How to Give Florists Feedback
As planners, Tapestry Event Co. guides couples to vendors that we think will vibe with their vision, style, and personality. But when it comes to nurturing those relationships and expressing needs, the communication is down to the couple. We can always act as an in-between, but we prefer for couples to be able to openly communicate about their visions with their vendors. Below, we have interviewed one of our favorite florists on how best to share feedback, when in the process it is invited, and what you need to know before working with them.
FLORISTS.
from Carlee of Rusted Vase Floral Co.
My name is Carlee and I own Rusted Vase Floral Co. I believe that flowers are most beautiful in their natural state: wild, unique, and wandering. To me, flowers are nature's best storyteller and can create an environment and experience that is unique and special to each client. Sourcing seasonally and locally is a foundation of my business, so not only will my arrangements show each client's personality and style, you will see my designs change with the seasons. Soft and dainty in the Spring, lush and full in the Summer, bold and bright in the Fall, and natural and textured in the Winter.
What you need to know about florists.
First and foremost, hire a professional. We know what is in season, what will hold up best out of water, (especially on those hot Summer days), how to store your flowers from the time we pick them up from the market, to the time they reach your hands. A professional also has a list of tips and tricks to ensure your flowers are fresh and beautiful all day long. Second, trust us! Many florists source locally and seasonally as much as possible, so if you're asking for Peonies in August, know that when we say no, it's because they are actually not available, not because we don't like them. :)
I am so grateful for trusting clients who mostly just let me run with their color palette and vision. When a client says "do you! we trust you" there is no better feeling. When you trust your vendors, you will (without question) receive higher quality end results and more importantly, unique and creative elements on your day.
The questions I always ask my clients are "do you have a favorite flower? least favorite flower? any allergies?" and these questions always open the door to a conversation about seasonal and local availability. In general, most people do not know much about seasonal / local flowers, so this part of my design process is usually my favorite. We get to chat about local farms and sustainability in the flower world.
Images courtesy of Julia Kinnunen Photography. Florals designed by Rusted Vase Co.
Elements to give feedback on.
Color
What is your color palette or family? I find that it is most helpful to communicate in terms of a color family because it provides some creative freedom for your vendors and flexibility for you too. For example, shades of "burnt orange" means we can play with a variety of flowers and foliage in that color family OR if you have a wedding party, some creative space for your friends and family to find attire.
Style
This can be a bit harder to communicate, but really think about how you want your flowers to feel. Do you want them to feel lush and romantic? Wild and organic? Or modern and clean? Flowers can and will communicate the vibe of your wedding, so work with your vendors to make sure all elements feel cohesive.
— Carlee, Rusted Vase Co.