Everyone loves flowers and when it comes to the wedding, a great bridal bouquet is always admired. Flowers are something that a couple can have as little or as much of depending on their likes and budget. However making floral decisions can be tough. I caught up with florist Caroline of Flowers by Caroline who is based near my hometown in Co Kerry. Caroline is my go-to florist for any birthday or occasion when I am looking to send flowers at home and they are always stunning! Here’s all you need to know!
How far in advance do couples need to start thinking about the flowers and book a florist?
From the church to the reception flowers are really important when it comes to creating a fabulous wedding day. Don’t leave it to the last minute to think about what flowers you want. Once you have settled on a date for your wedding waste no time in booking your florist as they are limited to the number of weddings per weekend.
What is the least bit of notice that a florist needs?
At least 3 months notice. Flowers are one of the most important aspects of your wedding day. They set the mood and tone for the event and will be remembered for years to come. Wedding flowers can be highly specific and colours often have to be precise so florists need notice to place flower orders in advance.
What are the trends/colours you are seeing for 2015?
Pinks, purple, turquoise, blues. There is quiet a lot of mixture for the summer time, its mostly bright colours and winter weddings would be dark colours like red and navy.
Should couples wait until bridesmaids dresses are picked or go ahead with the flowers they want regardless?
You should book your florist as soon as you have you chosen your date. Talk to your florist about what types of flowers are likely to be available on our wedding date. You can wait until a few weeks before the wedding to finalize the floral details. You don’t have to wait until the bridesmaid dresses are picked.
What price range can a couple expect to budget for the flowers?
Flowers can cost from as little as €100 up to €1000, it all depends on what the couple would like for their wedding. It is good to set a budget for your flowers. I can cater for any price budget.
Do most couples take their flowers from church to reception venue?
Yes most couple take their flowers to the reception. It is a good way to make use of your flowers that you have paid for and it would decorate the venue as well as church. Some couples leave flowers in the church also, it depends on whether it’s your local parish or not.
Do you offer any extras outside of buttonholes and bouquets? i.e. church decor, arches, anything unique.
I offer different kinds of lanterns, floral arch, bay trees, wicker hearts, floral pews, tall aisle lanterns. Anything is possible with Flowers by Caroline!
What does a bride do if their florist lets them down a month before the wedding?
Panic!!! Lol! You go to another florist as soon as you can and explain your story. I’m sure they will help in any way.
Any do’s/don’ts you can advise brides on flowers?
– Do keep an open mind.
– Do take weather into consideration. Delicate flowers wilt in high temperatures.
– Do have a budget.
– Do reuse your ceremony arrangements.
– Don’t overdecorate. Well placed arrangements impress without cluttering.
– Don’t put perfumed flowers like lilies on the table. They can overpower the food.
– Don’t book your florist last.
Flowers by Caroline is based in Ballylongford, Co. Kerry and caters for all occasions including Weddings, Funerals, Anniversaries, Birthdays, Valentines Day, Mothers Day, etc. All the pics featured here are of Caroline’s work. Check out her Facebook page here.
Love from my world,
Lisa x
Breda Dore
Caroline did the flowers for my wedding and they were so stunning!!she is a such a lovely person.i love flowers myself and I couldn’t have had anything more beautiful..she puts so much work into any job she does…and I would highly recommend her!!!
lisasweddingworld
That’s great to hear Breda! I love her work! She’s a star!