Why are my wedding flowers so expensive?
Photo by Alicia Swedenborg
Recently engaged and just started the wedding planning process? If you’re here, our guess is that you’ve begun reaching out to vendors and are starting to feel overwhelmed by the estimates that you are receiving. Weddings are expensive, there's no denying it. But in particular, we frequently hear our clients ask, "Why the heck are flowers so expensive?"
Wedding florals are often one of the most eye-catching and memorable aspects of a wedding, yet they also tend to be one of the most expensive. This expense can be surprising to many couples, especially when comparing the costs to everyday flowers from a local supermarket. However, several factors contribute to the high price of wedding florals, making them a worthwhile investment for such a special occasion.
Labor and Expertise
The first major factor in the cost of wedding florals is the labor involved. Florists are not just selling flowers; they are providing a service that includes design, arrangement, and setup. Crafting the perfect floral arrangements requires expertise and a significant amount of time. Florists must carefully select each bloom, considering color, size, and shape to create cohesive and beautiful arrangements. Additionally, the process involves more than just arranging flowers; it includes delivering and setting up the florals on the day of the wedding, which can be a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Definitely not something that you want to be doing by yourself on the day of your wedding!
Photos by Sophie Kaye
Inclusive Accessory Pricing
Another reason wedding florals can be expensive is that the pricing often includes more than just the flowers themselves. Items like candlesticks, vases, and other decorative accessories are typically included in the cost. These items enhance the overall aesthetic and are essential for creating a cohesive look. If you were to rent or purchase these items separately, the cost would add up quickly. By including these accessories in their pricing, florists offer a convenient package that covers all the decorative bases.
Photo by Henry & Mac
Cost of Faux Flowers
Some couples might consider using faux flowers to cut costs, but this is often not as economical as it seems. High-quality faux flowers are designed to be reused multiple times, so they are crafted to look incredibly realistic, which comes with a high price tag. For instance, a single silk flower can cost around $8. This is often more expensive than fresh flowers, making faux flowers a less attractive option for those looking to save money.
Photos by Elizabeth LaDuca
Quality and Customization
Finally, it’s important to understand why wedding florals are more expensive than flowers you might find at a local supermarket. When you hire a florist for your wedding, part of what you are paying for is control over the final product. Florists work closely with farms and distributors to source the exact shades and types of flowers you want for your wedding. This level of customization requires careful planning and coordination well in advance of the wedding day. The ability to specify the exact aesthetic of your floral arrangements is a premium service that ensures your vision is brought to life precisely as you imagine it. Flowers at stores like Trader Joe’s are typically leftovers or varieties grown specifically for mass production, which keeps their prices low. In contrast, wedding florals are sourced and selected for their quality and rarity. The flowers used in weddings are often ordered specifically for the event, ensuring they are fresh and at their peak bloom.
All of this to say– while it might be tempting to look for cheaper alternatives, investing in professional florals ensures that your wedding will have the beautiful and cohesive look that you’ve always dreamed of. While they may seem highly priced at first glance, keep in mind that these estimates go beyond just the actual flowers themselves. The pricing you see reflects the labor, expertise, accessories, customization, and quality that go into creating the perfect floral arrangements for your special day.