I thoroughly DO NOT recommend this.
8. Bridal party flowers
Does that cute little flower girl really need to carry a full posy down the aisle? Why not opt for a beautiful, perfect single bloom; it will look just as sweet, and it is obviously cheaper! Whilst you’re at it, perhaps the wear a wrist corsage, or maybe some flowers in their hair? Do all the groomsmen need flowers, why not just order flowers for the Groom. If budget really is an issue this is a sure fire way to save money.
9. Be seasonal
Choose seasonal flowers, they are less expensive and are better quality. And if you are conscious of your carbon footprint make the most of local companies and growers.
Furthermore, if you haven’t yet booked your wedding stay away from celebration days. Flowers double in cost around Mothers Day and Valentines. So if flowers are important to you avoid these.
10. Do it yourself
Now I’m really not trying to put myself out of a job here; but I know a lot of people who have a friend make their invites or their cake. Why not the flowers? I’m not saying a friend should make the bridal bouquet, bridesmaid’s bouquets or buttonholes. These really should not be compromised. But if you are having a rustic theme why not put some hydrangeas in galvanised pots. Or stack a couple of teacups and pop in a perfect peony for that vintage tea party look. Of course you need to be super confident in your friend’s abilities. You really need to be happy with the final result. After all you are only doing this once and you want your friendship to survive past the cutting of the cake! Also beware! Have you ever seen a florist’s fingernails? Not a pretty sight! You have been warned! ;-)
I have a whole page dedicated to help you plan your wedding flowers.
What do you think? I hope you have found this blog helpful. Can you think of any more money saving ideas?
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ABOUT THE AUTHOUR
Hi! I'm Anne-Marie, Petal Power is me!
I run my weddings and event floristry business out of my studio in Creigiau, Cardiff, South Wales.
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Anne-Marie xoxo
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