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Expert Wedding Flower Advice: Our Top 12 Questions Answered

Your wedding day will be filled with joyous moments and unforgettable memories. It’s going to be one of the best days of your lives! However, I remember all too well saying to every supplier, “I’ve never planned a wedding before…” because I truly had no idea where to start. To help you navigate your flower journey, we’ve compiled our 12 most-asked questions to guide you. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for here, just ask us!

blush pink and ivory roses in gold footed bowl sitting on a wedding table with brass candle sticks awaiting guests to sit

  1. What questions should I ask my wedding floral designer at my consultation?

Here, we take you through the kind of questions it would be useful to ask at your first meeting


Where will my design consultation take place?

Your wedding flower journey begins with a complimentary consultation tailored to your preferences. You can opt for an online design chat, sharing screens and connecting seamlessly from anywhere in the UK or abroad to prioritise sustainability and reduce your carbon footprint. Alternatively, I offer onsite venue consultations for a personal touch, ensuring your floral vision is perfectly aligned with your venue.

What will we discuss during the consultation?

This meeting is all about getting to know you as a couple—your passions, your style, and your vision for your special day. Together, we'll explore how to bring your ideas to life through stunning, fresh floral designs. During the design consultation, we’ll review your wish list, discuss creative concepts, and align on a budget to achieve your perfect look

How will the date of my wedding affect the price of my flowers?

Flowers naturally bloom at different times of the year, meaning certain blooms will be more readily available and at their best quality during their natural growing season. For instance, peonies are at their prime in May. Additionally, calendar events like Valentine’s Day and global holidays such as Easter and Christmas can drive up flower prices due to increased demand, often resulting in fewer flowers available. Weather conditions may also impact supply, so it’s always wise to remain flexible with flower varieties.


I know nothing about flowers where do I start? How will I pick my flowers when I don't know their names?

Most couples have an idea of their desired colours and ambience but may not know flower names. It's ok not to know flowers by their names, that's why having a floral expert on your team makes life a little easier. Collect and share inspirational images of bouquets and centrepieces you love, and let your florist design the perfect floral combination for your wedding. You can also look at our super-useful pictorial guide.

What happens if the flower I want a flower, not in season?

It can happen, but the world is full of stunning blooms and scrumptious alternatives and we can often source them from around the world from one of our ethical growers, although it may come at a price.


How do I dress the venue to reflect my wedding theme and make it mine for the day?

Identify your style: are you free and spontaneous or neat and orderly? Think outside the vase and personalise your wedding flowers to your passions and loves in life. Select your wedding flowers for a reason., Do you have memories of your fiancé bringing you roses? Does your grandmother grow hydrangeas in her garden? Do you have a hobby you want to incorporate? However, your florals should still work harmoniously with the surroundings of your chosen venue, not against them.  If it’s a modern venue, go contemporary with the florals. If it’s a rustic barn, go organic and wild with the flowers.


How can I reuse my ceremony flowers in my reception?

Here at Jacqui O, we love repurposing ceremony flowers, so you and your guests get to enjoy the beauty of your wedding flowers for a little longer, whilst reducing the environmental impact on our world. Some of our couples choose to move the ceremony arch behind the reception top table to frame them whilst others use it as a photobooth for their guests to enjoy. There are so many possibilities, but asking your floral designer is a great way to see what is possible with your scheme

 

Are you an industry expert?

I have been making flowers for clients for over 11 years. I believe expertise is essential in delivering the exceptional, as my clients deserve nothing less than the most sensational flowers for their wedding day.


I hold a degree in design and honed my floristry skills at Reaseheath College, where my passion for floral artistry flourished. Over the years, I have built a reputation for creativity, sustainability, and excellence, supported by a wealth of experience and recognition.


Accreditations

  • Good Florist Guide (2022, 2023, 2024–2025): A mark of exceptional creativity, quality craftsmanship, and professionalism.

  • Sustainability Wedding Alliance (Member since June 2024): Celebrating my commitment to eco-conscious floristry.


Awards

  • Shortlisted: ‘Sustainable by Design’ & ‘Sustainable Change Maker’ (2025).

  • Winner: ‘Sustainable by Design’ (2022).

  • County Brides Northwest Wedding Awards: Winner (2020) and multiple finalist nominations.

RHS Flower Shows

  • Gold Medal & Best Exhibit: RHS Tatton Park (2021).

  • Featured Designs (2021 & 2022, no medals awarded in marquee),

    • ‘Bee Friendly Bee Kind, Bee Inspired’ featured in Cheshire Life Magazine and on BBC Gardeners World RHS special

    • ‘Tatton goes green. It's a nice day for a green wedding’ featured in Cheshire Life Magazine

  • Silver Medal: RHS Chelsea (2023).


Demonstrations & Media Contributions

  • NAFAS Area Demonstrator: Inspiring audiences with engaging floral demonstrations.

  • Expert Contributor: Regular writer for 'Hot Topics' feature in Your Wedding Cheshire and Merseyside Magazine and have been featured in various wedding magazines and blogs including Rock My Wedding & The English Wedding Blog.

