How to Save Money on Your Wedding Flower Budget

With an average wedding costing upwards of $20,000, it's important to try and cut costs where you can. Especially with the rising unemployment rate and financial fears amidst the recession, now more than ever brides are looking for ways to save on wedding costs. By following a few simple tips, you can easily cut down on the cost of your wedding flowers.

Take a Reality Check

Yes, you are the bride, and you want everything to be perfect on your wedding day. Think about this though, how many people actually pay much attention to the flower arrangements on the church altar? What are your bridesmaids going to do with the dried up bouquets after the wedding? Face it, most of your guests are going to be staring at you and your beau, and it's usually only you and the photographer who notice every last detail. If you're not able to afford your dream flowers, you're the only one likely to notice the difference! Keep this in mind as you read through the other tips.

Have a Smaller Wedding Party

The easiest way to save on flowers is to have less people in your wedding party. Less people equals less bouquets and less boutonnieres. Desperate times call for desperate measures. Consider having only one or two attendants each instead of a bigger party. This will save you money not only on flowers, but also on the rehearsal dinner, dresses, tuxes, attendant gifts, and on special place settings at the reception. It will even save you precious time during your photo shoots.

Use Single Blooms

What do you do if you've already promised your ten best girlfriends that they can be bridesmaids in your wedding? Think about using single blooms rather than full bouquets. A single stem flower, attractively wrapped in ribbon, can look very elegant and costs much less than a full bouquet.

Be Smart in Your Choices

Choose blooms that are in season and avoid exotic flowers. Ask your florist what types of flowers are locally available on your wedding date. Choose cheaper flowers such as carnations instead of more expensive flowers like roses. Avoid scheduling your wedding around Valentine's Day when flower prices skyrocket.

Get Creative

There's no hard and fast rule when it comes to wedding floral arrangements. Consider using silk flowers for a local craft store and making arrangements yourself. These bouquets won't be dead and dried up the next day, and they can even be re-used to make home floral arrangements.

Don't limit yourself and keep your options open when it comes to flowers. Remember, most guests will have their eyes on you!