How Far in Advance Should You Order Flowers?

So you’re in charge of flowers at the next big event. How far in advance should you order them?

Maybe you need arrangements for a wedding. Or perhaps your niece is about to graduate. Maybe it’s something small, like a bouquet to say thank you to a coworker who covered your last shift. Whatever it is you need arrangements for, keep reading for the perfect guide to planning all of your arrangement needs.

Understanding the Role of Flowers for Different Events

Before doing anything else, you’ll need to settle on a theme for the occasion. A lot of this comes down to the season, whether the event is indoors or out, and personal preference. But that’s not all. The type of event you’re planning also plays a big role. Here are a few examples of what you should keep in mind for different events:

• Weddings
  The most important thing to think about for big events like weddings is the color palette. A lot goes into that, and it may not be totally under your control. Before doing anything, you’ll want to know what colors the bridal party is wearing, what the event space and reception area look like, and, especially if the ceremony is outdoors, what will go best with the weather and season.
  
  Weddings also tend to require more arrangements than most other events. You may need flowers for the reception, bouquets for the wedding party, flowers for the ceremony, and even for the cake! Because of this, it’s important to know what you need as far out in advance as possible. You should also contact your florist as soon as you know what you need to ensure the arrangements will be ready in time. 

• Corporate Events
  Since they are more professional than weddings, corporate events should usually include subtler arrangements. Also, since these kinds of gatherings often happen in office spaces, you should consider low-fragrance options so guests won’t be overpowered by strong smells.
  
• Personal Celebrations
  Private celebrations are often the most fun to plan, as they offer the most freedom. As with weddings, you should always double-check what other planners have in mind for themes and color palettes, but these matter much less for smaller, more personal events.
  
  If you’re well-acquainted with the person the party is for, consider what kinds of flowers and colors they’ll appreciate. Also consider whether the event has colors associated with it. For example, a gender reveal party might call for blues and pinks. Personal celebrations are also great opportunities to incorporate fun photos or non-floral decorations (little grad hats, baby bottles, etc.) into your arrangements.

How Far in Advance Should You Order Flowers?

For any planned event, it’s crucial to have deadlines for finalizing designs and ordering supplies. The same is true for floral arrangements. 

The amount of time you’ll need between planning arrangements and ordering them from the florist varies greatly based on the kind of event and the availability of the florist. As soon as you know you’ll need arrangements, you should contact your florist to figure out how much lead time they’ll need and what information they’ll want when you go to order. 

While every floral situation is different, here are a few good rules of thumb when creating deadlines for planning arrangements:

• Weddings are by far the most involved and work-intensive events to plan. Tell your florist about the event three to six months in advance and order the arrangements at least three weeks before the day you need them. Give yourself even more time if you’ll be placing the order during a peak wedding season in your area.
• For corporate events, first consider whether you need custom arrangements in the first place. Many florists offer catalogs of generic and seasonal arrangements that are often much cheaper than made-to-order ones. If you still want custom arrangements, consider the size of your event and whether you’ll need the flowers during a peak event season, when florists might be busier than usual. In general, it’s safe to order the arrangements one or two weeks before you need them.
• For smaller celebrations, you should also consider buying generic arrangements. Florists always have special offers for birthdays, graduations, retirements, and many other common parties. If you’re still set on custom, ask your florist if they offer same-day deliveries. Even if they don’t, you’ll still probably be safe ordering as little as two days before the event.
  
  

Conclusion

Regardless of the size or type of occasion you’re planning for, one rule never changes: speak to your florist as soon as possible. Florists can offer helpful guidance on proper care for your arrangements, how much time you’ll have to finalize your order, and strategies to save money while still getting a product you’ll love. 

Many florists will even plan arrangements for the entire event, so you have time to worry about other things. In these cases, be sure to provide clear instructions on what you’re looking for and your budget. Once you do that, the florist can handle the rest.

Finally, if you’re planning an event in the Pittsburgh area, your choice is even easier. Gidas Flowers has countless positive reviews from locals who appreciate value, service, and beauty. We’re your one-stop shop for any occasion. Stop by today to browse our selection of plants, floral arrangements, and product catalogs. Or, if you’re ready to start your arrangement-planning journey, contact us for time and cost estimates, design advice, or even start-to-finish planning and production!