Behind the Blooms: The Unseen Journey of a Wedding Florist

As a French wedding florist specialising in weddings, I often get asked about the final product—the breathtaking arrangements that adorn venues and make special days unforgettable. However, what many don’t see is the intricate process that happens long before the wedding day arrives. Here’s a step-by-step look at the behind-the-scenes work that ensures everything blooms perfectly on the big day.

1. The Order Process

The journey begins with consultations and discussions. I work closely with couples to understand their vision, preferred colors, and floral styles. Once we finalize the designs, I place orders with trusted suppliers to procure the best seasonal flowers, ensuring quality and freshness.

2. Receiving the Flowers

When the flowers arrive, my first task is to inspect every box. Each bloom is unique, and I take the time to ensure they meet my standards. This step is crucial; any damaged or imperfect flowers are immediately reported to the supplier or creatively repurposed in other arrangements.

3. Unpacking and Cleaning

Next, I unpack the flowers meticulously. This involves removing any packaging materials and checking for quality again. Once unpacked, I clean the stems to remove foliage that might sit below water level, which prevents bacteria growth and keeps the blooms healthy longer.

4. Hydration and Preparation

After cleaning, the stems are cut at an angle to promote better water absorption. I then place them in buckets of fresh water to hydrate. This soaking process is vital as it allows the flowers to drink before they undergo the stress of arranging.

5. Cooling and Overnight Storage

As a precaution, I store the hydrated flowers in a temperature-controlled cooler. This step is essential for preserving freshness and extending the blooms’ lifespan until the wedding day.

6. Preparing for Design

On the days leading up to the wedding, I prepare all necessary materials and tools. This includes gathering vases, floral foam, tools, and additional décor elements needed for the designs. 

7. Load-In Day

Loading everything into the vans—carefully arranging the flowers and supplies to prevent damage during transport. It’s about ensuring that every flower arrives at the venue in pristine condition.

8. Team Coordination

On the wedding day, it’s all about teamwork. I gather my skilled team, assigning specific roles to ensure an efficient workflow. We review the timeline and the designs for each area, making sure everyone is aligned on the vision.

9. Designing the Venue

Once at the venue, the setup begins. This involves creating stunning arrangements for tables, altars, and other focal points. The goal is to weave together the floral elements seamlessly with the overall aesthetic of the wedding.

10. Final Touches

With everything set up, I make final adjustments, ensuring every detail is perfect. From fluffing arrangements to adding personal touches, it’s these final steps that turn a beautiful setup into a breathtaking art piece.

11. The Reveal

Finally, as guests arrive and the couple shares their vows, the hard work culminates in a stunning display that enhances the beauty of the day. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the joy my floral designs bring to such significant moments.

By sharing this process, I hope to shed light on the artistry and effort that brings weddings to life, proving that behind every beautiful bouquet is a story of hard work and devotion.

Photo credit – Destinations with Dana