How Much Do Wedding Flowers Cost? Savvy Budgeting Tips 101

While we all wait for our special day, we also wait for the expenses that mount up on our ‘the’ day. Planning a wedding ceremony can be exhaustive but also a beautiful journey that the couple embarks upon. 

In all the rush, what becomes the integral part is the allure of the blooms! But the question arises, “How much do wedding flowers cost?” Let us explore the various options!

1. Types Of Wedding Flowers

Before jumping into figuring out how much do wedding flowers cost, let’s look into the type of flowers you can use for your wedding day!

1. Roses – One of the most common flowers used during ‘the’ day are roses. Whether pink, white, or red, roses are versatile to suit any wedding theme. They signify a symbol of timeless love and romance among the couple.
2. Tulips – Tulips signify perfect love. These are the flowers that bring the cheerfulness and vibrance to your wedding.
3. Peonies – Peonies give an elegant look and are chosen because they give a soft romantic appearance. They are used more for the bridal bouquet.
4. Hydrangeas – These large voluminous blooms are chosen to create a lush arrangement while also adding charm and nostalgia.
5. Lilies – When you want to give a sophisticated look, you add lilies to your decor! Stargazer lilies and Calla lilies are the ones to go for!

These are the most common and inexpensive flowers used for decorating the arch, bouquets, and centerpieces. 

However, there are many more rare expensive flowers you can use to give a unique touch to your wedding. Some of them may include carnations, dahlias, wildflowers, baby’s breath, orchids, sunflowers, etc.  

2. How Much Do Wedding Flowers Cost?

The cost of wedding flowers depends on several factors. However, the average cost of these flowers used in different decors for the wedding is as follows: 

2.1. Bridal Bouquet

This is the focal point of the wedding. It not only will reflect the theme of the wedding but also reflect the bride’s style. The cost of the bouquet, hence, varies according to the flower choices and designs she chooses. A simple bouquet would have an average range from $100 to $200. However, a more intricate design with more flowers can go up to $500. Consequently, the way it is made, that is either hand-tied or posy style will have its pricing implications. 

2.2. Bridesmaids Bouquets

Bridesmaids’ bouquets are also influenced by similar factors as the bride’s bouquet. On average, a simple bouquet would range from $50 – $100 per bouquet. To save on the budget, the bouquet can consist of more greenery and also consist of flowers similar to a bride’s bouquet.

2.3. Corsages And Boutonniere

Although smaller in size, corsages and boutonniere also make a significant contribution to the floral theme of the wedding. A boutonniere would generally range from $10 -$20 whereas a corsage would range from $5 – $60 each. The pricing is influenced by similar factors, that are, the complexity of the design, types of flowers used, etc. To stay within the budget, couples can go for a simpler look for boutonnieres and corsages.

2.4. Arch

Arch stands as a centerpiece during the ceremony, creating a backdrop where the couple exchanges their wedding vows. A simple floral arrangement ranges from $75 – $125. However, the cost of these arrangements can go up to $1000 based on the type of flowers and complexity of the design. Couples should focus on a statement piece that can easily capture the attention of the guests or go for designs that complement the beauty of the venue. 

2.5. Aisle Decor

Ceremony flowers, which are the aisle decorations and altar flowers add elegance and set the stage for the wedding vows. Aisle decor/altar flowers can cost an average of $50 – $200 each. To remain budget-friendly, couples can make sure to use these floral arrangements for more purposes other than just aisle decor or only focus on the points that make a visual impact. 

2.6. Grand Centerpieces

Centerpieces are a key element to the overall decor and the cost varies on the complexity of the design. They usually range from $100 – $200 each. However, by adding on a vase and additional elements the costs will go up. Hence, to stay within the budget, couples can opt for larger blooms and more greenery that can also provide a visually stunning effect.

2.7. Additional Costs

Additional elements such as cake flowers, petals, etc., also contribute to the ambience of the wedding. These costs can range up to $200 depending on the different ways it is being used. Therefore, once the couple has set a budget for the wedding flowers, they should always keep at least $100 extra for any additional use.  

Budget-Friendly Wedding Decor Tips

As a seasoned wedding events expert specializing in both wedding planning and fashion, I’m thrilled to share some insightful tips tailored to couples seeking budget-friendly decor options for their special day.

For couples aiming to achieve their desired aesthetic while keeping costs in check, there are plenty of creative DIY floral arrangements and non-floral decor alternatives to explore. Let’s dive into some ideas:

DIY Floral Arrangements:

1. Wildflower Bouquets: Embrace the beauty of nature by foraging for wildflowers or opting for locally sourced blooms. Arrange them loosely in mason jars or simple vases for a rustic yet elegant look.
2. Single Stem Displays: Sometimes, less is more. Consider showcasing single stems of statement flowers like roses or peonies in individual bud vases. This minimalist approach can be both budget-friendly and striking.
3. Greenery Garlands: Incorporate lush greenery such as eucalyptus or ferns to create stunning garlands for table runners, arches, or chair decorations. Greenery tends to be more affordable than flowers and adds a touch of freshness to any setting.

