Why an Event Florist?

Event Florists look at events with a different perspective. It is about the use of flowers as décor, not how to arrange flowers or to create basic centerpieces. An event florist is going to be asking questions that you may have never thought of and be involved in the planning process of lighting, floor planning and traffic flow. Specializing in events, they’ve learned not to wait until the “day of” to find out that the décor planned for the stage is going to either be in the way of traffic or lighting is too hot.

Centerpieces designed for events are determined by the purpose of the event and the limitations and constraints that come with it. What is the objective? Centerpieces for fundraisers have budgets to work within. For a grand opening, the space may be the highlight and the florals an accompaniment. For a gala or wedding the florals and enviromentals may be needed to set the mood, look or theme. These are the details that an event florist can help with. Centerpieces have to serve not only as style and function, but possibly incorporate the promotion of a product, enhance a theme, or promote networking. For example, a dinner for CEO’s, Board of Directors and Shareholders coming from across the country or internationally are going to want to converse without obstructions in the center of the table. A dramatic low floral arrangement is more fitting than one that is 15” high. A “take charge” type person is going to just move the obstruction out of their way.

The event florists’ training and experience is just as valuable when planning your tablescape. Tablescape is a term that encompasses all items on the table. Flowers add a touch of elegance and enhance the linens, chaircovers and place settings, but knowing how a buffet service or a sit down meal will affect the function at the table is where that knowledge helps. A large table for 10 people at a buffet-served dinner will look bare unless it has an arrangement that “fills” the center of the table. However that arrangement will overwhelm the same table of 10 when it’s a plated meal where everything from stem and silverware to napkins and menu cards are preset.

The variety of props available for rent is traditionally more than retail shops. Urns, arches, gazebos, mandaps, chuppas, candelabra and varieties of glassware are just some of the items they will have on hand. If they don’t have it, they know where to find it either
locally or nationally.

Large scale events take additional planning and preparation beyond the obvious of more arrangements. Having a relationship with the location and understanding any limitations a venue has is the key. Loading décor into certain spaces can be a logistic task all of its own. 
Years ago I came across a quote that I use to this day,