"Doing your own flowers?!" your mother gasps.  You feel a little uneasy, but you reassure everyone that you can handle it.  But can you? 

Although doing your own flowers can be very intimidating, there are mistakes that can easily be avoided.  If you avoid these mistakes, you will ultimately
save yourself a ton of money and you will be able to look back with fond memories of your own handwork.  Answer the following questions positively, and you will be on your way to successfully doing your own flowers.

The day before, is the best time to create flower arrangements to keep them fresh.  You should hand-tie bridesmaids' bouquets and let them sit in vases of water. If you are making corsages, make sure they are put in the refrigerator in a sealed plastic  bag or box with a saran-wrapped top. Working in the morning is usually the best time because it frees up your afternoon for the rehearsal and for relaxation.

You can amaze your guests, even by limiting your piece to bridal, attendant, & table flowers.   Besides being the center of attention, the bouquets and the centerpieces can be simple to make and will eliminate a number of delivery issues. Bouquets and French centerpieces only require an easy hand-tied technique and then dropped into vase, and because of their compact dimensions, there is no need for a special delivery vehicle.

If you want to do large pieces for the ceremony, think of using one type of
loose flowers thrown in a pretty vase.  To further decorate without adding onto your hectic schedule, you might "accessorize" the tables with decorative linens, favors, candles or ribbons tied on napkins.  All of these things add to the ambiance of a wedding and can be purchased months before the wedding.

This is probably one of the more challenging questions, especially if your ultimate goal is to save some money.  The internet is a great place to start if you are looking to cut costs.  We don't specifically recommend a certain site, but we know that there are several out there to choose from.   Many sites provide bulk packages of single variety or limited mixed variety to brides. 

Besides the web, you can buy material directly from a florist.  This can still be expensive unless you are given a discount for quantity.  You might also purchase materials directly from a supermarket, wholesale club or farmers' market.  At the market, be aware of flower's a "shelf life"; A beautiful blown rose on Thursday may be wilted by Saturday.  If you are not experienced with the longevity of flowers, you will have to find a trusted person to guide you in your choices. 

Am I confident in my own sense of style?

If you have trouble making choices or are unsure of what you like, then it  will be difficult for you to make your own flowers.  Flowers must be planned ahead of time, so if you envision "a room full of lilies" than you already have a starting point, and will be more successful than someone who is uninspired.   You can boost your "flower confidence" by getting inspired by books and magazine photos. Look in the "crafts/gardening" sections of your local bookstore.  Write down the names of flowers that you like, and be sure to note great color combinations.

Can you get someone to help you set up the flowers before the wedding?

You will need one hand to supervise the delivery and set-up for the flowers. Hopefully this person is not someone closely involved with the wedding. Be sure all delivery times are arranged, and that you know when your ceremony and reception site are open for set-up.  Pre-pack the centerpieces in deep boxes stuffed with newspapers for ease in transport.  Tell your help to always keep the air conditioner running when there are flowers in the car on a hot day and to mist the flowers with fresh water.

Are you looking for a way to cut your budget without compromising on "your style"?

If you cannot compromise your style and budget you will have to compromise your time on the day before the wedding.  If this sounds like a good deal and you've answered positively to the other five questions, then you have the right motivations for doing your flowers. Go for it!

KAK