Non-Floral Decor Alternatives:

1. Candlelit Ambiance: Set the mood with an abundance of candles in various sizes and shapes. Opt for inexpensive pillar candles, tea lights, or LED candles to create a romantic ambiance without breaking the bank.
2. Paper Decorations: Get crafty with paper by creating origami flower arrangements, paper lanterns, or tissue paper pom-poms. These DIY projects are not only cost-effective but also customizable to match any color scheme or theme.
3. Vintage Finds: Hunt for unique vintage pieces at thrift stores or flea markets to add charm and character to your decor. Think antique picture frames, brass candleholders, or mismatched china for table settings.

Budget Allocation Tips:

1. Prioritize Key Elements: Allocate a larger portion of your decor budget to focal points such as the ceremony backdrop, reception centerpieces, and sweetheart table decor. By prioritizing these areas, you can make a significant impact without overspending on every detail.
2. Repurpose and Reuse: Get creative with repurposing items you already own or borrow decor elements from friends and family members. This not only reduces costs but also adds sentimental value to your wedding decor.
3. DIY with Purpose: Choose DIY projects that align with your skill level and available time. Focus on projects that will have the most impact and consider enlisting the help of friends and bridal party members to lighten the workload.

Mia Anderson, Co-Founder, Chicsew

These are the average cost of the wedding flowers. However, the prices may differ based on the factors mentioned below. 

3. Factors Affecting The Cost Of Wedding Flowers

Before setting the floral budget for your wedding day flowers, you should look into the factors that would affect the overall wedding budget. 

Types of flowers – The most important factor influencing the cost is the type of flower used. The variety of flowers selected can impact the budget based on their availability, demand, and rarity. Common flowers such as roses, tulips, or lilies may not cost you much compared to rare – exotic flowers such as orchids, ranunculus, etc. Seasonal blooms may also fluctuate in price based on their demand and availability. 

Hence, the couple should look for an approach to mix the kinds of flowers to get their desired look as well as keep the costs budget-friendly.

Quantity of flowers – The number of floral arrangements needed in the bouquet, centerpieces, or arch also affects the budget. Smaller weddings would require a lesser amount of flowers and hence lesser cost. However, with the number of tables increasing, wedding flower arrangements would increase leading to increasing the budget. 

Floral Design – Elaborate and intricate floral designs, such as towering centerpieces or cascading bouquets would require more skills and time and therefore are more costly. Simple designs would be budget-friendly. Hence, a hand-tied bouquet would be less costly than a waterfall of blooms.

Couples should discuss their preferences and openly discuss with their florist regarding the budget to get their ‘THE’ look.

Size of the wedding – The size and theme of the wedding also affect the cost. A simpler and small wedding would be more budget-friendly than a large and elegant wedding style. Larger weddings would require more tables and elaborate setups, hence more flowers contributing to higher costs. 

Couples should be careful while considering the scale of their celebration. Based on the number of guests on their guest list, they should arrange their overall budget. 

Wedding Florist – The kind of wedding florist you hire to decorate your wedding also affects the cost. A highly reputed and skilled wedding florist would indeed charge more for their expertise and experience. While their services may come with a premium, their ability to create can deliver exceptional floral arrangements. 

Couples should look into the reviews and the work of many florists before hiring any. 

Negotiating with Wedding Florists: Tips for Savings

When engaging in negotiations with wedding florists, it’s essential to establish open and transparent communication from the outset. Clearly articulate your budget constraints and vision for the floral arrangements, emphasizing your desire for quality and elegance.

By being upfront about your budget limitations, florists can tailor their proposals accordingly, offering creative solutions that align with your financial parameters while still delivering aesthetic appeal.

Plus, don’t hesitate to ask the florist about any discounts or promotions they may offer. Many florists are willing to negotiate pricing, especially during off-peak wedding seasons or for mid-week weddings.

Plus, if you’re working with a wedding planner or coordinator, they may have established relationships with florists that could result in discounted rates or special deals.

Mimi Nguyen, Founder, Cafely

These are the major factors influencing the overall cost of the wedding flowers. However, there are a few more factors one can look into such as the seasonal availability of the flowers, the geographical location of the wedding, any special items to be given to the guests, logistics, and setup, etc. 

3.1 So What Is The Reasonable Amount To Spend On The Flowers?

While no such study or research provides the accurate amount to spend money on flowers, however, a general guideline by wedding planning professionals suggests that around 8% – 15% of the wedding budget should be utilized on wedding flowers. 

Depending upon the couple’s personal style and priorities this range may vary. 

4. Is $1000/$5000 Enough To Spend On Wedding Flowers?

The budget for wedding flowers depends majorly on the factors discussed before. However, let us look at how a $1000 budget will differ from a $5000 one.

On a $1000 budget, the couple can have simple colourful flowers for their wedding. They can cover the basic floral arrangements for the wedding such as a bridal bouquet, corsages, centerpieces, etc., but in a smaller number.

To afford more complexity and an elegant look, they will have to increase their budget. However, they can even go for alternatives such as DIY options.

