Photo by Brandon Kidd | Floral Design by Teresa Sena | Styling by Pacific Weddings


Your florist will be one of the most integral parts of your vendor team! Selecting the right fit for your wedding design can be a bit daunting. Here are a few things to consider when searching for a floral designer.


1. Installations

If you are like us, you love statement floral design. Whether you envision a specific style of installation such as a floral chandelier, wall of roses, or styled arch; or if you just want the option of creating something unique, it is important to discuss the possibility of having such a design with your florist. A quality wedding florist should have extensive experience creating custom installations. Some designers even have styles that they specialize in. Either way, these installations take a lot of logistical work to create, so make sure you hire someone who is properly vetted! Your wedding planner probably has a list of a few great options.  


2. Sourcing Local Blooms

Do you already have your heart set on specific flowers? It's important to consider which flowers will be in season during your wedding day- not just in general but also specially to your wedding location. For example, here in Hawaii, many tropical flowers are easy to obtain but European blooms such as peonies or dahlias must be shipped in. Knowing which flowers will be in season in your area is also a great way to stay sustainable. A good florist will easily know how to navigate both situations, but either way, it is a topic worth discussing with your florist. 


3. Overall Style

When planning a destination wedding, there are often things that could come up that you weren't preparing for. In the (very rare!) case that the specific shade of orchids you were hoping for aren't delivered in time for your big day, make sure that you trust your florist's design style. Pick someone whose overall design style you adore. The most incredible installations we have witnessed are birthed from floral designers following their instincts and creating with lots of freedom. It's a great idea to pick someone whom you trust to improvise in case anything were to unexpectedly arise.  


4. Vendor Relationships

Your wedding's design usually results from a combined effort between your wedding planner, stylist, florist, and rental company. While every vendor combination brings its unique benefits, there is a good chance that your florist has a few different vendors that they love creating magic with. It's never a bad idea to ask your wedding planner which previous vendor combinations have worked really well together. 


5. Venue Experience

Some venues require special rigging, wiring, and more. It's never a bad idea to choose a floral designer that is familiar with your venue. They may even have some great suggestions on layout or color schemes from their experience. In fact, some venues may have a list of preferred florists that have experience in dealing with their specific property.