Two of the most costly expenses encountered in planning for your wedding day are flower arrangements and the reception menu. Let's take a moment to explore the heavenly bliss of planning flower arrangements suitable for the garden of Eden, yet suprisingly affordable for your pettite budget. The most important thing to remember is that how much you save will depend on how you interview your future florists. Remember, no matter who recommends the florist and how well a reputation he/she has, this is your special day and your purse string!

Before you begin, define your budget and know your preferences in flowers or design. A repetable florist will respect your decisiveness. Now, ask around among your friends and family members for recommendations of local florists. Checkout the yellow pages and start your journey down flowerland. You need to start this process at least 12 weeks before the actual ceremony to ensure that the florist you choose has an actual ceremony that you can visit them in action (instead of just viewing their candid shots).

Make phone calls first to ask the most crutial questions which should weed out most who won't fit your needs anyway.

You should ask the following questions over the phone:

• Do you specialize in weddings?
• Do you have a weeding scheduled within the next 30 days that I can see your work?
• Will you setup at the ceremony and reception locations?
• Will you transport ceremony flowers to the reception location?
• Will you visit my ceremony venue and reception location to brainstorm creative ideas?

If the florist passes the test and responds appropriately to the above questions, leave them on the list and cross out all others. You should have at least 3 florist you interview and the interview should take about 1 hour. During the interview,you should ask the florist about deposit requirements, including when and how much is due.

Also, don't be shy to inquire about renting pieces that are large and "theatrical" in nature. Talk to the florist. Establish a comfortable relationship, try to keep an open mind. Also remember to ask the following:

• Do you label all bouquets and corsages by the name of the wedding party member?
• How do you work with candle light both at the ceremony and reception location?
• Can you provide a sample bouquet or arrangement for pre-wedding parties?

What type of written proposal can I expect? (Refine all issues PRIOR to signing a contract) Keep your budget in mind at all times to maintain a stressfree planning stage. You are well on your way to planning a successful wedding fit for a queen and paid for by YOU!.