In a $5000 budget, more elegant and elaborate arrangements can be afforded. It will not only cover the basic arrangements but may also squeeze in extra decor such as vases, gifts for guests, etc. However, that depends on the types of flowers as well as the complexity chosen by them.

Consider Visible Floral Decorations

Factors such as wedding size, venue, and geographic location influence the cost of wedding flowers by determining the quantity needed, the type of arrangements suitable, and the availability and price of local versus imported blooms.

To manage these costs, couples can concentrate floral decorations in visible areas, opt for seasonal, local flowers, and discuss budget-friendly options with their florist. Additionally, incorporating dried flowers is another creative and cost-saving option for couples to consider.

Joe McHugh, Marketing for Professional Photographers, Wedding Photographer Sites

5. Create Your Wedding Flower Budget

Now that we know the answer to how much wedding flowers cost, let us take a look at an example of how and what factors are to be considered to create your wedding flower budget. 

The first is to determine the wedding size, which is 100 guests. Then, an average cost of common flowers used in weddings with different decor would be:

1. Bridal bouquet: $150
2. Bridesmaid bouquets: $400 ($100 x 4)
3. Corsages: $140 ($35 x 4)
4. Boutonniere: $120 ($15 x 8)
5. Arch: $200
6. Aisle Decor: $250 ($25 x 10)
7. Centerpieces: $2000 ($200 x 10)
8. Extras: $150

Total for flowers: Approx. $3420

Now for delivery to the venue, the cost would be $100. The location, let’s say an urban area, will cost approx. $300. Finally, labor and vases would be around $900. 

Therefore, the total estimated wedding flower budget will be $4720. 

Therefore, the couple should look into all these factors and then decide on a budget for the wedding flowers. 

Grow Your Own Wedding Flowers

I have found a few ways that can help people save money when it comes to floral arrangements and bouquets for weddings. One of the best ways is to grow your own flowers if you have the space and the ability to take care of them.

This way, you can grow the exact flowers that you want. It’s important to research each flower to ensure that they can flourish in your climate.

If you live in a colder environment, make sure you have an indoor space where you can grow them for half the time until you can move them outdoors.

Additionally, it’s important to find the time to take care of them. By growing your own flowers, you can save on the cost of florals for weddings, since you don’t have to pay a preparation price, apart from the bulbs that you would need to buy.

With maintenance and food, it’s a great option, plus they look beautiful.

Lindsey Wolf, Marketing Manager, SportingSmiles

5.1 How Much Are Fresh Flowers For The Wedding?

While the cost of fresh flowers depends on several factors, one thing that countless couples look into is whether the decor matches the colour palette of their big day.

After the factors discussed above are taken into consideration, on average couples can keep up to a few hundred to thousands of dollars for their floral budgets.

6. Alternatives To Save Extra Cost

There are different ways you can save money on the spending of flowers, which are,

1. Local and Seasonal Flower Mix – Rather than going for rare exotic flowers, you can opt for locally sourced flowers that are less expensive and environmentally friendly. Seasonal flowers are cheaper as well and easily available leading to lesser amount spending.
2. Prioritize the arrangements – Certain elements in your wedding such as the bouquet for bridal and bridesmaid, boutonnieres, etc. can be prioritized first before spending money on other arrangements.
3. Opt more for greenery – Greenery in your arrangements can also give the wedding elegance. It is cost-effective and creates a lush look.

1. Non-floral decor- decorative items such as candles, lanterns, or plants can be used to complement floral arrangements and hence are less expensive.
2. Simpler designs – Having floral arrangements that are simple but give a beautiful look is also more cost-effective than going for a complex floral arrangement.
3. Silk or paper flowers – Silk or paper flowers can be a more budget-friendly alternative. They can also be kept for mementos!
4. DIY Elements – Incorporating DIY elements into your floral arrangements is also a way to save on spending! Create your boutonnieres or bouquets with your friends and family.
5. Negotiate with the wedding florist – And of course, do not hesitate to share your budget with the florist and find ways that can achieve the desired look for your wedding!

Optimize Venue Decor and Reuse Flowers

The size of your wedding will determine the size of the venue, hence the amount of space you need to fill with flowers. Choosing a location that already has decor will lower costs; choosing an outdoor location with amazing views can eliminate the need for ceremony flowers.

Using seasonal flowers will reduce flower costs greatly, and I always suggest the couple reuse as many flowers as possible. For example, bridal bouquets placed in vases can be used to decorate head tables, guest sign-in tables, and cake tables.

Massing single stems of flowers in bud vases reduces the need for large arrangements, and adding candles to and around your flower arrangements can reduce the size of arrangements as well.

Marna Praill, Grounds Superintendent & Florist, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

A lot of planning is required now that you know how much do wedding flowers cost! While there is no general answer keep aside 8%-15% of your total budget to achieve your dream look for the wedding!

And also do not forget the alternatives! After all, it’s all about creating a balance between creating a visually perfect look and being budget-friendly. 

Guest Author: Saket Kumar