When planning your wedding, flowers play a key role in enhancing the atmosphere and adding beauty to your celebration. They set the tone, complement your venue, and create a stunning visual experience.

However, despite their importance, choosing the right wedding flowers can be a tricky task. From selecting the wrong blooms to misunderstandings about the budget, many couples make common mistakes that can lead to unnecessary stress.

Here are some common wedding flower mistakes florists want you to avoid and practical ways to ensure your flowers are perfect on your big day.

1. Choosing Out-of-Season Flowers

One of the most frequent mistakes couples make is selecting flowers that are out of season. While you might fall in love with a particular bloom, if it's not in season during your wedding, it could be unavailable or come at a higher cost. “In-season flowers are more affordable because they are grown locally, which reduces transportation costs and increases their quality,” says florist Melissa Sullivan. To save money and avoid disappointment, consider discussing seasonal options with your florist, who can suggest alternatives that align with your vision.

2. Misunderstanding Floral Budgeting

Wedding florals can quickly become an expensive aspect of your celebration. Many couples underestimate the true cost of flowers, often comparing prices with supermarket bouquets that do not reflect the quality or durability needed for a wedding. “Flowers from florists are more expensive because they are grown under the right conditions, ensuring they last longer and can withstand the handling required for events,” explains Sullivan. It's important to set a realistic floral budget early on and be transparent with your florist about how much you are willing to spend. This way, they can work with you to create a beautiful, cost-effective design.

Common Mistakes Couples Make With Wedding Flowers

Video by Emily Summer

3. Using Too Many Flower Varieties

While it's tempting to use a variety of flowers to create a diverse and colorful arrangement, too many different types can overwhelm the design and make it feel disjointed. Florist Cameron Hardesty advises sticking to a balanced mix of blooms to avoid a chaotic look. “It's better to have three main varieties and a few supporting flowers, which adds depth without overcomplicating things,” she suggests. This simple approach will ensure your floral designs remain elegant and cohesive.

4. Limiting Floral Choices

On the other hand, using too few types of flowers can result in a flat, monotonous design. Even if you are going for a minimalist or modern look, adding variety in texture and color will give your arrangements more visual interest. “A little variation in the shapes and sizes of the flowers can make a big difference,” says florist Michelle Pupa. Trust your florist's expertise to create a design that feels fresh and dynamic, even within a simple color palette.

5. Neglecting the Scale of the Venue

Wedding flowers should complement the scale of your venue. Oversized arrangements in a small venue can overwhelm the space, while tiny arrangements in a large hall might go unnoticed. Florist Michelle Pupa suggests discussing the dimensions of your venue with your florist before making any decisions. This way, your flowers will be proportionate to the space and create a harmonious atmosphere.

6. Ignoring the Venue's Aesthetic

It's important to consider your venue's style when choosing your flowers. For example, a rustic, bohemian style might not work well in a formal, luxurious hotel ballroom. Florist Brittney Kee emphasizes the importance of matching your flowers to the venue's existing decor. This creates a cohesive design that enhances the space's natural beauty, rather than clashing with it.

7. Trusting Your Florist

A crucial mistake couples often make is not fully trusting their florist. Floral designers are skilled professionals with years of experience creating arrangements that align with your vision. “It's important to choose a florist whose style matches your own and then trust them to bring that vision to life,” says Kee. A good florist will know how to select flowers that work within your budget and style, ensuring that you're not micromanaging the process.

8. Not Booking Your Florist Early Enough

Waiting until the last minute to hire a florist can limit your options and cause unnecessary stress as your wedding date approaches. Floral designers are in high demand, especially during peak wedding season, so it's best to secure your florist early—ideally, six to twelve months before your big day. This gives your florist ample time to order flowers, plan the design, and ensure the best quality blooms for your event.

9. Choosing Overly Fragrant Flowers

While fragrant flowers can add a lovely touch to your wedding, it's important to consider your guests' comfort. Strongly scented flowers can be overwhelming, especially in enclosed spaces or during meals. Florist Melissa Sullivan recommends opting for fragrance-free varieties or using fragrant blooms sparingly. This ensures that your floral arrangements don't overpower the senses and create an uncomfortable experience for guests.

10. Improper Disposal of Flowers

After your wedding, it's important to dispose of your flowers responsibly. Many florists offer clean-up services and can even help recycle or donate the flowers. If you'd like to preserve your arrangements, consider taking them home or donating them to hospitals or nursing homes. Florist Cameron Hardesty suggests composting flowers to reduce waste and keep your celebration environmentally friendly.

By avoiding these common wedding flower mistakes, you can ensure your floral arrangements are beautiful, cost-effective, and perfectly suited to your venue and personal style. Working closely with your florist and being mindful of the details will help bring your floral vision to life and make your wedding day even more unforgettable.