  • Writer for Thursd.: Promoting sustainable practices and creativity within the floral industry.


None of these achievements would have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, wonderful couples, and trusted suppliers, to whom I am eternally grateful.

 

When will I know my flower have arrived and will I be able to see them in advance?

The flowers arrive early, around 3 days before the big day. They’re nurtured to ensure they are opened to perfection and look truly spectacular for your wedding or event, so they may not always last as long as those from a flower shop. Do you want a sneaky peek at your wedding flowers? Yes, I hear you shout. Of course, you do! I will send you a little video the day before to show you your hand-picked flowers, sourced just for you!


When do you dress the venue?

Here at Jacqui O we coordinate with your venue and agree on a time if the ceremony and reception are being held at the same location. We complete the ceremony, then the reception and, whilst delivering your bridal party flowers, we will ask if you want to see any pics of the venue dressed, so we can make any adjustments you request. We aim to complete everything two hours in advance. If you are having a service at a church we do things a little differently. We will set the venue up, deliver your bridal flowers, and then install the flowers at the church so that after your service, we can transfer your flowers to your reception.


What happens to the flowers at the end of the day?

There's nothing more beautiful than a breathtaking display of wedding flowers. But the question is, what to do with your wedding flowers once it's all over? You have three choices;

 

Enjoy them, take them home and surround yourself with nature's beauty....some of my clients say they are still going strong after the honeymoon, whilst others dry them to treasure!

 

Share the love and send your guests home with a token from the day, from an armful of flowers to a table centrepiece (for ease these are put in a secondary dish but hidden on the special day).

 

If you wish me to donate the flowers to the local community, I can arrange to take them to  Richmond Village, Elm House or Brookfields care homes located in Nantwich, where the residents and staff are always thrilled to receive them. Or, you could ask a friend or family member to distribute them to your favourite charity - just check with the charity first!

What happens next, after the consultation?

After your consultation, you’ll receive your personalised quote within seven days. A £500 non-refundable booking fee reserves your date, and we’ll create your style board and finalise your vision, where you will have my undivided attention. Once booked, you become part of the Jacqui O family, you'll have your personalised style board and we will finalise your vision and start the countdown to the big day. 


blush pink and ivory roses in gold footed bowl sitting on a wedding table with brass candle sticks and a garland snacking down the banquet table

Read more about our philosophy here


  1. When is the Best Time to Start Planning My Florals?


It’s never too early to get organised! Flowers are a key feature of your wedding day, setting the mood, tone and creating lasting memories. To ensure you secure the designer you love, it’s best to approach your floral designer at least 12–18 months in advance, especially for summer weekends during the peak wedding season from May to September. That said, if our schedule allows, we’re also happy to design and create beautiful weddings at short notice.


At Jacqui O, we take a personalised approach to wedding florals. Rather than offering standard packages, we tailor each design to suit your unique personality, style, and vision. Some couples opt for an intimate wedding with a minimal floral touch, while others dream of a celebration brimming with flowers in every corner.

Whatever your preferences, we dedicate the same care and attention to every request, ensuring your florals create stunning memories to treasure forever. Your day should feel as special and individual as you are, and that’s what we strive to achieve with every design.

'O'hara' and 'Juilette' roses, astilbe and fragragrant eucalyptus bouquet

  1. Do You Offer Wedding Packages?


At Jacqui O, we pride ourselves on offering tailored packages instead of off-the-shelf options. Every wedding is a reflection of the couple's unique personality and style. Some couples choose an intimate wedding and request small amounts of flowers, whilst others are flower-loving couples and wish to have florals everywhere. Every single request is equally important to us so you have memories to treasure forever.


  1. What’s the Difference Between Your ‘Signature’ and ‘Illustrious’ Collections?


Our ‘Signature’ Collection is designed to meet your brief perfectly, incorporating all the elements we discuss during your consultation. It ensures your vision is brought to life in every detail, offering elegant and thoughtfully crafted florals that align seamlessly with your wedding day plans.

The ‘Illustrious’ Collection builds on the Signature offering, taking your florals to a new level of luxury and impact. This collection is designed to make a bold statement, with a focus on opulence, fragrance, and captivating colour. It includes three show-stopping elements that add abundance and grandeur, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Around a third of our clients choose this elevated option to bring their wedding vision to life in a truly extraordinary way.


blush pink and ivory roses in gold footed bowl sitting on a wedding table with brass candle sticks awaiting guests to sit

  1. How Much Will My Flowers Cost?

As a general guideline, it’s wise to allocate about 20% of your overall wedding budget to flowers. However, every couple is different—some may spend less, while others prioritise florals and invest more. It ultimately depends on how significant flowers are to your vision and the atmosphere you want to create.


Our couples typically invest between £3,500 and £10,000 in their wedding florals. However, every wedding is unique, and we tailor our pricing to reflect that. The initial proposal serves as a guide, offering you an estimate of the cost for your dream flowers and our bespoke services.

