Weddingbee Blog

Flowers were not at the top of my list. With only one bouquet and nothing else, I was none too concerned. Until I totally began lusting over this flower.

When I finally started the hunt for the perfect florist, I searched high and low. And, even after a quick trip up to Grand Rapids and a chat with wonderful florist up there (Stems Event Design, in case you’re wondering), I knew I wanted ranunculus in my bouquet. The problem? They usually are not in season in September. But Natalie at Stems assured me they were not hard to get, and if no one in St. Louis would help me get them she would (kudos to her!!).

So, I contacted a few local florists, and was up front that I was only going to have my bouquet made. A total turn off for most, seeing as how they would love to take a larger floral job (I don’t blame them). And, a few local florists told me ranunculus were not possible. Sigh.

In one of my many late nights (let’s face it, I’m up late every night), I stumbled upon Belli Fiori. I sent her a quick note, and within 24 hours, she had emailed me back and we set up time to meet back in early November. I brought a photo of my dress, my bridesmaid’s dress, and samples of our wedding colors to help her out.

I told her what I wanted, and even apologized for not allowing her full creative reign since all I wanted was just the one bouquet. But above all, Lisa was a true sport and a sweetheart. She listened to what I wanted, had a chat with her floral wholesaler to ensure it could happen, and has pretty much made my wedding bouquet dreams come true. We do have a back-up plan just in case the ranunculus have very fragile stems the week of the wedding, but it still includes using some ranunculus.

I know I haven’t even seen the bouquet yet (hell, I still have like 5 months until I do), but what I appreciated is that Lisa was willing to listen and help me get what I wanted. And that I can appreciate.

How hard was your floral vendor search? Did you find one that just wanted to make sure she (or he) could make it happen for you?