The Wonderful World and Cost Truths of Wedding Florals: A Conversation with Sir Botanical
Flowers play a vital role in the style and ambiance of a wedding. They add beauty, elegance, and a touch of nature to the celebration. However, many couples often wonder why florals can be so expensive. In this comprehensive guide, we will address this question and provide insights into the world of wedding florals.
Kate is a florist and co-founder of Sir Botanical. A floral design company based in Western Australia. With over six years of experience in the industry, Kate and her team specialise in creating stunning floral arrangements for weddings and events.
In this episode of Cut The Cake, we discuss the world of florals and deep dive into why they cost what they do. Kate also provides tips for couples on how to keep their floral costs down. The types of floral pieces you could include on your wedding day. Upcoming trends and styles that are going to be huge in 2024. And also the importance of open communication with florists in your budget expectations and how florists can work with your budget. So without further ado, here is Kate from Sir Botanical.
The Cost of Florals: A Deeper Look
"At the heart of the cost of flowers, we are at the mercy of wholesalers, who are often at the mercy of importers." - Kate, Sir Botanical
The cost of flowers is influenced by various factors, including inflation, importation costs, and the time and effort required by florists. Inflation has hit the floral industry hard, with wholesale prices skyrocketing. For example, the cost of a 25-pack of roses has increased by 200% from 2020 to the present.
Florists invest a significant amount of time in sourcing and preparing the flowers for weddings. They communicate with wholesalers, visit markets to select the best quality blooms, and meticulously handle each stem. The process involves peeling petals, filling buckets, and ensuring the flowers can survive the event. A typical wedding requires several days of work, from collecting the flowers to setting up at the venue.
Keeping Costs Down: Tips and Strategies
"We always give tips on how to peel it back. Don't ever think that the first quote we give you is what you have to do." - Kate, Sir Botanical
Couples can take several steps to keep their floral costs within budget. It is essential to communicate your budget upfront to the florist, as they can provide options and suggestions based on your financial constraints. Consider prioritizing specific areas where you want the flowers to make the most impact, such as the ceremony or the bridal table.
If you have a limited budget, focus on smaller arrangements or opt for alternatives to expensive flowers. Discuss your preferences with the florist, and they can recommend cost-effective options that still align with your vision. Additionally, consider incorporating candles or other non-floral elements to create a beautiful ambiance without breaking the bank.
Real Flowers vs. Faux and Dried Florals
"Silk flowers are so expensive. They're really no substitute. Unless someone is dying for a hydrangea in the middle of winter and they can't get it, then we would consider it." - Kate, Sir Botanical
When it comes to choosing between real, faux, or dried florals, there are cost considerations to keep in mind. Silk flowers, while becoming more realistic, are generally more expensive than fresh blooms. Preserved or dried flowers offer a longer lifespan and can be a cost-effective alternative for certain arrangements or installations. However, fresh flowers remain the most affordable and authentic option for wedding florals.
Popular Floral Pieces and Trends
"I feel like the European Italian vibe is strong at the moment. It's taken a lean towards more feminine flowers rather than a bold open rose." - Kate, Sir Botanical
The current trends in wedding florals lean towards a European and Italian aesthetic. There is a shift towards more feminine flowers, such as calla lilies, sweet peas, and tulips. Bows and ribbons are also popular, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to arrangements. Additionally, there is a growing trend of incorporating sculptural elements like grapes, tomatoes, and bread into floral designs, creating a unique and artistic look.
The Future Outlook for Wedding Florals
"I feel like it's dialing down a little bit to minimal tables but well done, almost with a 70s into 80s feel but in a minimal way." - Kate, Sir Botanical
Looking ahead, the future of wedding florals seems to be moving towards minimalism with a touch of retro influence. Tables are becoming more refined and less cluttered, reminiscent of the 70s and 80s aesthetic. This shift allows for a focus on quality over quantity, creating a more intimate and curated atmosphere. The use of sculptural elements and food styling is also expected to continue, adding a unique and artistic flair to floral designs.
Conclusion
Wedding florals are an essential aspect of any celebration, adding beauty, elegance, and a touch of nature to the event. While the cost of florals can be significant, understanding the factors that contribute to their pricing can help couples make informed decisions. By communicating their budget and priorities to the florist, couples can create stunning floral arrangements that align with their vision and financial constraints. As trends evolve, the future of wedding florals looks to be a harmonious blend of minimalism, retro influences, and artistic elements, creating unforgettable experiences for couples and their guests.
About Sir Botanical
Sir Botanical is a floral art studio founded by Kate, Georgia and Gen in 2018. We create unique and high-end florals for all occasions.
With years of experience, as well as a passion for contemporary design we believe this is the perfect recipe for our refined and sophisticated take on floral art.
The Sir Botanical team works on a wide range of projects including weddings, large scale installations, private and corporate events and editorial.
With a studio based in Fremantle the team are available to travel within Western Australia.
Connect with Sir Botanical
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sir_botanical/
Website: https://www.sirbotanical.com/
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