We keep everything flexible, allowing you to finalise your choices and budget six weeks before your big day. For further insights and guidance, take a look at our Price Option Guide.


  1. How Can We Get the Flowers We Want Within Our Budget?

Being open about your budget from the start is key, and it doesn’t mean I’ll push you to max it out. My goal is to help you achieve the floral designs you’ve always dreamed of, within your budget.


I personally count out every stem and bunch of flowers I plan to purchase for your wedding. On average, I use over 2,000 flowers and greenery stems for a wedding, and each of those is accounted for in your quote to provide you with the most accurate pricing.

We’re happy to work with your budget and explore ways to reduce costs. This might include suggesting alternative flowers, adjusting the size or design of arrangements, considering fragrant foliage, or removing certain elements that are more ‘nice-to-haves.’


Just give us a call—we’re here to help!


  1. Will You Be Working on Any Other Weddings on My Date?

At Jacqui O, we take pride in creating beautifully crafted florals that reflect your individuality and unique personal style. To ensure the highest level of service and attention to each client, we limit the number of weddings and events we take on each season. Typically, I work on one wedding per day, though in rare cases, I may accept two very small weddings.


  1. Can you make me a sample bouquet?

As a floral designer, every product we create is handcrafted, and no two arrangements are ever the same. Since flowers are a natural product, they can vary in colour and size throughout the growing season. Rather than offering a fixed mock-up, we invite you to explore our gallery, Instagram, and Pinterest, where you can admire the quality and style of our work.


Jacqui O making flowers
Jacqui at work

9 Who Will Set Up the Flowers on My Wedding Day?


Jacqui will personally design, create, and set up your wedding flowers. Occasionally we use an experienced team to support and assist us with production and setup, ensuring that everything is flawlessly arranged for your big day. Rest assured, every detail will be handled with the utmost care and attention to ensure your florals are perfect.


  1. Have You Worked at Our Church / Venue?


We have been lucky enough to design at many beautiful churches and wedding venues across the North West and sometimes further afield. Some of our favourite venues to dress include Dorfold Hall, Iscoyd Park and Combermere Abbey.  We try to make the whole process as easy as possible for you. If we haven’t worked with your specific venue before, then we will typically arrange a site visit to understand the space and make recommendations for the perfect florals. You are more than welcome to join us so we can walk through it together.


Bride and groom in garden holding her bouquet of roses and eucalyptus

  1. When do I need to pay the balance for my flowers?


The balance for your wedding flowers is due 6 weeks before your wedding day. This allows us to complete the extensive work behind the scenes to ensure your florals are perfect for your special day.


  1. Are you the most expensive floral designer in Cheshire?

Jacqui O does not aim to be the cheapest; our focus is on delivering the best, with designs that make an illustrious impact. On average, a wedding requires over a week of planning, preparation, and execution, which means you’re not just paying for the final product—you’re paying for the expertise, talent, and service of a floral couturier, not just a florist. Our pricing reflects the premium service and dedication we provide. Here’s what’s included:


  • PLANNING & PREPARATION - ​​Jacqui works closely with you to understand your vision and the inspiration behind your wedding flowers. Behind the scenes, we are making mental notes of many other details that make all the difference to a perfectly planned wedding.


  • SOURCING & PRODUCTION - Wedding flowers are a premium product, and that comes with a cost, especially if you’ve chosen a specific variety or colour. At the height of the wedding season, the price of certain flowers—like white roses—can double or even triple. We take great care of your flowers days before your wedding to ensure they are fully hydrated and perfectly prepped. This process involves stripping all the leaves and thorns from the stems and placing them in clean buckets with water and solutions, ensuring the blooms open beautifully and are fully hydrated for your big day.


  • FLORAL ART -Each arrangement and floral piece—whether it’s a bouquet, boutonniere, corsage, centrepiece, aisle flowers, or any tiny detail—requires countless hours of design. Every stem is freshly cut and carefully placed, ensuring each piece is a work of art.


  • DELIVERY & SET UP -  To transport and deliver flowers, each design must be packaged and misted to arrive in one piece at the wedding venue, and sometimes multiple locations. Extra time is allotted to ensure arrival with no challenges. Once on-site, we ensure all flowers are placed in the coolest spot, and we begin the setup process, adding the finishing touches to create your perfect wedding look.

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  • COLLECTION & DISMANTLE - After your beautiful day, we return early to collect the vases, and hire kit and act upon your wishes for your wedding flowers, from remaking them into gifts to donating them to a charity on your behalf. Once we return to the studio all the items are unloaded, cleaned and returned to storage for their next outing.

 

  A floral designer has one chance to get your flowers right. There are no second chances, and a new bouquet can’t be delivered the next day because there isn’t a next day!! However, as an experienced professional floral designer, I strive to get it right and delight every time.


Wedding party flowers brides and bridesmaids holding her bouquet of roses and eucalyptus

Wedding Photographer: Adam Lowndes

Photographer of Jacqui: Kaptured by Lindsey

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